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| author | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-14 19:04:56 -0700 |
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| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-14 19:04:56 -0700 |
| commit | 8dc072a15be148938e7927845a8cafe39de12a06 (patch) | |
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You may copy it, give it away or re-use + it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License <a href= + "#pglicense" class="tei tei-ref">included with this eBook</a> or + online at <a href="http://www.gutenberg.org/license" class= + "tei tei-xref">http://www.gutenberg.org/license</a></p> + </div> + <pre class="pre tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 3.00em; margin-top: 3.00em"> +Title: The Finished Mystery + +Author: Charles Taze Russell + +Release Date: June 17, 2014 [Ebook #46016] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + + +***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE FINISHED MYSTERY*** +</pre> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 5.00em; margin-top: 5.00em"></div> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 5.00em; margin-top: 5.00em"> + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.20em"><span style= + "font-size: 120%">Studies in the Scriptures</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.20em"><span style= + "font-size: 120%">Volume VII</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.73em"><span style= + "font-size: 173%">The Finished Mystery</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.20em"><span class="tei tei-q" + style="text-align: center"><span style= + "font-size: 120%">“</span><span style="font-size: 120%">The Winepress + of God's Wrath</span><span style="font-size: 120%">”</span></span> + <span style="font-size: 120%">and the Fall of Babylon.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.20em"><span style= + "font-size: 120%">By</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.44em"><span style= + "font-size: 144%">Charles Taze Russell</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">(Published Posthumously)</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Edited by</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em">C. J. Woodworth and + George H. Fisher</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.20em"><span style= + "font-size: 120%">850,000 Edition</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.20em"><span class="tei tei-q" + style="text-align: center"><span style= + "font-size: 120%">“</span><span style="font-size: 120%">And the angel + which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand + to Heaven, and swore by Him that liveth forever and ever, who created + Heaven and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things + that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that + the time should be no longer delayed; but in the days of the voice of + the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the Mystery of God + should be finished, as He hath declared to His servants the + Prophets.</span><span style= + "font-size: 120%">”</span></span><span style="font-size: 120%">—Rev. + 10:5-7.</span> <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: center"><span style= + "font-size: 120%">“</span><span style="font-size: 120%">At the end it + shall speak and not lie.</span><span style= + "font-size: 120%">”</span></span><span style="font-size: 120%">—Hab. + 2:3.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em">Copyright 1917</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em">Peoples Pulpit + Association</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em">Brooklyn, N. Y., U. S. + A.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em">International Bible + Students Association</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em">Brooklyn, London, + Melbourne, Barmen</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em">1918</p> + </div> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 5.00em; margin-top: 5.00em"> + <h1 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 3.46em; margin-top: 3.46em"> + <span style="font-size: 173%">Contents</span></h1> + + <ul class="tei tei-index tei-index-toc"> + <li><a href="#toc1">Publisher's Preface</a></li> + + <li><a href="#toc3">Explanatory Note</a></li> + + <li><a href="#toc5">The Revelation Of [St.] John [The + Divine]</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc7">Revelation 1—The + Message For This Day</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc9">Revelation 2—St. Paul, + St. John, Arius And Waldo</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc11">Revelation + 3—Wycliffe, Luther And Russell</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc13">Revelation 4—The + Author Of The Plan</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc15">Revelation 5—The + Executor Of The Plan</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc17">Revelation 6—Six + Seals And The Papacy</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc19">Revelation 7—Seventh + Seal And Great Company</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc21">Revelation 8—Four + Preliminary Reformations</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc23">Revelation 9—Two + Ineffective Reformation Woes</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc25">Revelation 10—The + True Reformation Woe</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc27">Revelation 11—The + Time Of The End</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc29">Revelation 12—The + Birth Of Antichrist</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc31">Revelation 13—The + Papal And Protestant Beasts</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc33">Revelation 14—The + Five Harvest Messages</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc35">Revelation 15—The + Song Of The Saints</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc37">Revelation + 16—Ecclesiasticism's Seven Plagues</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc39">Revelation 17—The + Papacy's Last Stand</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc41">Revelation 18—The + Fall Of Ecclesiasticism</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc43">Revelation 19—The + Overthrow Of Satan's Empire</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc45">Revelation 20—The + Thousand Years' Reign</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc47">Revelation 21—The + Descending Kingdom</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc49">Revelation 22—The + River Of Grace And Truth</a></li> + + <li><a href="#toc51">The Song Of Solomon</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc53">The Bridal + Anthem</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc55">The Heavenly + Bridegroom</a></li> + + <li><a href="#toc57">The Book Of The Prophet Ezekiel</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc59">Ezekiel 1—God's + Character And Plan</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc61">Ezekiel 2—The + Rebellious House And The Book</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc63">Ezekiel 3—Pastor + Russell's Divine Ordination</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc65">Ezekiel 4—The Papal + And Protestant Sieges</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc67">Ezekiel 5—The Severed + Hair Calamities</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc69">Ezekiel + 6—Sword—Famine—Pestilence</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc71">Ezekiel 7—Dawn Of The + Evil Day</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc73">Ezekiel 8—Molech, The + Torment Deity</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc75">Ezekiel 9—The Man + With The Inkhorn</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc77">Ezekiel 10—Scattering + Coals Of Fire</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc79">Ezekiel 11—The Wicked + Counsel</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc81">Ezekiel + 12—Christendom's Blind Flight</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc83">Ezekiel 13—The Gaps + In The Wall</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc85">Ezekiel 14—Insincere + Inquirers</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc87">Ezekiel 15—Fit For + Fuel Only</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc89">Ezekiel + 16—Unfaithfulness Of God's People</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc91">Ezekiel 17—Parable Of + The Eagles</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc93">Ezekiel 18—“The Soul + That Sinneth”</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc95">Ezekiel 19—The Lion's + Whelps</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc97">Ezekiel 20—The + Hypocritical Ecclesiastics</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc99">Ezekiel 21—The + Thrice-Doubled Sword</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc101">Ezekiel 22—The + Melting Pot Of War</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc103">Ezekiel 23—Two + Apostate Church Systems</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc105">Ezekiel 24—The + Boiling Caldron</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc107">Ezekiel + 25—Recompense Upon The Tares</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc109">Ezekiel 26—Downfall + Of Philosophy</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc111">Ezekiel + 27—Philosophy's Utter Ruin</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc113">Ezekiel + 28—Destruction Of The Devil</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc115">Ezekiel 29—The + Egyptians A Type</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc117">Ezekiel 30—Pharaoh's + Two Arms Broken</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc119">Ezekiel + 31—Christendom Not To Endure</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc121">Ezekiel + 32—Christendom's Utter Downfall</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc123">Ezekiel 33—Why + Ecclesiasticism Must Perish</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc125">Ezekiel 34—The + Unfaithful Shepherds</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc127">Ezekiel 35—Edom A + Type</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc129">Ezekiel + 36—Christendom's Early Restoration</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc131">Ezekiel 37—The + Valley Of Dry Bones</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc133">Ezekiel 38—Final + Overthrow Of Pride</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc135">Ezekiel 39—Death Of + Pride's Multitude</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc137">Ezekiel 40-48—God's + Temple And River Of Truth</a></li> + + <li><a href="#toc139">Advertisements</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc141">“Go Ye Also Into The + Vineyard”</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc143">“Both the Houses of + Israel”</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc145">The Watch Tower And + Herald Of Christ's Presence</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc147">What Say The + Scriptures About Hell?</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc149">What Say The + Scriptures About Spiritism?</a></li> + + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc151">Miscellaneous + Advertisements</a></li> + + <li><a href="#toc153">Footnotes</a></li> + </ul> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-body" style= + "margin-bottom: 6.00em; margin-top: 6.00em"> + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 5.00em; margin-top: 5.00em"> + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 40%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/cover.jpg"><img src="images/cover.jpg" alt= + "Cover Art" /></a> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">[Transcriber's + Note: The above cover image was produced by the submitter at + Distributed Proofreaders, and is being placed into the public + domain.]</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page002">[pg 002]</span><a name= + "Pg002" id="Pg002" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 5.00em; margin-top: 5.00em"> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">TO THE KING OF + KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS THIS WORK IS DEDICATED</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">In the Interest + of<br /> + HIS CONSECRATED SAINTS<br /> + Waiting for the Adoption<br /> + And of<br /> + <span class="tei tei-q">“<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">All That in Every Place Call Upon the + Lord</span></span>”</span><br /> + <span class="tei tei-q">“THE HOUSEHOLD OF FAITH”</span><br /> + And Of<br /> + The Groaning Creation; Travailing And<br /> + Waiting for the Manifestation of<br /> + THE SONS OF GOD</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">POSTHUMOUS WORK OF + PASTOR RUSSELL</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">His Last Legacy to + the Dear Israel of God (Matt 20:9)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“To make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery + which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God.”</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">“Wherein He hath abounded toward us in all + wisdom and prudence, having made known unto us the mystery of His + will, according to His good pleasure which He hath purposed in + Himself; that in the dispensation of the fulness of the times He + might gather together in one all things, under Christ.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Eph. 3:4, 5, 9; + 1:8-10</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page003">[pg 003]</span><a name= + "Pg003" id="Pg003" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 5.00em; margin-top: 5.00em"> + <a name="toc1" id="toc1"></a> <a name="pdf2" id="pdf2"></a> + + <h1 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 3.46em; margin-top: 3.46em"> + <span style="font-size: 173%">Publisher's Preface</span></h1> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Since the days of + the Apostles, Christian people have been looking for the coming of + our Lord Jesus in great power and glory; for He said that He would + come again and receive His Church unto Himself. He further pointed + out that for some time prior to the completion of the Church He would + be present, gathering out from Babylon and from the world the truly + consecrated, and that during His presence <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the Mystery of God”</span> would be finished.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Through St. John + the Lord Jesus revealed the fact that the Church would be developed + during seven distinct periods, or epochs; and that for each of these + epochs He would have a special angel, or messenger, to serve the + other members of the Body. It follows, then, that the messenger to + the last, or Laodicean, epoch would declare the Presence of the Lord + and the time of the Harvest of the Gospel Age. The great Master laid + special emphasis on the importance of the messenger to the seventh, + or Laodicean, period of the Church, saying that such an one would be + <span class="tei tei-q">“a faithful and wise servant, whom his Lord + would make ruler over all His Household, to give them meat in due + season.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Those consecrated + Christians who have read and fully appreciated the Truth as contained + in the preceding six volumes of STUDIES IN THE SCRIPTURES readily see + and agree that Charles Taze Russell was the messenger of the Church + of Laodicea. In the mind of every one who believes the Bible the + evidence set forth in this volume will establish that fact beyond the + question of a doubt.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">In the light of + Divine Prophecy, now being daily fulfilled and made clear to + <span class="tei tei-q">“the watchers,”</span> the following from the + pen of Pastor Russell is further proof that he was sent of God to + this generation. Long years before the beginning of the trouble now + upon the nations he wrote:</p> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">The four exhibitions of the Lord, given to Elijah, + represent, we believe, four manifestations in which the Lord is about + to reveal Himself to mankind, the first three of which will prepare + men for the final one, in which will come the desired blessing to all + the families of the earth. These are:</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">(1)</span> <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-size: 90%; font-style: italic">The mighty winds</span></span> + <span style="font-size: 90%">rending the very rocks. Blowing winds + seem to be used in Scripture for wars. The wars, whose dark clouds + have threatened the civilized world so ominously for the past + thirty years, have been miraculously hindered to give opportunity + for</span> <span class="tei tei-q"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">‘</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">sealing</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">’</span></span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page004">[pg 004]</span><a name="Pg004" id="Pg004" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-size: 90%">the Lord's + consecrated people in their foreheads (intellectually) with the + Present Truth. We are therefore to expect that when these winds of + war shall be let loose, it will mean a cataclysm of warfare which + shall divide kingdoms (mountains)—prefigured by the mighty wind + shown to Elijah (1 Kings 19:11), which rent the rocks. But God's + Kingdom will not follow the epoch of war; the world will not thus + be made ready for the Reign of Immanuel. No; a further lesson will + be needed and will be given. It is represented in</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">(2) An</span> <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic">earthquake</span></span><span style="font-size: 90%">. + Throughout the Scriptures an earthquake seems always to represent + revolution; and it is not unreasonable to expect that an era of + general warfare would so arouse the lower classes of Europe and so + discontent them with their lot (and especially with the conditions + which would follow such a war) that revolution would be the next + thing in order. (Rev. 16:18.) But, severe though those + revolutionary experiences will be to the world, they are not + sufficient to prepare men to hear the voice of God. It will + require</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">(3) The</span> <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic">fire + from heaven</span></span><span style="font-size: 90%">—an epoch of + Divine judgments and chastisements upon a maddened but unconverted + world, wild in anarchy, as other Scriptures show us. The results of + their wars, revolutions and anarchy, in the failure of their + schemes, will have a humbling effect, and will prepare mankind for + God's revelation of Himself in</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">(4) The</span> <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic">still + small voice</span></span><span style="font-size: 90%">. Yes; He who + spoke to the winds and the waves of the Sea of Galilee will, in due + time,</span> <span class="tei tei-q"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">‘</span><span style="font-size: 90%">speak peace + to the peoples.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">’</span></span> + <span style="font-size: 90%">He will speak with authority, + commanding the observance of His long neglected Law of Love.</span> + <span class="tei tei-q"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">‘</span><span style="font-size: 90%">And whosoever + will not hear that Prophet shall be cut off from among His + people.</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">’</span></span><span style="font-size: 90%">(Acts + 3:23.)</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">”</span></span><span style="font-size: 90%">—THE + WATCH TOWER, July 1, 1898, p. 308.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Looking back to the prophetic testimony respecting + the</span> <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-size: 90%; font-style: italic">Times of the + Gentiles</span></span><span style="font-size: 90%">, we perceive + that our Lord's words,</span> <span class="tei tei-q"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">‘</span><span style="font-size: 90%">Jerusalem + shall be trodden down of the Gentiles until the Times of the + Gentiles be filled full,</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">’</span></span> <span style="font-size: 90%">give + the intimation that the determined times, or years, in which the + empire of earth would be in the hands of Gentile governments was a + fixed one from the Divine standpoint. And if, as we believe the + Scriptures to teach, Gentile domination was provided for up to + October, 1914, it would seem but a reasonable interpretation that + Divine power would not be exercised to their dethronement + until</span> <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-size: 90%; font-style: italic">after</span></em> <span style= + "font-size: 90%">the time allotted for their reign had + ended—October, 1914.</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">”</span></span><span style="font-size: 90%">—THE + WATCH TOWER, July 1, 1904. p. 198.</span></p> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">In 1879 Charles + Taze Russell began the publication of THE WATCH TOWER, of which he + was the sole editor as long as he remained on earth. THE WATCH TOWER + was, and is, the first and only journal declaring the <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">presence</span></em> + of the Lord Jesus. Pastor Russell being the messenger to the + Laodicean Church, and occupying the position of the Lord's special + servant to give the Household of Faith meat in due season, it was to + be expected that he would bring forth from the Lord's great + <span class="tei tei-q">“Storehouse”</span> the needed spiritual food + for the Church, in harmony with <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page005">[pg 005]</span><a name="Pg005" id="Pg005" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> God's will. By the Lord's grace he wrote the + six volumes of STUDIES IN THE SCRIPTURES, which writings, aside from + the Bible, have gladdened more hearts and thrilled Christians with + greater hope and joyful expectation than have any other writings + extant. These books have been properly designated <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Keys to the Divine Plan of the Ages.”</span> These + <span class="tei tei-q">“keys”</span> have been placed in the hands + of thousands of Christian people throughout the world, and have + enabled them to unlock the Lord's Treasure-house, the Bible, and + there to see some of the <span class="tei tei-q">“treasures of + wisdom”</span> and knowledge of God! Some have been able to use these + <span class="tei tei-q">“keys”</span> more effectually than have + others. <span class="tei tei-q">“God hath set the members in the Body + as it hath pleased Him.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Time and again + Pastor Russell said that the Seventh Volume of STUDIES IN THE + SCRIPTURES would be written; and it was expected that he would write + it. The Scriptures show that the Seventh Volume must be published. + Pastor Russell passed from the earth, and the Seventh Volume remained + unpublished. In his last moments he said, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Some one else can write the Seventh Volume.”</span> For + any one to arrogate to himself the authority to write and publish the + Seventh Volume would, we believe, seem presumptuous before the Lord. + Whom, then, would the Lord have to write it?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Pastor Russell was + a man of unusual modesty. Great men usually are modest. The + examination of the contents of this book will disclose the fact that + it deals with Revelation and Ezekiel; that the Lord long ago caused + to be recorded therein, in symbolic language, a history of the + Church, particularly the closing earthly experiences thereof; that + therein He set forth that He would uncover the frauds, deceptions and + blasphemous teachings and practices of the church nominal—both + Catholic and Protestant; that in the last days He would then make + bare the unholy alliance between the unrighteous ecclesiastical + systems and the corrupt political elements of the earth, which + religious systems have prospered and grown fat in the name of Christ; + that the Lord pronounces His indignation and wrath against all such + Babylonish systems and marks their utter destruction in a Time of + Trouble such as the world has never known and will never again know; + and that the earthly creature made prominent therein above all others + is the messenger of the Laodicean Church—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“that wise and faithful servant”</span> of the + Lord—CHARLES TAZE RUSSELL. In view of the facts stated, is it at all + surprising that the Lord spared him the publication of the Seventh + Volume?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">But the fact is, + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">he did + write it</span></em>. This book may properly be said to be a + posthumous publication of Pastor Russell. <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page006">[pg 006]</span><a name="Pg006" id="Pg006" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> Why? Because to him the Lord gave the + <span class="tei tei-q">“key”</span>; to him was given the privilege + of making clear to the Church in its last years the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Mystery of God”</span>; to him was granted the privilege + of hearing from the hands of the Lord to the Household of Faith + <span class="tei tei-q">“meat in due season”</span> for the special + development and sustenance of God's dear little ones. This service he + has faithfully performed. This book is chiefly a compilation of + things which he wrote and which have been brought together in + harmonious style by properly applying the symbols which he explained + to the Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">By his last Will + and Testament Pastor Russell designated George H. Fisher, of + Scranton, Pa., as one whom he would approve as a member of the + Editorial Staff of THE WATCH TOWER—the most important journal + published on earth. For many years Brother Fisher has been + consecrated to the Lord, a careful student of the Bible in the light + of the Message brought from the Lord by the messenger to the + Laodicean Church; and for some time he has made a careful and + prayerful study of the Book of Ezekiel.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">When Pastor + Russell was with us he gave direction that the BIBLE STUDENTS MANUAL + should be prepared by Clayton J. Woodworth, also of Scranton, Pa. + This Manual was published by this Society, and has proven a great + blessing to the Household of Faith. The preparation of that Manual + required a critical examination of everything Pastor Russell had + written; and thus Brother Woodworth was enabled to become more + familiar, probably, than any one else with the explanation of the + Scriptures which had been given by Brother Russell. In this manner + the Lord seemed to have qualified him for some special work. With the + <span class="tei tei-q">“key”</span> which Brother Russell, as the + Lord's servant, had placed in his hands, Brother Woodworth, by the + Lord's grace, has been enabled to bring together everything that + Brother Russell wrote on Revelation, and to explain and harmonize the + other parts of that book with the Divine Plan; also, to treat + similarly, the Song of Solomon.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">It seemed pleasing + to the Lord that Brothers C. J. Woodworth and George H. Fisher should + prepare the Seventh Volume, under the direction of the WATCH TOWER + BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY. While both residing in the same city, they + have worked separate and apart from each other, not even comparing + notes. The reader will be able to judge how fully the work of each + harmonizes with that of the other and with the Divine Plan, thus + giving further evidence of the Lord's direction in this matter.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Pastor Russell + long ago said, in substance, that the Seventh Volume would not be for + the development of the Church; that the preceding <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">six</span></em> + volumes of STUDIES IN <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page007">[pg + 007]</span><a name="Pg007" id="Pg007" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> THE + SCRIPTURES contain the necessary spiritual food for that purpose. + Asked why, then, it would be written, he replied, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">It will probably be given to the Church in a + time of direst need, for her comfort and + encouragement</span></span>.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Who amongst the + consecrated this side the veil does not realize that the Church is + now in that time of <span class="tei tei-q">“dire need of comfort and + encouragement”</span>? The hour of fiery trial and great testings is + upon God's people, and there is need for their comfort and + encouragement. The Lord has promised <span class="tei tei-q">“grace + sufficient”</span> and help for every time of need for those who love + Him and come confidently unto Him. We believe that as the Lord's dear + children throughout the earth read the contents of this book and see + how wonderfully He has shielded them from the storms of human passion + and from the snares of the great Adversary; and that when they see + that the unrighteous, wicked systems of Babylon are now crumbling + under the mighty hand of God—which bespeaks the early deliverance of + the last members of the Body from this vale of tears into the + glorious light and liberty of the saints—that then they will be + greatly comforted; that then they will take new courage and + <span class="tei tei-q">“gird up the loins of their mind, be sober + and hope to the end for the grace that is to come unto them + quickly;”</span> that with exceeding joy they will lift up their + heads, because the hour of deliverance is at hand! To all the truly + consecrated who read and appreciate this book we believe that the + words of the Master, <span class="tei tei-q">“THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN + IS AT HAND!”</span> will sound in their ears like clarion notes upon + the clear morning air, giving courage and strength to those who are + growing weak in faith, and more courage to the stronger ones. We + believe that every one who appreciates this volume will have a + burning desire to grasp his weapon and go forth to the smiting of the + Jordan, giving praise to the Lord for the privilege.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Some will murmur + and find fault with this book; some will grow angry, and some will + join the persecutors. But, we believe, every saint whose heart is + filled with love for God and for His people will rejoice and give + praise to the Lord for this further evidence of His blessed + favor.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The publisher + takes pleasure in presenting this, the Seventh Volume, to the + remaining members of the Church, and to all who may read with profit + to themselves and to the glory of the Lord Jesus and our Father. As + the Lord has sent forth the other six volumes, His blessing has + accompanied each. That His blessing may be upon this volume, to the + comfort and encouragement of the dear saints in the hour of direst + need, is our prayer!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">WATCH TOWER BIBLE + & TRACT SOCIETY.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page010">[pg 010]</span><a name= + "Pg010" id="Pg010" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 5.00em; margin-top: 5.00em"> + <a name="toc3" id="toc3"></a> <a name="pdf4" id="pdf4"></a> + + <h1 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 3.46em; margin-top: 3.46em"> + <span style="font-size: 173%">Explanatory Note</span></h1> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">This posthumous + work of Pastor Russell (arranged for use as a textbook) is much + condensed, including the extracts from the Pastor's pen, all of which + are referred back to his works. The abbreviations used are:</p> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + A, B, C, D, E, F. The six preceding volumes of <span class= + "tei tei-q" style="text-align: left">“STUDIES IN THE + SCRIPTURES”</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + (Citations to E in italic figures refer to old editions, figures + in ordinary type to later editions.) + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + B. S. M. ... <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left">“THE BIBLE STUDENTS MONTHLY.”</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + H. ... <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left">“What Say + the Scriptures ABOUT HELL?”</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + P-D. ... <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left">“PHOTO-DRAMA OF CREATION”</span> Scenario. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + T. ... <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left">“TABERNACLE SHADOWS.”</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + S. ... <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left">“SPIRITISM”</span> Pamphlet. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Z. ... <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left">“ZION'S + WATCH TOWER,”</span> followed by year and page. + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The citations to + REVELATION and EZEKIEL refer to the comments herein, as well as to + the Bible text.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Other + abbreviations used are:</p> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Barnes ... Barnes' <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left">“Revelation.”</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Brit. ... <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left">“Encyclopedia Britannica.”</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Buck ... Buck's <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left">“Theological Dictionary.”</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Coffin ... Coffin's <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left">“Story of Liberty.”</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Cook ... Cook's <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left">“Revelation;”</span> a compendium of the + presentations of seventy-two leading commentators on Revelation, + in all languages and all ages of the church. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Edgar ... Edgar's <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left">“Pyramid Passages.”</span> Vol. II. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + McC. ... McClintock and Strong's Encyclopedia. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Mosheim ... Mosheim's Ecclesiastical History. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + S. B. D. ... Smith's Bible Dictionary. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Smith ... Smith's <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left">“Thoughts on Daniel and Revelation.”</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Weym ... Weymouth's New Testament In Modern Speech. + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page011">[pg 011]</span><a name= + "Pg011" id="Pg011" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 5.00em; margin-top: 5.00em"> + <a name="toc5" id="toc5"></a> <a name="pdf6" id="pdf6"></a> + + <h1 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 3.46em; margin-top: 3.46em"> + <span style="font-size: 173%">The Revelation Of [St.] John [The + Divine]</span><a id="noteref_1" name="noteref_1" href= + "#note_1"><span class="tei tei-noteref" style= + "text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 60%; vertical-align: super">1</span></span></a></h1> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc7" id="toc7"></a> <a name="pdf8" id="pdf8"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 1—The Message For This + Day</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The Revelation + of Jesus Christ.</span></span>—John the Revelator and the Prophet + Habakkuk have foretold that the understanding of this revelation, + given in 96 A. D., is set for an appointed time, the end of the + age; and that, at this time, now, when the predicted <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Faithful and wise servant”</span> would be present + with God's people, the vision would be made plain.—Rev. 1:10; Matt. + 24:45; Hab. 2:1-3; 1 Pet 1:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which God gave + unto Him.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The declaration + that <span class="tei tei-q">‘the Son can do nothing of + Himself,’</span> if it were not backed up as it is by a score of + other testimonies from the same interested and inspired Teacher, is + a contradiction to the common thought of Trinitarians, that the Son + is the Father.”</span>—Z. '99-45; John 5:20; 12:49; 17:7,8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To shew unto His + [servants] SAINTS.</span></span><a id="noteref_2" name="noteref_2" + href="#note_2"><span class="tei tei-noteref"><span style= + "font-size: 60%; vertical-align: super">2</span></span></a>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Our + Lord Jesus has promised us that, as the Elder Brother (of the + Gospel House of Sons), whatsoever the Father shall make known to + Him He in turn will make known to us.”</span>—Z. '99-45.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + things.</span></span>—The shifting scenes of Church and State, the + history of the Gospel and Millennial Ages.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which must + shortly come to pass.</span></span>—Which began at once, in St. + John's day, and will continue until the completion of all that he + foresaw.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And He + sent.</span></span>—He did not come Himself, but acted with the + dignity becoming Him who is now the express Image of the Father's + person. <span class="tei tei-q">“Dwelling in the light which no man + can approach unto, whom no man hath seen, nor can see.”</span>—Heb. + 1:3; 1 Tim. 6:16.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page012">[pg + 012]</span><a name="Pg012" id="Pg012" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And signified + It</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Our Lord's revelation, + which God gave Him after He had passed into glory, He sent and + signified [<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">sign</span></span>ified, told in signs, + symbols, etc.] to His Church.”</span>—B. 203.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By His + angel.</span></span>—The <span class="tei tei-q">“angel”</span> of + Rev. 3:14 represented this messenger who appeared to St. John. Our + Lord's promise in Luke 12:44 is not limited to activities on this + side the veil.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Unto His servant + John.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“This simplicity, + common to all the Apostles, commends them to us as men of humble + mind—the very kind we should expect our Lord to use as special + messengers to His people.”</span>—Z. '16-343; Rev. 19:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Who + bare record.</span></span>—Previously, In the Fourth Gospel, and in + the three epistles bearing his name.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the Word of + God.</span></span>—The Logos. St. John has had more to say of the + Logos than had any other Apostle. <span class="tei tei-q">“In olden + times certain kings made addresses to their subjects by proxy, the + king sitting behind a screen, while his word, or spokesman, stood + before the screen, and addressed the people aloud on subjects + whispered to him by the king, who was not seen, and such a speaker + was termed the King's <span lang="el" class="tei tei-foreign" + xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">logos</span></span>.”</span>—E. 94-85.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And of the + testimony.</span></span>—The daily words and deeds, during the + three and a half years of His ministry.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of Jesus + Christ.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Faithful and + True Witness.”</span>—Rev. 3:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And of all] + WHAT things [that] SOEVER he saw.</span></span>—St. John's powers + of observation were acute. His Gospel contains records of + twenty-two events or teachings not mentioned by the other + Evangelists.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Blessed is + he.</span></span>—Singular.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That + readeth.</span></span>—Correctly interprets the symbolisms.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they.</span></span>—Plural.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That hear the + [words] WORD of this prophecy.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“All who have read and understood even a part of the + teachings of the book were blessed as promised. It was an important + aid to Luther in deciding that the Papacy, of which he was a + conscientious minister, was <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Antichrist’</span> ”</span>—A. 27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + keep.</span></span>—Keep the eyes upon, observe (so the Greek + Indicates).—Rev. 22:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Those things + which are written therein.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“There is a blessing upon those who read this + revelation, even though they do not understand, and a special + blessing upon those who hear and understand the words of this + prophecy, and who conform their lives to the things therein + written.”</span>—Z. '16-343.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For the time is + at hand.</span></span>—The fulfilments began at once, in St. John's + own day.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page013">[pg + 013]</span><a name="Pg013" id="Pg013" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">John + to the seven churches.</span></span>—Not merely the seven literal + congregations mentioned in Verse 11 and elsewhere, but to the + epochs of the Church as a whole, from Apostolic days until now.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which are in + Asia.</span></span>—In the Orient, the East, the early path of the + sun. Before the Sun of Righteousness can illuminate the world of + mankind, its rays must first have passed through the Church, the + first to greet and welcome the New Day.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Grace be unto + you.</span></span>—May favor, unmerited, be your happy portion.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + peace.</span></span>—The Lord's special legacy to His Church.—John + 14:27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">From + Him.</span></span>—Our glorified Lord and Head.—Rev. 1:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which + is.</span></span>—Now self-existent, like the Father.—John + 5:26.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And which + was.</span></span>—The Logos, the Father's Agent in the creation of + all things (John 1:3), and subsequently, as man's Redeemer, + <span class="tei tei-q">“made a little lower than the angels for + the suffering of death.”</span>—Heb. 2:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And which is to + come.</span></span>—In glory and great power at His Second Advent, + <span class="tei tei-q">“until He shall have set judgment in the + earth.”</span>—Isa. 42:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And from the + seven spirits.</span></span>—Lamps of fire, or eyes. (Rev. 4:5; + 5:6.) <span class="tei tei-q">“In this symbolical picture the eye + of the Lord is represented as seven or complete, all-seeing, + everywhere, all-knowing. This is our confidence, this is our + rejoicing.”</span>—Z. '05-318; Zech. 3:9, 4:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which are before + His Throne.</span></span>—Which are <span class="tei tei-q">“sent + forth into all the earth.”</span>—Rev. 4:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">And.</span></span>—<span lang="el" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Kai</span></span>, even. For a similar use of + the word see the expression, <span class="tei tei-q">“God Himself + and our Father”</span> (1 Thes. 3:11), which, in the Diaglott, is + rendered, <span class="tei tei-q">“God Himself, even our + Father.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">From Jesus + Christ the faithful Witness.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good + confession.”</span> (1 Tim. 6:13.) Our Lord's admission to Pilate, + <span class="tei tei-q">“I am a King; to this end was I born, and + for this cause came I into the world”</span> (John 18:37), was the + direct cause of His death. The accusation set up over His head was, + <span class="tei tei-q">“This is Jesus the King of the + Jews.”</span> (John 19:19; Matt. 27:37.) Similarly faithful + admissions may end the earthly careers of the feet-members of His + Body.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The First + Begotten of the dead.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + First-Born of the dead ones.”</span> (Diaglott.) (1 Cor. 15:20; + Col. 1:18; Acts 26:23.) <span class="tei tei-q">“This verse clearly + teaches what the creeds of Christendom ignore; namely, that our + Lord was the first to experience a resurrection to perfection and + eternal life in the full sense of the word.”</span>—Z. '16-343; + Acts 13:33, 34.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page014">[pg + 014]</span><a name="Pg014" id="Pg014" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">And.</span></span>—Even.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Prince.</span></span>—The King-Elect, now ruling in their + hearts.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the kings of + the earth.</span></span>—His associate kings, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The kings of the East.”</span> (Rev. 16:12.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“All are to be awakened from the Adamic + death, as though from a sleep. They will then be under the care of + the Royal Priesthood, whose experience with sin, and whose victory + over sin, well fitted them to be helpful toward those over whom + they will reign, as Kings as well as Priests. (Rev. + 5:10.)”</span>—E. 487, 478.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Unto Him that + [loved] LOVETH us.</span></span>—Our Lord's love for us is + ever-present.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [washed] + FREED us from our sins [in] BY His own + blood.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“That it was the death + of the Man Christ Jesus, His <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘blood,’</span> that secured our release from sin and + death is most unequivocally stated in many Scriptures. See 1 Pet + 1:2; Acts 4:12; 20:28; Rev. 5:9; Rom. 5:9; Heb. 13:12.”</span>—E. + 458, 446; Matt. 20:28; 1 Tim. 2:6; Rev. 14:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + hath made us.</span></span>—And will make us during the Millennial + Age.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Kings and] A + KINGDOM, priests.</span></span>—The work of a priest is that of + intervention and of instruction in righteousness. It logically + implies subjects and a future work of salvation.—1 Pet. 2:9; Rev. + 5:10; 20:6; 22:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Unto God and His + Father.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Unto the God and + Father of Himself.”</span>—Diaglott. Rom. 15:6; 2 Cor. 1:3; Eph. + 1:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To Him be glory + and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“He shall have dominion also from sea to sea and from + the river unto the ends of the earth;... and let the whole earth be + filled with His glory; Amen, and Amen.”</span> (Psa. 72:8, 19.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“For ever and ever”</span> is literally + <span class="tei tei-q">“for the ages of <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">the</span></em> + ages.”</span> The Millennium and subsequent ages are the ages of + the ages.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, He cometh with + clouds.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“While the clouds of + trouble hang heavy and dark, when the mountains—kingdoms of this + world—are trembling and falling, when the earth—organized + society—is being shaken and disintegrated, some will begin to + realize that Jehovah's Anointed is taking to Himself His great + power and is beginning His work of laying justice to the line and + righteousness to the plummet.”</span>—Z. '16-344; Matt 24:30.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And every eye + shall see Him.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“He will not + be visible to natural sight, but to the eyes of understanding, as + these shall open to an appreciation of the punishments and + blessings which will flow to mankind from His Reign. Our King will + reveal Himself gradually. Some will discern the new Ruler sooner + than will others. But ultimately <span class="tei tei-q">‘every eye + shall see [Greek, <span lang="el" class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang= + "el"><span style="font-style: italic">horao</span></span>, discern] + Him.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '16-344.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page015">[pg 015]</span><a name="Pg015" id="Pg015" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they also + which pierced Him.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“And I + will pour upon the House of David, and upon the inhabitants of + Jerusalem [the Jewish people], the spirit of grace and of + supplications: and they shall look upon Me whom they have pierced, + and they shall mourn for Him, as one mourneth for his only + son.”</span>—Zech. 12:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And all kindreds + of the earth shall [wail because of] BEWAIL + Him.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“At the time of our + Lord's Second Advent the world will be far from converted to God; + for <span class="tei tei-q">‘all kindreds of the earth shall wail + because of Him.’</span> Christ comes before the conversion of the + world and for the very purpose of converting all + mankind.”</span>—Z. '16-344.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Even so, + Amen.</span></span>—We cannot stop the clouds of the Time of + Trouble, or the tears of disappointment, and later, of repentance; + and we would not if we could. The trouble and the tears are a + necessary preparation for the blessings which follow.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I am + THE Alpha and I AM ALSO THE Omega.</span></span>—Alpha is the first + letter, and Omega the last letter, of the Greek alphabet.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The Beginning + and the Ending.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Our Lord's + great honor is shown in that He was not only the <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">first</span></em> + of God's creation, but the <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">last</span></em>. From this we are to + understand that the great Jehovah did not directly employ His own + power in creating either men or angels; but that He delegated His + power to His <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Only</span></em>-begotten Son.”</span>—Z. + '93-115.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saith the Lord + GOD.</span></span>—But not the clergy; they will have none of this + doctrine.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which is, and + which was, and which is to come, the + Almighty.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It is since His + resurrection that the message has gone forth—<span class= + "tei tei-q">‘All power in Heaven and in earth <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">is + given</span></span> unto Me.’</span> (Matt 28:18.) Consequently it + is only since then that He could be called the Almighty.”</span>—Z. + '93-115; Rev. 1:4; 16:5-7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + John, who [also] am your brother.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Instead of adding titles to his name, as Reverend, + Bishop, Overseer of all the Churches in Asia Minor, we find John + introducing himself as <span class="tei tei-q">‘your + brother.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '01-187.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And companion in + tribulation.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“He was sharer + with Christ, as a member of His Body, in His afflictions, in His + endurance; and the brother of all fellow-disciples, sharers of the + same sufferings, and prospectively of the same glory.”</span>—Z. + '01-187: Matt. 20:23.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [In] the + kingdom.</span></span>—Now, while <span class="tei tei-q">“the + Kingdom of Heaven suffereth violence;”</span> and later, when + <span class="tei tei-q">“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.”</span>—Matt 11:12; Dan. + 7:27.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page016">[pg + 016]</span><a name="Pg016" id="Pg016" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And patience + [of] IN Jesus [Christ].</span></span>—When Saul persecuted the + saints, he persecuted Jesus. When St. Paul suffered as a Christian, + it was as part of the <span class="tei tei-q">“dying of the Lord + Jesus.”</span> (Acts 9:5; 2 Cor. 4:10.) What St. John cheerfully + endured was endured by Jesus.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was in the isle + that is called Patmos.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“At + the time of this vision St. John was a prisoner, exiled to the Isle + of Patmos, a penal colony of those days [a convict quarry]—a rocky, + barren island in the Ægean Sea. The crime for which he suffered + this banishment was his faithfulness as the Lord's mouthpiece. St. + John, the beloved disciple, in some measure, or degree, represented + the last living members of the Body of Christ (John 21:20-23)—a + class that see with the eyes of their understanding the visions and + revelations which the beloved disciple saw in symbol in a trance. + If, then, St. John's exile in any degree represents ostracism which + the Lord's followers may expect in the close of this Age—a complete + isolation from others and a treatment implying that they are + prisoners—they may take comfort from the thought that our Lord's + favor and revelation to St. John more than offset his + persecutions.”</span>—Z. '16-343.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For the Word of + God.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“St. John, with + remarkable modesty, passes over his previous service for the Truth + (Rev. 1:2), which had brought him his persecution, and lightly + passes over the persecution itself, merely noting that he was in + the island because of his fidelity to the Word of God.”</span>—Z. + '01-187.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And for the + testimony of Jesus.</span></span>—As recorded in the Gospel + according to St. John and the three Johannean epistles.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + was in the spirit.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Visions + are not realities, although symbolically representing them. (Dan. + 7:1; Matt. 17:9.) The visions granted to St. John, recorded in the + Revelation, are in no sense to be understood as + realities.”</span>—Z. '16-343; Acts 10:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">On the Lord's + Day.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“According to our + understanding of Bible chronology we today are living in the early + dawn of this Day of Christ; and it is here, properly enough, that + we begin to see the wonderful things of the Divine Character and + Plan. But to see and to understand we must be <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘in the spirit.’</span> Only those who have become New + Creatures in Christ can be expected to appreciate spiritual things; + and this is the class which the Apostle John + represented.”</span>—Z. '16-343.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And heard behind + me a great voice, as of a trumpet.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The fact that its location is mentioned implies that + it has a <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">symbolic</span></em> meaning. It signifies + that the beginning of <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page017">[pg + 017]</span><a name="Pg017" id="Pg017" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + this Message was not in St. John's day, nor in the future, but that + the things revealed had already commenced and were already to some + extent in the past. As some features of the Revelation show, the + voice from behind went back to the time of our Lord's earthly + ministry.”</span> (Z. '16-344.) <span class="tei tei-q">“As John + heard a voice behind him and looked in that direction, so we who + now are having the realities find that the Message is behind us, + and turn and look toward the past to see the fulfilment of the + various features of the Divine Plan and to hear and understand the + Message given to His people by the risen Lord.”</span>—Z. + '05-168.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Saying, [I am Alpha and Omega, the First + and the Last: and] What thou seest, write in a book and send it + unto the seven churches which are in + Asia.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“There are many reasons + for concluding that while the messages were given to the seven + churches specified and were applicable to them, they should + properly have a still wider application to the whole Church of + Christ, the number seven representing completeness, and the order + representing different epochs in the history of the Church. To + think otherwise would be to attach more importance to those + comparatively small churches of Asia Minor than they would seem to + have deserved, and would have implied an ignoring of other churches + more numerous and more influential; as, for instance, the churches + at Jerusalem, Antioch, Corinth, Colosse, Philippi, Thessalonica, + etc. Furthermore, the details of the messages given to these seven + churches apply to and fit historically the one Church of the living + God, over every member and branch of which the Lord has a care. + This thought, that the seven represented completeness, we find + emphasized in the other symbolical representations—in the seven + golden candlesticks, the seven stars, etc.”</span> (Z. '05-168.) + Colosse (Col. 1:2), Miletus (Acts 20:17) and Hierapolis (Col. 4:13) + were churches in Asia, not here mentioned. The Asia mentioned is + the westernmost province of Asia Minor.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Unto + Ephesus.</span></span>—The Apostolic Age of the Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And unto + Smyrna.</span></span>—The Church during the period of persecution + by Pagan Rome.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And unto + Pergamos.</span></span>—The Church during the period of the rise of + Antichrist.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And unto + Thyatira.</span></span>—The Church during the Dark Ages, the period + of Antichrist's glory, and persecution by Papal Rome.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And unto + Sardis.</span></span>—The Church in the dawn of the + Reformation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And unto + Philadelphia.</span></span>—The Church in the period of reformation + by sects.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page018">[pg + 018]</span><a name="Pg018" id="Pg018" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And unto + Laodicea.</span></span>—The Church in the time of the Lord's Second + Presence.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I turned to see the voice that spake with + me.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Apostles saw in + symbol what the Lord's people may now see with the eye of faith and + understanding. He saw One like a son of man—like a man, like a + priest, as implied by the clothes described—walking amongst seven + golden candlesticks, caring for them, trimming the wicks, seeing to + the supply of oil, etc. Thus our Lord Jesus, our glorified Master, + has directed respecting His people's affairs, inspecting and caring + for the Church as a light-bearer, a candlestick. Alas, how poor the + wicks have sometimes been! How feeble the light that has sometimes + shone out! How much trimming has been necessary!”</span>—Z. + '16-344.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And being + turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Golden Candlestick, or Lamp-stand, which stood + opposite the Golden Table, and gave light to all in the + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Holy,’</span> was of gold—all of one piece + hammered out. (Exod. 25:31-37.) It had seven branches, each of + which held a lamp, making seven lamps in all—a perfect or complete + number. This represented the complete Church, from the Head, Jesus, + to and including the last member of the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘little flock’</span> that He is taking out from among + men, to be partakers of the Divine (gold) nature.”</span>—T. 115; + Rev. 1:20; Zech. 4:2; Matt. 5:14-16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + in the midst of the seven candlesticks.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The union, the relationship between them, being + supplied by our Redeemer, the antitypical High Priest.”</span>—Z. + '16-344.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">One like unto + the son of man.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“This + symbolical picture has precious lessons for us, more valuable than + an attempt to describe to our minds the appearance of our Lord as a + Spirit Being, <span class="tei tei-q">‘dwelling in light which no + man can approach unto,’</span> and which we cannot appreciate until + we shall be changed to <span class="tei tei-q">‘be like Him and see + Him as He is.’</span>—1 John 3:2; 1 Cor. 15:50-53.”</span>—Z. + '16-344; Dan. 7:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Clothed with a + garment down to the foot.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The glory of Christ was manifested in His own person, + in His own ministry, and in that of His Twelve Apostles, His + representatives—St. Paul taking the place of Judas; with their + death the body of Truth was almost veiled throughout the eighteen + centuries intervening, until now.”</span>—Z. '16-344.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And girt about + the breast.</span></span>—The support of the garment at the breast, + instead of the neck, left the arms and shoulders uncovered, + representing that the early Church was favored with the light of + the true Gospel for a considerable time after our Lord and Head had + completed His earthly ministry.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page019">[pg 019]</span><a name="Pg019" id="Pg019" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With a golden + girdle.</span></span>—Gold is a symbol of the Divine nature; the + girdle a symbol of service. (Rev. 15:6.) Throughout the Age the + Lord has been serving His Church. <span class="tei tei-q">“Blessed + are those servants, whom the Lord when He cometh shall find + watching; verily I say unto you that He shall gird Himself, and + make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve + them.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“I am among you as he that + serveth.”</span>—Luke 12:37; 22:27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">His + head and His hairs were white like wool, as white as + snow.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The head, with its + white hair, is not to teach us that our Lord in glory has the form + of a man, with white hairs, but merely suggestive and symbolic of + knowledge, experience, wisdom.”</span>—Z. '01-188; Matt. 17:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And His eyes + were as a flame of fire.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“His + eyes like a flame of fire tell us in symbol that our Master is + all-seeing, omniscient; that He is not deceived by outward forms + and ceremonies; but that He can, and does, read every thought and + intent of the heart.”</span>—Z. '16-344; Rev. 19:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + His feet like unto fine brass.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The feet, described as like furnace-refined copper, + seem to say that those who belong to the Body of Christ, and whom + the Lord would use in His service, <span class="tei tei-q">‘the + feet’</span> members of the Body, must, in their contact and + dealings with the world, be refined, purified, clean—<span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the Lord's + house.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '01-188; Ezek. 1:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As if they + burned in a furnace.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In the + end of the Age, the feet members of the Body of Christ will be + illuminated by the Truth and will shine forth—not like the Head, + but as polished brass. We have shining upon us with almost burning + brightness the focused rays of Divine inspiration and revelation + from the past 6,000 years. How it should consume in us all the + dross of selfishness! How it should purify us! How humble it should + make us!”</span>—Z. '16-344.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And His voice as + the sound of many waters.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The many waters signify peoples, nations and + languages, as elsewhere explained in this book. Thus our Lord, + present with His Church, speaks to her and through her by many + tongues, in many languages.”</span>—Z. '01-188; Rev. 19:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He had in His right hand.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“This One whom we thus know, thus recognize, as the + Instructor and Caretaker of the candlesticks, we are also to + recognize as having in His right hand—in His favor as well as His + power—seven stars, the angels, the messengers, of the seven + Churches. That they are in His right hand seems to teach us that + these should be considered as in some special sense under the + Master's guidance, protection and care in the interest of the + Churches which they represented.”</span>—Z. '16-345; Jer. + 22:24.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page020">[pg + 020]</span><a name="Pg020" id="Pg020" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Seven + stars.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Apparently the stars + represent special ministers, or servants of the Church. In + Revelation 12:1 the Church is pictured as a Woman crowned with + twelve stars. These stars evidently represent the Twelve Apostles + as the special lights of the Church. Similarly, in the picture + before us, the seven stars which the Lord holds in His right hand + seem to represent special light-bearers in the Church—in each of + its seven phases, or stages, of development. It will be noticed + that the messages to the various Churches are sent by these stars, + messengers, angels, as though our Lord would have us understand + that the appropriate message for each appropriate epoch in the + Church's experience would be sent by the Lord through a particular + star, or messenger, whom He would especially commission as His + representative. Our Lord Himself is represented by the great light + of the sun; and His special messengers in the Church throughout the + entire period of the Gospel Age are consistently enough represented + as stars.”</span>—Z. '16-345; Rev. 1:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And out of His + mouth went a sharp two-edged sword.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“No part of the description could more thoroughly + convince us that the description of our Lord given here is + symbolic. As a symbolic picture, it speaks to us of the Word of the + Lord, the Sword of the Spirit, <span class="tei tei-q">‘sharper + than any two-edged sword.’</span> (Eph. 6:17; Heb. 4:12.) It + reminds us that our Lord's words are not one-sided, not directed + merely against sin in one class, but that His Word is sharp, + cutting in every direction; that sin is reproved by Him as much + when found in His most earnest followers as when found elsewhere. + It assures us that none need attempt to pluck out the mote from his + brother's eye without first getting rid of the beam in his own eye; + and that if we do not show mercy to those who are our debtors we + must not expect mercy from Him who has purposed to extend His mercy + toward us. How heart-searching is God's Word when we understand + it—not merely as a compendium of rules and regulations, but when we + catch the spirit of it! Then we come to see that its requirement is + love out of a pure heart; first, to the Heavenly Father; secondly, + to our Lord and Head; thirdly, to all His brethren; fourthly, to + the world in general, groaning and travailing in pain, waiting for + the blessings of the coming Day of Christ; and fifthly, toward our + enemies also, sympathetically realizing that they are warped, + twisted and blinded through the deceitfulness of sin and through + the machinations of the great Adversary.—2 Cor. 4:4.”</span>—Z. + '16-345; Rev. 2:12, 16; 19:15, 21; Isa. 11:4.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page021">[pg 021]</span><a name="Pg021" id="Pg021" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And His + countenance [was as the sun] shineth AS THE SUN in his + strength.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“And his face was + as it were the sun.”</span>—Rev. 10:1; Acts 26:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as + dead.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“So great was the + splendor that St. John fell as dead, just as Daniel did in the + presence of the mighty One whom he saw, and just as Saul of Tarsus + did before the majesty presented to him. (Dan. 10:4-11; Acts + 9:3-9.) So it is symbolically with the Christian, when once he gets + a glimpse of the glories of the Divine Character. When once we get + a true view of Him with whom we have to do, as the great + Heart-searcher and Caretaker of His Church, we fall before Him, + humbled to the dust, realizing that we are imperfect, that we + cannot stand before our Master, that we are unworthy of His + blessing.”</span>—Z. '16-344; Ezek. 1:28.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And He laid His + right hand upon me.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“As our + Lord touched St. John gently, raising him up, so He has spoken to + us comfort, peace and love, assuring us that we have a High Priest + that can be touched with a feeling of our infirmities, One who is + able to sympathize and mercifully to assist.”</span>—Z. + '16-345.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying [unto me, + Fear not]; I am the First and the Last.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“We must recognize that our Lord is the One who was the + beginning of the creation of God and the end of it, the One by whom + are all things, next to the Father in everything pertaining to the + affairs of the Universe.—Col. 1:15; Rev. 3:14; John 1:1-3; 1 Cor. + 8:6.”</span>—Z. '16-345; Rev. 1:11; 2:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I am + He that liveth, and was dead.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Lord now liveth, and in order to appreciate this + we understand that He was dead for parts of three days—not merely + apparently dead, but actually <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">dead</span></em>—His soul poured out unto + death, made an offering for sin.—Isa. 53:10-12.”</span> (Z. + '01-189.) <span class="tei tei-q">“It was because Christ's soul + (being) was dead that the Apostles could declare that unless His + soul, being, were made alive again by a resurrection there could be + no hope in Him as a Savior and a Life-giver.”</span>—Z. + '01-122.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And behold, I am + alive for evermore, [Amen].</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Death has no more dominion over Him. (Rom. 6:9.) + Neither sacrifices of the Mass nor death in any sense or form ever + will be needed. His work is perfect. <span class="tei tei-q">‘It is + finished!’</span> ”</span>—Z. '16-345; John 19:30.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And have the + keys of [hell] DEATH.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“He has + the key, the power over death, in order that those who have not yet + gone into the tomb, but who are under the death sentence, may all + be ultimately delivered into the full liberty of the sons of + God—righteousness and life everlasting.—Rom. 8:21.”</span>—Z. + '16-345.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page022">[pg + 022]</span><a name="Pg022" id="Pg022" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And of [death] + HELL.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“These words imply that + the Lord's people go to <span class="tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Hades</span></span>, and that the hope when + going down to <span class="tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Hades</span></span>, to oblivion, is that in + due time our great Redeemer shall unlock this figurative + prisonhouse of death and bring forth the captives. This is the + significance of the statement that He has the keys—He can open; all + power is given into His hand. In preaching at His First Advent, He + declared this to be the Gospel. (Isa. 61:1; Luke 4:18.) How full of + meaning are these Scriptures when viewed from the proper + standpoint; how confusing and absurd when viewed from any + other!”</span>—E. 397, 378.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Write THEREFORE the things which thou + hast seen.</span></span>—John was personally familiar with the + first epoch, then already in the past. What he wrote of that epoch + (Rev. 2:1-7) serves as a guide to what follows.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the things + which are.</span></span>—John was writing in the second epoch, + already in its persecution era.—Rev. 2:8-11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the things + which [shall be] MUST SHORTLY COME TO PASS + hereafter.</span></span>—The five remaining epochs of the Church, + and the Kingdom to follow.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + mystery of the seven stars.</span></span>—Every true reformer must + go contrary to the current of his times; and, in proportion as he + has the Master's spirit, he cannot fail to be, like Him, a man of + mystery to his own generation—<span class="tei tei-q">“a Stone of + Stumbling and a Rock of Offense”</span>—to those who have not + <span class="tei tei-q">“ears to hear.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which thou + sawest in My right hand.</span></span>—Small wonder that these + great reformers seemed almost to have charmed lives!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the seven + golden candlesticks.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + Candlestick, or Lampstand, represents the nominal, rather than the + true Church. This is shown by the fact that in addressing each of + these churches the Lord finds fault with the many and approves the + faithful few.”</span>—Z. '16-344.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The seven + stars.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The star-light is the + Heavenly light, the spiritual enlightenment or instruction. The + lamp-light is the earthly light, representing good works, + obedience, etc., of those who are exhorted to let their light so + shine that it will glorify their Father in Heaven.”</span>—Z. + '16-345.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are the angels + of the seven churches.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + title is borrowed from the Jewish Synagogue, in which the angel, or + messenger of the assembly, was the person who presided over and + arranged the meetings for worship.”</span> (Cook.)—Mal. 2:7; Hag. + 1:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the seven + candlesticks [which thou sawest] are the seven + churches.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Alas! The Master + evidently found but few good works, little glorifying light shining + out from His earthly representatives in many of the seven epochs of + the history of the Church.”</span>—Z. '16-344; Rev. 1:12; Zech. + 4:2.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page023">[pg 023]</span><a name= + "Pg023" id="Pg023" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc9" id="toc9"></a> <a name="pdf10" id="pdf10"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 2—St. Paul, St. John, + Arius And Waldo</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">[Unto] BY the angel.</span></span>—The + special messenger in the Harvest of the Jewish Age was St. Paul. A + Hebrew of the Hebrews (Phil. 3:5), he was a free-born Roman citizen + (Acts 22:25-29), highly educated (Acts 22:3), spoke Greek (Acts + 21:37) and Hebrew (Acts 22:2), and was presumably a member of the + Sanhedrin at the time of St. Stephen's death. (Acts 7:58; 8:1; + 26:10.) Chosen before his birth (Gal. 1:15), he was supernaturally + inducted into the Body of Christ (Acts 9:1-22) to take the place of + Judas (Psa. 109:8; Acts 1:20), was privately instructed in the + fullness of the Gospel (Gal. 1:11, 12, 17), was specially + commissioned to explain this Gospel to the brethren at Jerusalem + (Gal. 2:1, 2), did not hesitate to correct the erring Peter (Gal. + 2:11), was acknowledged by St. Peter as filled with Heavenly wisdom + (2 Pet. 3:15, 16), wrote over half of the books of the New + Testament, carried the Gospel into Europe (Acts 16:9), supported + himself with his own hands while he preached (Acts 20:32-35), and + suffered almost unbelievable hardships of every description—besides + having <span class="tei tei-q">“the care of all the + churches.”</span> (2 Cor. 11:24-28.) What a service and honor, here + and hereafter, Judas missed by his love of money! St. Paul was + beheaded by Nero, A. D. 66.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the church + [of] IN Ephesus.</span></span>—The first age of the Church began at + Pentecost in the spring of A. D. 33, and ended in the spring of A. + D. 73. <span class="tei tei-q">“It may be proper to mention also + what things occurred that show the benignity of that all-gracious + Providence, that had deferred their destruction for forty years + after their crimes against Christ.”</span> (Eusebius' <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Ecclesiastical + History</span></span>.) <span class="tei tei-q">“On the 15th of + Nisan, i. e., of April, in the year 73 A. D., the first day of the + Easter festival, the same day on which, according to tradition, the + God of Israel had led His people out of Egyptian bondage into + freedom, the last bulwark of Israel's liberty had fallen, and + Israel was delivered into bondage.”</span> (Cornil's <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">History of the People + of Israel</span></span>.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Masada attained + great importance in the war with the Romans.... With the fall of + Masada the war came to an end, on the 15th of Nisan, 73.”</span> + (<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">The + Jewish Encyclopedia</span></span>.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The + capture of Masada, a Jewish fortress on the southwestern shores of + the Dead Sea, put a termination to one of the <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page024">[pg 024]</span><a name="Pg024" id="Pg024" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> fiercest struggles recorded in history + (73 A. D.)”</span>—Morrison's <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Jews Under Roman Rule</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Judea was not entirely subjugated; for three strong + fortresses were still in arms: Herodium, Machaerus, and Masada.... + The heroes agreed to this proposal (of their leader Eleasar) even + with enthusiasm, and on the first day of the great Feast of the + Passover (A. D. 73), after slaying their own wives and children, + they all perished on their own swords.”</span> (Graetz's + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">History + of the Jews</span></span>, Vol. 2.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Eleasar accordingly persuaded all his people during + that night to kill their wives and children and then themselves, + but to burn all their treasures first. The next day the Romans + found only 960 dead bodies, whilst but two women and five children + hid themselves in caverns and were discovered. The Easter of the + year 73, just seven years from the beginning of the great movement + and 40 years after Christ's crucifixion, saw this end of the whole + tragedy.”</span> (Ewald's <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">History of Israel</span></span>, Vol. 7, which + is entitled <span class="tei tei-q">“The Apostolic Age,”</span> and + which Prof. Ewald makes to end with the year A. D. 73.) Josephus + also relates that Masada fell on the 15th of Nisan, April, A. D. + 73; but the quotation is too lengthy to be inserted here.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The meaning of + the word <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Ephesus</span></span> is <span class= + "tei tei-q">“permission,”</span> which, understood as <span class= + "tei tei-q">“approval,”</span> harmonizes well with the tradition + that the meaning is <span class="tei tei-q">“desirable.”</span> + Anything that has approval is desirable.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Write.</span></span>—St. Paul wrote a + third of the New Testament.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">These things + saith He that holdeth the seven stars in His right + hand.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In the first chapter + we have a description of <span class="tei tei-q">‘One like unto a + son of man.’</span> Some one or more of the features of this + description are mentioned in connection with each of the successive + stages of the Church.”</span>—Z. '16-346; Rev. 1:16, 20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Who walketh in + the midst of the seven golden + candlesticks.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“We could not + doubt the love and care of our glorified Head even if He had given + us no explicit declaration on the subject.”</span> (F. 401; Rev. + 1:13; Lev. 24:2-4.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + know thy works.</span></span>—The early Christians <span class= + "tei tei-q">“took joyfully the spoiling of their goods”</span> + (Heb. 10:34); in <span class="tei tei-q">“great trial of + affliction”</span> they abounded in joy, and in <span class= + "tei tei-q">“deep poverty”</span> were liberal <span class= + "tei tei-q">“beyond their power.”</span> (2 Cor. 8:2, 3.) They were + living epistles, <span class="tei tei-q">“known and read of all + men.”</span>—2 Cor. 8:2, 3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And thy + labor.</span></span>—Considered as betrayers of the Jewish faith; + living in the midst of heathen idolatry, without railways, + steamships, automobiles, bicycles, telegraphs, telephones, + printing, postal service, electricity, gas, or kerosene—in the + midst of densest ignorance and basest morals—the <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page025">[pg 025]</span><a name="Pg025" id="Pg025" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> early Christians traversed the seas and + lands of the known world, braving floggings, stonings, hunger, + thirst, cold, nakedness and martyrdom, that they might tell the + good news of the coming Kingdom.—2 Cor. 11:24-27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And thy + patience.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Hupomonee.</span></span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">“An endurance of wrong or affliction with contentment, + without rebellion of will, with full acquiescence in the Divine + Wisdom and Love.”</span>—Z. '01-115.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And how thou + canst not bear them which are evil.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“How much earnestness it produced in you! what an + apology! what indignation! what earnest desire! what zeal! what a + punishment! In everything you proved yourselves to be pure in this + matter.”</span> (2 Cor. 7:11, Diaglott.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Sufficient for such a person is this punishment, which + was inflicted by the majority; so that, on the other hand, you + ought to forgive and comfort him, lest such an one should be + overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. Wherefore I entreat you publicly + to confirm your love towards him.”</span>—2 Cor. 2:6-8, + Diaglott.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And thou hast + tried.</span></span>—Made experiment of, Greek implies.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Them which [say + they are] CALL THEMSELVES apostles, and are not, and hast found + them liars.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Giving out that + himself was some great one,”</span> like the clergy of other times, + Simon Magus sought <span class="tei tei-q">“also this power, that + on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Spirit,”</span> + but learned that he had <span class="tei tei-q">“neither part nor + lot in this matter”</span> because his heart was <span class= + "tei tei-q">“not right in the sight of God.”</span> (Acts 8:9-24.) + Also, there were <span class="tei tei-q">“certain men which came + down from Judea”</span> (Acts 15:1, 2), the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming + themselves into the apostles of Christ”</span> in Corinth (2 Cor. + 11:12-15); <span class="tei tei-q">“Hymenaeus and Alexander”</span> + (1 Tim. 1:20); <span class="tei tei-q">“Philetus”</span> (2 Tim. + 2:17); those who would <span class="tei tei-q">“pervert the Gospel + of Christ”</span> in Galatia (Gal. 1:7); <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Phygellus and Hermogenes.”</span>—2 Tim. 1:15; Acts + 20:28-30; Rev. 2:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [hast borne and] hast patience.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Hupomonee</span></span>, constant, cheerful + endurance.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And ALL + AFFLICTIONS AND HAST BORNE for My name's sake [hast + labored].</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“And hast suffered + on account of My name.”</span> (Diaglott.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“As concerning this sect, we know that everywhere it is + spoken against.”</span> (Acts 28:22.) The natural course is, + hatred, slander, then murder. (Matt. 5:21, 22.) It is said that + Peter was crucified with head downward (A. D. 70); Andrew was + crucified on a cross decussate (X); James was murdered by Herod (A. + D. 44), (Acts 12:2); Bartholomew was first flayed alive and then + crucified with his head downward; Matthew died a martyr + (supposedly); Thomas was impaled on a spear; <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page026">[pg 026]</span><a name="Pg026" id="Pg026" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> James the son of Alphaeus was thrown + down from the Temple and was then stoned, and his brains dashed out + with a club; Simon Zelotes was crucified; Paul beheaded.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And hast not + fainted.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Let us not be weary + in well doing: for in due time we shall reap, if we faint + not.”</span> (Gal. 6:9.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Consider Him that + endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest ye be + wearied and faint in your minds.”</span>—Heb. 12:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Nevertheless I have somewhat against + thee.</span></span>—The Lord's nominal people of the Apostolic + Age.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Because thou + hast left thy first love.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“I + marvel that ye are so soon removed from Him that called you into + the grace of Christ unto another gospel.”</span>—Gal. 1:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Remember therefore from whence thou art + fallen.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Call to remembrance + the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a + great fight of afflictions; partly, whilst ye were made a gazing + stock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye + became companions of them that were so used.”</span>—Heb. 10:32, + 33.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And repent, and + do the first works.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Cast not + away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of + reward.”</span>—Heb. 10:35.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Or else I will + come unto thee [quickly], and will remove thy candlestick out of + his place, except thou repent.</span></span>—The nominal church was + in grave danger of being disowned and rejected. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“By far the larger proportion were not consecrated to + death, not of the Royal Priesthood, but merely Levites, doing the + service of the Sanctuary, but not <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">sacrificing</span></em>.”</span>—T. 118.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the + Nicolaitanes.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Conquerors of + the people”</span>—the clergy.—Rev. 2:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which I also + hate.</span></span>—When the Lord's people hate the idea of a class + that seeks to be <span class="tei tei-q">“lords over God's + heritage”</span> (1 Pet. 5:2, 3), they hate something that the Lord + hates.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + that hath an ear.</span></span>—To receive and understand the voice + of God through His Word.—Matthew 11:15; 13:9, 43; Rev. 13:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Let him hear + what the Spirit saith unto the churches.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute + you; if they have kept [observed, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘heard’</span>] My saying, they will keep yours + also.”</span>—John 15:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To him that + overcometh.</span></span>—See 1 John 2:13, 14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Will I give to + eat of the tree of life.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“All + the trees in Eden were trees of life, and the overcomers of the + Gospel Age shall have full liberty to partake of <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘the tree of the knowledge of good and evil’</span> + when the knowledge will be of benefit to them, and not bring a + curse.”</span>—Z. '16-346.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page027">[pg 027]</span><a name="Pg027" id="Pg027" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which is in the + [midst of the] Paradise of God.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Paradise, the garden of God, was applicable as a name + to the Garden of Eden, in which our first parents resided while + they were still in harmony with God, before their disobedience; and + the same term is Scripturally applied as a name to the new earth + when restitution blessings shall, during our Lord's Second Presence + (the Millennium), have brought it to perfection as the fit abode of + those who, under Divine favor, shall then prove worthy of life + everlasting. It is this same Paradise of the future on this earth + that our Lord referred to when addressing the penitent thief, and + that is elsewhere referred to as <span class="tei tei-q">‘the third + heaven’</span>—<span class="tei tei-q">‘new heavens and a new + earth.’</span> (2 Cor. 12:2, 4; 2 Pet. 3:13.)”</span>—Z. + '01-198.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [unto] BY the angel.</span></span>—The mouthpiece of the Lord to + the second epoch of the Church was St. John himself. He was the one + whom Jesus specially loved (John 13:23; 20:2; 21:7, 20); to him + Jesus committed His choicest earthly possession (John 19:26); + length of days were implied in the Lord's statement, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to + thee?”</span> (John 21:22.) He died at Ephesus at the age of 100, + four years after writing the Apocalypse. Polycarp, Ignatius and + Papias, his disciples, record that he was a tower of strength to + the Church when the Roman Emperors Nero, Domitian and Trajan were + endeavoring to destroy the hated sect. When all his capacity to + work was gone, and he had no strength even to stand, he used to be + carried into the Christian assemblies where he would repeat the + exhortation, <span class="tei tei-q">“Little children, love one + another.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“The end of the + commandment is love”</span> (1 Tim. 1:5); and it is significant + that the epoch of the Church especially under St. John's faithful + and loving care receive no reproof whatever from the Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the church in + Smyrna.</span></span>—Greek, <span lang="el" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">myrrh</span></span>. The word means + <span class="tei tei-q">“bitter,”</span> and, as applied to the + history of the church from A. D. 73 to 325, is peculiarly + appropriate. This era comprised persecutions under Nero, when + Christian women were soaked with tar and burned as torches to light + the path of his chariot; under Domitian, in the year 95, when + 40,000 suffered martyrdom; under Trajan in the year 100; under + Antoninus; under Severus in the year 127, when beautiful and + amiable young women were stripped naked before insulting mobs and + gored to death by wild cattle; under Maximinus in A. D. 235; under + Decius in 250, when all Christians were driven from their estates; + under Valerian in 257; under Aurelian in 274; and under Diocletian + in A. D. 303.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page028">[pg + 028]</span><a name="Pg028" id="Pg028" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Write.</span></span>—St. John wrote more + of the New Testament than any other except St. Paul.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">These things + saith the First and the Last.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“In no other sense or way could He be the First and the + Last than as the only direct creation of the Father, through whom + all else was created. Any other view would be in conflict with the + Scriptures. (Rev. 3:14; Col. 1:15; 1 Cor. 8:6; John 1:1-3, + Diaglott.)”</span>—Z. '16-346; Rev. 1:11, 17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which was dead, + and is alive.</span></span>—This, in itself, must have been a + message of comfort and hope to the suffering martyrs.—Rev. + 1:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + know thy works, and tribulation, and + poverty.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Some of the most + sublime pictures of Christian endurance that the world has ever + seen were enacted during the Smyrna period of the + Church.”</span>—Z. '16-346.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But thou art + rich.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The blessing of the + Lord, it maketh rich.”</span>—Prov. 10:22; Luke 12:21; 1 Tim. 6:18; + James 2:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I know the + blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are + not.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“ <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘They are not all Israel which are of Israel.’</span> + (Rom. 9:6, 7.) <span class="tei tei-q">‘He is not a Jew which is a + Jew outwardly, neither is that circumcision which is outward in the + flesh; but he is a Jew which is one inwardly, and circumcision is + that of the heart.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '99-68.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But are the + synagogue of Satan.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Sold + under sin, by our first parent, Adam, his family became + <span class="tei tei-q">‘slaves of sin’</span> through the weakness + of heredity. (Rom. 5:12, 21; 6:16-23; 7:14; 8:20, 21.) In this + captive condition they have been blinded by the god (ruler) of the + present evil world (condition) who puts evil before their minds as + good, and darkness for light. (2 Cor. 4:4; Eph. 6:12; Isa. 5:20.) + He has general control; first of the masses through ignorance; and + secondly, of the more intelligent through pride, selfishness, + etc.”</span>—E. 205, 189.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Fear + none of those things which thou shalt suffer.</span></span>—Some + were covered with the skins of wild beasts and torn in pieces by + devouring dogs; some were tortured in red-hot iron chairs; the + throats of Christian infants were cut; and edicts were published in + all places against the Christians, who were exposed, without + protection, to the common rage.—Matt. 10:22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Behold, the + Devil.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It is because there + are such beasts as lions, bears and leopards, with known + characteristics, that governments were likened to them; and so, it + is because there is a Devil, with known characteristics, that the + fourth empire is likened to him.”</span> (A. 259.) The Devil used + the Roman empire as an instrument.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shall cast some + of you into prison.</span></span>—Restrain your liberties and + opportunities for service.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page029">[pg 029]</span><a name="Pg029" id="Pg029" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That ye may be + tried.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Those who have read + the history of this period can understand the depths of these + words.”</span>—Z. '16-346; Jas. 1:2, 3; 1 Pet. 1:6, 7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And ye shall + have tribulation ten days.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The ten symbolic days refer to the last and most + severe persecution under the Roman Emperors—that of the reign of + Diocletian, A. D. 303-313.”</span> (Z. '16-346.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“This persecution continued from February 23, A. D. + 303, to June 13, A. D. 313. It began in Nicomedia, and became + universal. Some were impaled alive; some had their limbs broken, + and were left to expire. Some were roasted by slow fires; some + suspended by their feet with their heads downward, and, a fire + being placed under them, were suffocated by the smoke. Some had + melted lead poured down their throats; the flesh of some was torn + off with fingers and toes. Houses filled with Christians were set + on fire. Numbers of Christians were tied together and thrown into + the sea. Seventeen thousand were slain in one month; and during the + continuance of this persecution in Egypt alone 144,000 Christians + died by violence, besides 700,000 that died through the fatigues of + banishment or the public works to which they were condemned. Coins + were struck, and inscriptions set up recording the fact that + Christian superstition was now utterly + exterminated.”</span>—McC.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Be thou faithful + unto death.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It is required + of all consecrators that they shall <span class="tei tei-q">‘die + daily,’</span> and that the end, with us as with our Lord and Head, + shall be literal death. As it is written: <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘I have said, Ye are gods [<span lang="he" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="he"><span style= + "font-style: italic">elohim</span></span>—mighty ones], all of you + sons of the Highest; yet ye shall die like men, ye shall fall like + one of the princes’</span>—not like Prince Adam, convicts; but like + Prince Jesus, participators in His death. (Psa. 82:6, + 7.)”</span>—F. 444.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I will give + thee a Crown of Life.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + Apostle James speaks of the same crown and calls it the Crown of + Life. (Jas. 1:12.) The Apostle Peter speaking of the same calls it + the Crown of Glory. (1 Pet. 5:4.) The thought at the bottom of each + of these expressions is the same; namely, the custom in olden times + of running races and the giving of a crown to the successful runner + at the end of the course. Our reward will be the Crown of Life in + the sense that we shall get life on the highest plane, inherent + life, immortality. It will be a Crown of Righteousness in the sense + that only those who are approved of God as righteous will thus be + rewarded and glorified—the righteousness of the Lord fulfilled in + us who walk not after the flesh, but after the spirit.”</span>—Z. + '03-190; Rev. 3:11; 2 Tim. 2:15; Isa. 62:3; Phil. + 3:14.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page030">[pg + 030]</span><a name="Pg030" id="Pg030" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:11 + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the + churches; he that overcometh.</span></span>—The overcomer of this + Gospel Age only.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shall not be + hurt of the Second Death.</span></span>—His victory is eternal.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [to] BY the angel.</span></span>—The messenger whose testimony was + of special value to the Church while the Papacy was rising into + power was Arius. He <span class="tei tei-q">“maintained that the + Son of God was totally and essentially distinct from the Father; + that He was the first and noblest of those beings whom God had + created—the instrument by whose subordinate operation He formed the + Universe; and therefore inferior to the Father both in nature and + dignity.”</span> (Buck.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The controversy + spread like a flame throughout the empire. Accordingly the first + ecumenical council was held at Nice, A. D. 325, consisting of 318 + bishops, most of whom were from the East. The gist of the question + to be settled by the Council of Nice lay in the argument of Arius: + <span class="tei tei-q">‘The Father is a father; the Son is a son; + therefore the Father must have existed before the Son; therefore + once the Son was not; therefore He was made, like all creatures, of + a substance that had not previously existed.’</span> The creed, as + finally adopted, condemned the heresy of Arius and fixed the + doctrine as it has been held in the church to this day. Of all the + bishops only Thomas of Marmarica, and Secundus of Ptolemais, held + out against the threat of banishment by the Emperor. Arius was + excommunicated and banished, and his books burnt.”</span>—McC.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“From the time the Nicene Creed was promulgated and + accepted, A. D. 325, there was practically no more Bible study for + over twelve centuries. During all that time Bible study was + considered unnecessary, because the Apostolic Bishops had + formulated the creeds as proper statements of the Church's faith. + To study the Bible would have meant the studying of how to fight + against the Emperor and the bishops.”</span> (Z. '15-253.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“As a result of the failure of these + bishops to stand by the Word of the Lord, God's people for + centuries have been confessing a Divine trinity, which is + incomprehensible; and meantime been neglecting the trinity taught + by the Bible, which is more reasonable. If the trinity of the + creeds was questioned, hands were lifted in horror, and the + questioner was told that the subject was a mystery, which he could + not possibly understand, but to doubt which would mean his + damnation! The mysterious proposition was sometimes stated to be 3 + × 1 is 1; but others stated <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page031">[pg 031]</span><a name="Pg031" id="Pg031" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> it differently, 1 × 3 is 1. No wonder if some + of the more intelligent specimens of our race declared themselves + incapable of understanding such mathematics, and too honest to + confess and profess what they could not believe!”</span> (B. S. M.) + The witness of Arius created a profound impression. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The doctrine was carried, in the fifth century, into + Africa, under the Vandals; and into Asia, under the Goths. But it + sunk almost at once, when the Vandals were driven out of Africa, + and the Goths out of Italy, by the arms of Justinian. However, it + revived again in Italy, under the protection of the Lombards, in + the seventh century, and was not extinguished till about the end of + the eighth. Arianism was revived in the West by Servetus, in 1531, + for which he suffered death.”</span>—Buck.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the church in + Pergamos.</span></span>—From <span class= + "tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Purgos</span></span>, a tower or citadel. + <span class="tei tei-q">“The name was originally given to a + remarkable hill, presenting a conical appearance when viewed from + the plain, and strongly fortified by nature and art.”</span> (S. B. + D.) Concerning the literal city of Pergamos, of which the rising + Papacy was the antitype, we read, <span class="tei tei-q">“The + sumptuousness of the princes raised Pergamos to the rank of the + first city of Asia as regards splendor. It was a sort of union of a + pagan cathedral city, a university town, and a royal residence, + embellished during a succession of years by kings who all had a + passion for expenditure and ample means of gratifying + it.”</span>—McC.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">From the witness + by Arius in 325 to the witness by the next special messenger of the + Church was the long period of 835 years; and during all that time + the Papacy was slowly rising, pushing itself higher and higher. + <span class="tei tei-q">“The first ecumenical council of Nice + (325), in its sixth canon, makes only an incidental mention of the + Roman bishop. The first pope, in the real sense, was Leo I + (440-461). The bishops of the African and the Spanish churches + submitted to his demands, and he gained an important foothold even + in the East. In Gaul, however, he met with a most determined + resistance. Gregory I (590-604) saw that the bishops of Rome could + not enjoy the ecclesiastical supremacy at which they aimed until + they threw off their political dependency. The triumph of the + Catholic Church over Arianism in Spain greatly promoted his plans; + but he did not as yet actually possess the power of the mediaeval + popes. In the seventh and eighth centuries a series of important + events gave the popes a high and influential position among the + secular governments of the world. The actual power was, however, + for several centuries, not commensurate with their claims and + aspirations. In 1073, Hildebrand (Gregory VII), after being for + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page032">[pg 032]</span><a name= + "Pg032" id="Pg032" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> about twenty-five + years the guide of the Papal policy, boldly set forth the theory of + a theocratic rule of the pope over all the nations of the world. + The period from Gregory VII onward is an almost continuous conflict + between the popes and the secular governments, during which the + former, with an iron firmness, endeavored at first to destroy the + direct influence of the princes upon the church, and secondly, to + subject all secular governments to the church. This conflict was + ended by the Concordat of Worms (1122), by which Emperor Henry V, + after the precedence of the governments of England and France, + surrendered <span class="tei tei-q">‘to God, to St. Peter and Paul, + and to the Catholic Church, all right of + investiture.’</span> ”</span> (McC.) The Pergamos (<span class= + "tei tei-q">“earthly elevation”</span>) era ended in A. D. 1160, as + will be shown.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Write.</span></span>—Arius' writings were + destroyed by Constantine.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">These things + saith He which hath the sharp sword with two + edges.</span></span>—How the sharp sword, God's Word, wielded by + Arius before the Emperor and his brother elders at the Nicean + Council, must have cut some of them to the heart when they saw the + gentle and aged man (Arius was old at the time the controversy + arose) banished into the Balkan mountains, one of the most + inhospitable places in the world!—Isa. 11:4, 49:2; Hos. 6:5; Eph. + 6:17; 2 Thes. 2:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + know [thy works, and] where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat + is.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“During this period, the + true Christians were tested and proved by the introduction and + development of Pagan and Papal ideas. The Pagan priests, unwilling + to lose their positions of honor and influence amongst the people, + while nominally professing Christianity, brought their former ideas + with them into the Christian Church.”</span> (Z. '16-346.) The word + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">seat</span></em> is rendered <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">throne</span></em> + in Lu. 1:32, and refers to Satan's <span class="tei tei-q">“hellish + parody of the Heavenly Kingdom.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And thou holdest + fast My name, and hast not denied My faith, [even] in those days + wherein Antipas was My faithful martyr.</span></span>—Throughout + all the western part of Europe the Bishop of Rome finally came to + be called the <span class="tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">papa</span></span>, or pope, or Father of the + church. <span class="tei tei-q">“Whoever denounced this attempt to + disobey the direct command of Jesus (Matt. 23:9), received the + promised persecution. (2 Tim. 3:12.) This class in Pergamos is + commended by our Lord under the symbol of <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Anti-pas, My faithful martyr.’</span> In Greek, + <span lang="el" class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">anti-</span></span> means against, and + <span class="tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">papas</span></span> signifies + father.”</span>—Z. '16-347.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Who was slain + among you, where Satan dwelleth.</span></span>—We can give but a + partial list of the popes who served from the condemnation of Arius + to the end of the Pergamos epoch; but it will be instructive to + those who trust in human ordination and are in sympathy with the + efforts of <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page033">[pg + 033]</span><a name="Pg033" id="Pg033" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + present-day clergy to get some of the special spirit that is + supposed to be imparted by the laying on of hands of these + <span class="tei tei-q">“successors of St. Peter,”</span> or those + to whom they imparted their <span class= + "tei tei-q">“authority.”</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Saint”</span> Gregory I, pope 590-604 A. D., was the + great-great-grandchild of Pope Felix II. When Phocas murdered + Emperor Maurice and ascended the throne, Gregory wrote, + <span class="tei tei-q">“The Almighty has chosen you and put you on + the throne. Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth leap for + joy.”</span> Phocas was not ungrateful and in return established + the supremacy of the see of Rome over all the other sees. Gregory + was the discoverer of Purgatory, it having been revealed to him by + means of <span class="tei tei-q">“apparitions”</span> and visions. + See middle of page <a href="#Pg127" class= + "tei tei-ref">127</a>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Honorius I, + 625-638, has been condemned as having taught a heresy <span lang= + "la" class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="la"><span style= + "font-style: italic">ex cathedra</span></span> (officially). The + interest in this lies in the fact that in 1870 the Vatican Council + declared the infallibility of all the popes in their <span lang= + "la" class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="la"><span style= + "font-style: italic">ex cathedra</span></span> utterances. But the + pope who declared Honorius a heretic did it <span lang="la" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="la"><span style="font-style: italic">ex + cathedra</span></span> also. Hundreds of <span class= + "tei tei-q">“learned”</span> volumes have been written in the + effort to make this pretty snarl clear to the Roman clergy. It is + clear enough to others. <span class="tei tei-q">“Saint”</span> + Agathon, 678-682, claimed to be a miracle worker. He was the + infallible pope who denounced the doctrines taught by infallible + Honorius I. <span class="tei tei-q">“Saint”</span> Nicholas I, + 858-867, <span class="tei tei-q">“tamed kings and tyrants, and + ruled the world like a sovereign; to the wicked and unconverted he + was a terror.”</span> So says a Catholic historian. John VIII, + 872-882, must have seriously offended one of the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“brethren”</span> at the Vatican; for that dignitary + first tried to poison him, and as the poison did not work quickly + enough, he finished the job by breaking John's head with a hammer. + Stephen VII, 897-898, was offended because his predecessor had at + one time gotten the papal throne away from him. Accordingly, his + first act was to cause the body of Pope Formosus to be exhumed, + mutilated and thrown into the Tiber. Subsequently one of the + <span class="tei tei-q">“brethren”</span> strangled him.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Christopher, + 900-903, boldly deposed his predecessor, Leo V, declaring him unfit + to reign, which was doubtless true. Leo died <span class= + "tei tei-q">“of grief”</span> in prison less than forty days after + he had ascended the throne. He probably had something given him to + help his grief along. Christopher himself was murdered by + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">his</span></em> successor. Sergius III, + 904-911, having murdered Christopher, ascended the throne and + emulated the kings of earlier days. His concubine Marosia bore him + several children. John X, 915-928, and Leo VI, 928-929, were both + killed by Marosia, to make room for others in whom she was + interested. John XI, 931-936, was the son of Marosia by Pope + Sergius III. One of the <span class="tei tei-q">“brethren”</span> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page034">[pg 034]</span><a name= + "Pg034" id="Pg034" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> poisoned him. John + XII, 956-964, was murdered while in the act of committing adultery. + He was of licentious habits, associating with women of every + station, and filling the Lateran with the noisy profanity of a + brothel. Among his mistresses was Joan, popularly known in history + as Pope Joan. She was a brilliant woman and actually exercised the + chief influence at Rome during John's pontificate. Benedict VI, + 972-973, was strangled or poisoned by one of the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“saints.”</span> Boniface VII, 984-985, was elected + just after the tumult caused by the death of Benedict VI, but had + to leave town to escape a similar fate, on account of + licentiousness and cruelty. He remained away eleven years, + returned, put Pope John XIV in prison, starved him to death and + ascended the throne in his place.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Gregory V, + 996-999, was poisoned by one of the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“regularly ordained”</span> clergy. Benedict IX, + 1033-1045, the boy pope whose parents bought the popedom for him + when he was twelve years old, was the worst monster that ever held + the papal throne. Some, however, claim that honor for Alexander VI, + 1492-1503, who had seven acknowledged bastards and many mistresses. + Alexander tried to poison nine cardinals at one sitting so that he + could sell their offices for the benefit of his brood; but a stupid + servant gave him the wrong glass and he departed this life ahead of + time. Benedict's vile conduct caused the Romans to expel him from + the city. Silvester III was regularly elected to take his place; + but after three months Benedict came back and resumed control. + Shortly afterward he sold the popedom to Gregory VI, so that he + might be free to marry an Italian princess. At one time there were + three popes living in Rome contemporaneously, and the city was + filled with brawls and murders. A fourth, Clement II, was elected, + but after he had served nine months, a friend of Gregory put + something into his food besides the regular seasoning; and he never + awoke again. Thereupon Benedict came back and reigned three years + longer.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + I have a few things [against thee].</span></span>—Against the + nominal church of the Pergamos epoch.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Because thou + hast there them that hold the doctrine of + Balaam.</span></span>—Balaam was a mouthpiece of the Lord, but + unworthy. He desired to curse God's true people, because of the + money there was in it, and finally seduced them by fornication + (symbolical of union of church and state). The name Balaam means + the same as <span class="tei tei-q">“Nicolaitanes”</span> + (conquerors of the people), and refers to the money-loving, + power-loving clergy. We have already noted the efforts to obtain + worldly power (spiritual fornication) which characterized the + Pergamos epoch. Its history also shows that the <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page035">[pg 035]</span><a name="Pg035" id="Pg035" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> clergy of that time were quite as fond + of money as ever Balaam was. John XX, 1024-1033, tried to sell the + Roman primacy over the Eastern church for a pecuniary + consideration, but failed to make the sale. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Benedict IX, when a boy of twelve years (A. D. 1033), + was elected pope <span class="tei tei-q">‘<span lang="la" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="la"><span style= + "font-style: italic">intercedente thesaurorum + pecuniae</span></span>’</span> ”</span>; i. e., his relatives + provided the collateral necessary to secure the office for him. + Gregory VI, who had had great repute for sanctity as a priest, + obtained the papal chair (A. D. 1044) by purchase from Benedict IX, + <span class="tei tei-q">“who abdicated to marry a girl of noble + family.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“At a council at Lyons, the + archbishop and forty-five bishops confessed themselves + simoniacal”</span> (guilty of buying and selling church offices). + In the reign of Lucien II, 1144-1145, the people, hoping for some + relief from an intolerable condition, paraded the streets of Rome + with a banner, <span class="tei tei-q">“Caesar should have the + things that are Caesar's and the priest the things that are the + priest's.”</span> Lucien thought this was a reflection upon + himself, and went out in person to put down the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“revolution.”</span> The people stoned him to + death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Who taught Balac + to cast a stumbling-block before the children of + Israel.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Guided by Balaam, + King Balac communicated with the leading people of the Midianites, + and urged that their wives and daughters should apparently fall in + love with the Israelites, and introduce them to the sensuous + religious rites practised by Midian. The scheme was successful. + Some of the leading wives and daughters of the Midianites attracted + some of the leading men of Israel to adultery, and to idol worship + and orgies.”</span> (Z. '13-297; Num. 24:14; 25:1; 31:16; 2 Pet. + 2:15; Jude 11; 1 Cor. 10:8.) The words <span class= + "tei tei-q">“cast a stumbling-block”</span> are properly rendered, + in Rotherham's translation, <span class="tei tei-q">“throw a + snare.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To + eat.</span></span>—Appropriate to themselves as truths.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Things + sacrificed unto idols.</span></span>—Doctrines twisted, distorted + and mutilated to make them agree with creed-idols.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And to commit + fornication.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Papacy + perceived its own great power over the peoples of Europe, all of + whom at that time ignorantly and blindly acknowledged the Roman + Catholic faith. While the kings of Europe were comparatively weak, + the suggestion came, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Now it must be God's + time for setting up the Messianic Kingdom, because now we have the + power.’</span> The answer of others was, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Not so. The Bible teaches that Jesus will set up His + own Kingdom at His Second Advent in power and great glory, and that + the virgin Church will become His Bride and Joint-heir by the power + of the First Resurrection.’</span> The answer to this was, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘So once we thought. But we have waited for + the coming of Messiah for over 800 years; and now we have the + thought that He probably wishes us to set up His <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page036">[pg 036]</span><a name="Pg036" id="Pg036" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> Kingdom for Him, and in His name to + reign over the kings of the earth.’</span> ”</span> (Z. '16-53.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“So these Pagan priests taught the Church + to indulge in spiritual fornication, and thus brought upon her the + withering blight of God's wrath.”</span>—Z. '16-346.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So + hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, + [which thing I hate] IN LIKE MANNER.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The <span class="tei tei-q">‘doctrine of the + Nicolaitanes’</span> (conquerors of the people) seems to be the + theory of lordship or headship in the Church. (1 Pet. 5:3.) At + their councils there was a bitter fight for supremacy. It was + settled only by a division of the Church; the Eastern, or Greek + Church, accepting the Patriarch of Constantinople for its head; and + the Western, or Papal Church, acknowledging the Bishop—Pope or + Father—of Rome.”</span> (Z. '16-346.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The + sins to which Balaam allured Israel were a type of the sins to + which the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes now seduce + thee.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Repent; or else I will come unto thee + quickly.</span></span>—Ere you reach the earthly heights to which + you aspire.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And will fight + against them.</span></span>—The unfaithful and unrepentant church + nominal.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With the sword + of My mouth.</span></span>—With the Scriptures, in the hands of a + faithful servant. Such a servant came at that very time, as we + shall see.—2 Thes. 2:8; Heb. 4:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the + churches.</span></span>—Not many have had the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“hearing ear.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“There's + just one here, one there.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To him that + overcometh will I give [to eat] of the hidden + manna.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Manna was the bread + which came down from heaven as a life-sustainer for Israel. It + represented the living bread, Christ Himself. One peculiarity of + the golden pot of manna <span class="tei tei-q">‘hidden’</span> in + the Tabernacle, marking it as the same and yet different from that + supplied to the Israelites in general, was that it was <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">incorruptible</span></em>; hence it well + illustrates the immortal, incorruptible condition promised to the + Church.”</span>—T. 122; Ex. 16:33, 34; Heb. 9:4; John 6:49, 50.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [will give + him] a white stone.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In + ancient times the Greeks and the Romans had a custom of noting and + perpetuating friendship by means of a <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">white + stone</span></em>. This stone was divided into halves, and each + person inscribed his name on the flat surface, after which the + parts of the stone were exchanged. The production of either half + was sufficient to insure friendly aid. Thus the divided stone + became a mark of identification. There is an individual and + personal relationship between the Lord and the overcomers, who may + be said to receive the mark of identification—the antitypical white + stone—<em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">now</span></em>, in this life. This mark is + the sealing of the Holy Spirit.”</span>—Z. '12-315.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page037">[pg 037]</span><a name="Pg037" id="Pg037" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And in the stone + a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth + it.</span></span>—The new name signifies a new relationship to + Jehovah.—Gen. 17:5, 15; 32:28.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [unto] BY the angel.</span></span>—The messenger to the fourth + epoch of the Church was Peter Waldo. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Peter, an opulent merchant of Lyons, surnamed + Valdensis, or Valdisius, from Vaux, or Waldum, a town in the + marquisate of Lyons, being extremely zealous for the advancement of + true piety and Christian knowledge, employed a certain priest, + called Stephanus de Evisa, about the year 1160, in translating, + from Latin into French, the four Gospels, with other books of Holy + Scripture. But no sooner had he perused these sacred books with a + proper degree of attention, than he perceived that the religion + which was now taught in the Roman church differed totally from that + which was originally inculcated by Christ and His Apostles. Struck + with this glaring contradiction between the doctrines of the + pontiffs and the truths of the Gospel, and animated with zeal, he + abandoned his mercantile vocation, distributed his riches among the + poor (whence the Waldenses were called poor men of Lyons), and + forming an association with other pious men who had adopted his + sentiments and his turn of devotion, he began to assume the quality + of a public teacher, and to instruct the multitude in the doctrines + and precepts of Christianity.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Soon after Peter had assumed the exercise of his + ministry, the archbishop of Lyons, and the other rulers of the + church in that province, vigorously opposed him. However, their + opposition was unsuccessful; for the purity and simplicity of that + religion which these good men taught, the spotless innocence that + shone forth in their lives and actions, and the noble contempt of + riches and honors which was conspicuous in the whole of their + conduct and conversation, appeared so engaging to all such as had + any sense of true piety, that the number of their followers daily + increased. They accordingly formed religious assemblies, first in + France, and afterwards in Lombardy; from whence they propagated + their sect throughout the other provinces of Europe with incredible + rapidity, and with such invincible fortitude that neither fire nor + sword, nor the most cruel inventions of merciless persecution, + could damp their zeal, or entirely ruin their cause. All they aimed + at was to reduce the form of ecclesiastical government, and the + manners both of the clergy and the people, to that amiable + simplicity and primitive sanctity which characterized the Apostolic + ages, and which appear so strongly recommended in the precepts and + injunctions of the Divine Author of our holy + religion.</span></p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page038">[pg + 038]</span><a name="Pg038" id="Pg038" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“In consequence of this design, they complained that + the Roman church had degenerated from its primitive purity and + sanctity. They denied the supremacy of the Roman pontiff, and + maintained that the rulers and ministers of the Church were + obliged, by their vocation, to imitate the poverty of the Apostles + and to procure for themselves a subsistence by the work of their + hands. They considered every Christian as, in a certain measure, + qualified and authorized to instruct, exhort and confirm the + brethren in their Christian course. They at the same time affirmed + that confession made to priests was by no means necessary, since + the humble offender might acknowledge his sins and testify his + repentance to any true believer, and might expect from such the + counsel and admonition which his case demanded. They maintained + that the power of delivering sinners from the guilt and punishment + of their offenses belonged to God alone; and that indulgences in + consequence were the criminal invention of sordid avarice. They + looked upon the prayers and other ceremonies that were instituted + in behalf of the dead, as vain, useless, and absurd, and denied the + existence of departed souls in an intermediate state of + purification. It is also said that several of the Waldenses denied + the obligation of infant baptism. They adopted as the model of + their moral discipline Christ's sermon on the mount, which they + interpreted and explained in the most rigorous and literal manner; + and consequently prohibited and condemned in their society all + wars, and suits of law, and all attempts toward the acquisition of + wealth.”</span>—Buck.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Waldo's translation of the four gospels into French + was the first appearance of the Scriptures in any modern language. + The possession of these books soon discovered to Waldo that the + Church was never designed to be dependent on a priesthood, even for + the administration of the sacraments; and he became so obnoxious to + the church that he was anathematized by the pope. No longer safe in + Lyons, Waldo and his friends took refuge in the mountains, and + there formed those communities from which the simple doctrines of + Christianity flowed out all over Europe. Provence, Languedoc, + Flanders, Germany, one after another tasted of the refreshing + waters. Waldo traveled in Picardy, teaching his reformation + doctrines, hundreds of years before Luther was born. He finally + settled in Bohemia, where he died in 1179, the same year in which + his tenets were denounced by an ecumenical council. The Waldensian + Church was a light on the mountains during the Dark + Ages.”</span>—McC.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page039">[pg + 039]</span><a name="Pg039" id="Pg039" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the church in + Thyatira.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Thyatira seems to + mean <span class="tei tei-q">‘the sweet perfume of + sacrifice.’</span> It was the period of Papal persecution.”</span> + (Z. '16-347.) From the time of Peter Waldo's witness in 1160 until + the next special messenger to the Church appeared, 1378, was a + period of 218 years.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Write.</span></span>—The first + translation of the Bible into a modern language—French—was the work + of Waldo.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">These things + saith the Son of God, who hath His eyes like unto a flame of + fire.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“To watch over His + faithful ones as they wandered through the dark valleys or hid in + the darker caves of earth.”</span> (Z. '16-347; Rev. 1:14.) His + eyes search out every secret thought.—Rev. 2:23.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And His feet are + like fine brass.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“To walk by + their side as they scaled the rugged mountains or wandered footsore + and weary, seeking a place to plant the seeds of Truth.”</span> (Z. + '16-347; Rev. 1:15.) His feet <span class="tei tei-q">“trample to + fragments everything impure.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + know thy works.</span></span>—The Lord remembers that Peter Waldo + was the first to translate His Word into a modern language.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And charity, + [and service,] and faith, and [thy] patience, and thy + works.</span></span>—The Lord remembers that Peter Waldo literally + <span class="tei tei-q">“sold all that he had and gave to the + [Lord's] poor.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] thy last + works to be more than the first.</span></span>—(Diaglott.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“So general and widespread became the + so-called heresy that Innocent III determined to crush it + out—<span class="tei tei-q">‘exterminate the whole pestilential + race’</span> was the language of which he made use. The commission + he gave to the authorities was to burn the chief of the Vaudois + (Waldenses), to scatter the heretics themselves, confiscating their + property, and consigning to perdition every soul who dared to + oppose the pope. Joined with <span class="tei tei-q">‘His + Holiness’</span> in his relentless persecution of the Waldenses was + Dominic, the father of the Inquisition. Such has been the history + of the Waldenses all through the ages—subject to untold suffering + from persecution; then enjoying, in the quiet valleys of Piedmont, + comparative tranquility for a time; then assailed by their + ever-relentless foe, the Roman Catholic Church, which has spared no + pains, by fire and slaughter, and the horrors of the Inquisition, + to put an end to the unfortunate victims of their violence.”</span> + (McC.) How evident it is that the followers of Peter Waldo have + given a larger witness by their sufferings (their <span class= + "tei tei-q">“last works”</span>) than they did by the first works + (the translation of the Gospel into French)!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Notwithstanding I have [a few things] + MUCH against thee.</span></span>—The fourth epoch of the church + nominal.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page040">[pg + 040]</span><a name="Pg040" id="Pg040" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Because] THAT + thou sufferest that woman Jezebel</span></span>.—The Roman Catholic + Church, as shown in parallel below:</p> + + <table summary="This is a table" cellspacing="0" class= + "tei tei-table" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"> + <colgroup span="2"></colgroup> + + <tbody> + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“Elijah was + persecuted for fidelity to truth and + righteousness.</span></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“The Church + was persecuted for fidelity to truth and + righteousness.</span></td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“His + principal persecutor was Jezebel, the wicked queen of Israel, + who is mentioned by name as the type of the enemy of the + saints.—Rev. 2:20; 2 Kings 9:7.</span></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“The + principal persecutor was the apostate Church of Rome, which + claims to be a <span class="tei tei-q">‘queen’</span> and + ruler over Spiritual Israel.—Rev. 18:7.</span></td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“Jezebel's + persecuting power was exercised through her husband, Ahab, + the king.—1 Kings 21:25.</span></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“Papacy's + persecuting power was exercised through the Roman Empire, to + which she was joined.</span></td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“Elijah fled + from Jezebel and Ahab into the wilderness, to a place + prepared of God, where he was miraculously nourished.—1 Kings + 17:5-9.</span></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“The true + Church fled into the symbolic wilderness—or condition of + isolation—to her place, prepared of God, where she was + sustained.—Rev. 12:6, 16.</span></td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“Elijah was + <span class="tei tei-q">‘three years and six months’</span> + in the wilderness, and during that time there was no rain, + and a great famine was in the land.—James 5:17; 1 Kings 17:7; + 18:2.</span></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“The Church + was three and a half symbolic years (a day for a year—1260 + literal years) in the wilderness condition, during which + there was a spiritual famine because of the lack of Truth—the + living water.—Rev. 12:6; 11:3; Amos 8:11.</span></td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“After the + three and a half years, 1260 days, when Elijah returned from + the wilderness, the errors of Jezebel's priests were + manifested, the true God was honored, and copious rains + followed.—1 Kings 18:41-45.</span></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“At the end + of the 1260 years the power of the Truth and its witnesses + was manifested (A. D. 1799); and since then the Truth has + flowed at the rate of millions of Bibles every year, + refreshing the world and bringing forth fruit.”</span>—B. + 256.</td> + </tr> + </tbody> + </table> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which [calleth + herself] SAITH SHE IS a prophetess</span></span>.—Claims to be an + infallible teacher, but really has no right to teach at + all—<span class="tei tei-q">“I suffer not a woman [a church] to + teach, <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page041">[pg + 041]</span><a name="Pg041" id="Pg041" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + nor to usurp authority over the man [Christ].”</span> (1 Tim. 2:12; + 1 Cor. 14:34; F. 270.) <span class="tei tei-q">“False prophecy, + fornication and idolatry are symbolized by the woman + Jezebel.”</span> (Cook.) Jezebel was a prophetess of Baal.—1 Ki. + 16:31-33; 21:25.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[To teach and to + seduce] AND TEACHETH AND SEDUCETH My servants to commit + fornication.</span></span>—Union of church and state.—Rev. 2:14; 2 + Ki. 9:22; 1 Cor. 14:34.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And to eat + things sacrificed unto idols.</span></span>—Reverence the + creed-idols set up by the various ecumenical councils.—Rev. + 2:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I gave her space.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Chronos</span></span>, a <span class= + "tei tei-q">“time,”</span> 360 years. As noted in comments on 2:20, + the prophetic <span class="tei tei-q">“time, times and a half a + time,”</span> or three and a half times, or three and a half years, + or forty and two months, or 1260 days, represent 1260 years. A + single <span class="tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">chronos</span></span> or <span class= + "tei tei-q">“time,”</span> therefore, represents 360 years.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To repent [of + her fornication].</span></span>—Of her unfaithfulness to the Lord. + During all this time <span class="tei tei-q">“the virgin Church was + enduring the hardships of the wilderness; while the apostate Church + sat on the throne of her royal paramour.”</span>—Z. '16-347.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And she + [repented not] WILL NOT REPENT OF THIS + FORNICATION.</span></span>—The Lord foreknew that after 360 years + more of living with the kings of earth, and endeavoring to gain + dominion over them, the Roman Catholic Church would be unrepentant. + The 360 years from Waldo's message in 1160 ended in 1520. Luther's + 95 theses were placed on the church doors at Wittenberg October 31, + 1517. <span class="tei tei-q">“These he proposed not as points + fully established, but as subjects of inquiry and disputation. The + learned were invited to impugn them, either in person or by + writing; and to the whole he subjoined solemn protestations of his + high respect for the apostolic see, and of his implicit submission + to his authority. No opponent appeared at the time prefixed; the + theses spread over Germany with astonishing rapidity, and were read + with the greatest eagerness.”</span> (Buck.) Luther was summoned in + July, 1518, to appear at Rome within sixty days. He wrote a + submissive letter to the pope, requesting a trial in Germany. + Meantime the German Emperor died; and the pope, absorbed in the + choice of a new emperor, paid little heed to the Luther + controversy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“From the reason just now given, a suspension of + proceeding against Luther took place for eighteen months, though + perpetual negotiations were carried on. The manner in which these + were conducted having given our reformer many opportunities of + observing the corruption of <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page042">[pg 042]</span><a name="Pg042" id="Pg042" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> the court of Rome, its obstinacy in adhering + to established errors, and its indifference about truth, he began + in 1520 to utter some doubts with regard to the Divine origin of + the papal authority, which he publicly disputed with Eccius, one of + his most learned and formidable antagonists. The papal authority + being once suspected, Luther proceeded to push on his inquiries and + attacks from one doctrine to another, till at last he began to + shake the foundations on which the wealth and power of the church + were established. Leo then began to perceive that there were no + hopes of reclaiming such an incorrigible heretic, and therefore + prepared to pronounce the sentence of excommunication against him. + The college of cardinals was often assembled, in order to prepare + the sentence with due deliberation; and the ablest canonists were + consulted how it might be expressed with unexceptionable formality. + At last it was issued, on the 15th of June, 1520. Forty-one + propositions, extracted out of Luther's works, were therein + condemned as heretical, scandalous, and offensive to pious ears; + all persons were forbidden to read his writings, upon pain of + excommunication; such as had any of them in their custody were + commanded to commit them to the flames; he himself, if he did not + within sixty days publicly recant his errors, and burn his books, + was pronounced an obstinate heretic, excommunicated, and delivered + to Satan for the destruction of the flesh; and all secular princes + were required, under pain of incurring the same censure, to seize + his person, that he might be punished as his crimes + deserved.”</span> (Buck.) With the excommunication of Luther, + <span class="tei tei-q">“the fat was in the fire”</span>; and it + was useless for the Roman Catholic Church to try to stem the tide + of the Reformation. Her period for repentance ended with the + <span class="tei tei-q">“chronos,”</span> 360 years, June 15, + 1520.—See 3d paragraph, page <a href="#Pg041" class= + "tei tei-ref">41</a>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, I will cast her into a + bed.</span></span>—Not a bed of ease, but a bed of pain. See + Diaglott. There where she sinned she shall suffer.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And them that + commit adultery with her.</span></span>—All the powers that receive + her legates or that maintain representatives at the Vatican. + Knowing her character, they are equally guilty.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Into great + tribulation.</span></span>—They are getting some now, and will get + more soon.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Except they + repent of [their] HER deeds.</span></span>—This teaches that the + present situation in Europe is the direct result of the teachings + of the Roman Catholic Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will kill her children.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Both Romanists and Protestants now freely own the + relationship of mother <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page043">[pg + 043]</span><a name="Pg043" id="Pg043" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + and daughters, the former continually styling herself the Holy + Mother Church, and the latter, with pleased complacency, endorsing + the idea.”</span>—D. 28; Isa. 57:3, 4. See p. <a href="#Pg111" + class="tei tei-ref">111</a>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With + death.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“They shall be as + though they had not been.”</span>—Obad. 16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And all the + churches shall know.</span></span>—When their secrets are laid bare + by the unfolding of the deep things of God's Word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That I am He + which searcheth the reins and hearts.</span></span>—In olden times + the mind was supposed to be located in the reins (kidneys); and the + prophecy assumes the same position. Thus David says, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“My reins also instruct me in the night + seasons”</span>; <span class="tei tei-q">“In the night his song + shall be with me.”</span> (Psa. 16:7; 42:8.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“My reins within me are consumed with earnest desire + for that day.”</span> (Job 19:27, margin.) The metaphor is + appropriate to the theme.—Psa. 7:9; Jer. 11:20; 17:10; 20:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I will give + unto every one of you according to your works.</span></span>—The + light of Truth blazes most fiercely against the ecclesiastical + organizations whose offenses have been greatest. As for the Papacy, + <span class="tei tei-q">“her sins have reached unto heaven, and God + hath remembered her iniquities.”</span>—Rev. 18:5, 6; Matt. 7:16, + 20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + unto you I say [and unto] the rest in + Thyatira.</span></span>—Waldenses and others outside of the Papal + system.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As many as have + not this doctrine.</span></span>—Spiritual fornication, mixture of + church and state, the special subject of the message to + Thyatira.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] which have + not known.</span></span>—Comprehended, realized, entered into.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The depths of + Satan.</span></span>—Rome, pagan and papal.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As they + speak.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“So to say,”</span> i. + e., <span class="tei tei-q">“Satan”</span> is a name applicable to + Rome, as describing its characteristics.—Rev. 2:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I will put upon + you none other burden.</span></span>—The Lord only requires of His + people obedience to the light due.—1 John 1:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + that which ye have already.</span></span>—The truths described in + 2:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Hold fast till I + come.</span></span>—Some of the light which shone upon the + Waldensians has never been entirely extinguished.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he that overcometh.</span></span>—Effectually resists efforts to + entice him into disloyalty to the Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And keepeth My + works unto the end.</span></span>—Continues in the faith (John + 6:29; 1 John 3:23), despite the unions of church and state. + Christ's works are opposite to Jezebel's.—Rev. + 2:22.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page044">[pg + 044]</span><a name="Pg044" id="Pg044" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To him will I + give THE power [over] OF the nations.</span></span>—How like our + God! The sacrificed Christ gets the very prize for which Satan + aspired.—Isa. 14:13, 14; 1 Cor. 6:2, 3; Rev. 3:21; 5:10; Psa. + 149:5-9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he shall rule them with a rod of Iron.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“God's Kingdom will not be established by a vote of the + people, nor by the vote of the aristocracy and rulers. He + <span class="tei tei-q">‘whose right it is,’</span> He who bought + it with His own precious blood, will <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘<em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">take</span></em> the Kingdom,’</span> will + <span class="tei tei-q">‘take unto Himself His great power and + reign.’</span> ”</span> (D. 518). <span class="tei tei-q">“The + nations will be ruled by irresistible force—<span class= + "tei tei-q">‘every knee shall bow, every tongue shall + confess’</span>—and obedience will be compulsory.”</span> (D. 636.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“In His day the humble and righteous, and + they only, shall flourish. (Isa. 28:17; Rom. 14:11; Psa. 92:12, + 13.”</span>—C. 369.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The only liberty that + will be granted to any will be the true and glorious liberty of the + sons of God—liberty to do good to themselves and others in any and + in every way; but nothing will be allowed to injure or destroy in + all that Holy Kingdom. (Isa. 11:9; Rom. 8:21.) Because of its + firmness and vigor, it is symbolically called an iron + rule.”</span>—A. 302; Rev. 19:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As the vessels + of a potter shall they be broken to + shivers.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The stone cut out + of the mountain without hands, which smites and scatters the + Gentile powers, represents the true Church, the Kingdom of God. Not + the people, but the governments, are symbolized by the image, and + these are to be destroyed that the people may be delivered. Our + Lord Jesus came not to destroy men's lives, but to save them. (John + 3:17.) The stone does not become the mountain until it has smitten + the image; and so the Church, in the full sense, will become the + Kingdom when <span class="tei tei-q">‘the day of the Lord,’</span> + the <span class="tei tei-q">‘day of wrath upon the nations,’</span> + will be over.”</span> (A. 255.) <span class="tei tei-q">“This + smiting and breaking properly belongs to the Day of Vengeance, and + though the power and rod will still remain throughout the + Millennial Age, their use will probably be unnecessary.”</span>—D. + 637; Psa. 2:9; Dan. 7:22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Even as I + received of My Father.</span></span>—The Father (Justice) decrees + their unworthiness to continue longer. Their iniquity is come to + the full. Four hundred years from October 31, 1517, end Oct. 31, + 1917.—Rev. 2:21; Gen. 15:13-16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:28. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will give him the Morning Star.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“I am the bright and morning star.”</span>—Rev. 22:16; + Matt. 13:43.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:29. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + that hath an ear.</span></span>—An ear attuned to the Harp + Divine.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Let him hear + what the Spirit saith unto the churches.</span></span>—Not many are + able to appreciate the sweet old <span class="tei tei-q">“song of + Moses and the Lamb”</span> when they hear it.—Rev. 15:3.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page045">[pg 045]</span><a name= + "Pg045" id="Pg045" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc11" id="toc11"></a> <a name="pdf12" id="pdf12"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 3—Wycliffe, Luther And + Russell</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [unto] BY the angel.</span></span>—The next important messenger to + the Church was John Wycliffe. <span class="tei tei-q">“It was in + 1378 A. D., the year of the <span class="tei tei-q">‘Great Schism + of the West,’</span> when two popes were elected, one in Rome and + the other in Avignon, that Wycliffe came out as the great Doctrinal + Reformer. Workman, in <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Dawn of the Reformation</span></span>, writes: + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Wycliffe's spiritual earnestness was + shocked, his theory destroyed by the spectacle of two popes, each + claiming to be the sole head of the Church, each labeling the other + as Antichrist. To Wycliffe, the year of the Schism, 1378, was the + crucial year of his life. He first urged that both popes should be + set aside as having little in common with the Church of the Holy + God. From this position of neutrality he quickly passed into one of + antagonism to the Papacy itself.’</span> In his <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Mediaeval Church + History</span></span>, Archbishop Trench says: <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The year 1378 marked the turning-point in Wycliffe's + career. Hitherto he had concerned himself with matters of mixed + ecclesiastical and political import, but henceforth he devoted + himself exclusively to doctrinal matters and came out as the + Reformer. He began in earnest the translation of the Bible into + English, and took the next decisive step by an open attack, forced + upon him by his studies of the Bible, against + Transubstantiation.’</span> Wycliffe thus attacked the very bulwark + of Antichrist's stronghold, for the doctrine of Transubstantiation, + or the sacrifice of the Mass, annulled the true sacrifice of + Christ. Because of this, the Papal system became in God's sight the + <span class="tei tei-q">‘desolating abomination.’</span> (Dan. + 11:31.)”</span>—Edgar.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the church in + Sardis.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Sardis is said to + mean that which remains, as if it signified something out of which + life or virtue had gone. The nominal church during this period had + a form of godliness without its power. Sardis was the remains of + the true Church, which had been driven into the wilderness; but + when the persecution began to subside, her zeal also + abated.”</span>—Z. '16-347.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Write.</span></span>—Wycliffe wrote the + first translation of the Bible into English.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">These things + saith He that hath the seven Spirits of God.</span></span>—The + seven lamps of fire (Rev. 4:5), or seven eyes <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page046">[pg 046]</span><a name="Pg046" id="Pg046" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> sent forth into all the earth (Rev. + 5:6); i. e., perfect knowledge.—Rev. 1:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the seven + stars.</span></span>—How each of the Lord's messengers was kept! + St. Paul had (supposedly) eight years of liberty after his first + imprisonment, planted the Gospel in Spain and revisited the scenes + of earlier labors; St. John is said to have been thrown into a + caldron of boiling oil, but escaped unharmed and died of old age; + Arius died a natural death; as did Peter Waldo, John Wycliffe, + Martin Luther and Charles T. Russell, although all had reason to + expect martyrdom at the hands of ecclesiasticism. The year that + Peter Waldo died, his tenets were condemned by an ecumenical + council. <span class="tei tei-q">“Wycliffe preached unmolested; but + the Council of Constance (May 5, 1415) condemned his doctrines, and + in 1428 his remains were dug up and burned; the ashes were cast + into the adjoining Swift, which, as Wordsworth poetically remarked, + conveyed them through the Avon and the Severn into the sea, and + thus disseminated them over the world. His doctrines, carried into + Bohemia, originated the Hussite movement. The New Testament was + published about 1378, and the entire Old Testament was completed + shortly before his death.”</span>—McC.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I know thy + works, that thou hast a name that thou livest.</span></span>—Many + who admired Wycliffe were not real Christians. A man not willing to + go to the stake for his religion has none.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And art + dead.</span></span>—Spiritually.—Luke 9:60.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Be + watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that [are] WERE + ready to die.</span></span>—Many among Wycliffe's admirers lost + faith and love, and to that degree died, while others had some + spiritual life. These the Lord desired to awaken, to strengthen, to + encourage.—Eph. 5:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For I have not + found thy works perfect before MY God.</span></span>—Revised + Version reads, <span class="tei tei-q">“For I have found no works + of thine fulfilled before My God.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Remember [therefore] how thou hast + received.</span></span>—Received the entire Word in the English + tongue.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + heard.</span></span>—Wycliffe was the author of more than 200 + works, chiefly tracts, on the Ransom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And hold fast, + and reform.</span></span>—(Diaglott.) Had Wycliffe's labors been + properly appreciated, the Reformation would have been set forward + 150 years.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">If therefore + thou shalt not [watch] REPENT.</span></span>—Change your course of + conduct.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I will come on + thee as a thief.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Many today + have the Sardis characteristics. To such this is a warning. Seven + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page047">[pg 047]</span><a name= + "Pg047" id="Pg047" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> times our Lord's + Second Coming is described as being thief-like, stealthy. Those who + are asleep will be awakened only after His work of destruction has + progressed. His presence will be recognized by the sleepers only as + the noise of spoiling the Strong Man's House gradually + increases.”</span> (Z. '16-347; 1 Thes. 5:2; Matt. 24:43; 2 Pet. + 3:10.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The stealthiness of the thief, not + the violence of the robber, is implied in the + original.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And thou shalt + not know what hour I will come upon + thee.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Failing to realize the + fact that spiritual bodies cannot be seen by human eyes without a + miracle, some cannot understand how He can be present while + <span class="tei tei-q">‘all things continue as they were since the + beginning of creation.’</span> (2 Pet. 3:3, 4.) Thus they are + unable to understand the signs of the times' revealing His + return.”</span>—Z. '16-347.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">BUT + thou hast a few names [even] in Sardis which have not defiled their + garments.</span></span>—But have given due heed to the Message of + the hour, the Ransom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they shall + walk with Me In white.</span></span>—Fully covered by the robe of + Christ's righteousness.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For they are + worthy.</span></span>—None who trust in sacrifices of the Mass or + in other sacrifices than that of Calvary, can ever be worthy in + God's sight.—Matt. 10:37.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + that overcometh, [the same] THUS.</span></span>—The test, + apparently, was on the question of transubstantiation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shall be clothed + in white raiment.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + pictures given of the Heavenly Father represent <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">Him</span></em> as + clothed (Psa. 104:2); and the pictures of our Lord represent + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Him</span></em> as clothed. The angels who + appeared at the time of our Lord's resurrection are represented as + clothed in white. Our Lord said: <span class="tei tei-q">‘Blessed + is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, + and they see his shame.’</span> (Rev. 16:15.) The glorified Church + is represented, not as taking off the robe of righteousness, but + continuing to walk in white raiment, not as now, in a robe of + reckoned righteousness, but in a robe of actual + righteousness.”</span>—Z. '14-11; Rev. 19:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I will not + blot out his name out of the Book of + Life.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In the book are + written the names of all those who have made with the Lord + <span class="tei tei-q">‘a Covenant by Sacrifice.’</span> The name + of each of these is entered in the Lamb's Book of Life, when he + starts to live the new life. If they are faithful, their names will + not be blotted out; and they will attain all those glorious things + which are promised to those who love Him supremely. (Rev. + 3:21.)”</span>—Z. '15-119; Rev. 13:8; Psa. 69:28; Dan. 12:1; Phil. + 4:3; Lu. 10:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But I will + confess his name before My Father, and before His + angels.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In the end, the + overcomers will each <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page048">[pg + 048]</span><a name="Pg048" id="Pg048" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + be so grandly developed that the Lord will not be ashamed to + confess any of them and to say, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Here is + one of My followers. Here is another. They have walked in My + footsteps and have overcome.’</span> But He will be ashamed of any + who are ashamed of Him or of His words. (Luke 9:26.)”</span>—Z. + '15-119; Luke 12:8, 9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + that hath an ear.</span></span>—A spiritual ear. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“My sheep hear My voice.”</span>—John 10:27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Let him hear + what the Spirit saith unto the churches.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Blessed are the people that know the joyful + sound.”</span>—Psa. 89:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [to] BY the angel.</span></span>—The next messenger to the Church + was Martin Luther. <span class="tei tei-q">“There is considerable + similarity between the work begun on Pentecost and that of Luther. + The Reformation was, in a sense, the beginning of a new era, a + dawning of light where all had been darkness, a new start in the + way of Truth.”</span>—Z. '16-347.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the church in + Philadelphia.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Philadelphia + means brotherly love. This stage of the Church's history began at + the Reformation; and there are many still living who possess the + characteristics described.”</span> (Z. '16-347.) The exact point of + time at which the Philadelphia epoch of the Church began was at + midday, October 31, 1517. It was at that hour that Luther nailed + his ninety-five theses on the church door at Wittenberg. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Nailing up that paper was the beginning of + a great division in the Church; of thrones tumbled into the dust + and kings with them; of empires rent asunder; of lands desolated by + war; of massacres and horrible outrages against the lives and + liberties of men; of thirty years continuous war in Germany; of + Paris and the vine-clad valleys of Italy drenched in blood; of + fires kindled all over England for the burning of men, women and + children; of men hurled headlong from precipices, roasted over slow + fires, starving in dungeons, subjected to every form of cruelty—but + with all this, the advance of justice, truth and liberty, the + beginning of a new era in human affairs.”</span> (Coffin.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“The theses ran through all Germany in + fourteen days, for all the world was complaining about the + indulgences; and Luther became renowned, because at last somebody + had come who took hold of the thing.”</span>—McC.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Write.</span></span>—Luther wrote the + first translation of the Bible into German.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">These things + saith He that is [holy] TRUE.</span></span>—The direct reference is + to Christ (1 John 5:20); but characteristic of Luther was his great + love of truth. When the Papal legate came demanding that he recant, + he replied, <span class="tei tei-q">“I stand by the truth. I will + not take it back.”</span></p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page049">[pg 049]</span><a name="Pg049" id="Pg049" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He that it + [true] HOLY.</span></span>—See Mark 1:24. Luther's special message + was <span class="tei tei-q">“Justification by + faith”</span>—<em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">real</span></em> holiness. One of the theses + on the door was, <span class="tei tei-q">“Those who truly repent of + their sins have a full remission of guilt and penalty.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He that hath the + key of David.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“All power in + Heaven and earth.”</span> (Matt. 28:18; Luke 1:32.) Luther's theses + were antagonistic to the system actually ruling all over the world. + When a representative came warning that his death would surely + follow failure to recant, and asking him where he could go when all + had orders not to harbor him, he replied, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“I will abide under the cope of heaven.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[He] AND that + openeth.</span></span>—See Luke 24:32.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And no man + [shutteth] SHALL SHUT.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“No + doubt all the powers of Satan were exerted to close the door then + opened; but <span class="tei tei-q">‘He that is true’</span> had + said, <span class="tei tei-q">‘which no man can + shut.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '16-347; Isa. 22:22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And shutteth and + no man [openeth] SHALL OPEN.</span></span>—The door of opportunity + for the Roman Catholic Church to repent swung shut the day Luther + was excommunicated. (Rev. 2:21.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Luther + was not in the least disconcerted by this sentence, which he had + for some time expected. He renewed his appeal to the general + council; declared the pope to be that Antichrist or Man of Sin + whose appearance is foretold in the New Testament; declaimed + against his tyranny with greater vehemence than ever; and at last + having assembled the University he cast the canon law, together + with the bull of excommunication, into the + flames.”</span>—Buck.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + know thy works.</span></span>—A striking feature of Luther's + character was his promptness to do whatever he saw to be the Lord's + will. When the great test came, Luther said to Erasmus: + <span class="tei tei-q">“You desire to walk upon eggs without + crushing them.”</span> Erasmus replied: <span class="tei tei-q">“I + will not be unfaithful to the cause of Christ at least so far as + the Age will permit me.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“I will go + to Worms,”</span> shouted Luther, <span class="tei tei-q">“though + the devils were combined against me as thick as tiles upon the + housetops!”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Behold I have + set before thee an open door.</span></span>—See 1 Cor. 16:9; Acts + 14:27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] WHICH no + man can shut [it].</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“While the + Roman pontiff thought everything safe and settled, and all pious + and good men were nearly in despair of the religious reformation, + so earnestly desired, a certain obscure and inconsiderable monk in + Saxony, a province of Germany, suddenly opposed himself + single-handed with incredible resolution to the power of Rome. This + was Martin Luther.”</span>—Mosheim.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page050">[pg 050]</span><a name="Pg050" id="Pg050" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For thou hast a + little strength.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Compared + with the mighty hosts of their enemies, the little band of + Reformers had but <span class="tei tei-q">‘a little + strength;’</span> but they knew that they had the Truth, and they + fully trusted the Giver.”</span>—Z. '16-347.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And hast kept My + Word.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Whoso keepeth His + Word, in him verily is the love of God perfected.”</span>—1 John + 2:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And hast not + denied My name.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“If we deny + Him, He also will deny us.”</span>—2 Tim. 2:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold I [will make] HAVE MADE them of + the synagogue of Satan.</span></span>—The opponents of the + reformers were <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">already</span></em> of the synagogue of + Satan.—Rev. 2:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which say they + are Jews.</span></span>—Claim to be Israelites indeed, saints.—Rev. + 2:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And are not, but + do lie.</span></span>—Papacy is one of the two systems of rulership + (imperial power being the other) congenitally <span class= + "tei tei-q">“spotted like a leopard,”</span> as far as the Truth is + concerned.—Dan. 11:27; Rev. 13:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Behold I will + make them to come.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“All + nations whom Thou hast made shall come.”</span>—Psa. 86:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And worship + before thy feet.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The sons + also of them that afflicted thee shall come bending unto thee; and + all that despised thee shall bow themselves down at the soles of + thy feet.”</span>—Isa. 60:14; 49:23.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [to] THOU + SHALT know that I have loved thee.</span></span>—See Eph. 2:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Because thou hast kept the word of My + patience.</span></span>—My patience-enjoining word.—Matt. 10:22; + Lu. 8:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I also will keep + thee.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“As to the Philadelphia + stage of the Church, and their being saved from the hour of + temptation, we think possibly the Lord meant that some of the + Church of that epoch would live over into the present period, and + that they would not be subjected to the special trials of this + hour. For instance, we think of a very fine old gentleman, who was + about ninety years of age at the time we are about to mention. He + was pastor of a church. He seemed to receive Present Truth with a + great deal of joy and spoke it forth with much zeal. But he was + surrounded with so much opposition at home, and in the church to + which he was attached as a minister, that he could not seem to + trust to his mental judgment. This Scripture which we are + considering has rather comforted our mind with respect to him and + others like him.”</span>—Z. '15-200.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">From the hour of + temptation.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“ <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The hour of temptation’</span> has been the Harvest + time. The majority of professing Christians of the world—probably + more than three-fourths—have lost all faith in the Bible, and + fallen into <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page051">[pg + 051]</span><a name="Pg051" id="Pg051" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + Evolution, Higher Criticism, Christian Science, Theosophy, + Spiritism, New Thought, etc. They are not able to stand in this + <span class="tei tei-q">‘evil day.’</span> ”</span> (Z'15-199.) + Additionally, <span class="tei tei-q">“so far as we are able to + judge, the same conditions prevail today amongst Bible students + which the Apostle pointed out to the Elders of the Church of + Ephesus. (Acts 20:28-32.)”</span>—Z. '16-328.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which shall come + upon all the world.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“We + believe that this temptation to headiness and strife is spreading + gradually in every direction; and the Master assured us that unless + these days would be cut short by the establishment of His Kingdom + in the hands of the Elect, no flesh would survive.”</span>—Z. + '16-327; Rev. 7:1-3; 16:14; Matt. 24:21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To try them that + dwell upon the earth.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“We + understand that the spirit of selfishness and ambition, which is + driving the nations insanely to war for commercial supremacy, will + increase more and more, and will involve everybody.”</span>—Z. + '16-327; Rev. 6:10; 8:13; 11:10; 13:8, 14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">[Behold,] I come + quickly.</span></span>—To Smyrna (73-325 A. D.) and Pergamos + (325-1160 A. D.) nothing was said about Christ's Second Advent; to + Thyatira (1160-1378) the Message was, <span class="tei tei-q">“Hold + fast till I come”</span>; to Sardis (1378-1518) it was, + <span class="tei tei-q">“If therefore thou shalt not reform, I will + come on thee as a thief”</span>; to Philadelphia (1518-1874) it + was, <span class="tei tei-q">“Behold, I come <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">quickly</span></em>.”</span> How evident that + these messages to the Churches are epochs drawing nearer and nearer + to the climax of history, the Fifth Universal Empire, now come at + last!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Hold that fast + which thou hast.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Miller + movement was a separation, as between those who kept the Word of + God with patience and those who lost their faith in His Word. The + Philadelphia Church, which patiently passed through so severe a + trial of their faith, would not be subjected to the later + test.”</span>—Z. '15-199.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That no man take + thy crown.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Unfaithfulness + may lead to the blotting out of some names and the giving of their + crowns to others.”</span> (F. 165.) <span class="tei tei-q">“It is + our expectation that this work of going out and coming in will + continue until the last member of the New Creation shall have been + found worthy, and all the crowns everlastingly + apportioned.”</span>—F. 95; 1 Sam. 16:1; Rev. 2:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Him + that overcometh will I make a pillar [in] TO the Temple of my + God.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“During the Philadelphia + period the faithful have either been obliged to come out of the + nominal temple or have been cast out. The reward promised such is + that each will be a pillar in the eternal Temple—a part which + cannot be removed while <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page052">[pg + 052]</span><a name="Pg052" id="Pg052" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + the structure exists.”</span>—Z. '16-347; Gal. 2:9; 1 Kings 7:21, + 22; Jer. 1:18; 1 Cor. 3:17; Eph. 2:19-22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And he shall [go + no more] NOT GO out.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“During + their trial state their names were cast out as evil; they were not + recognized as Christians. All this is to be reversed. <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The Lord knoweth them that are + His.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '16-347.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I will write + upon him the name of My God.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, + and with Him an hundred and forty and four thousand, having His + Father's name written on their foreheads [intellects].”</span>—Rev. + 14:1; 22:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the name of + the city of My God.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“And they + shall call them, The holy people, The redeemed of the Lord: and + thou shalt be called, Sought out, A city not forsaken.”</span>—Isa. + 62:12; Ezek. 48:35; Jer. 23:6; 33:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which is New + Jerusalem.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Glorious City of + Peace! whose foundations, laid in justice, can never be moved, and + whose builder and designer is God! It is in the light which will + shine from this glorious City (Kingdom) of God that the nations + (people) will walk on the Highway of Holiness, up to perfection and + to full harmony with God.”</span>—Rev. 21:2, 10, 24; A 295.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which cometh + down out of Heaven from My God.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“A city is a symbol of a kingdom or dominion, and so + God's Kingdom is symbolized by the New Jerusalem, the new dominion + coming from Heaven to earth. At first it will consist of only the + Bride of Christ.”</span>—A. 295; Heb. 12:18-22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I will write + upon him My new name.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘Our Righteousness of + Jehovah.’</span> How appropriate is this name to the work and + office of our Lord Jesus! Did He not stand as the Representative of + God's righteousness and suffer the penalty of Justice as man's + Ransom—that God might be just, and yet be the Justifier of him that + believeth in Jesus? Surely no name could be more appropriate. (Jer. + 33:16; 23:6; T. 102.) And that this name will be appropriate to the + glorified Church all can readily see: she not only shares her + Lord's sufferings for righteousness, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘filling up that which is behind of the afflictions of + Christ’</span> (Col. 1:24; 1 Pet. 5:9), but is also promised a + share in all the glories of her Lord, as a wife shares her + husband's honors and <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">name</span></em>.”</span>—E. 45, 42; Isa. 9:6; + Rev. 2:17; 19:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + that hath an ear.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Having + eyes, see ye not? And having ears, hear ye not?”</span>—Mark + 8:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Let him hear + what the Spirit saith unto the churches.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Let these sayings sink down into your + ears.”</span>—Luke 9:44.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page053">[pg 053]</span><a name="Pg053" id="Pg053" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [unto] BY the angel.</span></span>—The special messenger to the + last Age of the Church was Charles T. Russell, born February 16, + 1852. He has privately admitted his belief that he was chosen for + his great work from before his birth. His mother died when he was + nine years old; and at the age of eleven Charles formed a business + partnership with his father, himself writing the articles of + agreement under which they transacted business. When he was but + twelve years of age, his father found him in the store one time at + 2 a. m., poring over a concordance, unconscious of the lapse of + time. We give some extracts from his autobiography:</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“We begin the narrative at the year 1868, when the + Editor, having been a consecrated child of God for some years, and + a member of the Congregational Church and of the Y. M. C. A., began + to be shaken in faith regarding many long accepted doctrines. + Brought up a Presbyterian, indoctrinated from the catechism, and + being naturally of an inquiring mind, I fell a ready prey to the + logic of infidelity, as soon as I began to think for myself. But + that which at first threatened to be the utter shipwreck of faith + in God and the Bible, was, under God's providence, overruled for + good, and merely wrecked my confidence in human creeds and systems + of Bible interpretations. I was led gradually to see that though + each of the creeds contained some elements of Truth, they were, on + the whole, misleading and contradictory of God's Word. Among other + theories, I stumbled upon Adventism. Seemingly by accident, one + evening I dropped into a dusty, dingy hall in Allegheny, Pa., where + I had heard that religious services were held, to see if the + handful who met there had anything more sensible to offer than the + creeds of the great churches. There, for the first time, I heard + something of the views of Second Adventism, by Jonas Wendell, long + since deceased. Thus I confess indebtedness to Adventists as well + as to other Bible students. Though his Scripture exposition was not + entirely clear, and though it was very far from what we now rejoice + in, it was sufficient, under God, to reestablish my wavering faith + in the Divine inspiration of the Bible, and to show that the + records of the Apostles and the Prophets are indissolubly + linked.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“When in 1872 I came to examine the subject of + Restitution from the standpoint of the Ransom-price given by our + Lord Jesus for Adam, and consequently for all lost in Adam, it + settled the matter of Restitution completely, and gave me the + fullest assurance that ALL <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">must come forth</span></em> from their graves + and be brought to a clear knowledge <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page054">[pg 054]</span><a name="Pg054" id="Pg054" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> of the Truth and to a full opportunity to + gain everlasting life through Christ. The years following, to 1876, + were years of continued growth in grace and in knowledge on the + part of the handful of Bible students with whom I met in Allegheny. + We progressed from our first crude and indefinite ideas of + Restitution to clearer understanding of the details; but God's due + time for clear light had not yet come. During this time, too, we + came to recognize the difference between our Lord as <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘the <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Man</span></em> who gave Himself,’</span> and + as the One who would come again, a <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">Spirit + Being</span></em>. We saw that spirit beings can be present and yet + invisible to men.... It seems that not long after their 1874 + disappointment, a reader of <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">The Herald of the Morning</span></span>, who + had a copy of the <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Emphatic Diaglott</span></span>, noticed + something in it which he thought peculiar—that in Matthew 24:27, + 37, 39, the Greek word <span lang="el" class="tei tei-foreign" + xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">parousia</span></span>, which in our Common + Version is rendered <span class="tei tei-q">‘<em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">coming</span></em>,’</span> is in the + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Diaglott</span></span> translated <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘<em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">presence</span></em>’</span>—evidently the + correct translation of the Greek. This was the clue; and following + it, they had been led through prophetic <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">time</span></em> + toward proper views regarding the object and manner of our Lord's + Return, and then to the examination of the time when the things + indicated in God's Word as related to Christ's <span lang="el" + class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">parousia</span></span> should take place. Thus + God leads His children often from different starting points of + Truth. But where the heart is earnest and trustful, the results + must be to draw all together.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“There were no books or other publications setting + forth the time prophecies as then understood. So I paid Mr. + Barbour's expenses to come to see me at Philadelphia (where I had + business engagements during the summer of 1876), to show me fully + and Scripturally, if he could, that the prophecies indicated 1874 + as the date at which the Lord's <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">presence</span></em> and the Harvest began. He + came, and the evidence satisfied me. Being a person of positive + convictions, and fully consecrated to the Lord, I at once saw that + the special times in which we live have an important bearing upon + our duty and work as Christ's disciples; that since we are living + in the time of the Harvest, the Harvest work should be done; and + that Present Truth is the sickle by which the Lord would have us do + a reaping work everywhere among His children. I inquired of Mr. + Barbour as to what was being done by him and <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">The + Herald</span></span>. He replied that nothing was being + done.”</span>—Z. '16-170, 171.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Pastor Russell + took the place of Mr. Barbour who became unfaithful and upon whom + was fulfilled the prophecies of Matt. 24:48-51 and Zech. + 11:15-17.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page055">[pg + 055]</span><a name="Pg055" id="Pg055" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“In 1877 Pastor Russell called a meeting of all the + ministers of Allegheny and Pittsburgh, showed them the Scriptures + which indicated our Lord's presence and urged them to investigate + and proclaim the message. All of the ministers of the two cities + were present; all of the ministers of the two cities refused to + believe. In the same year he determined to give up secular work and + devote his entire time and fortune to the work indicated in the + Scriptures as incident to the close of the Gospel Age and change of + dispensation impending. As a means of determining whether his + course was in harmony with the Scriptures, and also as a means of + demonstrating his own sincerity, he decided to test the Lord's + approval as follows: (1) Devote his life to the cause; (2) Invest + his fortune in the promulgation of the work; (3) Prohibit + collections at all meetings; (4) Depend on unsolicited + contributions (wholly voluntary) to continue the work after his + fortune was exhausted. In 1881, 1,400,000 copies of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Food for Thinking + Christians</span></span> were distributed free at the doors of the + Protestant churches in the United States, Canada and Great Britain + on three consecutive Sundays, by A. D. T. messenger + boys.”</span>—Obituary.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">As to his + education we quote his own words: <span class="tei tei-q">“As + respects my education in Greek and Hebrew: Not only do I not claim + very special knowledge of either language, but I claim that not one + minister in a thousand is either a Hebrew or a Greek scholar. To be + able to spell out a few Greek words is of no earthly value. Nor is + it necessary longer to study these languages in order to have + knowledge of the Bible. Our Presbyterian friends have gotten out at + great cost Young's Analytical Hebrew, Chaldaic, Greek and English + Lexicon Concordance, which any one may procure. And our Methodist + friends have issued a similar work—Strong's Analytical Concordance + and Lexicon. And there is a still older one entitled Englishman's + Hebrew, Chaldaic, Greek and English Lexicon and Concordance. + Additionally, Liddell and Scott's Greek Lexicon is a standard + authority. The prices of these are not beyond the reach of the + average man. By these works scholarly information respecting the + original text of the Bible is obtainable. I have all four of these + works and have used them faithfully. Very few college professors, + even, would risk to give a critical translation of any text of + Scripture without consulting these very works of reference, which + are standard. Additionally I remind you of the many translations of + the Bible now extant—all of them very good. I have all of these and + find them useful in comparison and study of any text—one + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page056">[pg 056]</span><a name= + "Pg056" id="Pg056" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> sometimes giving a + thought which another may not. The other day, for curiosity's sake, + I counted Bibles in different translations, etc., in my study, and + found that I have thirty-two.”</span>—Z. '14-286.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">As to his + ordination we quote him again: <span class="tei tei-q">“There are + two ordinations proper. One is of God; one of men. The ordination + of God is the begetting of the Holy Spirit. If any are preaching + without this ordination, they are doing something that they are not + authorized to do. There comes, however, another special ordination + of those who are called ministers of the Gospel, in which class I + count myself. This is ordination by the Church, and is recognized + by all denominations everywhere. By some it is considered a mere + form, by some it is performed with great ceremony, by others with + less ceremony. But to our understanding, each congregation should + have those whom it has chosen ordained in a Scriptural way—by the + stretching forth of hands—by a vote. Whoever has not been ordained + in these two ways is not an ordained minister of the Gospel in the + Scriptural sense. First, the Divine ordination is necessary; + second, the earthly ordination is necessary. By the grace of God I + have both of these.”</span>—Z. '15-358.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">As to his + doctrines we quote him the third time: <span class="tei tei-q">“To + us the Scriptures clearly teach that the Church is the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Temple of the living God’</span>—peculiarly + <span class="tei tei-q">‘His workmanship’</span>; its construction + has been in progress throughout the Gospel Age—ever since Christ + became the world's Redeemer and Chief Corner Stone of His Temple, + through which, when finished, God's blessing shall come + <span class="tei tei-q">‘to all people,’</span> and they find + access to Him. (1 Cor. 3:16, 17; Eph. 2:20; Gen. 28:14; Gal. 3:29.) + That meantime the chiseling, shaping and polishing of consecrated + believers in Christ's Atonement for sin progresses; and when the + last of these <span class="tei tei-q">‘living stones,’</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">‘elect and precious,’</span> shall have + been made ready, the great Master Workman will bring all together + in the First Resurrection; and the Temple shall be filled with His + glory, and be the meeting place between God and men throughout the + Millennium. (Rev. 15:6-8; 21:3.) We affirm the pre-existence of + Jesus as the mighty Word (Logos)—Spokesman—<span class= + "tei tei-q">‘the beginning of the creation of God,’</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">‘the First-Born of every creature,’</span> + the active Agent of the Heavenly Father, Jehovah, in all the work + of creation. <span class="tei tei-q">‘Without Him was not anything + made that was made.’</span> (Rev. 3:14; Col. 1:15; John 1:3.) We + affirm that the Word (Logos) was made flesh—became the Babe of + Bethlehem—thus becoming the Man Jesus, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from + sinners.’</span> As we affirm the <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page057">[pg 057]</span><a name="Pg057" id="Pg057" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> humanity of Jesus, we equally affirm the + Divinity of Christ—<span class="tei tei-q">‘God also hath highly + exalted Him, and given Him a name above every name.’</span> (Heb. + 7:26; Phil. 2:9.)</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“We acknowledge that the personality of the Holy Spirit + is the Father and the Son; that the Holy Spirit proceeds from both, + and is manifested in all who receive the begetting of the Holy + Spirit and thereby become sons of God. (John 1:12; 1 Pet. 1:3.) We + affirm the resurrection of Christ—that He was put to death in flesh + but quickened in Spirit. We deny that He was raised in the flesh, + and challenge any statement to that effect as being unscriptural. + (1 Pet. 3:18; 2 Cor. 3:17; 1 Cor. 15:8; Acts 26:13-15.) That the + basis of Hope, for the Church and the World, lies in the fact that + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Jesus Christ, by the grace of God, tasted + death for every man,’</span> <span class="tei tei-q">‘a Ransom for + all,’</span> and will be <span class="tei tei-q">‘the true Light + which lighteth every man that cometh into the world,’</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">‘in due time.’</span> (Heb. 2:9; John 1:9; + 1 Tim. 2:5, 6.) That the Hope of the Church is that she may be like + her Lord, <span class="tei tei-q">‘see Him as He is,’</span> be + <span class="tei tei-q">‘partaker of the Divine nature,’</span> and + share His glory as His joint-heir. (1 John 3:2; John 17:24; Rom. + 8:17; 2 Pet. 1:4.) That the present mission of the Church is the + perfecting of the saints for the future work of service; to develop + in herself every grace; to be God's witness to the world; and to + prepare to be kings and priests in the next Age. (Eph. 4:12; Matt. + 24:14; Rev. 1:6; 20:6.) That the Hope for the World lies in the + blessings of knowledge and opportunity to be brought to all by + Christ's Millennial Kingdom—the Restitution of all that was lost in + Adam, to all the willing and obedient, at the hands of their + Redeemer and His glorified Church—when all the wilfully wicked + shall be destroyed. (Acts 3:19-23; Isa. 35.)”</span>—B. S. M.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The amount of + work that Pastor Russell performed <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">is + incredible</span></em>, and it is doubtful whether it was ever + equalled by any other human being. When he was in his twenties he + was refused the lease of a property because the owner thought he + would surely die before the lease had expired. For fifty years he + suffered constantly with sick headaches, due to a fall in his + youth, and for twenty-five years had such distressing hemorrhoids + that it was impossible for him to rest in the easiest chair; yet in + the past forty years he traveled a million miles, delivered 30,000 + sermons and table talks—many of them 2-½ hours long—wrote over + 50,000 pages (of this size) of advanced Biblical exposition, often + dictated 1,000 letters per month, managed every department of a + world-wide evangelistic campaign employing 700 speakers, personally + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page058">[pg 058]</span><a name= + "Pg058" id="Pg058" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> compiled the most + wonderful Biblical drama ever shown; and with all that, he found + time in the course of each year to personally aid thousands with + his fatherly counsel. At one time his writings were subjected to an + analysis of 20,511 Scripture expositions. These were assembled in + Biblical order and disclosed but six points of inquiry, all easily + harmonized. No writer, not even excepting the writers of the Bible, + have ever had such critical readers. His works have been published + in 35 languages. During the last eight days of his life he had + appointments in California, Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska and New + York; and though for several days manifestly dying, with cystitis + (caused by excessive travel and speaking), he declined to cancel + any engagements, and went out of this life October 31, 1916, on a + railroad train en route to his Kansas appointment. At the age of 30 + he had accumulated a fortune of over $300,000, but died penniless, + his own fortune, as well as all the large sums contributed to the + cause, having been used up in the Master's service. He was beloved + everywhere by those who <span class="tei tei-q">“follow the Lamb + whithersoever He goeth.”</span>—Rev. 14:4. For further particulars + of Pastor Russell's service of God's people see Memorial Number of + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Zions + Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the church + [of the Laodiceans] IN LAODICEA.</span></span>—It is significant + that in the first epoch of the Church there were Nicolaitanes + (<span lang="el" class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">nikon ton laon</span></span>), <span class= + "tei tei-q">“vanquishers of the people,”</span> a clergy class who + succeeded in pulling the wool over the eyes of the common people; + but that the last age of the Church is Laodicean (<span lang="el" + class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">laos dike</span></span>), <span class= + "tei tei-q">“justice for the people.”</span> We find we get along + much better without the clergy than we did with them. The Laodicean + period of the Church extends from the fall of 1874 to the spring of + 1918, three and one-half years of preparation, and forty years of + Harvest. <span class="tei tei-q">“The parallels affected merely the + nominal Jewish House <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">there</span></em> and the nominal Christian + House <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">here</span></em>. Both were rejected because + of failure to be in the right condition of heart for the truths + that were due to them—both rejected for destruction. The Jewish + System was a Church-State affair, paralleled here by the great + Church-State systems of Europe, whose destruction began in 1914. + Let us remember, however, that the three and a half years of Jesus' + ministry were more a time of preparation of the Apostles to be the + instruments for the harvesting and a sharpening preparation of the + Sickle of Truth for the later work, which <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">began</span></em> + at Pentecost. Prior to Pentecost, there was <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">no</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">‘garner’</span></em> into which to gather + the wheat.”</span></p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page059">[pg + 059]</span><a name="Pg059" id="Pg059" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Jewish And Christian Parallels</span></p> + + <table summary="This is a table" cellspacing="0" class= + "tei tei-table" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"> + <colgroup span="2"></colgroup> + + <tbody> + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Jewish-Nominal Church</span></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Christian-Nominal Church</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">A. D. 29-33</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">A. D. 1874-1878</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“They knew + not the time of their visitation.”</span></td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“A. D. + 33-36</span></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">A. D. 1878-1881</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">The Most Holy anointed, Divine favor + prolonged for three and a half years to complete the 70 weeks + of favor promised to Israel, their rejection being + deferred.</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“A. D. + 36-73</span></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">A. D. 1881-1918</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Because of the overspreading of + abominations, He shall make it desolate, even until the + consummation, or <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">utter destruction</span></em>—until all + that God has predetermined shall be accomplished.—Dan. + 9:24-27.—Z. '16-264. See pages <a href="#Pg594" class= + "tei tei-ref">594</a>, <a href="#Pg595" class= + "tei tei-ref">595</a>.</td> + </tr> + </tbody> + </table> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The foregoing is + Pastor Russell's last expression on the subject of chronology; and + we believe that it was designed to be of great value to the Lord's + people at this hour. <span class="tei tei-q">“The Apostles, the + Prophets and the angels all desired and sought earnestly to know + what <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">time</span></em> the Spirit of God indicated + through the Prophets. And this interest on the part of His children + is ever pleasing to God. He called the inquiring Daniel greatly + beloved, and answered his inquiry so far as was consistent with His + Plan. Such inquiry should not be regarded as an improper prying + into the secrets of God. God would have us quickly discern the + Truth as it becomes <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">due</span></em>.”</span> (B. 17.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Let none, then, of the truly consecrated under-value + these prophetic time-evidences, which were designed to guide our + words and deeds in the early dawn of the Millennial Day. These + prophetic time-proofs were largely God's means of drawing the + attention of the writer more carefully to other features of the + Divine Plan.”</span>—B. 31.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Daniel + <span class="tei tei-q">“understood by books”</span> (Jeremiah's + prophecy) the length of the great captivity of the children of + Israel. (Dan. 9:2.) At Christ's First Advent there was but one + time-prophecy calling attention to that event (Dan. 9:24-27), yet + all the people <span class="tei tei-q">“were in expectation”</span> + of it (Luke 3:15.) In the year 1190 the good monk Joachim declared + that the Papal system was Antichrist, that the history of mankind + is divided into three ages, and that in the year 1260 the Papacy + would give way to a new system in which the whole world would be + <span class="tei tei-q">“one vast monastery.”</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">“In 1260 the Council of Arles pronounced all followers + of <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page060">[pg 060]</span><a name= + "Pg060" id="Pg060" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> Joachim + heretics.”</span> His application of the correct principle, + <span class="tei tei-q">“a year for a day,”</span> made in the very + depths of the Dark Ages, is one of the most pathetic incidents in + the history of mankind; but his study of time-prophecy brought him + peace and joy of heart. He was an opponent of the prevailing + <span class="tei tei-q">“doctrine of the Trinity.”</span> William + Miller, in the year 1829, was privileged to see (approximately) the + correct date for the setting up of the abomination of desolation + (539 A. D.), and for the beginning of the Time of the End (1799 A. + D.) Morton Edgar, author of <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Pyramid Passages</span></span>, has found + foreshown in the Great Pyramid of Egypt abundant evidence of the + accuracy of the Bible chronology of Pastor Russell and the + supplements thereto supplied by Dr. John Edgar, deceased. These + findings are set forth in his work, <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Pyramid + Passages</span></span>, Vol. II, of which we recommend sections + numbered in the following table. For convenience we give the + citations to Pastor Russell's works in which the same items are + discussed. The Pyramid is still there, and the measurements can be + made by anybody. Pastor Russell's chronology was written before he + ever saw the Pyramid.</p> + + <table summary="This is a table" cellspacing="0" class= + "tei tei-table" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"> + <colgroup span="4"></colgroup> + + <tbody> + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Date Foreshown</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Event</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Pastor Russell's Works</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Sections of Pyramid Passages</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall 4127 B. C.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall of Adam.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Z 04-343</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">25-30-58</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall 3127 B. C.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">End of Adam's 1000-year day.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Z 04-343</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">25-28</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall 2473 B. C.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Flood.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">B 42</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">24-30</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall 2021 B. C.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Birth of Isaac.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">B 231</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">45</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Spring 1813 B. C.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Death of Jacob.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">B 218-232</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">16-17</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Spring 1615 B. C.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Exodus and giving of the Law.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">B 42</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">11</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Spring 1575 B. C.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Entrance into Canaan.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">B 42</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">43-46</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall 626 B. C.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Last Jubilee.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">B 185</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">50</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall 607 B. C.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Desolation of the Land.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">B 51</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">19-46-48</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall 455 B. C.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Nehemiah's Commission.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">B 67</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">51-52-53</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall 2 B. C.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Birth of Christ.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">B 54</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">10-43</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall 29 A. D.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Baptism of Christ.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">B 60</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">10-24-43-58</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Spring 33 A. D.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Death of Christ.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">B 61</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">10-11-14-32-45</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall 36 A. D.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Conversion of Cornelius.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">B 71</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">51</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Spring 1378 A. D.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Wycliffe.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Z 05-185</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">37</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Spring 1521 A. D.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Diet of Worms.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Z 05-180</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">38</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall 1846 A. D.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Evangelical Alliance.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">C 95-119</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">14-52</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall 1874 A. D.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Second Advent of the Lord.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">B 173-247</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">16-32-50</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Spring 1878 A. D.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Favor to Jews and sleeping + Saints.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">C 233</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">17-28</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall 1914 A. D.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">End of Times of the Gentiles.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">B 73</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">19-48</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall 2875 A. D.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Restitution completed.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Z 04-344</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">37</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fall 2914 A. D.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Dominion restored to mankind.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Z 04-343</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">58</td> + </tr> + </tbody> + </table><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page061">[pg + 061]</span><a name="Pg061" id="Pg061" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The chronology + as it appears in the STUDIES IN THE SCRIPTURES is accurate. The + year 1914 brought the end of the Times of the Gentiles, but not the + end of the Harvest work. Have the teachings of the Parallels lost + their value? Not at all. The point not previously noticed is that + the Jewish polity was not to be destroyed in Jerusalem only, but + throughout all Judea. Nor does <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Judea</span></span> + mean all of Palestine. The actual depopulation of the whole of + Palestine did not occur until the year 135 A. D. (corresponding to + our year 1980), on the ninth day of the month of Ab, the + anniversary of the burning of the Temple under Titus. On that day + came to an end the insurrection of Bar-Cocheba, the false Messiah, + who wrought his own destruction and that of 580,000 of his + followers, when he attempted to regain control of Judea and + Jerusalem. The struggle was of five years' duration having begun in + 130 A. D. <span class="tei tei-q">“It was the effort, under the + leadership of Bar-Cocheba, to regain their independence, that + brought about a repetition of scenes enacted under Titus, and + resulted actually in the depopulation of Palestine. The whole of + Judea was turned into a desert; about 985 towns and villages were + laid in ashes; fifty of their fortresses were razed to the ground; + even the name of their capital was changed to Ælia Capitolina, and + they were forbidden to approach it on pain of death; thousands of + those who had escaped death were reduced to slavery, and such as + could not be thus disposed of were transported into + Egypt.”</span>—McC.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">When the Lord + gave His wonderful prophecy in which the destinies of nominal + Fleshly Israel, nominal Spiritual Israel, and the Israel of God, + are set forth, it was in answer to three definite questions: + <span class="tei tei-q">“<em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">When</span></em> shall these things be? and + what shall be the sign of Thy Parousia, and of the <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">end</span></em> of + the Age?”</span> (Matt. 24:3.) The Lord did not ignore their + question. He answered it with a reply that sweeps the history of + twenty centuries. He showed that the <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">end</span></em> of + Fleshly Israel foreshadowed the <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">end</span></em> of + Spiritual Israel. Fleshly Israel had three ends; the destruction of + Jerusalem in A. D. 70, the complete subjugation of Judea in A. D. + 73, and the actual depopulation of the whole of Palestine in A. D. + 135. Which did He mean should be the end that would be a guide to + His followers? Not the end in A. D. 70, foreshadowing 1915; for the + Harvest of the Gospel Age is still in progress. Not the end in A. + D. 135, foreshadowing 1980; for the <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Harvest is the + end</span></span>. He must have meant the end in Judea, even as He + said, <span class="tei tei-q">“Then let them which be in + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Judea</span></span> flee into the + mountains.”</span> (Matt. 24:16.) See also Matt. 2:22; 3:5; + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page062">[pg 062]</span><a name= + "Pg062" id="Pg062" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> Mark 1:5; Luke 1:5, + 65; 3:1; 7:17; Acts 11:29; Rom. 15:31, and <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">especially</span></em> John 7:1-3 and 1 Thes. + 2:14-16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The data + presented in comments on Rev. 2:1 <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">prove</span></em> + that the conquest of Judea was not completed until the day of the + Passover, A. D. 73, and in the light of the foregoing Scriptures, + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">prove</span></em> that the Spring of 1918 will + bring upon Christendom a spasm of anguish greater even than that + experienced in the Fall of 1914. Reexamine the table of the + Parallel Dispensations in STUDIES IN THE SCRIPTURES, Vol. 2, pages + 246 and 247; change the 37 to 40, 70 to 73 and 1914 to 1918, and we + believe it is correct and will be fulfilled <span class= + "tei tei-q">“with great power and glory,”</span> (Mark 13:26.) It + was entirely impossible to foresee whether our Lord meant that A. + D. 70 or A. D. 73 should serve as our guide to the time when the + Jewish polity came to an end, until after October, 1915, had + passed. Moreover, we have seen the promised signs, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; + men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those + things which are coming on the earth,”</span> and we have the + Lord's words for it that having seen those things <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the Kingdom of God is nigh at hand,”</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">“even at the doors,”</span> and our + <span class="tei tei-q">“redemption draweth nigh.”</span> (Luke + 21:25-36; Mark 13:27-30.) It is possible that A. D. 1980 marks the + regathering of all of Fleshly Israel from their captivity in death. + It is just 70 years beyond 1910, the date when Pastor Russell gave + his great witness to the Jewish people in the New York Hippodrome. + See page <a href="#Pg551" class="tei tei-ref">551</a> (1).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">But if the time + of nominal Zion's travail (Isa. 66:8) is due to occur in the Spring + of 1918, and if we are now but the <span class="tei tei-q">“one + day”</span> (one year) distant from that event which the Prophet + mentions, what should be our expectation regarding the experience + of the <span class="tei tei-q">“little flock”</span> meantime? + <span class="tei tei-q">“The symbolic travail, in the above + prophecy, is a reference to the great Time of Trouble—the travail + that is to come upon the nominal Gospel church, Great <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Babylon,’</span> from which some are to be counted + worthy to escape. (Luke 21:36.) This is indicated by the preceding + verse, which locates the time of this prophecy as synchronous with + that wherein is heard <span class="tei tei-q">‘a voice of noise + [confusion] from the city’</span> [Babylon], and <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘a voice [of truth and warning] from the Temple’</span> + [the elect Little Flock of consecrated and faithful ones], and + <span class="tei tei-q">‘a voice of Jehovah that rendereth + recompense to His enemies’</span>—in the great Time of Trouble. The + travail that is coming is to be upon nominal Zion—<span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Christendom,’</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Babylon’</span>; and it will be a great and sore + affliction—<span class="tei tei-q">‘a Time of Trouble such as was + not since there was a nation.’</span></span></p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page063">[pg 063]</span><a name="Pg063" id="Pg063" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“But the marvelous thing the Prophet here has to record + is that a Man-child is to be born out of Zion before this travail + comes. This is a striking reference to the fact, elsewhere clearly + taught, that the ripe wheat of the Gospel Church is to be separated + from the tares, that they are to be exalted and glorified before + the burning, the consuming trouble, shall come upon the latter. + This Man-child is, therefore, the Little Flock—the true Zion in + God's estimation, the Body of Christ; as it is written. + <span class="tei tei-q">‘There shall come out of Zion [the nominal + Gospel Church] the Deliverer [The Christ, Head and Body], and shall + turn away ungodliness from Jacob [the Fleshly Israel, or + Zion].’</span> (Rom. 11:26.) This is the Man-child that is to bless + all the families of the earth. (Gen. 28:14; Gal. 3:16, 29.) The + birth of the Man-child is the First Resurrection. Blessed and holy + are all they that have part in the First Resurrection. Such are now + begotten of God by the Word of Truth, and quickened by the Holy + Spirit (Jas. 1:18; Eph. 2:1; Rom. 8:11), and in due time—before the + travail—they will be born in the glorious likeness of Christ. The + birth of this Man-child began over eighteen hundred years ago with + the resurrection of Christ Jesus. There the Head of this Body of + Christ came forth; and as surely as the Head has been born, so + surely shall the Body come forth. <span class="tei tei-q">‘Shall I + bring to the birth, and not cause to bring forth? saith the Lord: + shall I cause to bring forth and shut the womb? saith thy + God.’</span> (Isa. 66:9.) Ah, no! <span class="tei tei-q">‘the + Man-child, The Christ complete, the Great Deliverer, shall come + forth.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '94-135.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“But,”</span> says one, <span class="tei tei-q">“where + is the fiery chariot that is to accomplish a cleavage between the + Elijah and Elisha classes?”</span> We offer the suggestion that the + fiery horses are lurid prophecies; the horsemen are Ezekiel and + John, and the chariot is the vehicle in which their Message is + brought to the Elijah class. And do the Elijah class take to that + vehicle? They <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">do</span></em>. And why? Because <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the sheep follow Him; for they know His voice.”</span> + (John 10:4.) The separation between the Elijah and Elisha classes + will be brought about in a perfectly natural way, by some using the + chariot which the Lord provides, and others recognizing it, but not + attempting to use it to mount to the skies. And what should we + expect such a fiery chariot would do when caught up into the + heavens? The answer is prophetic, <span class="tei tei-q">“The + heavens being on fire shall be dissolved;”</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The heavens shall pass away with a great + noise;”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“And all the host of heaven + shall be dissolved, and the heavens shall be rolled together as a + scroll: and all their host shall fall down, as the leaf + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page064">[pg 064]</span><a name= + "Pg064" id="Pg064" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> falleth from the + vine, and as a falling fig from the fig-tree.”</span> (2 Pet. 3:12, + 10; Isa. 34:4.) Evidently the circulation of the penny will have + something to do with the burning of the tares!—Matt. 13:40-43; Isa. + 21:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Forty days after + Christ's resurrection His ascension occurred. This confirms the + hope of the Church's glorification forty years (a year for a day) + after the awakening of the sleeping saints in the Spring of 1878. + The seven days before the Deluge may represent seven years, from + 1914 to 1921, in the midst of which <span class="tei tei-q">“week + of years”</span> the last members of the Messiah pass beyond the + veil. The Great Company class shall be cut off at its end—the fact + that we see the first half of this week so distinctly marked would + lead us to expect three and one-half years more of witnessing by + the Great Company class; for it seems to be the Heavenly Father's + way to accomplish His work by weeks and half weeks, from the very + beginning of creation until now. The covenant with Abraham, 2045 B. + C., was half way (2081 years each way) between the fall of Adam, + 4127 B. C., and the conversion of Cornelius, A. D. 36. The last + observance of a typical jubilee by Israel, 626 B. C., was half way + (2500 years each way) from the end of Adam's Day, 3127 B. C., and + the beginning of the Times of Restitution, A. D. 1874. The + captivity, 606 B. C., marks the beginning of the Times of the + Gentiles, half way (2520 years each way) between the end of Adam's + 1000-year day, 3127 B. C., and the end of Gentile Times, A. D. + 1914. The captivity, 606 B. C., marks a point half way (3520 years + each way) between the fall of man, 4127 B. C., and his full + restoration to Divine favor, A. D. 2914. Christ's death, A. D. 33, + marks a point half way (1845 years each way) between the death of + Jacob, 1813 B. C., and the restoration of favor to Israel in 1878 + A. D. The death of Christ, A. D. 33, was half way (three and + one-half years each way) between His baptism, A. D. 29, and the + conversion of Cornelius, A. D. 36.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img065.png"><img src="images/img065.png" alt= + "Chronological Chart of Revelation" /></a> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The awakening of + the sleeping saints, A. D. 1878, was just half way (three and + one-half years each way) between the beginning of the Times of + Restitution in 1874 and the close of the High Calling in 1881. Our + proposition is that the glorification of the little Flock in the + Spring of 1918 A. D. will be half way (three and one-half years + each way) between the close of the Gentile Times and the close of + the Heavenly Way, A. D. 1921. The three days' (three + years—1918-1921) fruitless search for Elijah (2 Kings 2:17-18) is a + confirmation of this view. We shall wait to see; but we shall not + be indifferent while we wait, lest peradventure another, more + zealous, take the <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page065">[pg + 065]</span><a name="Pg065" id="Pg065" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + crown we have. The time is not long: but if we have to go on for + fifty years, why should we care? We are the Lord's. Let Him do as + He will with His own.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img066.png"><img src="images/img066.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + The Seven Messengers To The Church + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Write.</span></span>—Pastor Russell was + the most prolific writer of Biblical truth that ever lived.—Ezek. + 9:2, 3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">These things + saith the Amen.</span></span>—The same word translated <span class= + "tei tei-q">“verily”</span> in the Gospels and so often used by our + Lord as a solemn prefix to some important announcement.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">AND the faithful + and true Witness.</span></span>—Trinitarians witness that Christ + and the Father are one in person. Christ Himself witnesses, + <span class="tei tei-q">“It is also written in your Law that the + testimony of two men is true. I am one that bear witness of Myself, + and the Father that sent Me beareth witness of Me.”</span> (John + 8:17, 18.) Christ was one, and the Father was one; and one plus one + are two. (This lesson in mathematics is for Doctors of Divinity; + school children will not need it.)—Rev. 1:5; 19:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">AND the + Beginning of the [creation] CHURCH of God.</span></span>—Either + reading is correct. Our Lord was the Beginning of the New Creation, + but, more than that, He was the Beginning of <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">all</span></em> + creation. <span class="tei tei-q">“He is the Image of the invisible + God—<em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">First-born of all creation</span></em>; + because by Him were all things created, those in the heavens and + those on the earth, visible and invisible—whether thrones, or + lordships, or governments, or authorities: all things were created + by Him and for Him, and He precedes all things, and in Him all + things have been permanently placed. (Col. 1:15-18.) Hear also the + word of prophecy concerning the Only-Begotten, not only declaring + His coming exaltation as King of earthly kings, but describing Him + as already being Jehovah's <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">First-born</span></span>, saying, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘I will make Him, My First-born, higher than the kings + of the earth.’</span> (Psa. 89:27.)”</span>—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">95</span></span>, + 86.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + know thy works.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + Laodicean Church has much zeal, but not according to knowledge. She + claims that her principal object is to convert sinners, to bring + forth spiritual children. The Prophet puts these words into the + mouth of nominal Christians when they awake to a knowledge of the + situation: <span class="tei tei-q">‘We have been with child, we + have been in pain, we have as it were brought forth wind; we have + not wrought any deliverance in the earth; neither have the + inhabitants of the earth fallen (become converted).’</span> (Isa. + 26:16-18.)”</span> (Z. '16-347.) The literal city of Laodicea was + distinguished for the raven blackness of the fleeces (black sheep) + there to be had.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That thou are + neither cold.</span></span>—Making no pretense whatever to be + exponents of God's Truth.—Luke 7:36-50.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page066">[pg 066]</span><a name="Pg066" id="Pg066" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Nor + hot.</span></span>—Full of warm, loving devotion to Christ.—2 Tim. + 3:5; Ezek. 5:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I would thou + wert cold or hot.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Ephraim is + a cake not turned.”</span>—Hos. 7:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So + then.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Spring of 1878, + corresponding to the date at which our Lord assumed the office of + King, rode on the ass, cleansed the Temple of its money-changers, + and wept over and gave up to desolation that nominal church or + kingdom, marks the date from which the nominal church systems are + not the mouth-pieces of God, nor in any degree recognized by + Him.”</span>—B. 235.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Because thou art + THUS lukewarm and ART neither [cold nor hot] HOT NOR + COLD.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Retaining the forms of + worship and faith in a Creator and in a future life, but viewing + these chiefly through their own or other men's philosophies and + theories, and ignoring the Bible as an infallible teacher of the + Divine purposes. These, while retaining the Bible, disbelieve its + narratives, especially that of Eden and the fall. Retaining the + name of Jesus, and calling Him the Christ and the Savior, they + regard Him merely as an excellent though not infallible Exemplar, + and reject entirely His Ransom-sacrifice—His cross. Claiming the + Fatherhood of God to extend to sinners, they repudiate both the + curse and the Mediator.”</span>—C. 167.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[I will spue + thee out of My] REFRAIN THY mouth.</span></span>—She is bidden to + hold her peace. She needs to <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">study</span></em>, not to teach; and so the + following verses indicate.—Hos. 5:6; 9:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Because thou sayest I am + rich.</span></span>—I have all the spiritual light that exists in + the world. <span class="tei tei-q">“I have much goods laid up for + many years.”</span> (Luke 12:19.) <span class="tei tei-q">“I sit a + queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow.”</span>—Rev. 18:7; + Hos. 12:8; 1 Cor. 4:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And Increased + with goods.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Laodiceans count + their numbers and their donations by millions, and say, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘We are rich as never before.’</span> Alas, + that they do not realize that these are earthly riches of the kind + which our Lord declares are no evidence of His favor during this + Gospel Age, but rather to the contrary! And they see not the true + riches which the Lord admires, and which are the foretaste of His + favor and the coming Kingdom wealth.”</span>—Z. '01-56.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And have need of + nothing.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“They will not own + that they have departed from the right ways of the Lord: in their + own estimation they are rich and increased with goods, spiritual as + well as temporal, and have need of nothing.”</span>—Mal. 3:7; Z. + '92-261.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page067">[pg + 067]</span><a name="Pg067" id="Pg067" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And knowest not + that thou.</span></span>—Of all others, so the Greek indicates.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Art + wretched.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“To our eternal + disgrace, the United States leads all civilized countries in + homicides—over 8,000 yearly. There are twelve murders in New + England to one in London; in California seventy-five to one; in + Nevada 245 to one.”</span> (Z. '08-83.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Each nation feels that theirs is the greatest talent, + theirs are the finest guns, theirs the best everything; and it is + this feeling of self-sufficiency that led the nations into the + present conflict. They think that they are so good and so great + that God could not help giving them the victory.”</span>—Z. + '15-174.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + miserable.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“How blind we all + have been not to have noticed: (1) That the numbers of the heathen + in proportion even to the nominally Christian doubled last century; + (2) That if we could bring all the heathen up to the standard of + our most civilized nation it would mean that God's will would be + less done the world over than it is now.”</span>—Z. '08-83.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + poor.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Laodicean Church + is poor in that she has so little of the Master's Spirit, so little + of the Truth and of the Spirit of the Truth.”</span>—Z. '01-56.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + blind.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“She cannot see afar + off, cannot see either the High Calling of the Church or the + blessed provisions of Restitution for the world in + general.”</span>—Z. '98-128.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + naked.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The clergy, under the + name of Higher Criticism and Evolution, are rapidly denuding her, + making her naked, taking from her the robe of Christ's + righteousness, and leading her to trust, not in the precious blood + of the Redeemer, but in an evolutionary process which needs no + Savior, which denies that there is, or has been, any sin to make + atonement for.”</span>—Z. '01-56.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + counsel thee.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Thou shalt + guide me with Thy counsel and afterward receive me into + glory.”</span>—Psa. 73:24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To buy of + Me.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Not until we lay hold by + faith upon the <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">exceeding great and precious</span></em> + promises is there any of the <span class="tei tei-q">‘gold’</span> + of the <span class="tei tei-q">‘Divine nature’</span> in us. This + treasure can be <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">purchased</span></em> only at the cost of + entire consecration, or sacrifice of all that we have, to + Christ”</span>—Z. '96-44; Prov. 23:23; Matt. 13:44.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Gold tried in + the fire.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“If we would + purchase the <span class="tei tei-q">‘gold <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">tried in the + fire</span></span>,’</span> it must be at the cost of faithful and + constant submission to the discipline of the Lord in fiery trials. + How otherwise can the dross be eliminated? There is no other way. + Wherefore, think it not strange; let the fire burn; let the dross + be consumed; and see to it, beloved, that in the heat of the flame + you remove not the <span class="tei tei-q">‘living + sacrifice.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '96-44; 1 Pet. 4:12.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page068">[pg 068]</span><a name="Pg068" id="Pg068" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That thou mayest + be rich.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“For ye know the + grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for + your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be + rich.”</span>—2 Cor. 8:9; Prov. 10:22; Lu. 12:21; 1 Tim. 6:18; Jas. + 2:5; Rev. 2:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And white + raiment.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The robe of + Christ's imputed righteousness, which so many are now discarding, + to appear before God in their own unrighteousness.”</span>—D. 42; + Rev. 19:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That thou mayest + be clothed.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“A glorious + church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such + thing.”</span>—Eph. 5:27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And that the + shame of thy nakedness do not appear.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Behold I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth + and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his + shame.”</span>—Rev. 16:15; Matt. 22:11-13; Isa. 47:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And anoint thine + eyes with eyesalve.</span></span>—From the Great Physician. (Mark + 2:17.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Complete consecration and + submission to the Divine will as expressed in the + Scriptures.”</span>—D. 42.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That thou mayest + see.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘master of the house’</span> or <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘householder’</span> of the present dispensation is not + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">our</span></em> Lord, but <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">our</span></em> + Adversary, the Devil—<span class="tei tei-q">‘the god of this + world,’</span> <span class="tei tei-q">‘the prince of the power of + the air,’</span> <span class="tei tei-q">‘the prince of this + world,’</span> who now ruleth in the children of disobedience, + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">blinding</span></em> the minds of all that + believe not.”</span>—D. 611; 2 Cor. 4:4; Eph. 2:2; Psa. 13:3; 19:8; + John 9:6, 41.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + many as I love.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“As many as + are honest and at heart loyal to God.”</span>—Z. '92-59.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I rebuke and + chasten.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“ <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, + nor faint when thou art rebuked of Him; for whom the Lord loveth He + chasteneth.’</span>—Prov. 3:11, 12; Heb. 12:5-8.”</span>—Z. '96-44; + Job 5:17; Jas. 1:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Be zealous, + therefore, and repent.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + lawyer who makes legality his test instead of justice; the merchant + who is satisfied simply to conform to the code of his trade, whose + excuse for any dishonesty is, <span class="tei tei-q">‘They all do + it’</span>; the <span class="tei tei-q">‘gentleman’</span> or + <span class="tei tei-q">‘lady’</span> who puts good form and + manners in the place of sincerity and kindliness of heart, and + politeness in place of courtesy—all are alike animated by the + ecclesiastical conscience. It was this ecclesiastical mind and this + ecclesiastical conscience which crucified Jesus Christ (Rt. Rev. + Chas. D. Williams, Protestant Episcopal Bishop of + Michigan.)”</span>—Z. '15-339.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, I stand at the + door.</span></span>—Some of the Scriptures, which, when understood + in their connections and significance, prove that the Lord's Second + Advent occurred in the fall of 1874 are as follows: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Speak ye comfortably <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page069">[pg 069]</span><a name="Pg069" id="Pg069" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her + warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned; for she + hath received of the Lord's hand <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">double</span></em> + for all her sins.”</span> (Isa. 40:2; B. 227.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“And first I will recompense their iniquity and their + sin <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">double</span></em>.”</span> (Jer. 16:18; B. + 218.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Turn you to the strong hold, ye + prisoners of hope: even <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">today</span></em> do I declare that I will + render <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">double</span></em> unto thee.”</span> (Zech. + 9:12; B. 224.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">fourteenth</span></em> day of the second + month, at even, they shall keep it.”</span> (Num. 9:11; Z. '98-68.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“And when her days to be delivered were + fulfilled, behold, there were <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">twins</span></em>.”</span> (Gen. 25:24; Z. + '94-63.) <span class="tei tei-q">“And when he was full <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">forty</span></em> + years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren. And when + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">forty</span></em> years were expired, there + appeared to him in the wilderness of Mount Sinai an angel of the + Lord.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“Wonders and signs in the + land of Egypt, and in the Red Sea, and in the Wilderness <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">forty</span></em> + years.”</span>—Acts 7:23, 30, 36; Z. '11-215.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand + three hundred and five and thirty days.”</span> (Dan. 12:12; C. + 83.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Then shalt thou cause the trumpet of + the jubilee to sound on the tenth day of the seventh month, in the + day of atonement.”</span> (Lev. 25:9; B. 187.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“As long as she lay desolate she kept sabbath, to + fulfil threescore and ten years.”</span> (2 Chron. 36:21; B. 195.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“In that day shall there be an altar to the + Lord in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar at the border + thereof to the Lord. And it shall be for a sign and for a witness + unto the Lord of hosts in the land of Egypt.”</span> (Isa. 19:19, + 20; C. 315.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The like figure whereunto + even baptism doth also now save us.”</span> (1 Pet. 3:21; Z. + '05-181, Diagram.) <span class="tei tei-q">“In the first year of + Cyrus, king of Persia, he made a proclamation.”</span> (Ezra 1:1; + Z. '05-185.) <span class="tei tei-q">“This house was finished on + the third day of the month Adar, which was in the sixth year of the + reign of Darius the king.”</span> (Ezra 6:15; Z. '05-185.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“This Ezra went up from Babylon.... And he + came to Jerusalem in the fifth month, which was in the seventh year + of the king.”</span> (Ezra 7:6-8; Z. '05-185.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“In the twentieth year of Artaxerxes the + king.”</span>—Neh. 2:1; Z. '05-185.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Besides the + above Scriptures, time-proofs of the Lord's Return, are the + fulfilments of the promised signs: The Gospel has been preached in + all the world for a witness: (Matt. 24:14; A. 91); the abomination + has been <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">seen</span></em> in the holy place (Matt. + 24:15; D. 572); the flight of the saints from the antitypical + <span class="tei tei-q">“Judea”</span> has occurred (Matt. 24:16; + D. 573); the great tribulation has commenced (Matt. 24:21; D. 540); + the false Christs are with us (Matt. 24:23; D. 580); the eagles + have gathered to the carcase <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page070">[pg 070]</span><a name="Pg070" id="Pg070" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> (Matt. 24:28; D. 610); the sun and moon have + been darkened (Matt. 24:29; D. 590); the Man of Sin has been + revealed (2 Thes. 2:8; T. 86; B. 271); the Elias has come (Mal. + 4:5; B. 251); the regathering of the Jews has begun (Jer. 31:8; Z. + '06-84); the refining of the sons of Levi progresses (Mal. 3:1-3; + Z. '05-378); the true faith was nearly extinct in the earth (Luke + 18:8; Z. '06-265); the doctrines of devils are rampant (1 Tim. 4:1; + F. 621); the perilous times and all associated evils are here (2 + Tim. 3:1-7; Z. '99-99); the Lord God has given the sinners water of + gall to drink (Jer. 8:14; C. 158); the mighty angel has roared, + <span class="tei tei-q">“Come out of her”</span> (Rev. 18:4; C. + 155); the running to and fro is in evidence (Dan. 12:4; C. 63); the + antitypical Josiah has kept the great Passover (2 Chron. 35:19; Z. + '05-180); the land shadowed with wings has played its part (Isa. + 18:1; Z. '04-230); the watchman has stood upon his tower (Hab. 2:1; + C. 89); the wheels within wheels are made clear (Ezek. 1:15); the + Prophet has come to the rebellious house (Ezek. 2:3); he has eaten + the book of her fate (Ezek. 2:9); the seven years of astonishment + are finished (Ezek. 3:15); the sieges of 390 years and 40 years are + at an end (Ezek. 4:5, 6); the image of jealousy has been disclosed + (Ezek. 8:3); the man with the writer's inkhorn has performed his + task (Ezek. 9:2); the removing is at an end (Ezek. 14:21); the + sword has been doubled the third time (Ezek. 21:15); the point of + the sword has been made bright (Ezek. 21:15); ecclesiasticism has + been delivered unto brutish persons (Ezek. 21:31); the desire of + the faithful servant's eyes has failed (Ezek. 24:16); the stilled + voice is speaking again.—Ezek. 33:22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The seven + thunders have uttered their voices (Rev. 10:3); the seven last + plagues have been poured out (Rev. 15:6); the voices of the three + signs have been uttered (Exod. 4:3-9; Z. '07-276); the ribband of + blue (the Vow) has done its work (Num. 15:38); the tares and wheat + have been separated (Matt. 13:30; C. 139); the net has been drawn + to the shore and the fish sorted (Matt. 13:48; C. 214); the + ambassadors of peace have wept bitterly (Isa. 33:7); the foolish + virgins have had their sound sleep (Matt. 25:5; C. 92); the seven + seals have been opened (Rev. 8:1); the seven angels have sounded + (Rev. 10:7; B. 149); the nations are angry (Rev. 11:18); the + winepress of God's wrath has been trodden (Rev. 14:20); the horses + and chariot of fire have come for Elijah (2 Kings 2:11); the + chariots are running like lightning (Nah. 2:4; C. 272); the mighty + angel has flown in the midst of heaven (Rev. 14:6); the false + worshippers have been tormented <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page071">[pg 071]</span><a name="Pg071" id="Pg071" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> with fire and brimstone (Rev. 14:10); + Behemoth and Leviathan have been beheld doing their work (Job + 40:15-23; 41:1-34); the secret of the Lord has been shown (Psa. + 25:14; Z. '97-255); the Lord is judging His people and gathering + His saints (Psa. 50:4, 5; D. 75; B. 164); the lightnings have + enlightened the world (Psa. 97:4; A. 171); the hills have melted + like wax (Psa. 97:5; D. 551); the banner has been lifted on the + high mount (Isa. 13:2; D. 40); the tables are full of vomit (Isa. + 28:8; Z. '07-91); the dumb dogs have failed to bark (Isa. 56:10; F. + 287); the silver has been cast into the streets (Ezek. 7:19); the + nations have all been shaken (Hag. 2:7; D. 528); the rain, floods + and winds have come on Christendom (Matt. 7:27; Z. '06-95); the + King has come in to see the guests (Matt. 22:11; C. 197); the + speechless one has been bound hand and foot and cast out (Matt. + 22:13; C. 201); the Master is reckoning with His servants (Matt. + 25:19; F. 419); the seas and the waves are roaring (Luke 21:25; D. + 551); the 144,000 are standing on the sea of glass singing (Rev. + 15:3; C. 237); the Devil has risen up against himself (Mark 3:26; + F. 641); the blood, fire and vapor of smoke are here (Acts 2:19; D. + 592); the brethren are not in darkness and all others are (1 Thes. + 5:4; B. 121); the teachers having itching ears have turned unto + fables (2 Tim. 4:3; 4; F. 287; Z. '07-308); the twenty-four elders + have cast their crowns before the throne (Rev. 4:10); the predicted + scoffing has taken place (2 Pet. 3:3; B. 167); the laborers have + received their penny (Matt. 20:8); and these are but 88 of the + proofs hastily collected.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + knock.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The knock, or + proclamation of the Lord's Presence, as indicated by the Old + Testament prophecies, has been given since 1875 and is still being + given.”</span>—Z. '04-124; Lu. 12:36; Cant. 5:2-6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">If any man hear + My voice.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The knock is to be + the evidence of the Presence; and the servants are not to know in + advance, but are to know at the time of the arrival and that + without seeing.”</span>—Z. '04-123.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] I WILL + BOTH open the door.</span></span>—When once we give the Lord a + welcome to our hearts, how He does open the doors to joys we ne'er + before knew!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[I will] AND + come in to him.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“If a man + love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We + will come unto him, and make Our abode with him.”</span>—John + 14:23.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And will + sup.</span></span>—Take the evening meal.—Lu. 12:37.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With + him.</span></span>—The Master Himself is feasting on the same joys + of the Father's Plan that delight our own hearts.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page072">[pg 072]</span><a name="Pg072" id="Pg072" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And he with + Me.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“This serving of the + servants by the Master should be understood to be an individual + work, and not merely a collective service and feast.”</span>—Z. + '04-124.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To + him that overcometh.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Let us + not avoid the Gethsemane moment if it come to us in the Lord's + providence, but let us also with strong cryings and tears look up + to Him who is able to save us out of death by the glorious First + Resurrection; and let us remember that if we abide in His love, He + is able and willing to bring us off conquerors, yea, more than + conquerors through His own merit.”</span>—Z. '06-348.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Will I + grant.</span></span>—If they prove faithful unto death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To sit with + Me.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“With the early Church, + the promises of Kingdom honor and joint-heirship with the Master + were strong incentives to faithfulness under present trials and + persecutions, which they had been forewarned to expect.”</span>—A. + 285.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In My + Throne.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“God's appointed + means of blessing the world and causing the knowledge of the Lord + to come to every creature.”</span>—A. 91; 1 Cor. 6:2; 2 Tim. 2:12; + Rev. 2:26, 27; 22:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Even as I also + overcame.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“God sent an angel + to comfort and minister unto Him; to assure Him still of the Divine + favor, and thus to give Him fresh courage, strength of mind and + steadiness of nerve to endure all that was before Him, even unto + death. The bitterness of the mental conflict was now over, and the + light of Heaven shining into His soul chased away the deep gloom + that had hung over Him like a funeral pall.”</span>—Z. '06-348.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And am set down + with My Father in His Throne.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The thousand years of the Millennial Reign will + constitute but a beginning of the exercise of the glory, honor and + immortality of these New Creatures. At its close when the Kingdom + shall be delivered up to <span class="tei tei-q">‘God, even the + Father,’</span> and to mankind as the glorified agents of the + Father to rule the earth, a still larger sphere for the exercise of + their glory, honor and immortality will open before the New + Creation.”</span>—F. 69; 1 Cor. 15:24-28.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + that hath an ear.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Blessed + are your eyes, for they see; and your ears, for they + hear.”</span>—Matt. 13:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Let him + hear.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“For verily I say unto + you, That many Prophets and righteous men have desired to see those + things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those + things which ye hear, and have not heard them.”</span>—Matt. + 13:17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">What the Spirit + saith unto the churches.</span></span>—Unto the seven epochs, + ending, respectively, in A. D. 73, 325, 1160, 1378, 1518, 1874 and + 1918.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page073">[pg 073]</span><a name= + "Pg073" id="Pg073" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc13" id="toc13"></a> <a name="pdf14" id="pdf14"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 4—The Author Of The + Plan</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">After this.</span></span>—After this + first panorama of the seven stages of the Church had passed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I looked, and, + behold, a door was opened in Heaven.</span></span>—It is only as + the Lord, who holds the key, opens the door to the understanding of + Heavenly things, that we are able to comprehend them.—Matt. 3:16; + Ezek. 1:1; Rev. 19:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And BEHOLD the + first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with + me.</span></span>—See comments on Rev. 1:1; 7:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which said, Come + up hither.</span></span>—Not that St. John went to Heaven at that + time; he was merely given a vision of Heavenly things. (Rev. + 11:12.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The seer now obtains a higher + spiritual standpoint.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I will shew + thee things which must be hereafter.</span></span>—The Divine Plan + for the permission of evil.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">[And] immediately I was in the + spirit.</span></span>—In a trance condition.—Acts 10:10; Rev. + 1:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And, behold, a + Throne.</span></span>—The Throne of the Heavenly Father.—Isa. 6:1; + Ezek. 1:26-28.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was + set.</span></span>—Permanently established. The same word as in, + <span class="tei tei-q">“This Child is <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">set</span></em> for + the fall and rising again of many in Israel.”</span> (Luke 2:34.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“I am <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">set</span></em> for the defence of the + Gospel.”</span>—Phil. 1:17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + Heaven.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Whither the + Forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus.”</span>—Heb. 6:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + One.</span></span>—Jehovah, <span class="tei tei-q">“the God and + Father of our Lord Jesus Christ”</span> (1 Pet. 1:3), the Author of + the Divine Plan for the permission of evil, in the recreation of a + perfect human race, and in the creation of a race of gods, sons of + Himself. <span class="tei tei-q">“God designed to <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">permit + evil</span></em>, because, having the remedy provided for man's + release from its consequences, He saw that the result would be to + lead him the more to love and honor his Creator, who is the source + and fountain of all goodness, and forever to shun that which + brought so much woe and misery.”</span> (A. 124.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Not only are men benefited to all eternity by the + experience gained, and angels by their observation of man's + experiences, but all are further advantaged by a fuller + acquaintance with God's Character as manifested in His Plan. Had + sin not been permitted, the sacrifice of our Lord <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page074">[pg 074]</span><a name="Pg074" id="Pg074" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> Jesus and of His Church, the reward of + which is the Divine nature, would have been impossible.”</span>—A. + 135.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Sat on the + Throne.</span></span>—Of the Universe. <span class="tei tei-q">“All + can see the propriety of the Almighty's decision that He shall be + recognized as the Center of authority, wisdom, justice, love and + power; for this is the <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">truth</span></em>, and anything else would be + untruth and to that extent evil, injurious.”</span>—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">57</span></span>, 52; + Rev. 7:10; Dan. 7:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He that sat was to look upon like a + jasper.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“And the building of + the wall of it was of <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">jasper</span></em>: 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. The first + foundation was <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">jasper</span></em>.”</span> (Rev. 21:18, 19.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“A precious stone, variegated with divers + colors, and of a very hard quality; some have been found of a + sea-green color.”</span> (Diaglott note.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The ancient <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">jasper</span></em> thus appears to have been + frequently translucent, but the modern is opaque.”</span> (McC.) + The jasper, therefore, is supposed to refer to the modern rare and + beautiful green-tinted diamond. The diamond is the hardest + substance known, excelling in brilliancy and beautiful play of + prismatic colors. The crystals of which it is composed are bounded + by <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">eight</span></em> equal equilateral triangles; + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">twenty-four</span></em> angles in all, + constituting a perfect double pyramid, set base to base. How + adorable, how sublime, how perfect is our God! How impossible to + describe Him! To know Him aright will require eternity. The jasper + seems especially to illustrate His glory, perfection and <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">prescience</span></em>. (He uses twenty-four + elders—prophecies.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And a sardine + stone.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The sard, which is a + superior variety of agate, has long been a favorite stone for the + engraver's art. On this stone all the finest works of the most + celebrated artists are to be found; and this not without good + cause, such is its toughness, facility of working, beauty of color, + and the high polish of which it is susceptible, and which it + retains longer than any other gem. The sardius is the stone now + called the carnelian, from its color, which resembles that of raw + flesh. It is supposed to stop hemorrhage when laid on a fresh + wound.”</span> (McC.) The sardius seems especially to illustrate + God's love, His memory of His creatures, and His purpose of a + resurrection for all smitten in Adam and redeemed in Christ. Will + God forget to raise any of His blood-bought? <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should + not have compassion on the son of her womb? Yea, they may forget, + yet will I not forget thee. Behold I have graven thee upon the + palms of My hands.”</span>—Isa. 49:15, 16.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page075">[pg 075]</span><a name="Pg075" id="Pg075" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there was a + rainbow.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The rainbow has + always been an emblem of <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">peace</span></em>. It appears on the cloud as + the storm passes away. It contrasts beautifully with the tempest + that has just been raging. It is seen as the rays of the sun again + appear clothing all things with beauty—the more beautiful from the + fact that the storm has come. It is a pledge that the war of the + elements has ceased, and that God smiles again upon the earth. The + appearance of the rainbow around the Throne was a beautiful emblem + of the mercy of God, and of the peace that was to pervade the world + as the result of the events that were to be disclosed to the vision + of John.”</span> (Barnes.) The rainbow is characterized by seven + colors—perfection. (Ezek. 1:28.) It represents not only the bow of + promise for mankind, but the <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">peace</span></em> of God. It is His <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">Plan</span></em>. + <span class="tei tei-q">“From His own vast inherent resources of + power and wisdom, springs the peace of God. But not from this + source alone is the Divine peace; for peace is the certain + concomitant of inherent goodness. God is the impersonation of every + virtue and every grace; consequently He has the blessed + satisfaction and peace of conscious moral perfection as well as + inherent wisdom and power.”</span> (Z. '95-153.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“During the seventh millennium, according to the Divine + purpose, it will be the joyful privilege of our Lord Jesus to fully + manifest to all creatures in Heaven and in earth the Father's + glorious character. Then will the Father rejoice in the grandeur of + His finished work and in the everlasting peace and happiness of His + family in Heaven and in earth, <span class="tei tei-q">‘reunited + under one head.’</span> (Eph. 1:10, <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Diaglott</span></span>.)”</span>—Z. + '95-155.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Round about the + Throne.</span></span>—Justice is <span class="tei tei-q">“the + habitation of Thy Throne.”</span> (Psa. 89:14.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“God's law is stern Justice, with no allowances, ready + to consume as a fire everything blemished. Who cannot see that if + God could deal with sinners, and condoning their sins, accept their + best endeavors, though imperfect, there would have been no + necessity for a Redeemer? And thus, to all eternity, there might be + danger of sin on the part of those who had not already dabbled in + it. Seeing this, it does not surprise us that God, in the interest + of all His holy creatures, as well as for His own pleasure, decides + that He will recognize nothing short of perfection in any creature, + and makes <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Justice</span></em> the foundation of His + Throne.”</span>—E. <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">481</span></span>, 472.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In sight like + unto an emerald.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The same + with the ancient <span class="tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">smaragdus</span></span>; one of the most + beautiful of gems, of a bright green color, without any + mixture.”</span>—<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Diaglott.</span></span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">emerald</span></em>, of bright green color, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘was the most precious gem in the Roman + jeweller's list.... The Romans were plentifully supplied with the + true emerald. The <span class="tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">smaragdus</span></span> <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page076">[pg 076]</span><a name="Pg076" id="Pg076" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> of Nero's age must be restricted to the + true emerald, perhaps including the green ruby.’</span> + (King.)”</span>—<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Nat. Hist. of Precious Stones.</span></span> + The color of the emerald, green, signifies everlastingness. + <span class="tei tei-q">“From everlasting to everlasting thou art + God.”</span>—Psa. 90:2; Ezek. 1:28.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + round about the Throne.</span></span>—Encompassing it on all + sides—always in mind—never out of sight.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Were] SAW I + four and twenty seats.</span></span>—<span lang="el" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Thronoi</span></span>, thrones, places of + highest exaltation—the twenty-four angles (viewpoints) of the + diamond.—Rev. 4:3,10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And upon the + seats [I saw four and twenty] elders + sitting.</span></span>—<em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Personifications</span></em> of the + testimonies of twenty-four Prophets (Heb. 11:2), who foretold + things pertaining to the Kingdom of God. Not the Prophets + themselves are here referred to. They are not in Heaven. + <span class="tei tei-q">“David is not ascended into the + Heavens.”</span> (Acts 2:34.) Daniel still <span class= + "tei tei-q">“sleeps in the dust of the earth.”</span> (Dan. 12:2, + 13.) None of the Prophets are in Heaven: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“God having provided some better thing for us, that + they without us should not be made perfect.”</span> (Heb. 11:40.) + But from the time that <span class="tei tei-q">“holy men of God + spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit”</span> (2 Pet. 1:21), + the utterances of Enoch, Jacob, Moses, Samuel, Job, David, Solomon, + Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, + Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, + Malachi and John the Baptist, have been witnesses before God that + there shall be <span class="tei tei-q">“Times of + Refreshing”</span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Times of + Restitution.”</span>—Acts 3:19-21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Clothed in white + raiment.</span></span>—All of these men considered themselves + unworthy to be God's mouthpieces. Jacob said, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“I am not worthy of the least of all Thy mercies, and + of all the truth which Thou hast shewed unto Thy servant.”</span> + (Gen. 32:10.) Moses said, <span class="tei tei-q">“Who am I that I + should go unto Pharaoh, and that I should bring forth the children + of Israel out of Egypt?”</span> (Exod. 3:11.) David said, + <span class="tei tei-q">“Who am I, O Lord God? and what is my + house, that Thou hast brought me hitherto?”</span> (2 Sam. 7:18.) + Solomon said, <span class="tei tei-q">“I am but a little child: I + know not how to go out or come in.”</span> (1 Kings 3:7.) Isaiah + said, <span class="tei tei-q">“Woe is me! for I am undone; because + I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of + unclean lips.”</span> (Isa. 6:5.) Jeremiah said, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Ah, Lord God! behold I cannot speak: for I am a + child.”</span> (Jer. 1:6.) Daniel said, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“This secret is not revealed to me for any wisdom that + I have.”</span> (Dan. 2:30.) And John the Baptist said, + <span class="tei tei-q">“I have need to be baptised of Thee, and + comest Thou to me?”</span> (Matt. 3:14.) But the Lord knoweth them + that are His (2 Tim. 2:19); and whatever they may think of + themselves, if they are <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page077">[pg + 077]</span><a name="Pg077" id="Pg077" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + God's mouthpieces, they are clean. Isaiah's utterances are spotless + in the sight of God—clothed in white raiment.—Isa. 6:6, 7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [they] had + on their heads crowns of gold.</span></span>—The glory of God—Love, + God's highest attribute. If there are any prophets that do not have + something to say about God's loving arrangement for Times of + Restitution, then they are not holy. Judged by this standard, how + many of the clergy of our day are holy?—Acts 3:19-21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + out of the Throne proceeded lightnings.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“How apt is this figure! Truly like lightning flashes + in the midst of the gloom and perplexity of this cloudy day, come + to men remarkable glimpses of the great principles of Truth and + Righteousness. A flash of lightning from the obscured Throne + discloses here one error, and there another, and another. It is + remarkable that these lightning flashes are continually calling + attention to the Word of God, to the Golden Rule. It seems + remarkable, too, how often in these days of war and stress + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">worldly</span></em> men are drawing attention + to the prophecies of the Scriptures.”</span>—Z. '16-339; Rev. 8:5; + 16:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">AND + VOICES.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“As a result of God's + lightning flashes which are enlightening the world, there are + ominous mutterings of dissatisfaction, unrest. The lightning + flashes are revealing the corruption in the world, the dishonesty + in high places; with conflicting ideas, voices, theories and + threats, <span class="tei tei-q">‘the nations are angry,’</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">‘the heathen [Gentiles, peoples] + rage,’</span> and the whole earth trembles from the din of a wordy + conflict and from the blows which even now are beginning to arouse + the world.”</span>—Z. '16-340.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And thunderings + [and voices.]</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“We hear the + thunder tones of judgment that <span class="tei tei-q">‘call the + earth from the rising of the sun unto the going down + thereof’</span> (Psa. 50:1); we see the whole earth now in the + shaking process which will eventuate in the complete overthrow of + all existing institutions, systems and governments. Present events + indeed speak in trumpet tones.”</span>—Z. '16-340; Ex. 19:16; Rev. + 8:5; 11:19; 16:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there were + seven lamps of fire burning before the Throne, which are the seven + Spirits of God.</span></span>—Perfect knowledge.—Rev. 1:4; 3:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + before the Throne.</span></span>—In the earth, and everywhere + throughout the Universe.—Rev. 5:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">There was AS a + sea of glass.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The troubled + surface which Daniel and Isaiah beheld (Dan. 7:2, 3; Isa. 57:20) + became when seen before the Throne of God, calm and clear; + reflecting as from a mirror, every fulfilment of the Divine + purposes.”</span> (Cook.) (Rev. 21:18, 21; Ex. 24:10.) <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page078">[pg 078]</span><a name="Pg078" id="Pg078" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> The sea (godless conditions about them) + has been a means of purifying earth's future priests.—1 Ki. + 7:23-26, 38, 39.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Like unto + crystal.</span></span>—Indicating that nothing escapes God's + notice; all is transparent. <span class="tei tei-q">“For centuries + skeptics have been disposed to smile incredulously at the words of + our Lord, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Enter into thy closet; and when + thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and + thy Father which <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">seeth in secret</span></em> shall reward thee + openly.’</span> (Matt. 6:6.) Now that an electric ray can be passed + through opaque substances, such as paper, wood, cloth, leather, + aluminium, animal flesh, etc., can these scientists any longer mock + at Christians for <span class="tei tei-q">‘credulity,’</span> + because we believe that <span class="tei tei-q">‘All things are + naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to + do’</span>? (Heb. 4:13.) <span class="tei tei-q">‘He that formed + the ear shall He not hear? He that formed the eye shall He not + see?’</span> Now we begin to see how it is that <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘There is nothing covered that shall not be revealed; + and hid, that shall not be known.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '96-27; Ezek. + 1:22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And in the midst + of the Throne.</span></span>—Woven into its very fabric.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And round about + the Throne.</span></span>—Completely encircling and enveloping + it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Were four + beasts.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Living ones”</span> + (<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Diaglott</span></span>.); the four immortal + attributes of Justice, Power, Love and Wisdom.—Ezek. 1:5, 6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Full of eyes + before and behind.</span></span>—Seeing clearly everything that + will ever occur in the future, and everything that has ever + transpired in the past.—Ezek. 10:4, 12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the first beast.</span></span>—Justice was the attribute first + manifested toward our sinful race. <span class="tei tei-q">“God has + found it necessary to perform the unpleasant duties of discipline; + and though all the while His fatherly love was preparing to bless + the deceived and fallen ones when the purposes of redemption should + restore the repentant to His favor, Love must be veiled while only + stern, relentless Justice could be manifested. This has been no + happifying duty.”</span>—Z. '95-154.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was like a + lion.</span></span>—The characteristics of the lion illustrate this + attribute: The teeth are of the highest carnivorous type, adapted + to seizing and holding firmly. Although occasionally seen abroad + during the day, especially in wild and desolate regions, the + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">night</span></em> (Psa. 30:5) is the period of + its greatest activity. The usual pace of a lion is a walk; and, + though apparently rather slow, yet he is able to get over a good + deal of ground in a short time. As a rule, he kills only when + hungry or attacked, and not for the mere pleasure of killing.—Ezek. + 1:10; 10:14.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page079">[pg + 079]</span><a name="Pg079" id="Pg079" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the second + beast.</span></span>—Power, exhibited in the Flood, was the second + of God's attributes manifested to man. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“God, the Creator of all things, is also the competent + Sustainer of all things. In silent grandeur, from age to age, the + whole physical Universe fulfils His will, without a suspicion of + disorder or mishap; and the same Power is pledged for its + sustenance throughout the eternal future.”</span>—Z. '95-153; Ezek. + 1:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Like a + calf.</span></span>—With the Hebrews the calf (young ox) was the + emblem of Power, the attribute of God with which they were + principally acquainted. As an agricultural people, they were + brought in frequent contact with it, the strongest of all the + domestic animals. They were brought out of Egypt by a <span class= + "tei tei-q">“mighty power and a stretched out arm”</span> (Deut. + 9:29); and when they sought to make a representation of it, the + form selected was a golden calf.—Deut. 9:16-21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the third + beast.</span></span>—Love, exhibited in the Father sending His + Only-Begotten Son to die that we might live, was the third of God's + attributes manifested to man. <span class="tei tei-q">“Our recovery + cost the sacrifice of the dearest treasure of His heart, and the + subjection of this Beloved One to the most abject humiliation, + ignominy, suffering and death. Ah, did the Father let Him go on + that errand of mercy without the slightest sensation of sorrowful + emotion? had He no appreciation of the pangs of a father's love + when the arrows of death pierced the heart of His beloved Son? When + our dear Lord said, <span class="tei tei-q">‘My soul is exceeding + sorrowful, even unto death,’</span> and again, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me: + nevertheless, not as I will, but as Thou wilt,’</span> did it touch + no sympathetic chord in the heart of the Eternal? Yea, + verily.”</span>—Z. '95-154.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Had a face [as] + LIKE a man.</span></span>—The embodiment of love. (A. 174.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“Close your eyes for a moment to the scenes + of misery and woe, degradation and sorrow that yet prevail on + account of sin, and picture before your mental vision the glory of + the perfect earth. Not a stain of sin mars the harmony and peace of + a perfect society; not a bitter thought, not an unkind look or + word; love, welling up from every heart, meets a kindred response + in every other heart, and benevolence marks every act. Think of all + the pictures of comparative health and beauty of human form and + feature that you have ever seen, and know that perfect humanity + will be of still surpassing loveliness. The inward purity and + mental and moral perfection will stamp and glorify every radiant + countenance.”</span>—A. 191; Ezek. 1:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the fourth + beast.</span></span>—Wisdom, as exhibited in the Father's Plan, now + unfolded before our delighted gaze, is <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page080">[pg 080]</span><a name="Pg080" id="Pg080" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> the fourth, and complete, manifestation of + God to man. <span class="tei tei-q">“He is never confused, + bewildered, perplexed, anxious or careworn, or in the least fearful + that His plans will miscarry or His purposes fail; because all + power and wisdom inhere in Him. The scope of His mighty intellect + reaches to the utmost bounds of possibility, comprehends all causes + and discerns with precision all effects; consequently He knows the + end from the beginning, and that, not only upon philosophical + principles, but also by intuition. As the Creator of all things and + the Originator of all law, He is thoroughly acquainted with all the + intricate subtleties of physical, moral and intellectual law, so + that no problem could arise, the results of which are not manifest + to His mind. <span class="tei tei-q">‘God is light, and in Him is + no darkness at all.’</span> (1 John 1:5.)”</span>—Z. '95-153.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was like a + flying eagle.</span></span>—Of all known birds, the eagle flies the + highest and with the greatest rapidity. <span class="tei tei-q">“As + the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than + your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.”</span> (Isa. 55:9.) + The ones attracted to Present Truth are the eagles, the far-sighted + ones that <span class="tei tei-q">“behold the land that is very far + off.”</span> (Matt. 24:28; 2 Pet. 1:9; Isa. 33:16, 17; Psa. 103:5.) + In the training of its young the eagle manifests wisdom of high + order: <span class="tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘As an + eagle stirreth up her nest’</span> (she mixes the thorny outside + with the downy inside, so that the eaglets will leave it and learn + to fly), so God, by His testing providences makes the place of rest + one of unrest to us, and thus lures us out to trust ourselves to + His care and guidance over untried ways.”</span>—Z. '04-116.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the four beasts.</span></span>—Justice, Power, Love and Wisdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Had each of them + six wings about him.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Above + it stood the seraphims (Justice, Power, Love and Wisdom): each one + had six wings, and with twain he did fly. And one cried to another, + and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of Hosts: the whole earth + is full of His glory.”</span> (Isa. 6:2, 3.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The vision of Isaiah is a prophecy of the future, when + the <span class="tei tei-q">‘glory of the Lord shall be revealed, + and all flesh shall see it together’</span> in the establishment of + the Kingdom of God during the Millennium. (Isa. 40:5.) Only from + this prophetic standpoint would the words of the seraphim be true; + for the whole earth has never yet been filled with the Lord's + glory; but on the contrary, the earth is full of sin and violence, + and every evil work.”</span> (Z. '98-305.) Six is a symbol of + imperfection, and in the light of the foregoing seems to refer to + the six thousand years of the permission of evil, the theme of the + entire Book of Revelation. For the first two thousand years, from + the fall to <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page081">[pg + 081]</span><a name="Pg081" id="Pg081" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + the covenant with Abraham, God's face was almost entirely hidden + from man. For the next two thousand years, until the death of + Christ, it was not apparent how the place of God's feet, His + footstool, should ever be made glorious. (Isa. 60:13; 66:1.) But + since then, for two thousand years, God's Love has been manifest to + all, and <span class="tei tei-q">“the earnest expectation of the + creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God”</span> + (Rom. 8:19), to set up the Kingdom, the Golden Age, for which we + all so long have prayed. (Matt. 6:10.) The wings operate in + pairs.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they were + full of eyes within.</span></span>—Nothing has transpired, or will + ever transpire, without God's knowledge. In the past six thousand + years, whether hidden or partially revealed, God's Justice, Power, + Love and Wisdom, have been in touch with all of earth's + affairs.—Ezek. 10:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they HAVE NO + rest [not] day and night.</span></span>—Not eternal idleness, but + eternal work in the interest of others will be our reward. + <span class="tei tei-q">“My Father worketh until now, and I + work.”</span> (John 5:17.) <span class="tei tei-q">“I must work the + works of Him that sent Me, while it is day: the night cometh when + no man can work.”</span> (John 9:4.) <span class="tei tei-q">“We + are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good + works.”</span> (Eph. 2:10.) <span class="tei tei-q">“It is God + which worketh in you both to will and to do.”</span> (Phil. 2:13.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“We are laborers together with God.”</span> + (1 Cor. 3:9.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Workers together with + Him.”</span> (2 Cor. 6:1.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Who shall + change the Body of our humiliation, that it may be fashioned like + unto His glorious Body, according to the working whereby He is able + to subdue all things unto Himself.”</span>—Phil. 3:21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, Holy, + holy, holy, HOLY, HOLY, HOLY, HOLY, HOLY.</span></span>—The + Sinaitic MS. repeats the word <span class="tei tei-q">“holy”</span> + eight times. (See Rev. 4:3.) In the seventh thousand-year Day God + will bring all things to perfection through The Christ, yet it is + the eighth Day that marks the complete separation from the old + order of things. The Jewish child was circumcised on the eighth day + (Luke 1:59; Phil. 3:5); seven days a sheep was to be with its dam, + and on the eighth given to the Lord (Exod. 22:30); the eighth day + of the Feast of Tabernacles was to be a holy convocation unto the + Lord. (Lev. 23:36, 39.) In the eighth thousand-year Day of + mankind's history on the earth, circumcision of the heart will be + complete in all, all the sheep will have been turned over to the + Father, and the holy convocation of eternity will have begun, + <span class="tei tei-q">“the grand epoch when there shall be no + more sighing, no more crying, no more pain and no more dying, + because God's work of creation shall then have been completed so + far as this earth is concerned.”</span>—F. 51.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page082">[pg 082]</span><a name="Pg082" id="Pg082" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Lord God + Almighty.</span></span>—Jehovah. This scene is located in Heaven, + where even the Son Himself is subject unto the Father.—1 Cor. + 15:28.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which + was.</span></span>—The great First Cause.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + is.</span></span>—The great <span class="tei tei-q">“I + AM.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And is to + come.</span></span>—And evermore shall be.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when those beasts.</span></span>—Justice, Power, Love and + Wisdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Give.</span></span>—Shall eternally + continue to give, so the Greek indicates.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Glory and honor + and thanks to Him that sat on the Throne.</span></span>—Their + united testimony to the perfection of His character in all its + attributes, as they are now doing, since His Wisdom has been + unveiled.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Who liveth for + ever and ever, AMEN.</span></span>—And will forever use those + attributes in the blessing of all the willing and obedient + throughout the Universe.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + four and twenty elders.</span></span>—The personifications of the + messages of the twenty-four Prophets who foretold the coming + Kingdom of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Fall down before + Him that sat on the Throne.</span></span>—Unitedly bear witness to + His perfect ability to foretell the future.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And worship Him + that liveth for ever and ever, AMEN.</span></span>—Magnify His + perfect Justice, Power, Love and Wisdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + cast.</span></span>—Shall eternally continue to cast, so the Greek + indicates.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Their crowns + before the Throne, saying.</span></span>—(1) <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Enoch</span></span> + was the first of the holy Prophets; and according to the Apostle + Jude he prophesied of the coming reign of Christ and His glorious + Bride, to judge the world, saying: <span class="tei tei-q">“The + Lord cometh with a myriad of His saints, to execute + judgment.”</span> (Jude 14, 15.) That there shall be such a + glorious and blessed Judgment Day, full of hope and joy for all the + world, the Apostle Paul says is definitely decreed in the counsels + of God, <span class="tei tei-q">“whereof He hath given + assurance,”</span> grounds for confident, joyful anticipation, + <span class="tei tei-q">“unto all men.”</span> (Acts 17:31.) When + that happy time comes, <span class="tei tei-q">“the inhabitants of + the world will learn righteousness”</span> (Isa. 26:9), and + <span class="tei tei-q">“the poor of the people will be lifted + up”</span> (Psa. 72:2-4, 12-14.) It will be the long-promised poor + man's chance.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(2) <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Jacob</span></span> + was one of the holy Prophets; and in Gen. 49:10 he says, + <span class="tei tei-q">“The sceptre shall not depart from Judah + nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto + Him shall the gathering of the people be.”</span> The sceptre means + the right to rule, the title to power; and Shiloh means peacemaker. + So this prophecy is merely another way of saying that Judah would + be the ancestor of the great Lawgiver, the great <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Prince of Peace”</span> into <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page083">[pg 083]</span><a name="Pg083" id="Pg083" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> whose hands God, in due time, will + <span class="tei tei-q">“give the heathen for an + inheritance,”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“that they may all + call upon the name of the Lord to serve Him with one + consent.”</span>—Psa. 2:8; Zeph. 3:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(3) <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Moses</span></span>, + as a historian, recorded God's original purpose to give man + dominion over the earth (Gen. 1:28); His declaration to the serpent + that the Seed of the woman should bruise its head (Gen. 3:15); the + promise to Abraham that in him all the families of the earth shall + be blessed (Gen. 12:3); that Abraham's inheritance should be an + earthly one (Gen. 13:15); and an everlasting one (Gen. 17:8); that + all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him (Gen. 18:18); + that in his Seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed + (Gen. 22:18); to Isaac, that in his Seed shall all the nations of + the earth be blessed (Gen. 26:4); to Jacob, that in his Seed shall + all the families of the earth be blessed (Gen. 28:14); to Jacob + again, that he should be a joint-heir with Abraham and Isaac of the + land of Canaan (Gen. 35:12); by the sacrifices after the day of + atonement was typically shown the perfection of mankind in the + Millennium (Lev. 1:5); by the glory appearing unto all the people + was foretold their future release from sin and death (Lev. 9:23); + by the acceptance of a goat as a sin-offering for the people we see + blessings of life for the world after the Church's career is + finished (Lev. 16:15); and by the sounding of the jubilee trumpet, + the proclamation of liberty to the captives and the return of every + man to his possession, we see the world's restoration to the image + and likeness of God. (Lev. 25:10.) As a Prophet, his declarations + show that throughout the Gospel Age God would raise up a great + Prophet and Deliverer like unto himself (The Christ), to whom shall + all the people give heed in the Millennial Age (Deut. 18:15, 19); + and that this great Deliverer then would set before them life, if + obedient, and death, if disobedient.—Deut. 30:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(4) <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Samuel</span></span>, + as a historian, recorded Hannah's prophecy, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Lord killeth and maketh alive; He bringeth down to + hell and bringeth up.”</span> (1 Sam. 2:6.) This is one of the + first places in the Bible where we are shown that what goes into + hell does not necessarily stay there. Another instance, in which + Samuel foretold pictorially the coming of the better King, was in + the case of the coronation of King Saul. Saul had been selected + king, but had an attack of bashfulness; and when they had searched, + they found him behind the baggage. The record is, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“They ran, and fetched him thence; and when he stood + among the people, he was higher than any of the people from his + shoulders and upward. And Samuel said, See ye him whom the Lord + hath chosen, that there is none like him <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page084">[pg 084]</span><a name="Pg084" id="Pg084" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> among the people? And all the people shouted + and said, God save the king.”</span> (1 Sam. 10:17-24.) Saul was + God's choice for king; his name means <span class= + "tei tei-q">“desired,”</span> and in this he typified Christ, the + <span class="tei tei-q">“desire of all nations.”</span> This + incident looks forward to the time when all the people of the world + will say of Christ, <span class="tei tei-q">“Oh! who is like unto + our God? Lo! This is our God; this is our King; this is the One we + have waited for; He is head and shoulders, as a ruler, above all + kings and rulers we have had.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(5) <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Job</span></span>, + after the Sabeans had made off with his oxen and asses, after a + bolt of lightning had burned up his sheep, after the Chaldeans had + stolen his camels and murdered his servants, after a whirlwind had + blown down his house and killed all his children, after he was + covered with boils from head to foot, after his wife had gone back + on him, and after his three remaining friends tried to prove to him + that he was a hypocrite, prayed that he might go to hell and stay + there until God's wrath should be past, and that then God would + remember him in resurrection. (Job 14:13-15.) Job records Elihu's + prophetic statement that when the Messenger of the Covenant has + returned, death will cease and men not need to go into the tomb. + (Job 33:19-30.) Job also describes the steam engine—stationary, + railway and marine.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The following is + a corrected translation of Job 40:15 to 41:34, with comments + thereon from the pen of one of Pastor Russell's followers: + <span class="tei tei-q">“Behold now one with great heat [the + stationary steam engine], which I have made to be with thee; he + will consume fodder [peat, wood, coal] as do cattle. Behold now his + strength is in his loins [boiler plates], and his power is within + the parts bent in a circle [boiler shell] of his belly. His tail + [smoke stack—opposite the feeding end] will set upright like a + cedar; the couplings of his leaping parts [connecting rods, + pitmans] will be clamped together. His bones are tubes of copper; + his solid bones [grate bars] are as hammered-out bars of iron. He + is the greatest of the ways of power. He that made him [the Lord] + can make His sword [Word] to approach unto [reveal] him. [Isa. + 27:1, 2.] He shall rest under thin shelter [steam jackets] within a + covering of fibrous reeds [jute] and clay [mortar]. The willows of + the valley [the trees overhead] will enclose him around about + Behold [as a pumping engine] he will drink up an overflowing river + without much exertion; he will cause the people to trust [that + their cellars will keep dry], though a Jordan should rush forth + over its border. He will gather it up in his fountains by means of + traps and with a perforated nozzle.</span></p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page085">[pg 085]</span><a name="Pg085" id="Pg085" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Thou wilt lengthen out leviathan [the locomotive] with + a hook [automatic coupler] or with a snare [coupling-pin] which + thou wilt cause his tongue [coupling-link] to drop down. Wilt thou + not place a ring [piston] in his nostrils [cylinders] or pierce + through his cheeks [piston-ends] with a staff [piston-rod]? Will he + make repeated supplication unto thee [to get off the track]? Or + will he utter soft tones unto thee [when he screeches with the + whistle]? Will he make a covenant with thee, that thou mayest take + him for a servant forever [without repairs]? Wilt thou play with + him as with a bird [make him whistle at will]? Or wilt thou bind + [enslave] him for thy maidens [so that you can take them to a + picnic or convention]? Companies [of stockholders] will feast upon + him [his earnings]; they will share him among speculators. [Psa. + 74:14.] Thou wilt fill his skin with pointed irons [bolts], and his + head with a cabin of fishermen [a cab similar to the cabins on + fishing vessels]. Place thy hand upon him, be mindful of the + conflict [raging within the boiler] and thou wilt add no further + questions. Behold, his confidence [boiler] being deceived [not + properly supplied with water], shall not at once his mighty form be + spread asunder [by an explosion]? There is none so bold that he + will stir him up [to run at his very highest possible speed], and + none who will then place himself before him [to be run over]. Who + will compete with this one and endure [pass him on the track]? + Under the whole heaven, none, unless [one like] himself.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“I will not pass in silence his members, nor the cause + of his mighty forces, nor the beauty of his equipment. Who can + strip off the facings of his jacket? Who can penetrate between the + double lap of his shield [the overlapping sections of the boiler + plates]? Who can force open the doors of his shield [the boiler + ends]? The circuits of his teeth [rows of rivets] are formidable. + His strength depends on courses of shields [sections of plates] + closed up tightly with a seal [calked]. They shall join one upon + another so that a hiss of air [steam] shall not escape from between + them. One to the other shall adhere. They will be welded together + that they cannot be sundered. In his sneezing [when he puffs from + the cylinders] light will shine, a flood of light pervading the + mass of vapors: and his eyes [headlights] will be as the eyelashes + of the morning [as rays of light from the rising sun]. Out of his + mouth [fire-door] will leap forth flaming torches, and [from the + smoke stack] glowing sparks will slip themselves away. From his + nostrils [cylinders] will issue forth vapor as from a boiling pot + or caldron. His inhaling <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page086">[pg + 086]</span><a name="Pg086" id="Pg086" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + [forced draft] will vivify burning coals, and a flame will leap + forth from his mouth. Within his neck abideth strength, and a + desolation will dance with joy [become a prosperous community] at + his presence. The separable parts of his body are connected + together; all will be made fast upon him; nothing will be shaky. + His heart will be indurated similar to a stone, and will be firm as + a piece of the lower [rocks]. When at his full speed the most + courageous will fear [lest], from accidents, they lose themselves. + When dryness exalteth him [or renders him furious], he will not + have power to withhold; the curved vault [fire box] being caused to + tear away, and also the armor. He will esteem iron as straw, and + brass as rotten wood. The archer cannot make him flee; missiles [of + war] will be turned unto him as chaff. The [strokes of a] hammer + will be esteemed as chaff; he will rejoice at the poking of the + fireman. Hewed [or notched] timbers of the craftsman [ties] are + under him; he will spread an embankment [or trench] upon the mire. + He will [as a marine engine] cause deep [places] to become as a + boiling pot [about his propellers]; he will make the sea to appear + like boiling ointment. He will make a path to shine after him; one + will think the deep to be growing gray. [Psa. 104:26; Isa. 27:1.] + Upon the earth there is not his like—he that is [so] constructed + that he can fear nothing. He can oversee [control by his work] all + that which is great; he is indeed king over all conceptions of + power.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(6) <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">David</span></span> + foresaw a time when all the ends of the world shall remember and + turn unto the Lord; and all the kindreds of the nations shall + worship before Him (Psa. 22:27); that after this dark night of + weeping will come a morning of joy (Psa. 30:5); that the meek shall + inherit the earth (Psa. 37:11); that those who are now the King's + enemies shall be converted and praise Him for ever and ever (Psa. + 45:5, 17); that wars shall cease to the ends of the earth and the + Lord alone be exalted (Psa. 46:10); that the ignominious shall come + forth from the grave and the upright shall have dominion over them + in the morning (Psa. 49:14); that the Lord will be the confidence + of all the ends of the earth (Psa. 65:5); that His saving health + will be made known among all nations, that all the nations shall + praise Him, and that He will judge and govern them righteously at + the time the earth shall yield her increase (Psa. 67:1-7); that the + people shall be scattered that delight in war (Psa. 68:30); that + peace shall come to the people, that the poor shall be delivered + from the oppressor, that the flesh, which, as dried grass is ready + to die, shall be given new life and that the fruits of the earth + shall <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page087">[pg 087]</span><a name= + "Pg087" id="Pg087" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> shake like a forest + (Psa. 72:3, 4, 6, 16); that the poor and needy will be delivered + out of the hand of the wicked (Psa. 82:4); that mercy and truth + will meet, righteousness and peace kiss each other and truth spring + out of the earth when righteousness looks down from Heaven (Psa. + 85:10, 11); that all nations the Lord has made shall come and + worship before Him and glorify His name (Psa. 86:9); that He will + say, Return, to the men He has turned into destruction (Psa. 90:3); + that the world shall be established so that it shall not be moved + (Psa. 93:1); that the heavens, earth, seas, fields and trees of the + wood shall rejoice because the Lord is coming to judge the earth + with righteousness and the people with His truth (Psa. 96:11-13); + that all the earth shall join in a joyful noise to the Lord, songs + of praise, harps, psalms, trumpets and cornets, while the seas, + floods and hills clap their hands because He comes to judge the + earth (Psa. 98:4-9); and that the foundations of the earth have + been laid so that it shall not be removed, but be forever the home + of a perfect, happy human race.—Psa. 104:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(7) <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Solomon</span></span> + declared that the upright shall dwell in the land and the perfect + shall remain in it (Prov. 2:21); that the righteous shall be + recompensed in the earth (Prov. 11:31); and that the earth abideth + forever.—Ecclesiastes 1:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(8) <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Isaiah</span></span> + prophesied that in the last days the Lord's Kingdom will be + established on the ruins of all earthly kingdoms, and all nations + will flow into it to learn His ways, at which time they will beat + their swords into plowshares and spears into pruninghooks and learn + war no more (Isa. 2:2-4); that of the increase of that new + Government and of peace there shall be no end (Isa. 9:7); that + nothing in the Kingdom will be permitted to hurt or destroy, all + evil dispositions of men and animals being done away with, the poor + and meek being lifted up and the earth being filled as full with + the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea (Isa. + 11:4-9); that Christ will become the standard-bearer of the people, + that His rest will be glorious and a highway there provided for the + remnant of the people (Isa. 11:10-16); that the whole earth shall + be at rest and quiet and break forth into singing (Isa. 14:7); that + at the time the pillar to the Lord Is recognized in the world, the + world will return to the Lord and He will be entreated of them and + heal them (Isa. 19:22); that the Lord will make to all people a + feast of fat things, doctrines of joy, well refined, will destroy + ignorance and superstition, swallow up death in victory and wipe + away tears from off all faces; it will cease to be a rebuke to a + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page088">[pg 088]</span><a name= + "Pg088" id="Pg088" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> person to admit that + he belongs to the Lord, and all the people will say, Lo, this Is + our God; we have waited for Him and He will save us, and all the + high fortresses will crumble into dust (Isa. 25:6-12); that when + the Lord's judgments are in the earth the inhabitants of the world + will learn righteousness; that then the trusts shall perish utterly + and the dead shall live (Isa. 26:9, 13, 14, 19); that judgment will + be laid to the line, the truth sweep away the refuge of lies and + the agreement of the preachers on the hell question will be + disannulled (Isa. 28:17, 18); that the spiritually deaf shall get + their ears open to understand the harmonies of God's Word and the + eyes of the blind see out of obscurity and out of darkness, and the + crops in the field be so large they will look like a forest (Isa. + 29:17, 18); that the eyes of them that see shall not be dim, the + ears of them that hear shall hearken and the tongue of the + stammerers be ready to speak plainly; that the skyscrapers will be + turned over to wild asses, along with the forts; that the people + shall dwell in righteousness, quietness and assurance forever (Isa. + 32:3, 4, 14, 17, 18); that the inhabitant shall not say, I am sick, + because the people that dwell therein shall be forgiven their + iniquity.—Isa. 33:24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Furthermore, he + declared that the wilderness and solitary place shall blossom as + the rose, the weak hands and feeble knees be strengthened, the + fearful be encouraged, the blind have their eyes opened, the deaf + have their ears unstopped, the lame made to leap as an hart, the + tongue of the dumb made to sing; in the wilderness shall waters + break out and streams in the desert; an highway shall be there by + which the unclean may be cleansed of all their sins amid joy and + gladness everlasting (Isa. 35:1-10); that all the crooked and rough + places will be straightened out (Isa. 40:4); that rivers will open + in unexpected places and the deserts become a forest of useful + trees (Isa. 41:18, 19); that all the prisoners in the great + prison-house of death shall be brought forth (Isa. 42:7); that the + new spiritual powers shall pour down righteousness and the world of + mankind eagerly take it in, to their salvation and everlasting joy + of heart (Isa. 45:8); that God created the earth not in vain but + formed it to be inhabited (Isa. 45:18); that the Lord will + establish the earth and cause the people to inherit the once + desolate heritages, with the result that they shall be joyful and + break forth into singing (Isa. 49:8, 13); that the redeemed of the + Lord (all mankind) shall return from the tomb and gain salvation + with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads and sorrow and + mourning shall flee away (Isa. 51:11); that the feet are beautiful + which proclaim good tidings of good and publish salvation because + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page089">[pg 089]</span><a name= + "Pg089" id="Pg089" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> the King has come to + reign (Isa. 52:7); that the mountains, hills and trees shall + rejoice with verdure, and instead of thorns and briers shall come + up fir and myrtles (Isa. 55:12, 13); that the Lord will make this + earth (His footstool) glorious; violence, wasting and destruction + shall cease, and the people shall all be righteous and dwell in the + land forever (Isa. 60:13, 18, 21); that the stumbling stones shall + be gathered out of the way, and the standard of Truth be lifted up + for the people (Isa. 62:10); that one who dies at a hundred years + shall be considered but an infant; that the people who build houses + shall build them for themselves and live in them forever among + their own vineyards and other works of their hands (Isa. 65:20-22); + and that all nations and tongues shall be gathered to see God's + glorious character in its true light.—Isa. 66:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(9) <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Jeremiah</span></span> foretold that in the + good times coming mankind should no more walk after the imagination + of an evil heart (Jer. 3:17); that the nations of all the earth + shall come to the new order of things and cheerfully admit that the + teachings of the clergy were chiefly lies and vanity (Jer. 16:19); + that the new Shepherds will really feed the Lord's sheep, and they + shall no more be dismayed or lacking (Jer. 23:4); that the Lord + will give the people a heart to know Him, and they shall return to + Him with their whole heart (Jer. 24:7); that the children shall + come again from the land of the enemy; that the children shall no + longer suffer for the sins of the parents, and they shall teach no + more every man his neighbor and every man his brother, saying, Know + the Lord, for they shall all know Him from the least even unto the + greatest (Jer. 31:16, 29, 34); that the Lord will give the people + one heart and one way and make an everlasting covenant with them, + and not turn away from them to do them good; and they shall not + depart from Him (Jer. 32:39, 40); that mankind will fear and + tremble at all the goodness and prosperity Jehovah shall bring to + them when He has pardoned all their Iniquities and transgressions + (Jer. 33:8, 9); that they shall be at rest and at ease with none to + make them afraid (Jer. 46:27); that the Moabites and Elamites shall + return to their former estate (Jer. 48:47; 49:39); and that in + those days the penitent, together, going and weeping, shall seek + the Lord their God and ask the way to Zion, saying, Let us join + ourselves to the Lord in a perpetual covenant that shall never be + forgotten.—Jer. 50:4, 5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(10) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Ezekiel</span></span> foretold a coming time + when the Lord will take away the stony heart out of the people and + give them hearts that are warm and tender (Ezek. 11:19); that the + Sodomites, the Samaritans and the Jews—who were twice <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page090">[pg 090]</span><a name="Pg090" id="Pg090" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> as bad as either of the others—shall + all return to their former estate, and the Lord will establish His + covenant with them and be pacified towards them (Ezek. 16:55, + 61-63); that it will no more be true that the children suffer for + the sins of their parents (Ezek. 18:2); that it will not be + necessary then for anybody to die (Ezek. 18:31, 32); that the + people shall dwell safely and build houses and plant vineyards with + confidence (Ezek. 28:26); that the Lord will cause the evil beasts + to cease out of the land; and that the people shall dwell safely in + the wilderness and sleep in the woods, the shower will come down in + its season, there shall be showers of blessing, the trees shall + yield their fruit and the earth shall yield its increase and the + people shall dwell safely and none shall make them afraid (Ezek. + 34:25-28); that the Lord will put His Spirit into the people and + cause them to walk in His ways, will increase the corn, multiply + the fruit of the tree and the increase of the field, and the land + that was desolate shall become like the garden of Eden (Ezek. + 36:26, 27, 29, 30, 35); that the people shall have one Shepherd and + walk in His statutes and do them (Ezek. 37:24); and the Lord will + not hide His face from them any more when He has poured out His + Spirit upon them.—Ezek. 39:29.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(11) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Daniel</span></span> foretold that the God of + Heaven shall set up a Kingdom which shall never be destroyed, but + which shall break in pieces and consume all other kingdoms, and + which shall stand forever (Dan. 2:44); and the Kingdom and dominion + and the greatness of the Kingdom <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">under</span></em> + the whole heaven shall be given to the saints of the Most High as + an everlasting dominion.—Dan. 7:27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(12) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Hosea</span></span> prophesied food in + abundance for the beasts of the field and the fowls of heaven with + the creeping things of the ground; and that the Lord will break the + bow and sword and the battle out of the earth, and make all to lie + down safely; and that it shall come to pass in that Day that + Jehovah will hear the new powers of spiritual control and they + shall hear the cries of men (Hos. 2:18, 21); that the people shall + fear the goodness of the Lord in the latter days (Hos. 3:5); that + after the fifth and sixth thousand-year Days are past the people + will be raised up and live in the Lord's sight (Hos. 6:2); and He + will ransom them from hell and redeem them from death, and destroy + hell altogether.—Hos. 13:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(13) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Joel</span></span> prophesied that the Lord + will cause the pastures to spring, the tree to bear her fruit and + the fig tree and the vine to yield their strength, and whosoever + shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be delivered.—Joel 2:22, + 32.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page091">[pg + 091]</span><a name="Pg091" id="Pg091" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(14) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Amos</span></span> was the next one of the + holy Prophets; and we have an inspired comment on one of his + prophecies by the Apostle James in Acts 15:14-18. James says, + <span class="tei tei-q">“Simeon [St Peter] hath declared how God at + the first [in the conversion of Cornelius] did visit the Gentiles + to take out of them a people for His name [the Bride of Christ]. + And to this agree the words of the Prophets [Amos 9:11, 12]; as it + is written, After this [after the Bride of Christ has been + selected], I will return and will build again the tabernacle [the + house, royalty or dominion] of David, which is fallen down; and I + will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up + [re-establish the Kingdom of God on earth]; that the residue of men + [all the rest of the world of mankind] might seek after the Lord, + and all the Gentiles, upon whom My name is called, saith the Lord + who doeth all these things. Known unto God are all His works from + the beginning of the world.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(15) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Obadiah</span></span> was the next one of the + holy Prophets; and in the last verse of his short prophecy he says, + <span class="tei tei-q">“And saviors [it is in the plural and + refers not only to Jesus the Head, but to the Church, the members + of His Body] shall come up on Mount Zion [come up into the Heavenly + phase of the Kingdom], and shall judge the mount of Esau”</span> + [judge the world]. <span class="tei tei-q">“Know ye not that the + saints shall judge the world?”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(16) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Jonah</span></span> was the next one of the + holy Prophets; and in the fourth chapter we have an interesting + picture of events now transpiring before our eyes. Jonah walked + into the city of Nineveh and said, <span class="tei tei-q">“Yet + forty days and Nineveh shall be overthrown.”</span> The prophecy + was fulfilled in forty literal years. But when Jonah saw that + things were not coming out as he expected, he was very angry and + said to the Lord, <span class="tei tei-q">“That is just what I + might have expected; for I knew that Thou art a gracious God, and + merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness; and I said so + before I left my own country.”</span> Jonah went out, sat in the + hot sun on the outside of the city, and began to sulk. The Lord + took pity on him and caused a gourd to grow up over him, to shelter + him from the hot rays of the sun. And Jonah was exceeding glad + because of the gourd. Then the Lord prepared a worm to smite the + gourd; and a strong east wind blew up and the gourd withered. + Jonah's shade was gone, and he was angrier than ever. The Lord + said, <span class="tei tei-q">“Doest thou well to be angry?”</span> + and he said, <span class="tei tei-q">“Yes, I do well to be angry, + even unto death.”</span> Then the Lord said, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Jonah, thou hast had pity on the gourd that sprung up + in a night and perished in a night; and should not I spare Nineveh, + that great city wherein are more than six score thousand + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page092">[pg 092]</span><a name= + "Pg092" id="Pg092" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> persons that cannot + discern between their right hand and their left hand?”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">We live in a day + when a class have been preaching that the world is to be destroyed; + and, like Jonah, they have not properly understood their message. + The kind of world that is to be destroyed is Satan's world, Satan's + empire, arrangement, or order of things—not our literal earth. The + word world does not always refer to our literal earth. For + instance, when the Apostle James says, <span class="tei tei-q">“The + tongue is a world of iniquity,”</span> he does not mean that we + have inside our jaws a little planet that turns over every + twenty-four hours, that has spring, summer, fall, winter, + snowstorms, rainstorms, and a moon revolving about it, with once in + a while a comet and a shower of meteors thrown in for good measure. + When they think about the Panama Canal, and the wonderful works of + irrigation which are causing the desert to rejoice and blossom as + the rose, and all the other wonderful achievements of our day, + these people are beginning to see that they have made a mistake and + are now about where Jonah was when he said, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“That is what I might have expected, for I know that + Thou art a just God, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.”</span> + They are now outside the city, and the scorching light of Present + Truth is pretty hot. Meantime the church trust is growing up to + keep off the heat. We are not to have anything to do with this + church federation. <span class="tei tei-q">“Say ye not, A + confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A + confederacy.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“Take counsel + together, and it shall come to naught; speak the word and it shall + not stand; for God is with us.”</span> (Isa. 8:10, 12.) Pretty soon + something will happen to the church trust, and their shade will be + gone. Then the Lord will say to them, <span class="tei tei-q">“Oh, + you need not feel so badly! You are not the first people that ever + made a mistake. You have made lots of them, to be sure. You have + had pity on the church trust which grew up in one year and blew up + in another year; and should not I spare the poor world, that as far + as their knowledge of right and wrong is concerned do not know the + difference between their right hand and their left + hand?”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(17) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Micah</span></span> has written of the coming + of the Kingdom of God in the earth, accompanied by the rebuking of + strong nations afar off; that then they shall beat their swords + into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks; that nation + shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn + war any more. But they shall sit every man under his vine and under + his fig tree [not the landlord's]; and none [be they doctors, + landlords, employers, sheriffs, or undertakers] shall make them + afraid; that all people <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page093">[pg + 093]</span><a name="Pg093" id="Pg093" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + will walk in the name of our God, and that the first dominion [lost + by Adam in Eden] will be restored to Christ, the Tower of the + Flock.—Micah 4:1-5, 8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(18) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Nahum</span></span> was the next one of the + holy Prophets; and after prophesying in the last verse of the + preceding chapter about the coming of the King with His good + tidings of peace to the sin-burdened earth, he next tells (Nahum + 2:3-6) of an interesting thing that will be a matter of common + everyday experience at the time the Kingdom is established. He + describes a railway train in motion [not an automobile, as some + think], and if we will be at the trouble to put ourselves in the + Prophet's place we can see just what he saw in his vision and what + he has so interestingly described. First, the Prophet stands + looking at the engine coming toward him, and then says, + <span class="tei tei-q">“The shield [the thing ahead of this great + warrior—the headlight] is made red [shines brilliantly], the + valiant men [the engineer and the fireman] are dyed scarlet [when + the flames from the firebox illuminate the interior of the cab at + night, as the fireman opens the firedoor to throw in the coal]. The + chariots [the railway coaches] shall be with [shall be preceded by + locomotives that, at night, have the appearance of] flaming + torches, in the Day of Preparation.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Next the Prophet + takes his place in the train and looks out of the window, and, + seemingly, <span class="tei tei-q">“The fir trees shall be terribly + shaken [the telegraph poles alongside the track seem to be fairly + dancing]. The chariots shall rage in the streets [a railway is + merely an elaborate, scientifically constructed street, or + highway], they shall jostle one against another in the broad ways + [the clanking and bumping of the cars together is one of the + significant items of railway travel]. They shall seem like torches + [a railway train at night, rushing through a distant field, looks + like nothing so much as a vast torch, going at flying speed], they + shall run like the lightnings.”</span> Next the Prophet sees the + conductor coming for his ticket and says, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“He shall recount his worthies [the conductor spends + his entire time, almost, counting and recounting his passengers, + keeping them checked up, etc.]; they shall stumble in their walk + [try walking on a rapidly moving train]; they shall make haste to + the wall thereof [to the next city or town] and the coverer [the + train shed, the station] shall be prepared [the baggageman, + expressman, mail wagon, hotel bus, intending passengers, and + friends to meet incoming passengers, will all be there waiting for + the train to come]. The gates of the rivers shall be opened [the + doors of the cars will be opened and the people will flow out] and + the palace [car] shall be dissolved + [emptied].”</span></p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page094">[pg + 094]</span><a name="Pg094" id="Pg094" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(19) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Habakkuk</span></span> was the next one of the + holy Prophets, and in Hab. 2:14 he says, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the + glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.”</span> In places, + the water in the Pacific Ocean is seven miles deep. Imagine a + condition in which the knowledge of the glory of God is like that + in the earth! It will be as impossible for a man not to know about + God as it would be for one to be down at the bottom of the ocean + without getting wet.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(20) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Zephaniah</span></span> foretold that the Lord + will starve all the false gods to death; for all men will worship + the one only and true God, even including the heathen we have + worried so much about (Zeph. 2:11); that after the present + inequitable condition of society has passed away—been devoured, not + with literal fire but with the fire of the Lord's jealousy—there + will be no more sectarianism, but all the people will be taught the + pure Truth and worship the Lord with <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">one</span></em> + consent; the liar and deceiver will no longer be abroad in the land + and the people will eat and rest without fear of disaster, + dispossession or death.—Zeph. 3:9, 13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(21) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Haggai</span></span> was the next one of the + holy Prophets, and he says in Hag. 2:7, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The desire of all nations shall come.”</span> In Rom. + 8:19-22, the Apostle tells us what is the desire of all nations. He + says, <span class="tei tei-q">“The whole creation groaneth and + travaileth in pain, waiting for the manifestation [showing forth] + of the sons of God.”</span> It is in the plural, and means not + Jesus only, but all of the Little Flock. The groaning will not be + in vain; for in the same passage the Apostle says the outcome will + be that the groaning creation shall be delivered from the bondage + of corruption into a glorious liberty from sin and every evil + thing.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(22) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Zechariah</span></span> prophesied that many + nations shall be joined to the Lord in that Day and be His people + and He will dwell in the midst of them (Zech. 2:11); that when + every man dwells under his own vine and fig tree every man will + love his neighbor and his brother (Zech. 3:10); that the coming + Kingdom will be a Kingdom of Truth, the people will be God's people + and He will be their God in truth and righteousness; the ground + shall give its increase and the heaven its dews and the Lord will + do well to the people and remove their fears (Zech. 8:3, 8, 12, + 15); that the inhabitants of one city will go to another, saying, + Let us go speedily to pray before the Lord, and to seek the Lord of + Hosts; I will go also. Yea, many people and strong nations shall + come to seek the Lord of hosts and to pray before the Lord (Zech. + 8:21; 22); that the battle bow <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page095">[pg 095]</span><a name="Pg095" id="Pg095" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> shall be cut off, that the Lord shall speak + peace to the people; corn shall make the young men speak, and new + wine (better doctrines) the maids (Zech. 9:10, 17); that the Lord + shall be King over all the earth and men shall dwell in it, and + there shall be no more utter destruction, but all shall be holiness + unto the Lord.—Zech. 14:9, 11, 20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(23) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Malachi</span></span> foretold that from the + rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same the Lord's + name shall be great among all peoples; and in every place heart + adoration shall be offered to His name (Mal. 1:11); that the + devourer will be rebuked and not be permitted longer to destroy the + fruits of the ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before + the time in the field; injurious parasites, germs and microbes will + be a thing of the past. Crops will be abundant everywhere (Mal. + 3:11); and The Christ, Head and Body, will arise with healing in + their beams, nourishing and bringing the willing to perfection with + the same care as is given to stall-fed cattle—now receiving more + attention than human beings.—Mal. 4:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(24) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">John the + Baptist</span></span> was the next and last of the holy Prophets, + for Jesus said, <span class="tei tei-q">“The Law and the Prophets + were until John.”</span> And John, we are told, turned and looked + at Jesus, and said, <span class="tei tei-q">“Behold the Lamb of + God, that taketh away the sin of the world.”</span>—John 1:29; + Matt. 11:9, 11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + art worthy, O Lord OUR LORD AND GOD.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The proper view of the matter shows us the Heavenly + Father perfect in all the attributes of nobility of character; + perfect in Justice, so that the just sentence of His righteous Law + cannot be infracted, even by Himself; perfect in wisdom, so that + His plan and arrangement, not only with respect to man's creation, + but also with respect to man's salvation, the Atonement, etc., were + all so complete that no contingency or failure could arise, nor any + necessity for change of the Divine Plan; as it is written, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘I am the same, I change not, saith the + Lord,’</span> and <span class="tei tei-q">‘Known unto the Lord are + all His works, from the foundation of the world’</span>; perfect + also in His Love, than which there could be no greater love + possible, and yet that Love is in full balance and accord with the + other Divine attributes, so that it could spare the sinner only in + harmony with the just program marked out by Divine Wisdom; perfect + also in Power, so that all His good purposes, good intentions, just + program and loving designs, fully co-ordinated, shall be executed, + and bring the originally designed result; as it is written, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘My Word that goeth forth out of My mouth + shall not return to Me void; it shall accomplish that which I + please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent + it.’</span> (Isa. 55:11; Mal. 3:6; Acts 15:18.)”</span>—E. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">37</span></span>, 34.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page096">[pg 096]</span><a name="Pg096" id="Pg096" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To receive + glory.</span></span>—All the glory, Greek.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And honor and + power.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Could this Scripture + ever be fulfilled, could the Divine character ever be appreciated + by intelligent, honest, just and loving hearts, if in any corner of + the Universe there were such orgies and tortures of His creatures + as the creeds of the Darker Ages have set forth? Surely + not!”</span>—B. S. M.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For Thou has + created all things.</span></span>—The all things, the Universe, + Greek. <span class="tei tei-q">“Across the vista of ages He saw in + His purpose the glory of an intelligent creation in His own + likeness, established in righteousness and worthy of His gift of + eternal life. He therein foresaw the mutual pleasure of the Creator + and the creature, and with a peaceful patience He resolved to wait + for the glorious consummation.”</span>—Z. '95-154.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And for Thy + pleasure they [are and] were created.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“He desired that love should respond to love, + admiration to admiration, virtue to virtue, and grace to grace, in + the Creator and the creature, as face answers to face in a glass. + In this natural attitude of the Creator and the creature generous + benevolence and filial gratitude combine in mutual happiness. God + is happy in the realization and in the exercise of all the noble + traits of His glorious character, which happiness is enhanced by + appreciation of the same on the part of His creatures, and by + manifestation in them of the same qualities and dispositions of + mind and heart. And likewise man must both realize and exercise the + noble endowments of his nature and form a character modeled after + that of his Heavenly Father and meeting His approval, if he would + find that true happiness which consists in the approval of his own + conscience and of his Creator and Judge, in whose favor is life, + and at whose right hand there are pleasures forevermore.'—Psa. + 16:11.”</span>—Z. '95-167.</p> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">Sun of + my soul, my Father dear,</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">I know no night when Thou are + near.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">O! may no earth-born cloud + arise</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">To hide Thee from thy servant's + eyes.</span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Shield of my soul, though + tempests rage,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And 'gainst me hosts of foes + engage,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">My refuge and my fortress + Thou,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Before Thee every foe must + bow.</span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Thy grace and glory Thou dost + give</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">To those who near Thee ever + live;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And no good thing dost Thou + withhold</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">From sheep which stray not from Thy + fold.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img099.png"><img src="images/img099.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Hindrances To Christian Progress + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img100.png"><img src="images/img100.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + The Thinking Public Declines To Endorse The Modern Political + Preaching + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page097">[pg 097]</span><a name= + "Pg097" id="Pg097" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc15" id="toc15"></a> <a name="pdf16" id="pdf16"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 5—The Executor Of The + Plan</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw in the right hand.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + Divine Plan, known only to the Father, Jehovah Himself, was kept in + His own power—in His own hand—until some one should be <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">proved</span></em> + worthy to know it, and become its executor as Jehovah's honored + Agent and Representative.”</span>—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">39</span></span>, + 36.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of Him that sat + on the Throne.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“He that sits + upon the Throne is Jehovah. The scroll in His right hand is His + Plan for human redemption, sealed from all until One should be + found and proved <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘worthy.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '97-150.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A + book.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Not the Bible, but the + Divine Plan, with its times and seasons.”</span> (Z. '16-252.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“This was the <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Mystery</span></em>, the <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">Secret</span></em> + of the Lord, unknown to any one but Himself—His plan for the + salvation of the world.”</span>—Z. '97-256.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Written [within] + IN FRONT.</span></span>—The writing in front is the fulfilment of + everything prophesied on the outside. Every word of every prophecy + of God's Word is sure of fulfilment. <span class="tei tei-q">“Seek + ye out the book of the Lord, and read; no one of these shall fail, + none shall want her mate; for My mouth it hath commanded, and His + Spirit it hath gathered them.”</span> (Isa. 34:16.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“That scroll contains a record of everything that is + happening now, and all that will occur throughout the Millennial + Age, down to its very close—down to the time when every creature in + Heaven and in earth and those in the sea, shall ascribe praise, + honor, glory and dominion to Him that sitteth upon the Throne and + to the Lamb forever.—Rev. 5:13.”</span> (Z. '09-243.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Among the Orientals the lines began from the right + hand and ran to the left hand; with the Northern and Western + nations, from the left to the right hand; but the Greeks sometimes + followed both directions alternately.”</span> (McC.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The Word is + plainly written on the outside, where all may read the words, but + cannot understand their significance without Divine aid. Meantime, + from age to age, the events foretold occur in the manner predicted. + The manner of the writing, some of it from left to right and some + from right to left, enables the fulfilments to follow the + prophecies exactly, item by item, to the last jot and tittle. Write + a word on a sheet of paper and then turn the paper over and look at + it, holding it in front of a good light. Thus it is with the Word + of God. The prophecies <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page098">[pg + 098]</span><a name="Pg098" id="Pg098" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + look strange until the due time has come for holding them up to the + light, and then they become clear. What could be only imperfectly + deciphered until the hindering seal is broken is no mystery after + the seal is broken, because the book or scroll or chart can be + turned about and held to the light. The fulfilments are seen to fit + the prophecies. If the lines are not clear, then for some reason we + are looking upon that much of the record from the outside and not + from the inside.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And on the + backside.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Excepting the bare + promise (written on the outside of the scroll) of salvation through + the Seed of the woman, nothing could be known of the wonderful + scheme for human restitution until the Son of God, having left the + glory of the spiritual nature, took our nature and by the sacrifice + of Himself redeemed us from death. Then, having His righteousness + imputed to us by faith, we are counted worthy to look upon the + scroll as He opens the seals one after another.”</span>—Z. '02-332; + Ezek. 2:9, 10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Sealed with + seven seals.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The things that + were sealed were not proper to be understood by our Redeemer until + He had received the all-power, after His resurrection. The + execution of God's Plan was then given into His hands.”</span>—Z. + '16-253.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw a strong angel.</span></span>—Personification of the Law.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Proclaiming.</span></span>—In types and + shadows, pictures, figures and symbols.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With a loud + voice.</span></span>—From the fall of Adam onward.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Who is + worthy.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The inquiry + compassed the period from before Jesus came into the world up to + His resurrection from the grave. God had given the most honorable + One of all the host of Heaven the first opportunity to prove His + worthiness to loose the Scroll of God's great Plan, and to fulfill + its provisions. And He did not allow the privilege to go by. He + accepted it.”</span>—Z. '16-252.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To open the + book.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The inquiry, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Who is worthy to open the book [scroll] + and to loose the seals thereof?’</span> had long been made: for + four thousand years, from the giving of the promise that the Seed + of the woman should bruise the serpent's head, it had been the + query—Who shall be esteemed, by Jehovah God, to be worthy to + perform His gracious purposes, and thus be honored above all others + as Servant (Messenger) of the Covenant of Grace?”</span>—Z. + '97-150.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And to loose the + seals thereof.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“John in the + symbol hears the proclamation, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Who is + worthy to open the Book and to loose the seals?’</span>—who is + worthy to have committed to his care <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">the + execution</span></em> of the great Divine Plan, wonderful for its + wisdom and love, and its lengths and <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page099">[pg 099]</span><a name="Pg099" id="Pg099" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> breadths and depths and heights past human + comprehension—that he may open it and execute it?”</span>—Z. + '97-256.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + no man in Heaven.</span></span>—No angel had been proven worthy. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Which things the angels desire to look + into.”</span>—1 Pet. 1:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Nor in earth, + [neither under the earth].</span></span>—No man on earth was + worthy. <span class="tei tei-q">“There is none righteous; no, not + one; for all have sinned and come short of the glory of + God.”</span>—Rom. 3:10, 23.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was able to open + the book.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In the picture + John looked to see who the worthy one might be, but none was found + worthy.”</span>—Z. '09-243.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Neither to look + thereon.</span></span>—In the light of this Scripture, who can + dare, in his own strength, wisdom or righteousness to interpret the + Word of God or take any part in the execution of the Plan?—Heb. + 12:18-29.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I wept much.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It seemed to + John too bad that God should have some great, wonderful purposes + which might come to naught because no one was worthy to be the + Divine executor.”</span>—Z. '09-243.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Because no + man.</span></span>—No being in the Universe.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was found worthy + to open and to read the book.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“When silence prevailed, and none was found worthy + either in Heaven or on earth (representing the condition of things + prior to the First Advent), John began saying to himself: Alas! we + may never know God's gracious and wise plans for the welfare of His + creatures, because none is found worthy to know or execute + them.”</span>—Z. '97-150; John 1:27; Matt. 8:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Neither to look + thereon.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“So it was that, + even our Lord Jesus, prior to the finishing of His sacrifice, as He + then declared, did not know all about the Father's plans, times and + seasons (Mark 13:32.)”</span>—Z. '97-150.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + one of the elders.</span></span>—The deathbed prophecy of Jacob. It + is the identification of this elder that enables us to recognize + the other twenty-three.—Rev. 4:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saith unto + me.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Judah is a lion's whelp. + The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from + between his feet until Shiloh come; and unto Him shall the + gathering of the people be.”</span>—Gen. 49:9, 10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Weep not: + behold, the Lion.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Holy + One, and the Just.”</span>—Acts 3:14; 22:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the tribe of + Juda.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The great prize, for + which Israel had been longing for centuries, was won by the Lion of + the tribe of Judah. (Heb. 7:14.)”</span>—B. 85.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“For an illustration of latter time assumptions, note + the fact that a late pope, upon ascending the throne, took the + title of Leo XIII, and shortly after subscribed himself + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Leo de tribus Juda,’</span> i. e., + <span class="tei tei-q">‘The Lion of the tribe of + Judah.’</span> ”</span>—B. 316.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page100">[pg 100]</span><a name="Pg100" id="Pg100" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The Root of + David.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It was not the + pre-human Logos, nor yet the man Jesus, that was David's Lord and + David's Root; but the resurrected Messiah.”</span>—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">151</span></span>, + 136; Isa. 11:1; Rom. 15:12; Rev. 22:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Hath prevailed + to open the book.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“When our + Lord Jesus had proven His loyalty to the Heavenly Father by His + obedience, <span class="tei tei-q">‘even unto the [ignominious] + death of the cross,’</span> then and thereby He did prove Himself + worthy of every confidence and trust.”</span>—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">39</span></span>, + 37.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And to loose the + seven seals thereof.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Great + was the favor bestowed upon the Just One of the tribe of Judah, in + being permitted to open the seals; and great is the privilege of + those who are permitted to look thereon as the seals are + opened.”</span>—Z. '02-332; Rev. 5:2; 6:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I beheld, [and lo,] in the midst of the + Throne.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In the bosom of the + Father.”</span>—John 1:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And of the four + beasts.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The express image of + His person.”</span>—Heb. 1:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And in the midst + of the elders.</span></span>—The central theme of all their + prophesies.—Rev. 4:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Stood a Lamb as + it had been slain.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It was + not possible for Him to know the completeness of the Divine Plan + until after He had demonstrated His worthiness by His obedience + unto death, even the death of the cross.”</span>—Z. '06-39; Isa. + 53:7; John 1:29, 36; Acts 8:32; 1 Pet. 1:19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having seven + horns.</span></span>—Perfect power. <span class="tei tei-q">“All + power is given unto Me in Heaven and in earth.”</span>—Matt. 28:18; + 1 Sam. 2:1, 10; Deut. 33:17; 1 Ki. 22:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And seven + eyes.</span></span>—Perfect wisdom. <span class="tei tei-q">“In + whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and + knowledge.”</span>—Col. 2:3; Zech. 3:9; 4:10; Rev. 1:4; 3:1; 4:5; 2 + Chron. 16:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which are the + seven Spirits of God.</span></span>—Or lamps of fire.—Rev. 4:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Sent forth into + all the earth.</span></span>—See Rev. 1:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He came and took the book.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“To Him was the scroll or book entrusted, that in due + time all the wonderful provisions of the Divine Plan might be fully + executed in the glorification of the Church and the blessing of all + the families of the earth.”</span>—Z. '06-39.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Out of the right + hand.</span></span>—See Rev. 5:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of Him that sat + upon the Throne.</span></span>—Jehovah. If Jesus and His Father are + a Trinity, <span class="tei tei-q">“One in person, equal in glory + and power,”</span> how is it that one has to come to the other for + something, or how can He come to Himself and take something He + already has and give it to Himself?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when He had taken the book.</span></span>—His worthiness to do so + having been proven by His resurrection to the Divine + nature.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page101">[pg + 101]</span><a name="Pg101" id="Pg101" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The four + beasts.</span></span>—Justice, Power, Love and Wisdom.—Rev. 4:6, + 7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And four and + twenty elders.</span></span>—Messages of the four and twenty + Prophets.—Rev. 4:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Fell down before + the Lamb.</span></span>—Gave their joint homage and adoration to + the Conqueror of sin and death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Each having + [every one of them harps] A HARP.</span></span>—Yielding the most + exquisite harmony that ever fell on mortal ears.—Rev. 15:1-4; + 4:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And golden + vials.</span></span>—Incense cups, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“spoons,”</span> similar to those used at the Golden + Altar.—Ex. 25:29; 30:1-9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Full of + odors.</span></span>—The sweet fragrance of patient hearts, + precious in the Father's memory, pleading for love and wisdom + Divine.—Psa. 141:2; Ex. 30:34-38; Lev. 16:12, 13; Lu. 1:9, 10; Acts + 10:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which are the + prayers of saints.</span></span>—Every one of which, by the + Father's arrangement, has been made in the name of the One here + honored.—John 16:23; Eph. 2:19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they sung a new song.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“This + means that the Divine Plan as a whole was here made known to + Him—for He already had knowledge of much of this—but all things + were now given Him.”</span>—Z. '16-253; Psa. 40:3; Rev. 14:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, Thou art + worthy to take the book.</span></span>—Worthy of <span class= + "tei tei-q">“a name which is above every name.”</span>—Phil. + 2:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And to open the + seals thereof.</span></span>—Disclose the wonderful method by which + the Father will develop the <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">saviors</span></em> of the world.—Obad. + 21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For thou wast + slain.</span></span>—He had sacrificed His will, but this was not + sufficient. <span class="tei tei-q">“God wished Him to sacrifice + not only His will, but actually to lay down His human life. When + all His testings were completed at His death on the Cross, God gave + Him a name to which all should bow, both in Heaven and in + earth.”</span>—Z. '16-252.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And hast + redeemed.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“<span class= + "tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Agorazo.</span></span> This word signifies to + purchase in the open market.”</span>—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">443</span></span>, + 429; 1 Cor. 6:20; Gal. 3:13; Eph. 1:7; Col. 1:14; 1 Pet. 1:18, + 19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">[Us].</span></span>—Oldest MS., with + evident propriety, omits <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">us</span></em>, since the Divine attributes + and prophecies were not redeemed.—Z. '97-151.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To + God.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“What say the Scriptures + respecting the sacrifice of Christ, the offering which He made? Do + they say that it was made to Satan or to Jehovah God? We answer + that in all the types of the Jewish dispensation, which + foreshadowed this better sacrifice, which does take away the sins + of the world, the offerings were presented to God, at the hands of + the priest, who typified our Lord Jesus.”</span>—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">461</span></span>, + 449.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page102">[pg + 102]</span><a name="Pg102" id="Pg102" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By Thy + blood.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“If the blood of bulls + and of goats ... sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh, how + much more shall the blood of Christ, who, through the eternal + spirit, offered Himself without spot to God.”</span>—Heb. + 9:13-15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Out of every + kindred.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In thy Seed shall + all the kindreds of the earth be blessed.”</span>—Acts 3:25.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + tongue.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Every knee shall + bow, every tongue shall swear.”</span>—Isa. 45:23.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + people.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The heavens declare + His righteousness, and all the people see His glory.”</span>—Psa. + 97:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + nation.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“And in thy Seed + shall all the nations of the earth be blessed.”</span>—Gen. 26:4, + 22:18; Rev. 14:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + hast made [us] THEM unto our God [Kings] A + KINGDOM.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It will be the + Kingdom of the saints, in that they shall reign and judge and bless + the world in conjunction with their Lord, Jesus. (Rom. 8:17, 18.) + The Kingdom class proper will consist only of our Lord and His + <span class="tei tei-q">‘elect’</span> Little Flock.”</span>—D. + 618.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [priests] + PRIESTHOOD.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Divine + provision for a <span class="tei tei-q">‘Royal Priesthood’</span> + implies weakness, imperfection, on the part of some whom the + priests are to help, and instruct, and from whom they are to accept + sacrifice and offerings for sin, and to whom they are to extend + mercy and forgiveness.”</span>—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">486</span></span>, + 476; 1 Pet. 2:5, 9; Rev. 1:6; 20:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [we] THEY + shall reign.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“But before the + Royal Priesthood begin their reign, they must <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘suffer with Him,’</span> sharing in the antitypical + sacrifices. (2 Tim. 2:12.)”</span>—T. 26.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">On.</span></span>—<span lang="el" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Epi</span></span>, over.—Rev. 6:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + earth.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Kingdom and + dominion, even the majesty of the Kingdom <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">under</span></em> + the whole heaven shall be given to the people of the saints of the + Most High, whose Kingdom is an everlasting Kingdom, and all rulers + shall serve and obey Him. (Dan 7:27.)”</span>—D. 618.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I beheld.</span></span>—John beheld this in vision and will behold + it in reality.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I + heard.</span></span>—John heard in the vision, and will hear in the + reality.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As it were the + voice of many angels.</span></span>—Besides the angels, the Great + Company are in this happy throng. The events to the end of the + chapter have their fulfilment in the future.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Round about the + Throne.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In the circuit of + Heaven”</span> (Job 22:14), the circle of the Universe.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + beasts.</span></span>—Justice, Power, Love and Wisdom.—Rev. 4:6, + 7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + elders.</span></span>—The prophecies.—Rev. 4:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the number + of them.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Whose number no man + knoweth.”</span>—Rev. 7:9.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page103">[pg 103]</span><a name="Pg103" id="Pg103" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was ten thousand + times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands.</span></span>—The + number of the Great Company will apparently exceed one hundred + millions. Num. 4:46-48 and Ex. 28:1 indicate but one priest to each + 2,860 Levites, which would make the number of the Great Company + approximate 411,840,000.—T. 118, 119; Dan. 7:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Saying with a loud + voice.</span></span>—The Great Company will be very enthusiastic + workers on the other side of the veil, for they really love the + Lord with all their heart, soul, mind and strength (Mark 12:30), + and need only to be liberated to give full expression to that + love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Worthy is the + Lamb that was slain.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Our + Lord Jesus demonstrated before the Father, before angels, and + before His <span class="tei tei-q">‘brethren,’</span> His fidelity + to the Father and to the Father's Law, demonstrating that it was + not beyond the ability of a perfect being, even under the most + adverse conditions.”</span>—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">134</span></span>, + 120.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To receive + power.</span></span>—The Great Company class humbly realize that + their faithfulness and zeal was not sufficient to warrant their own + exaltation to power.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + riches.</span></span>—They realize they did not lay up all the + Heavenly treasures they might have done, but hid their talents in + earthly pursuits.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + wisdom.</span></span>—They realize their own unwisdom in seeking + the praise of men and that the Christ Company, though apparently + fools for Christ's sake, were really the wisest of the wise.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + strength.</span></span>—They know that they used their own strength + for the support and maintenance of institutions which really + hindered rather than helped the Bride to make herself ready.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + honor.</span></span>—They know that, as a class, they sought and + obtained the honor that cometh from men, but failed to properly + seek the honor that cometh from God only.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + glory.</span></span>—They know that they failed to meet the high + conditions of self-sacrifice, and were therefore unworthy of the + high reward.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + blessing.</span></span>—They feel that the blessings which the Lord + gave to them were thoughtlessly appropriated to themselves and + their families, with hardly a serious thought about the needs of + the Lord's dear family; and that appropriately, the chiefest of all + blessings, the privilege of extending God's blessings to the needy + world, should go to those who most earnestly <span class= + "tei tei-q">“by patient perseverance in well doing (did) seek for + glory, honor and immortality.”</span> (Rom. 2:7.) Thus they + reverence the Lamb, and His Bride, for they are one.—Rev. 19:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + every creature.</span></span>—After the destruction of the + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page104">[pg 104]</span><a name= + "Pg104" id="Pg104" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> incorrigible at the + end of the Millennial Age (and this, in itself, is a blessing to + those who refuse to make a right use of life).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which is in + Heaven.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Let all the angels + of God worship Him.”</span> (Heb. 1:6.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Worship Him, all ye gods.”</span>—Psa. 97:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And on the + earth, [and under the earth,].</span></span>—All mankind.—1 Cor. + 15:25.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And such [as + are] in the sea.</span></span>—The class that continues to be + <span class="tei tei-q">“in the sea,”</span> i. e., not under + religious restraint, will cease to exist. They no longer <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">are</span></em>, + but even their terminated existence will be to the praise of the + One who died for them on Calvary; for they will have had a perfect + chance.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And all that are + in them.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“That at the name of + Jesus every knee should bow, of things in Heaven, and things in + earth.”</span>—Phil. 2:10; Eph. 1:10; Col. 1:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Heard I] AND I + HEARD THEM saying, THE Blessing.</span></span>—The myriads of happy + beings, on all created planes of intelligence, from the highest to + the lowest, in Heaven and earth, acknowledge with joy the source of + all their blessings.—Rom. 9:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + honor.</span></span>—By that time all will have come to see what a + great honor has been conferred on any creature to receive the + unspeakable boon of life on any plane, and will gladly own its + fountain.—1 Tim. 6:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And glory [and + power] OF THE ALMIGHTY.</span></span>—Each will have come to know + the glory of life on his own plane. <span class="tei tei-q">“There + are celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the + celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. + There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and + another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another + star in glory.”</span>—1 Cor. 15:40, 41; Rom. 16:27; 1 Pet. 4:11; + 5:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Be.</span></span>—Be ascribed to.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Him that sitteth + upon the Throne.</span></span>—Our Father and Friend.—1 Chron. + 29:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And unto the + Lamb.</span></span>—Our Redeemer and Brother.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For ever and + ever.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“For the Ages of the + Ages,”</span> Greek.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the four beasts said Amen.</span></span>—Justice, Power, Love and + Wisdom unitedly declare this to be the happy outcome.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the [four + and twenty] elders fell down and worshipped [Him that liveth for + ever and ever].</span></span>—The prophecies plainly declare that + neither men nor devils can in any wise thwart this perfect ending + of the Plan which began so strangely and still progresses—the + perfection, through suffering, of the Little Flock, the Great + Company and, indeed, the world of mankind itself.—Rev. 4:10.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page105">[pg 105]</span><a name= + "Pg105" id="Pg105" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc17" id="toc17"></a> <a name="pdf18" id="pdf18"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 6—Six Seals And The + Papacy</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“God does not display + His plans to satisfy mere idle curiosity. If we would comprehend + what is revealed within the scroll we must be sincerely desirous of + knowing the details of God's Plan in order to an earnest + co-operation with it. Such, and such only, are worthy to know, and + such only ever come to see, in the sense of understanding and + appreciating, the deep things of God written within the scroll. + Such are the righteous for whom the light (Truth) is sown. This + worthiness is inquired for not only at the beginning, but all along + the path of light. If we are not found worthy by the various tests + applied from time to time, we cannot proceed in the path of light; + and unless the unfaithful ones arouse themselves to greater + diligence and watchfulness, the light that already is in them will + become darkness. And how great, how intense must be the darkness of + one cast out of light! (Matt. 6:23.)”</span>—Z. '02-332.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When the Lamb + opened.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The opening of the + seals has progressed during all the Gospel Age. It has required all + of the present Age and will require all of the next Age to complete + the Plan. We may suppose that the Lord Jesus was made aware of all + its features after His ascension to the presence of Jehovah. The + Master declared that as the Father revealed them unto Him, so would + He reveal them unto us.”</span>—Z. '16-253; Rev. 5:5-9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">One of the SEVEN + seals.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Each seal as it was + loosed permitted the scroll as a whole to open a little wider, and + a little wider, thus permitting <span class="tei tei-q">‘the + mystery of God’</span> to be a little more clearly + discerned.”</span>—Z. '97-257.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I heard [as + it were the noise of thunder].</span></span>—The roar of a + Lion.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">One of the four + beasts.</span></span>—Justice, typified by the Lion.—Rev. 4:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, AS IT + WERE THE NOISE OF THUNDER, Come and see.</span></span>—Come and see + Infinite Justice permitting one of the greatest acts of injustice + ever perpetrated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw.</span></span>—John beheld in vision the first strange and + wonderful feature of the Divine Plan for the permission of evil as + it related to epochs of the Church beyond his own epoch—that of + Smyrna.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page106">[pg + 106]</span><a name="Pg106" id="Pg106" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And behold a + white horse.</span></span>—The doctrines, teachings of the Lord and + the Apostles recognized as the one and only rule of faith and + practice of God's Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And he that sat + on him.</span></span>—The Bishop of Rome, the embryo Pope, the + personal representative of Satan.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Had a + bow.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“They bend their tongues + like their bow for lies: but they are not valiant for the truth + upon the earth; for they proceed from evil to evil, and they know + not Me, saith the Lord.”</span>—Jer. 9:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And a + crown.</span></span>—Great honor and authority in the Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was given unto + him.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Under the reign of + Constantine (who murdered his own son in the same year in which he + convened the Council of Nice) the opposition of the empire to + Christianity gave way to favor, and the Imperial Pontifex Maximus + became the patron of the professed but really apostate Church of + Christ; and, taking her by the hand, he assisted her to a place of + popularity and splendor from which she was able afterward, as the + imperial power grew weak, to put her own representatives upon the + religious throne of the world as Chief Religious Ruler—Pontifex + Maximus.”</span>—B. 290.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And he went + forth conquering, [and to conquer] AND HE + CONQUERED.</span></span>—Thus we see the apparent defeat of + Infinite Justice in this first epoch. Apparently, God forsook His + Church, having jeopardized all its interests by placing the power + in the hands of a self-seeking ecclesiastical system. But worse + things are coming!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when He had opened the second seal.</span></span>—Revealing the + second period of the history of the Antichrist.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I heard the + second beast.</span></span>—Infinite Power. See Rev. 4:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Say, Come and + see.</span></span>—Come and see Infinite Power consenting to a + thing apparently in victorious opposition to it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I beheld and lo there went out another horse.</span></span>—A + creed-horse, quite different from the Scriptures which it + misrepresented.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That was + red.</span></span>—The color of sin—imperfection. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Though your sins be as scarlet.”</span>—Isa. 1:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And power was + given to him that sat thereon.</span></span>—The same rider, the + Antichrist.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To take peace + from the earth.</span></span>—To embroil in controversy those who + were under religious restraint—in other words, the entire professed + church of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And that they + should kill one another.</span></span>—Depose and destroy one + another as teachers, by inveighing the Roman power against all + offenders.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there was + given unto him a great sword.</span></span>—As the Lord has a great + and powerful sword, the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of + God (Eph. 6:17), and as it <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page107">[pg 107]</span><a name="Pg107" id="Pg107" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> is represented as coming out of His mouth, so + the Papacy has a great and powerful sword, in opposition to the + Sword of the Spirit, and it, too, comes out of Papacy's mouth. [The + word here is different from Rev. 1:16 and refers to the butcher + knife—Gen. 22:6, 10.] <span class="tei tei-q">“The pope (each pope + in his turn) is the head of the false church, which is his body, + even as Christ Jesus is the Head of the true Church, which is His + Body. Since the head is the representative of the body, and its + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">mouth</span></em> speaks for the body, we + find, as we should expect, this feature of Antichrist prominently + referred to in the Scriptures. In Daniel 7:8, 11, 25, and Rev. + 13:5, 6, the mouth of Antichrist is brought specially to our notice + as a leading characteristic.”</span>—B. 304.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">This period, + beginning with the year 325 A. D. and extending to the year 539, + was the period of formation of creeds. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Come near, put your feet upon the necks of these + kings.”</span> (Josh. 10:24.) Once they were very powerful, but + they are quite harmless now. The Lord (Joshua-Savior) has humbled + them all by His own Sword of the Spirit in the hands of Pastor + Russell.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Neither Luke in the Acts of the Apostles, nor any + ecclesiastical writer before the fifth century, makes mention of an + assembly of the Apostles for the purpose of forming a creed. Had + the Apostles composed it, it would have been the same in all + churches and ages. But it is quite otherwise.”</span> (McC.) So + much for the well-known <span class="tei tei-q">“Apostle's + Creed,”</span> which, it is alleged, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“comprehends the leading articles of the faith in the + triune God.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">But this was not + triune enough, so the Nicene Creed improved the matter, A. D. + 325:</p> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">We believe in one God the Father Almighty, Maker + of all things visible and invisible; and in one Lord Jesus Christ, + the Son of God, begotten of the Father, Only-begotten, that is of + the substance of the Father; God of God; Light of Light; very God + of very God; begotten, not made; of the same substance with the + Father; by whom all things were made, both things in Heaven and + things in earth; who for us men and our salvation became flesh, was + made man, suffered, and rose again the third day. He ascended into + Heaven; He cometh to judge the quick and dead. And in the Holy + Ghost. But those that say there was a time when He was not; or that + He was not before He was begotten; or that He was made from that + which had no being; or who affirm the Son of God to be of any other + substance or essence, or created, or variable, or mutable, such + persons doth the Catholic and Apostolic Church + anathematize.</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">”</span></span></p> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Fifty-six years + later, at the second Ecumenical Council of Constantinople, A. D. + 381, the Nicaeno-Constantinopolitan Creed was put on the + market:</p> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">I believe in one God the Father Almighty, Maker of + Heaven</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page108">[pg + 108]</span><a name="Pg108" id="Pg108" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-size: 90%">and earth, and of + all things visible and invisible; and in one Lord Jesus Christ, the + only-begotten Son of God, begotten of His Father before all worlds; + God of God, Light of Light, very God of very God, begotten, not + made, being of one substance with the Father; by whom all things + were made; who for us men and for our salvation came down from + Heaven, and was incarnate by the Holy Ghost of the Virgin Mary, and + was made man, and was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate, + He suffered and was buried; and the third day He rose again, + according to the Scriptures; and ascended into Heaven, and sitteth + on the right hand of the Father. And He shall come again with glory + to judge both the quick and the dead, whose Kingdom shall have no + end. And I believe in the Holy Ghost the Lord and Giver of Life, + who proceedeth from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and + the Son together is worshipped and glorified, who spake by the + Prophets. And I believe in the one catholic and apostolic church. I + acknowledge one baptism for the remission of sins; and I look for + the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to + come.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span></p> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">This did very + well until the fourth Ecumenical Council, A. D. 451, when the + Chalcedon Creed was worked up. But very little is said about this + creed nowadays; for <span class="tei tei-q">“the two parties in the + council were roused to the highest pitch of passion, the + proceedings, especially during the early sessions, were very + tumultuous, until the lay commissioners and the senators had to + urge the bishops to keep order, saying that such vulgar outcries + were disgraceful.”</span> However, we give it for what it is + worth:</p> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">We confess and with one accord teach one and the + same Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, perfect in the divinity, perfect + in the humanity, truly God and truly man, consisting of a + reasonable soul and body; consubstantial with the Father according + to the Godhead, and consubstantial with us according to the + manhood; in all things like unto us, sin only excepted; who was + begotten of the Father before all ages, according to the Godhead; + and in the last days the same was born, according to the manhood, + of Mary the Virgin, Mother of God, for us and for our salvation; + who is to be acknowledged one and the same Christ, the Son, the + Lord, the Only Begotten in two natures, without mixture, change, + division or separation; the difference of natures not being removed + by their union, but rather the propriety of each nature being + preserved and concurring in one person and in one</span> + <span lang="el" class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang= + "el"><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic">hypostasis</span></span><span style="font-size: 90%">, + so that He is not divided into two persons, but the only Son, the + Word, our Lord Jesus Christ, and one and the same + person.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span></p> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">A merciful + oblivion has hidden the name and the date of authorship of the next + creed, the Athanasian, the cream of all the creeds; but it was + probably manufactured by Satan for use about 539 A. D. By 570 A. D. + it had become very famous. <span class="tei tei-q">“The creed is + received in the Greek, Roman and English churches, but is left out + of the service of the Protestant Episcopal Church in + America.”</span> The nature <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page109">[pg 109]</span><a name="Pg109" id="Pg109" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> of this creed may be judged by the following + extract from an 1855 issue of the Church of England Quarterly:</p> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">The Athanasian Creed finds few real lovers as a + portion of a public service. No one supposes that it was the work + of Athanasius. [Athanasius originated the monastery-convent system. + He was the Bishop of Alexandria and friend of the Emperor + Constantine who caused the banishment of Arius.] No one is now, at + least among us, in any danger from the errors it denounces; for no + one believes that all the members of the Greek Church are + necessarily consigned to everlasting damnation; and thus, every + time the creed is read, the officiating minister has solemnly to + enunciate what neither he nor any of his hearers believes. It is + true that by distinguishing between the creed itself and the + damnatory clauses he may save himself, mentally, from declaring a + falsehood; but surely this is reason enough for the removal of the + creed from our Liturgy. We have had too much in our Church of + mental reservations. So far as the doctrine of the Trinity is + concerned, it is abundantly insisted on in the Apostles' and Nicene + Creeds.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span></p> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">It seems almost + incredible that any one seriously believed the following amazing + statements:</p> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Whoever will be saved, before all things it is + necessary that he hold the Catholic faith, which faith, except + every one do keep whole and undefiled, without doubt he shall + perish everlastingly. And the Catholic faith is this: that we + worship one God in Trinity, and Trinity in Unity; neither + confounding the persons nor dividing the substance. For there is + one person of the Father, another of the Son, and another of the + Holy Ghost. But the Godhead of the Father, of the Son and of the + Holy Ghost is all one; the glory equal, the majesty co-eternal. + Such as the Father is, such is the Son, and such is the Holy Ghost. + The Father uncreate, the Son uncreate, and the Holy Ghost uncreate. + The Father incomprehensible, the Son incomprehensible, and the Holy + Ghost incomprehensible. The Father eternal, the Son eternal, and + the Holy Ghost eternal. And yet they are not three eternals, but + one eternal. As also there are not three incomprehensibles, nor + three uncreated, but one uncreated, and one incomprehensible. So + likewise the Father is almighty, the Son almighty, and the Holy + Ghost almighty. And yet there are not three almighties, but one + almighty. So the Father is God, the Son is God and the Holy Ghost + is God. And yet there are not three Gods, but one God. So likewise + the Father is Lord, the Son is Lord and the Holy Ghost Lord. And + yet not three Lords, but one Lord. For like as we are compelled by + the Christian verity to acknowledge every person by Himself to be + God and Lord, so are we forbidden by the Catholic religion to say + there be three Gods and three Lords. The Father is made of none, + neither created nor begotten. The Son is of the Father alone; not + made, nor created, but begotten. The Holy Ghost is of the Father + and the Son; neither made, nor created, nor begotten, but + proceeding. So there is one Father, not three Fathers; one Son, not + three Sons; one Holy Ghost, not three Holy Ghosts. And in this + Trinity none is afore or after other; none is greater or less than + another. But the whole three persons are co-eternal together, and + co-equal. So that in all things, as aforesaid, the Unity in Trinity + and the Trinity in Unity is to be worshipped.</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">He therefore that will be saved must thus think + of the Trinity. Furthermore, it is necessary to everlasting + salvation that</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page110">[pg + 110]</span><a name="Pg110" id="Pg110" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-size: 90%">he also believe + rightly the incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ. For the right + faith is that we believe and confess that our Lord Jesus Christ, + the Son of God, is God and man. God of the substance of the + Father, begotten before the worlds; and man of the substance of + His mother, born in the world. Perfect God and perfect man, or a + reasonable soul and human flesh subsisting. Equal to the Father + as touching His Godhead, and inferior to the Father as touching + His manhood. Who, although He be God and man, yet He is not two, + but one Christ. One, not by conversion of the Godhead into flesh, + but by taking of the manhood into God. One altogether, not by + confusion of substance, but by unity of person. For as the + reasonable soul and flesh is one man, so God and man is one + Christ. Who suffered for our salvation, descended into hell, rose + again the third day from the dead. He ascended into Heaven; He + sitteth on the right hand of the Father, God Almighty. From + whence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. At whose + coming all men shall rise again in their bodies, and shall + account for their own works. And they that have done good shall + go into life everlasting, and they that have done evil into + everlasting fire. This is the Catholic faith which, except a man + believe faithfully he cannot be saved. Glory be to the Father, + and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the + beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. + Amen.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span></p> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">This put an end + to the business of creed making, Satan's powers of concocting + gibberish to take the place of the Bible having been temporarily + quite exhausted. But a thousand years later the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Creed of Pope Pius IV”</span> was issued in the form + of a bull in December, 1564. <span class="tei tei-q">“All bishops, + ecclesiastics, and teachers in the Romish church, as well as all + converts from Protestantism, publicly profess assent to it.”</span> + It follows:</p> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">I, A. B., believe and profess with a firm faith + all and every one of the things which are contained in the symbol + of faith which is used in the Holy Roman Church; namely, I believe + in one God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of + all things visible and invisible; and in one Lord Jesus Christ, the + only-begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all worlds, God + of God, Light of Light, true God of true God, begotten not made, + consubstantial to the Father, by whom all things were made; who for + us men and for our salvation came down from heaven, and was + incarnate by the Holy Ghost of the Virgin Mary, and was made man; + was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate, suffered and was + buried, and rose again the third day according to the Scriptures, + and ascended into heaven, sits at the right hand of the Father, and + will come again with glory to judge the living and the dead, of + whose kingdom there will be no end; and in the Holy Ghost, the Lord + and Life-giver, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who, + together with the Father and the Son, is adored and glorified, who + spake by the holy prophets; and one holy catholic and apostolic + church. I confess one baptism for the remission of sins; and I + expect the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to + come. Amen. I most firmly admit and embrace apostolical and + ecclesiastical traditions, and all other constitutions and + observances of the same church. I also admit the sacred Scriptures + according to the sense which the holy mother church has held and + does hold, to whom it belongs to judge of</span> <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page111">[pg 111]</span><a name="Pg111" id="Pg111" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-size: 90%">the true + sense and interpretation of the Holy Scriptures; nor will I ever + take or interpret them otherwise than according to the unanimous + consent of the fathers.</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">I profess, also, that there are truly and + properly seven sacraments of the new law, instituted by Jesus + Christ our Lord, and for the salvation of mankind, though all are + not necessary for every one—namely, baptism, confirmation, + eucharist, penance, extreme unction, orders, and matrimony, and + that they confer grace; and of these, baptism, confirmation, and + order cannot be reiterated without sacrilege. I do also receive + and admit the ceremonies of the Catholic Church, received and + approved in the solemn administration of all the above-said + sacraments. I receive and embrace all and every one of the things + which have been defined and declared in the holy Council of Trent + concerning sin and justification. I profess likewise that in the + mass is offered to God a true, proper, and propitiatory sacrifice + for the living and the dead; and that in the most holy sacrament + of the eucharist there is truly, really and substantially the + body and blood, together with the soul and divinity, of our Lord + Jesus Christ; and that there is made a conversion of the whole + substance of the bread into the body, and of the whole substance + of the wine into the blood, which conversion the Catholic Church + calls Transubstantiation. I confess, also, that under either kind + alone, whole and entire, Christ and a true sacrament is received. + I constantly hold that there is a purgatory, and that the souls + detained therein are helped by the suffrages of the faithful. + Likewise that the saints reigning together with Christ are to be + honored and invocated, that they offer prayers to God for us, and + that their relics are to be venerated.</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">I most firmly assert that the images of Christ, + and of the Mother of God, ever Virgin, and also of the other + saints, are to be had and retained, and that due honor and + veneration are to be given to them. I also affirm that the power + of indulgences was left by Christ in the Church, and that the use + of them is most wholesome to Christian people. I acknowledge the + holy catholic and apostolic Roman Church,</span> <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic">the + mother and mistress of all churches</span></span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">; and I promise and swear true obedience to the + Roman bishop, the successor of St. Peter, prince of the apostles + and vicar of Jesus Christ. I also profess and undoubtedly receive + all other things delivered, defined, and declared by the sacred + canons and general councils, and particularly by the holy Council + of Trent; and likewise I also condemn, reject, and anathematize + all things contrary thereto, and all heresies whatsoever + condemned, rejected, and anathematized by the Church. This true + catholic faith, out of which none can be saved, which I now + freely profess and truly hold, I, A. B., promise, vow, and swear + most constantly to hold, and profess the same whole and entire, + with God's assistance to the end of my life; and to procure, as + far as lies in my power, that the same shall be held, taught, and + preached by all who are under me, or are intrusted to my care, by + virtue of my office. So help me God, and these holy Gospels of + God. Amen.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span></p> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The less Bible, + the more Creed, and the thicker and blacker the darkness! Bible + students will not fail to notice the progressive darkness of these + creeds. Incarnation is first mentioned in the third creed, + mariolatry in the fourth, and trinity and purgatory in the + fifth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">In the + Millennial Age the creed-formers will feel like adding a postscript + to their work, reading about as follows:</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page112">[pg 112]</span><a name="Pg112" id="Pg112" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“P. S.—We have had our eyes opened and now see that + Jesus was the Alpha, the Beginning of the creation of God, and the + Omega, the Last of the Father's direct creation (Rev. 22:13; 1:8); + that as the Logos, or Representative of the Father, He was + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">a</span></em> God (mighty one) but not + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">the</span></em> God, Jehovah (John 1:1); that + all things were made by Him (John 1:3); that Jehovah <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">sent</span></em> + His Son to save mankind (1 John 4:10); that the Logos was made + flesh (John 1:14) and in the days of His flesh (Heb. 5:7) became + poor (2 Cor. 8:9), lower than the angels (Heb. 2:9), a servant + (Phil. 2:7), a man (Phil. 2:8); that while a man He did not have + all wisdom (Luke 2:52) but admitted the Father's greater power + (John 14:28) and knowledge (Matt. 24:36); that as the Father had + previously said that He would give His own personal glory to no one + (Isa. 42:8), so Jesus admitted He and the Father were two separate + persons (John 8:17, 18); that He admitted He had not the glory of + the Father (John 17:5) and expected the same unity between the + Church and the Father as existed between Himself and the Father + (John 17:21-23); that when He died He was really, truly, completely + dead, as dead as though He had never previously existed (1 Cor. + 15:3; Rev. 1:18); that God raised Him from the dead (Acts 2:24; + Gal. 1:1); highly exalted Him (Phil. 2:9) to Divine nature (2 Pet. + 1:4); making Him the express image of Himself (Heb. 1:3); but that + even since His resurrection our Father is still Jesus' Father and + our God is still His God (John 20:17); that a thousand years hence + Jesus will still be subject to the Father (1 Cor. 15:28); that to + us there is but one God (1 Cor. 8:6) and that every doctrine that + confesseth that Jesus Christ when He came in the flesh came as + anything more or less than a fleshly being is the spirit of + Antichrist which dictated every one of the creeds aforementioned (1 + John 4:3).”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when He had opened the third seal.</span></span>—Disclosing the + third epoch in the history of Antichrist.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I heard the + third beast.</span></span>—Infinite Love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Say, Come and + see.</span></span>—Come and see the apparently complete triumph of + the powers of darkness and the apparent inaction of Infinite Love + in permitting it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I beheld, + and lo, a black horse.</span></span>—Complete disregard of the + Scriptures by clergy and people alike, and in their place the ugly + creeds and bulls of popes and councils.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And he that sat + on him.</span></span>—The same rider, the Antichrist.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Had a pair of + balances in his hand.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Balance joined with symbols denoting the sale of corn + and fruits by weight, becomes the symbol of scarcity; bread by + weight being a curse in Lev. 26:26 and in Ezek. 4:16, 17.”</span> + (McC.) <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page113">[pg + 113]</span><a name="Pg113" id="Pg113" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + During this period the common people could have in their own tongue + only a few words or verses of the Scriptures; and for these they + were obliged to pay large sums to the clergy, who alone had the + ability to translate from the dead languages, or even to read at + all. As the services were in Latin the people were starved + spiritually.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I heard AS IT WERE a voice.</span></span>—The voice of the Lord + Jesus, the Guardian and Caretaker of the true Church.—Matt. + 28:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In the midst of + the four beasts.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In the + midst of the Throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the + elders, stood a Lamb.”</span>—Rev. 5:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Say, A + measure.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The word + <span class="tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">chenix</span></span> denotes a measure + containing one wine quart and a twelfth part of a + quart.”</span>—Diaglott.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + wheat.</span></span>—The true children of the Kingdom.—C. 137.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For a + penny.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“A <span class= + "tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">denarius</span></span> was the day-wages of a + laborer in Palestine (Matt. 20:2, 9).”</span> (Diaglott.) These + wages, a little more than a quart of wheat for a day's work, show + how great was the effort, in those dark and terrible days, to find + some <span class="tei tei-q">“grains of wheat.”</span>—Amos + 8:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And three + measures.</span></span>—Three <span class= + "tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">chenices</span></span>, three quarts.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + barley.</span></span>—Spiritual adulterers and adulteresses, + courting the friendship of the world. (Jas. 4:4.) Barley is the + symbol of the adulteress as wheat is the symbol of the virgin.—Num. + 5:15; Hos. 3:1, 2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For a + penny.</span></span>—For a <span class= + "tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">denarius</span></span>. It was three times as + easy to find the faithless as the faithful.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And see thou + hurt not the oil.</span></span>—The supply of the oil, the Holy + Spirit of full submission to the will of God was low; the light of + the true Church was feeble indeed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + wine.</span></span>—Wine is a symbol of doctrine, true or false, + and its accompanying joys. In this case it refers to the true + doctrines of the Kingdom. But little knowledge of the coming + Kingdom was prevalent then, and the joys of the Church were + proportionately small. (See comments on Rev. 2:12-17, synchronous + with events of second and third seals.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Lest it be + supposed that the Roman Catholic church is now different from what + it once was, and that at present it is holding to the Scriptures, + we quote the following from <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Strength of Will</span></span> by E. Boyd + Barrett, of the Society of the Jesuits, approved by the Roman + Catholic censor, Remy Lafort, and approved by John, Cardinal + Farley, Archbishop of New York, November 24th, 1915:</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Catholic ascetics teach us, in this matter, first of + all to have a clear and definite view of the object we propose to + ourselves—let us suppose that it is to overcome <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page114">[pg 114]</span><a name="Pg114" id="Pg114" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> the passion of anger. Now the + resolution, <span class="tei tei-q">‘not to give way to + anger’</span> would be far too broad and too great. Applying the + principle, <span class="tei tei-q">‘<span lang="la" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="la"><span style= + "font-style: italic">divide et impera</span></span>,’</span> we + content ourselves with resolving <span class="tei tei-q">‘not to + give way to external manifestations of anger.’</span> But here + again, our resolution is too broad and too great. We again apply + the principle, <span class="tei tei-q">‘<span lang="la" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="la"><span style= + "font-style: italic">divide et impera</span></span>,’</span> and + resolve <span class="tei tei-q">‘not to give way to angry + retorts.’</span> This resolution is pointed, definite and + intelligible—it means that cross and peevish remarks must not + occur. A time limit may now be added in order to make the + resolution still more well-defined: 'Until the last day of this + month I will not make an angry retort.' Possibly, it might be + advisable to limit this resolution still more, by conditions of + place or circumstance, adding <span class="tei tei-q">‘in such a + place or to such a person, or during such a + ceremony.’</span> ”</span> Simple! All you have to do is to keep + dividing.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when He had opened the fourth seal.</span></span>—Disclosing the + history of the Papacy in its fourth stage, the period synchronizing + with the Thyatira and Sardis epochs. See Rev. 2:18-29; 3:1-6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I heard the + voice of the fourth beast.</span></span>—Infinite Wisdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Say, Come and + see.</span></span>—Come and see what would seem to be the most + unwise thing the Lord could possibly permit to happen to His + Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I looked, and behold a pale horse.</span></span>—The ghastly and + horrible teachings that God's true people must be <span class= + "tei tei-q">“exterminated.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“The + ghastly green of terror and of death. The word is used of grass in + Rev. 8:7; 9:4; Mark 6:39.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And his name + that sat on him was Death.</span></span>—Still the same rider, the + Papacy; and an apt description of its chief claim to recognition + during the pre-Reformation period.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Pope Innocent III. first sent missionaries to the + districts in which the doctrines had gained foothold, to preach + Romanism, work miracles, etc.; but, finding these efforts + unavailing, he proclaimed a crusade against them and offered to all + who would engage in it the pardon of all sins and an immediate + passport to Heaven without passing through purgatory. With full + faith in the pope's power to bestow the promised rewards, half a + million men—French, German and Italian—rallied around the standard + of the cross, for the defence of Catholicism and the extinction of + heresy. Then followed a series of battles and sieges covering a + space of twenty years. The city of Beziers was stormed and taken in + 1209, and the citizens, without regard for age or sex, perished by + the sword to the number of sixty thousand, as reported by several + historians. The blood of those who fled to churches, and + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page115">[pg 115]</span><a name= + "Pg115" id="Pg115" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> were murdered there + by the holy crusaders, drenched the altars and flowed through the + streets. It is estimated that one hundred thousand Albigenses fell + in one day; and their bodies were heaped together and burned. The + clergy thanked God for the work of destruction, and a hymn of + praise to God for the glorious victory was composed and + sung.”</span>—B. 335.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And Hell + followed with him.</span></span>—All the people killed by the pope + went to hell, and he himself went there also; but none of them went + to the kind of hell to which the pope thought he was sending them. + They went to the Bible hell, which is a place quite different from + what is supposed. The average man believes in hell, but thinks few + people go there and that nobody knows much about it. The Bible is + the only authority on the subject, and no one can know anything + about it, aside from the Bible. When we consider Christ's statement + that unless a man loves Him more than <span class= + "tei tei-q">“father, and mother, and wife, and children, and + brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be My + disciple”</span> (Luke 14:26), and reflect that probably not one + professed Christian in a hundred has reached either this standard + or the other one which He set in the same chapter, that + <span class="tei tei-q">“Whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not + all that he hath, he cannot be My disciple”</span> (Luke 14:33), it + should make us willing to consider carefully what is to become of + the 9,999 out of every 10,000 of earth's population that do not + meet these conditions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">We all know that + <span class="tei tei-q">“The wicked shall be turned into hell, and + all the nations that forget God”</span> (Psa. 9:17); but how many + of us know that they will be re-turned there; that the passage, + correctly translated, reads, <span class="tei tei-q">“The wicked + shall be returned into hell, all the nations that forget + God”</span>—showing that there are nations which go into hell once, + come out of hell, learn of God, forget Him and are returned there? + We may all know (Jude 11) that Korah, or Core, went to hell; but + how many of us know that he was accompanied to this place by his + house, with all his household goods, and two other establishments + similarly equipped? (<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Num.</span></span> 16:32, 33.) We may all know + that the Sodomites went to hell (Gen. 19), but how many know that + they were accompanied by the city in which they lived and that + there are other cities there? (<span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Matt.</span></span> + 11:23.) We may all suppose that many heathen warriors of long ago + went to hell, but how many of us know that they took with them + their weapons of war, and that their swords are there now, under + their heads, with what is left of their bones? (Ezek. 32:27.) We + may understand that the wealthy go to hell, but how many know that + in the <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page116">[pg + 116]</span><a name="Pg116" id="Pg116" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + same place are sheep, gray hairs, worms, dust, trees and + water?—Psa. 49:14; Gen. 44:31; Job 17:13-16; Ezek. 31:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">We may all know + that bad men go to hell, but how many of us know that the Ancient + Worthies, Jacob and Hezekiah, fully expected to go there, and that + faithful Job prayed to go there? (Gen. 37:35; Job 14:13.) We may + all wish to keep out of hell, but how many of us know that David + said there is not a man that liveth that shall deliver his soul + from its power, and that Solomon says, thou goest there, whosoever + thou art? (Psa. 89:48; Eccl. 9:10.) We may think that those who go + to hell go there to stay forever, but how many of us know that + Samuel said, <span class="tei tei-q">“The Lord killeth and maketh + alive; He bringeth down to hell and bringeth up”</span> out of + hell, and that David said, God has the same power to aid those in + hell that He has to bless those in Heaven? (1 Sam. 2:6; Psa. + 139:8.) We may think that those who go into hell never come out, + and that there is no record that any have come out, yet there are + at least two persons in history who have been in hell and come out + of hell. One is Jonah, who prayed in hell and was delivered from + hell (Jonah 2:2), and the other is Christ, whose soul went to hell, + but <span class="tei tei-q">“His soul was not left in hell,”</span> + for God raised Him up out of it. (Acts 2:31.) And when Christ came + out of hell He brought with Him <span class="tei tei-q">“The keys + of hell”</span> and now has the power and the right to set all its + captives free. (Rev. 1:18.) We may suppose that hell is to last + forever, but the Prophet speaks of its coming destruction, and John + the Revelator says that it is to be made to <span class= + "tei tei-q">“deliver up the dead”</span> which are in it, and it, + itself, is to be destroyed. (Hosea 13:14; Rev. 20:13.) The last + passage cited affords the explanation of the whole subject, for in + the margin opposite Rev. 20:13 the translators have explained that + the word <span class="tei tei-q">“hell”</span> means <span class= + "tei tei-q">“grave.”</span> Reversely, in the margin opposite 1 + Cor. 15:55, the translators have explained that <span class= + "tei tei-q">“grave”</span> means <span class= + "tei tei-q">“hell.”</span> The terms are interchangeable and the + meaning is the same. In every place foregoing in which the + citations appear in italic type, the translators have rendered + Sheol or Hades by <span class="tei tei-q">“grave”</span> or + <span class="tei tei-q">“pit”</span> instead of <span class= + "tei tei-q">“hell.”</span> In the margins of the old family Bibles, + printed before Pastor Russell was born, we are told in seven + places, and in both ways, in both the Old Testament and the New, + that hell means the grave, and the grave means hell.—Psa. 49:15; + 55:15; 86:13; Isa. 14:9; Jonah 2:2; 1 Cor. 15:55; Rev. 20:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And power was + given unto them.</span></span>—To his Holiness, the Pope, and all + the cardinals, bishops, archbishops, priests, inquisitors, kings + and rulers.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page117">[pg + 117]</span><a name="Pg117" id="Pg117" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Over the fourth + part of the earth.</span></span>—Over Europe, but not over Asia, + Africa or America.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To kill with + sword, and [with hunger] FAMINE and [with] death.</span></span>—The + destruction of New Creatures by wresting of the Scriptures and + their spiritual starvation are here in evidence; but there was also + a literal fulfilment. <span class="tei tei-q">“Human and Satanic + ingenuity were taxed to their utmost to invent new and horrible + tortures, for both the political and religious opponents of + Antichrist; the latter—heretics—being pursued with tenfold fury. + Besides the common forms of persecution and death, such as racking, + burning, drowning, stabbing, starving and shooting with arrows and + guns, fiendish hearts meditated how the most delicate and sensitive + parts of the body, capable of the most excruciating pain, could be + affected; molten lead was poured into the ears; tongues were cut + out and lead poured into the mouths; wheels were arranged with + knife blades attached so that the victim could be slowly chopped to + pieces; claws and pincers were made red hot and used upon sensitive + parts of the body; eyes were gouged out; finger nails were pulled + off with red hot irons; holes, by which the victim was tied up, + were bored through the heels; some were forced to jump from + eminences onto long spikes fixed below, where, quivering with pain, + they slowly died. The mouths of some were filled with gunpowder, + which, when fired, blew their heads to pieces; others were hammered + to pieces on anvils; others, attached to bellows, had air pumped + into them until they burst; others were choked to death with + mangled pieces of their own bodies; others with urine, excrement, + etc., etc.”</span>—B. 346.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And with the + beasts of the earth.</span></span>—The evil governments. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Kings and princes who trembled for the + security of their crowns, if they to any extent incurred the pope's + displeasure, were sworn to exterminate heresy, and those barons who + neglected to aid in the work of persecution forfeited their + estates. Kings and princes, therefore, were prompt to comply with + the mandates of the Papacy, and the barons and their retainers were + at their service, to aid in the work of destruction.”</span>—B. + 333.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when He had opened the fifth seal.</span></span>—Disclosing the + Reformation in the days of Luther. See Rev. 3:7-13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I saw under the + altar.</span></span>—Altars were originally made of earth. (Ex. + 20:24.) To see under the altar is to see underground, in the tomb, + the grave. At the bottom of the brazen altar all the blood of the + victim was poured.—Lev. 4:7; 8:15; Heb. 8:5; 13:10; Phil. 2:17; 2 + Tim. 4:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + souls.</span></span>—The beings of those who had died. These souls + were not in Heaven.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page118">[pg + 118]</span><a name="Pg118" id="Pg118" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of [them] MEN + that were slain.</span></span>—Spiritually beheaded (some of them + literally, also).—Rev. 20:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">For.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Dia</span></span>, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“through”</span> or <span class="tei tei-q">“by means + of.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The Word of + God.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Of His own will begat + He us with the Word of Truth.”</span> (James 1:18.) It is this + Sword of the Spirit that cuts us off from the world.—Heb. 4:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And for the + testimony.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“And <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">through</span></em> + the testimony”</span>; through the Word of God. The word + <span class="tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">dia</span></span> is here used again. It is + the Word that does the beheading.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which they + held.</span></span>—As witnesses in their hearts (Rom. 8:16) and to + which they adhered at any cost.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they cried with a loud voice.</span></span>—Not actually, but in + the same way that the voice of Abel's blood cried from the + ground.—Gen. 4:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, How + long, O Lord.</span></span>—How long will it be from this + particular time, the Spring of 1518?—Rev. 3:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Holy and + true.</span></span>—See Rev. 3:7; 1 John 5:20; Mark 1:24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Dost] WILT Thou + not judge.</span></span>—Deliver us from the tomb. The judges of + old were <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">deliverers</span></em>.—Judges 3:9-11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And avenge our + blood.</span></span>—Cast off from all favor a system of nominal + Christianity which is not Christianity at all.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">On them that + dwell on the earth.</span></span>—On these that are <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Of the earth, earthy.”</span>—Rev. 17:5; 3:10; 8:13; + 13:8, 14. <span class="tei tei-q">“The answer is given by the angel + of the waters. See Rev. 16:4-7.”</span> (Cook.) Quite true. The + answer is in Vol. III of <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">Scripture Studies</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [white robes were] THERE WAS given unto [every one] EACH of them a + white robe.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“God's grace + cannot admit to heavenly perfection those who have not robes of + spotless righteousness. How gracious is the provision of our God in + thus presenting us with the Robe which covers all the repented-of + blemishes of the past as well as the unintentional and unwitting + imperfections of the present!”</span>—Z. '11-342; Rev. 3:4, 5; + 19:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And it was said + unto them.</span></span>—Not actually, but by the teachings of the + parallel dispensations, which show that as Christ was raised from + the dead in A. D. 33, the sleeping saints would be raised 1845 + years later, in the Spring of 1878. See Rev. 3:14, 20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That they should + rest yet for a little season.</span></span>—Greek <span lang="el" + class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Chronos</span></span>, 360 years. See Rev. + 2:21. This is the item which Pastor Russell had in mind in the + following footnote: <span class="tei tei-q">“When, in a succeeding + volume, we examine the wonderful visions of the Revelator, it will + be clearly seen that the time here pointed out by the word + <span class="tei tei-q">‘henceforth,’</span> as marked by events, + synchronizes closely with 1878, as indicated by the prophecies + herein noted.”</span> (C. 241.) Luther nailed the proclamation on + the church door at Wittenberg <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page119">[pg 119]</span><a name="Pg119" id="Pg119" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> Oct 31, 1517, which was already one month + into the year 1518, Jewish reckoning. But it took some time for the + news to travel to all parts of Europe. Three hundred and sixty + years from the Spring of 1518 brings us to the Spring of 1878, when + we understand that God's promise made to the sleeping saints was + fulfilled. They were raised from the dead, and Babylon was cast + off.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Until their + fellowservants also.</span></span>—The other members of the Little + Flock, all bond-slaves of Jesus.—Gal. 6:17, Diaglott, footnote.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And their + brethren.</span></span>—Fellow-believers, the Great Company.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That should be + killed BY THEM as they were.</span></span>—Similarly make covenants + of consecration to the Lord.—Rev. 6:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Should be + fulfilled.</span></span>—Should be filled full, completed in + number. <span class="tei tei-q">“The Gospel age is for the very + purpose of calling those who shall participate in the marriage + feast. If, therefore, it be true that we are in the end of this + Gospel age, it implies that a sufficient number of worthy guests + have been found, or, to reverse the proposition, if a sufficient + number of worthy guests have now been found, it proves that we are + in the close of this age. It was after the wedding <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">had been + furnished</span></em> with a proper number of guests, that + <span class="tei tei-q">‘the King came in’</span> and began the + inspection of the guests. This, we have elsewhere shown, marks the + date April, 1878.”</span>—Z. '98-137.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I beheld when He had opened the sixth + seal.</span></span>—Disclosing the events leading up to and + associated with the Lord's <span lang="el" class="tei tei-foreign" + xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Parousia</span></span>, presence.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And, [lo,] there + was a great earthquake.</span></span>—<em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Literally</span></em>, the great Lisbon + earthquake, Nov. 1, 1755, which extended over 4,000,000 square + miles; shocked all Africa and Western Europe, including Scandinavia + and Greenland; slew 90,000 persons in Lisbon and many thousands + elsewhere; destroyed every church and convent in the city; caused a + tidal wave 60 feet high; split mountains from top to bottom; sunk + an immense area to a depth of 600 feet and threw sailors to the + decks hundreds of miles at sea. It is believed to be the most + severe earthquake shock ever felt on the earth. <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Symbolically</span></em>, the American + Revolution, 21 years later (the underlying cause of the French + Revolution); the most successful and most extraordinary movement + upward of the lower strata of human society that had ever been seen + in the world up to that time. God has so written Revelation that + those who will not accept the symbolical significance of what is + expressly declared to be a symbolical book (Rev. 1:1) may find + literal fulfillments, and thus lose the light they would otherwise + get.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page120">[pg + 120]</span><a name="Pg120" id="Pg120" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the sun + became black as sackcloth of hair.</span></span>—<em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Literally</span></em> in the dark day of May + 19, 1780, which extended over 320,000 square miles. (D. 587.) + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Symbolically</span></em>, the light of the + papal heavens (the pope) became darkened when Napoleon fined the + Pope ten million dollars, organized the Papal territory into a + republic and took the Pope a prisoner to France. (C. 41, 55.) + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Symbolically</span></em>, too, the light of + the true heavens, the Gospel light, the Truth, and thus Christ + Jesus, has become hidden from view of many by the denial of the + clergy of our day that we were bought with the precious blood and + by the teaching of the theory of Evolution.—D. 590; Joel 2:10, + 31.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the WHOLE + moon became as blood.</span></span>—<em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Literally</span></em> on May 19, 1780. + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Symbolically</span></em>, the creeds (the moon + of the papal heavens) have become repugnant, though still + hypocritically professed. <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Symbolically</span></em>, also the light of + the Mosaic Law (the moon of the true heavens) has been made to + appear evil by the claims of the clergy that the typical sacrifices + were bloody and barbaric.—D. 590, 592.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the stars of heaven fell unto the earth.</span></span>—<em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Literally</span></em>, the meteoric shower of + Nov. 13, 1833, covering 11,000,000 square miles. (D. 588.) + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Symbolically</span></em>, the bishops and the + priestly stars of the papacy fell from their positions of power and + influence over the minds and consciences of the people. <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Symbolically</span></em>, also, the Protestant + pulpit stars make a great display in coming down from spiritual + things to the Christian-citizenship-politics level.—D. 595.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Even as a fig + tree.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The fig tree in this + prophecy may be understood to signify the Jewish nation. (Matt. + 24:32.) If so, it is being signally fulfilled; for not only are + thousands of Israelites returning to Palestine, but the Zionist + movement, started recently, has assumed such proportions as to + justify a Convention of representatives from all parts of the world + to meet in Switzerland to put in practical shape the proposal for + the reorganization of a Jewish state in Palestine. These buds will + thrive, but will bear no perfect fruit before October, 1914—the + full end of <span class="tei tei-q">‘Gentile + Times.’</span> ”</span>—D. 604.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Casteth] + CASTING her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty + wind.</span></span>—The immature fruits of the Zionist movement + were dashed to the ground by the great war. Thousands of the Jews + already in Palestine were deported to Egypt at the breaking out of + the war. At this writing the British are besieging Jerusalem and + the Turks are driving the Jews into the desert to perish rather + than permit them to remain and come under British control. Out of + this turmoil Zionism will soon start afresh and the Jews become the + actual rulers of their native land.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page121">[pg 121]</span><a name="Pg121" id="Pg121" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the heaven departed as a scroll.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The <span class="tei tei-q">‘sure word of + prophecy’</span> indicates very clearly that the various Protestant + sects will form a coöperative union or federacy, and that + Catholicism and Protestantism will affiliate, neither losing its + identity. These are the two ends of the ecclesiastical heavens + which, as their confusion increases, shall roll together <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">as a + scroll</span></em> (Isaiah 34:4) for their self-protection—as + distinct and separate rolls, yet in close proximity to each + other.”</span>—D. 258; Psa. 102:26.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When it is + rolled together.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It will be + impossible to re-establish the present order, (1) because it has + evidently outlived its usefulness, and is inequitable under present + conditions; (2) because of the general diffusion of secular + knowledge; (3) because the discovery that priestcraft has long + blinded and fettered the masses with error and fear will lead to a + general disrespect for all religious claims and teachings as of a + piece with the discovered frauds; (4) because religious people in + general, not discerning that God's time has come for a change of + dispensation, will ignore reason, logic, justice and Scripture in + defending the present order of things. It will be of little + consequence then that the ecclesiastical heavens (the religious + powers, Papal and Protestant) will have rolled together as a + scroll. (See Isaiah 34:4.) The combined religious power of + Christendom will be utterly futile against the rising tide of + anarchy when the dread crisis is reached. Before that great army + <span class="tei tei-q">‘all the host of heaven [the church + nominal] shall be dissolved, and the heavens shall be rolled + together as a scroll.’</span> ”</span>—D. 551.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And every + mountain.</span></span>—Kingdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [island] + HILL.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Little hills”</span> + refer to governments less autocratic than monarchies; but + <span class="tei tei-q">“hills”</span> sometimes refer to the + sharpest, highest, most jagged mountain peaks, and then mean the + most autocratic of all governments. This is evidently what is meant + here.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Were moved out + of [their] THE places.</span></span>—Did not occupy the same + position as before with reference to the people. The places were + never <span class="tei tei-q">“theirs,”</span> but belong + <span class="tei tei-q">“to Him whose right it is.”</span> (Z. + '05-253.) In recent years Turkey and Persia have been granted + parliaments; China, Russia and Portugal have become republics; and + other countries have become vast socialist communities.—Rev. + 16:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the kings of the earth.</span></span>—The aristocracy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the great + men.</span></span>—The clergy. (Rev. 18:23, comment.) Rendered + <span class="tei tei-q">“lords”</span> in Mark 6:21. See Job + 12:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And the rich + men,] and the chief captains, AND THE RICH MEN.</span></span>—The + high military officers. Rendered <span class="tei tei-q">“high + captains”</span> in Mark 6:21. The magnates and + financiers.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page122">[pg + 122]</span><a name="Pg122" id="Pg122" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the mighty + men.</span></span>—The labor organizers.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And every + bondman.</span></span>—Member of a labor organization.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And every free + man.</span></span>—Other worker (if not a bond-slave of + Christ).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Hid themselves + in the dens.</span></span>—See Isa. 2:19-21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And in the rocks + of the mountains.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“As the + trouble increases, men will seek, but in vain, for protection in + the great rocks and fortresses of society (Free Masonry, Odd + Fellowship, and Trades Unions, Guilds, Trusts, and all societies + secular and ecclesiastical), and in the mountains (governments) of + earth.”</span>—B. 139; Jer. 3:23; Hos. 10:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on + us.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Greek word + <span lang="el" class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">epi</span></span>, here used, is generally + translated <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">on</span></em>, but has also the significance + of <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">over</span></em> (Rev. 5:10) and <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">about</span></em>, + and is so translated many times in the common version. The thought + is that of protection, not of destruction. The common view of this + passage, that it teaches that wicked men will get faith enough to + pray for literal mountains to fall, is absurd. The real fulfilment + is already beginning: the great, the rich, and no less the poor, + are seeking to the mountains and rocks and caves for shelter from + the darkening storm of trouble which all see is + gathering.”</span>—B. 139; Hos. 10:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And hide us from + the face.</span></span>—Of Justice, now about to demand an + accounting for our stewardship.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of Him that + sitteth on the Throne.</span></span>—Jehovah.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And from the + wrath of the Lamb.</span></span>—Whose followers we have falsely + professed to be.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + the great day of [His] THEIR wrath is come.</span></span>—The wrath + of the Father, the Son, and the glorified saints.—Rev. 2:26, 27; + Isa. 13:6-19; Zeph. 1:14-18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And who shall be + able to stand.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The answer + through the Prophet is, 'He that hath clean hands [an honest life] + and a pure heart [a conscience void of offence toward God and man]: + he shall ascend into the mountain [Kingdom] of the Lord and stand + in the holy place.'”</span> (Psa. 24:3, 4; D. 582.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Oh, what sorrow it gives us at times to behold some + not standing well the testing of this hour, some who are developing + tendencies of weakness, disloyalty to the cause, ambition for name + and fame or position, desire to be greatest, tendencies to lord it + over God's heritage, and who, unless recovered, will be surely cut + off from membership in the Body, even though, as the Apostle + declares, they may be saved so as by fire, as members of the + <span class="tei tei-q">‘great company.’</span>—1 Cor. + 3:15.”</span> (Z. '06-309; Psa. 76:7.) The only ones who will stand + are the twelve tribes named in the next chapter.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page123">[pg 123]</span><a name= + "Pg123" id="Pg123" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc19" id="toc19"></a> <a name="pdf20" id="pdf20"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 7—Seventh Seal And Great + Company</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + after [these things] THIS.</span></span>—After the events disclosed + by the opening of the sixth seal had already been amply fulfilled, + but not signifying that further, more elaborate and final + fulfilments on an immense scale will not take place later.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I saw four + angels standing on the four corners of the earth.</span></span>—The + Little Flock, commissioned to carry the message of Present Truth to + the remotest outposts of civilization. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“They shall gather together His Elect from the four + winds.”</span>—Matt. 24:31.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Holding the four + winds of the earth.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + winds of the earth referred to here are, of course, symbolic. The + thought is that the winds from the four quarters—North, East, South + and West—are being held back, and that when the restraint is + withdrawn they will rush together, and the result will be a + whirlwind. Certain Scriptures tell of a whirlwind that will be + raised up from the coasts of the earth. See Jer. 23:19; 25:32, 33; + 30:23, 24. We do not understand that this will be a physical + whirlwind, but this symbolic expression is used to convey the + thought of a severe strife of the powers of the air. These + <span class="tei tei-q">‘powers of the air,’</span> or <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘winds,’</span> are not powers of natural air, but are + the powers referred to by St. Paul when he speaks of Satan as + <span class="tei tei-q">‘the Prince of the power of the + air,’</span> (Eph. 2:2.) Those spirits who have been under the + control of Satan—the fallen angels—were to be restrained until the + Judgment of the Great Day. (Jude 6.) The letting loose of these + winds, or air powers, would seem to show that God will let go His + hand of restraint; that He will have to do with the permission of + the terrible trouble that will come. This outside influence will + exercise a baneful effect upon men, when finally granted the + liberty. These fallen spirits have been under restraint for these + many centuries, but they have exercised their influence to whatever + extent they have had permission. If they had had unlimited power + they would have wrecked the world long ago; but they have been + restrained. Apparently God will soon cease to restrain the fallen + angels, and they will then proceed to vent their fury upon + humanity, so that the whole earth will be full of violence, the + same as in the days of Noah. <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page124">[pg 124]</span><a name="Pg124" id="Pg124" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> The power manifested by the demons when + loosed, will, we believe, be with a view to the injury of mankind. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">We do not + know but that many of our readers will have a share in that + injury.</span></span> We have every reason to suppose that, if + these fallen angels shall get loose, they will vent their first + anger upon the Lord's people.”</span>—Z. '14-166.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That the wind + should not blow.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“As soon as + the power that is now controlling them shall be removed, we shall + have a reign of evil all over the earth. The evil spirits will do + all the evil that is in their power, and this will constitute the + trial of all the fallen angels—the lifting of the restraints to see + whether they will go contrary to the Divine will. All who thus + manifest their alliance with evil in any way will become subjects + of the Second Death; while others who show their loyalty to God + will mark themselves as worthy, presumably, of everlasting life. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">It may be + something in connection with the saints that will constitute the + test of these angels. This will be the key, the secret connected + with the awful Time of Trouble which the Bible tells us will mark + the conclusion of this Age and which will constitute the forerunner + or beginning of the New Dispensation.</span></span>”</span> (Z. + '11-359.) <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">THE TEST IS ON.</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">On the earth, + nor on the sea, nor on any tree.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Symbolically, the earth represents organized society; + the sea represents the disorganized masses (Dan. 7:2; Lu. 21:25; + Rev. 10:2, 8), and the trees represent the Household of Faith. The + letting loose suddenly of the fallen angels will account well for + the suddenness of the coming trouble, which everywhere in the + Scriptures is one of its particular features—<span class= + "tei tei-q">‘in one hour’</span>; <span class="tei tei-q">‘suddenly + as travail upon a woman’</span>; <span class="tei tei-q">‘as it was + in the days of Noah,’</span> and <span class="tei tei-q">‘as it was + in the days of Lot’</span> ”</span>—Z. '11-157.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“There is only one way, so far as we can see, in which + these fallen angels can have a trial, their trial consisting in + having a fuller opportunity to sin, if they so desire, or an + opportunity to show, if they wish, that they are sick of sin and + desire to return to harmony with God. We cannot think that God will + allow this trial of the angels during the Millennial Reign, for + then, nothing shall hurt; nothing shall destroy; Satan will be + bound and all evil influences will be restrained. No; it cannot be + then. And in order to be tried at all, these fallen angels must + have certain liberties granted, to prove them. Otherwise, where + would be their trial? Consequently, reasoning along this basis (2 + Peter 2:4), we reach the conclusion that the trial of these fallen + angels is in the near future—perhaps to some extent already begun. + In what way?”</span> (Z. '11-358.) He that hath ears to hear, let + him hear!—1 Cor. 6:2.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page125">[pg + 125]</span><a name="Pg125" id="Pg125" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw another angel.</span></span>—The Messenger of the Covenant; + our Lord Jesus at His Second Advent.—Mal. 3:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Ascending from + the east.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“This speaks + symbolically of the Sun of Righteousness and its full light of + Divine truth and blessing scattering the shadows of sin, ignorance, + superstition and death, and healing and restoring the willing and + obedient of humanity.”</span>—D. 653; Luke 1:78; Mal. 4:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having the seal + of the living God.</span></span>—The seventh seal.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And He cried + with a loud voice.</span></span>—Pastor Russell was the voice used. + Beautiful voice of the Lord: strong, humble, wise, loving, gentle, + just, merciful, faithful, self-sacrificing; one of the noblest, + grandest characters of all history <span class="tei tei-q">“I lift + my pen, not in defense of any doctrine, creed or dogma, but in + defense of a man, in defense of fairness, justice and + righteousness. Pastor C. T. Russell, of Brooklyn, N. Y., stands out + prominently as a target for the pulpits and religious press of the + country today. I believe there is no one more bitterly persecuted, + harshly condemned, woefully misrepresented and misunderstood than + this fearless, conscientious man of God. No infidel writer, such as + Hume, Voltaire or Ingersoll, ever suffered such ruthless attacks as + have been made upon Mr. Russell. Whether this persecution and + misrepresentation is due to prejudice or ignorance of this man's + real character and writing, is not for me to say, but I believe + both are elements that play a part in the widespread criticism + uttered both from the pulpit and the press. Naturally, men will + resent any attack made upon the creed of their persuasion, for they + hold to their religious creed and affiliations with more tenacity + than they realize, until some strong mind, backed by Scripture + proof, begins to uproot their doctrine by showing their + inconsistencies and errors. This is what Mr. Russell proceeds to + do. As a logician and theologian he is doubtless without a peer + today. In his research for Biblical Truth and harmony he is without + a parallel in this Age. Without a blemish in his character, with + the loftiest ideals of God, and the possibilities of man, he towers + like a giant, unmatched. His defects fade into insignificance. He + has been too busy spreading Divine Truth, as he honestly sees it, + to waste time in frivolous speculation in matters not in some way + connected with man's future state, as outlined in <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The Plan of the Ages.’</span> Unselfish, liberal and + courteous to Christians of all denominations, but fearlessly + condemning, in unmeasured terms, the errors and inconsistencies in + their creeds, as he sees them, he ranks with immortal benefactors, + and is stamping his opinion on the world as no other man has + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page126">[pg 126]</span><a name= + "Pg126" id="Pg126" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> done since the days + of the Reformation. Efforts to throttle the press to prevent the + publication of his sermons have repeatedly been made. Why this + opposition? Why would any one oppose investigation or revelation + and searching the Scriptures? Why? What right has any one to + prevent free thought, free speech, or the freedom of the press? + What manner of men are we? Let men, preachers or what not, beware + of blocking the way of such a man. Jesus said, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones + that believe in Me, it is better that a millstone were hanged about + his neck, and he were cast into the sea.’</span> Mark 9:42. Better + be like Gamaliel in the days of the Apostles, when St. Peter and + others were on trial. Gamaliel rose up and said, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Refrain from these men, and let them alone, for if + this work be of men it will come to naught; but if it be of God, ye + cannot overthrow it, for ye fight against + God.’</span> ”</span>—Prof. S. A. Ellis.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To the four + angels.</span></span>—The church in the flesh, the Harvest + workers.—Matt. 24:31.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To whom it was + given.</span></span>—By completing the Harvest work and thus + releasing the restraints on the evil spirits.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To hurt the + earth.</span></span>—Throw order-loving peoples into + desperation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + sea.</span></span>—So enrage the masses, not under religious + restraint, as to make it impossible to control them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Saying, Hurt not the + earth.</span></span>—Do not complete the Harvest work too soon, and + thus allow the demons to invade the minds of men until the + appointed time. (Many writers claim that this has already happened + to the ex-Czar of Russia, to Kaiser Wilhelm and to the chief of + modern <span class="tei tei-q">“evangelists.”</span>)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Neither the + sea.</span></span>—I will see to it that the work of Harvest shall + hold in check those not under religious restraint until the work of + Harvest is finished and the demons are released, when, maddened by + the obsession of the evil spirits, there are no lengths to which + the godless will not presume to go. All Bible Students, followers + of Pastor Russell, know how urgently he has warned for forty years + that this deluge of evil spirits is sure to come.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Nor the + trees.</span></span>—See Rev. 8:7. Have you enjoyed this work thus + far? Are you convinced it is of the Lord—prepared under His + guidance? Have you carefully and prayerfully read the comments on + Rev. 7:1? Then brace yourself for the truth that it is evidently + God's purpose soon to allow the minds of many of His little ones to + become an open battle ground, upon which the fallen angels shall be + judged, and the manner in which we meet the tests will prove our + worthiness of crowns at the same <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page127">[pg 127]</span><a name="Pg127" id="Pg127" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> time that it proves these disobedient spirits + unworthy of life on any plane. This is something with which some + but not many are yet familiar. Truly, we know the Apostle in + writing of this evil day says, <span class="tei tei-q">“We wrestle + not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against + powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against + spiritual wicked ones in heavenly places”</span> (Eph. 6:12). + Truly, we know the Lord Jesus, at the First Advent began His + ministry with forty days of conflict with the Adversary, who all + that time sought to sway His mind (Matt. 4:1-11). Truly, we have + reason to believe He must have had other terrible battles when He + spent all night in prayer, and especially when He was so depressed + in the garden of Gethsemane. But without actual experience it is + quite impossible to conceive of the intensity of such struggles as + Eph. 6:12 suggests. The base of the brain is seized as in a vise. + Interpretations of Scripture, ingenious, but misleading beyond + description, are projected into the mind as water might be + projected through a hose. Visions may be tried, wonderful + illuminations of the mind as by a soft but glorious greenish or + yellowish haze. Seductive suggestions may be made, based on + circumstances of the environment. Offers of inspiration may be + made. The privilege of sleep may be taken away for days at a + stretch. All this is with the object of forcing the unfortunate + into at least temporary insanity so as to destroy his influence + and, if possible, his faith in God. Failing in all other attempts, + the mind may be flooded with thoughts that are vile beyond + description. <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">THEN REMEMBER THE VOW.</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The fact that + Jehovah intends some unique experiences for the antitypical Isaac + may be judged from the fact that between Isaac's conception (Gen. + 17:19 and 18:10) and his birth (Gen. 21:1) occurred the destruction + of Sodom (Gen. 18:16 to end of 19th Chap.) and <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Abraham's denial of + Sarah</span></span> (Gen. 20). But reading the latter account, the + child of God is comforted with God's care of His little ones (Gen. + 20:3) with the assurance that none of Satan's plans can mature + (Gen. 20:18) without the Lord's permission. Isaac was a type of the + complete Christ; and if now The Christ is complete, as we believe, + and ready to be born into the Kingdom, we should not be surprised + at anything that might look like our repudiation at the Father's + hands. If He pours the cup, it will only be because He knows that + we can drink it, and because He wishes to prove to angels and to + men that we are worthy of the honors He is to give us.—Lu. 22:42, + 43; 1 Tim. 1:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Till + we.</span></span>—You <span class="tei tei-q">“four angels,”</span> + Harvest workers in the flesh, and Myself, the Lord of the + Harvest.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page128">[pg + 128]</span><a name="Pg128" id="Pg128" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Have sealed the + servants of our God.</span></span>—See Rev. 19:20; 14:1. Satan is a + diligent student of time prophecy (Luke 12:39); but not having the + Holy Spirit he is unable to reach accurate conclusions. Seeing a + definite Plan, and a definite time for every important feature of + that Plan, his aim has ever been to thwart the purposes of the + Almighty. This attempt to destroy the Seed began with the death of + Abel and still continues. No doubt Satan <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">believed</span></em> the Millennial Kingdom + was due to be set up in 1915; and no doubt, also, he knew that + seven years prior to the time of the setting up of that kingdom the + restraints upon the evil spirits would be lifted. Be that as it + may, there is evidence that the establishment of the Kingdom in + Palestine will probably be in 1925, ten years later than we once + calculated. The 70 jubilees, reckoned as 50 years each, expire + October, 1925. (B. 186.) Gen. 15:1-16:3, read connectedly, + indicates that Abraham's vision as to when he would receive the + Kingdom was not granted until ten years after the Covenant was + made, or 2035 B. C. The ages of the animals offered aggregated + eleven years, which, applied prophetically, on the scale of a year + for a day, equal 3960 years, the length of time from the date of + the visions to A. D. 1925 (Z. '07-79). It seems conclusive that the + hour of Nominal Zion's travail is fixed for the Passover of 1918. + (See Rev. 3:14.) That will be 7 years prior to 1925. At that time + there is every reason to believe the fallen angels will invade the + minds of many of the Nominal Church people, driving them to + exceedingly unwise conduct and leading to their destruction at the + hands of the enraged masses, who will later be dragged to the same + fate. The great war now raging is most certainly the work of evil + spirits, and the Kaiser is not the only clever ruler who has been + deceived by evil spirits, as history will sometime show.—Lu. + 12:56.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">If our reasoning + is correct, we inquire whether there was any indication of a move + on Satan's part 7 years prior to 1915, showing that he expected the + restraints to be removed from the evil spirits at that time; and we + answer that there was something very definite indicated at that + time. In the Vow, advised by Pastor Russell in that year, and in + the experiences of many, for and against it, it is plain that the + Enemy <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">then</span></em> attempted to come in like a + flood, but was held back—restrained until the sealing work is done. + (Matt. 10:25; Luke 22:42-44; Heb. 12:4; Isa. 63:3.) After the + demons have been turned loose on the <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">swine</span></em> + class, we shall see what happens. (Matt. 7:6; 8:31-34.) Those now + fearful that they might learn something will be terror-stricken + then for a different reason.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page129">[pg 129]</span><a name="Pg129" id="Pg129" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In their + foreheads.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The storm is held + in check until the faithful servants of God are <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘sealed in their foreheads’</span> (Exod. 13:9; 28:36, + 38. Deut. 6:8; Ezek. 9:4-6; Rev. 14:1), i. e., until such are given + an intellectual appreciation which will not only comfort them, and + shield them, but also be a mark, seal or evidence of their sonship, + as indicated by our Lord when He promised that the Holy Spirit + should show to the faithful <span class="tei tei-q">‘things to + come.’</span> (John 16:13.)”</span> (B. 169.) When the demon test + comes, those who have the mark of sonship (Ezek. 9:2-4) will know + it and will stand the test, while all others will surely fail. A + letter from one of the Bethel workers, written shortly after Pastor + Russell's death, says: <span class="tei tei-q">“About three months + ago I asked several questions at the table, the last one being as + follows, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Since I now see that the Jewish + Time of Trouble did not end until the year 73 A. D., as I fully + proved to myself by consulting the historians, what then are we to + expect in the parallel year 1918?’</span> Brother Russell put the + question to three prominent brethren, all of whom replied that they + did not know, but were willing to wait and see. When he called upon + me I said, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Since the year 73 A. D. saw the + complete overthrow of nominal Natural Israel in Palestine, so in + the parallel year 1918, I infer we should look for the complete + overthrow of nominal Spiritual Israel; i. e., the fall of Babylon. + (Rev. 18.)’</span> Brother Russell replied: <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Exactly. That is exactly the inference to + draw.’</span> ”</span> The conclusion of the Church's career comes + first. (Rev. 3:14.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“If you see the <span class="tei tei-q">‘door’</span> + of opportunity for sacrifice and service open before you, enter in. + But enter quickly; for the night of darkness and of intense + opposition to the truth will ere long be upon us and will hinder + you from engaging in the service. <span class="tei tei-q">‘The + morning cometh, and also the night.’</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The night cometh in which no man can work.’</span> + When that is true, you may know that <span class="tei tei-q">‘the + door is shut.’</span> that all the wise virgins have entered in, + that all have been proved, and that all vacancies have been + acceptably filled. All the special <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘servants of God’</span> having by that time been + <span class="tei tei-q">‘sealed in their foreheads’</span> (given + an intellectual appreciation of God's Plan), the four winds will be + loosed and will produce the great <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘whirlwind’</span> of trouble in the midst of which the + remnant of the Elijah class will be <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘changed,’</span> and exalted to Kingdom + glory.”</span>—C. 225.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I heard the number of them which were + sealed.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“We have every reason + to believe that the definite, fixed number of the Elect is that + several times stated in Revelation, namely, 144,000 <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘redeemed from amongst men.’</span> ”</span> (F. 179; + Rev. 14:1.) This is the equivalent of one saint fully developed for + each five days of the Age.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page130">[pg 130]</span><a name="Pg130" id="Pg130" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there were + sealed 144,000.</span></span>—On this point one of Pastor Russell's + coworkers has well said: <span class="tei tei-q">“That this is not + a symbolical, but an exact number, seems certain from the fact + that, in the same chapter reference is made to another company, + also spirit-begotten. In the 9th verse we read: <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘I beheld, and lo, a great multitude which no man could + number.’</span> It is not probable that this multitude is so great + that no one could actually count them, but rather that none can + state their number, God having left it indefinite.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of all the + tribes of the children of Israel.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“As a name, Israel signified <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The people blessed of the Lord,’</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The people of God,’</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The Lord's people.’</span>—2 Chron. 7:14.”</span> (D. + 654; Gal. 6:16; Rom. 9:6-8.) Each of the saints is reckoned as + belonging to one of the twelve tribes of <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Israelites indeed,”</span> which tribes bear the names + of the twelve patriarchs of natural Israel. In every family each + child is beloved for some characteristic peculiarly its own; and in + the meaning of the names of the children of Israel we may recognize + certain of the qualities which make each overcomer precious in the + Father's sight.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + the tribe of Juda were sealed twelve thousand.</span></span>—Juda + signifies <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Celebrated</span></span>, lauded, praised. + Nothing is more praiseworthy than justice, noble-mindedness, the + doing to everybody as one would wish to be done by. Our Lord was + the Just One of the tribe of Juda. All who knew Pastor Russell + intimately, recognized that justice was the foundation principle of + his character. The mention of the Lord's tribe first shows that + there is a Divine order in the arrangement of the names, inasmuch + as that order is different from the order of the birth of Jacob's + sons. Doubtless the brightest crowns will be worn by those that are + wholly without self-love, either in heart or in life.—Gen. + 38:12-26; 43:3-10; 44:14, 34; 46:28.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the tribe of + Reuben [were sealed] twelve thousand.</span></span>—Reuben's name + signifying <span class="tei tei-q">“<span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">See ye, a son, + provided in my affliction</span></span>”</span> or <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">The Pity of + God</span></span>, seems to refer to the five-talented brethren who + make their calling and election sure. To be possessed of ability + and means to get the fullest enjoyment out of life, and to + sacrifice it all gladly, requires a standard of character so high + that the Lord expressly states that not many attain it. (1 Cor. + 1:26; Gen. 37:21, 22, 29, 30; 42:22, 37.) A taint of love of the + world (spiritual uncleanness) is all that prevents from attaining + the very highest place.—Gen. 35:22; 49:3, 4; 2 Cor. 7:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the tribe of + Gad [were sealed] twelve thousand.</span></span>—Gad's name, + signifying <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">A troop of children cometh</span></span>, + seems to give the third highest honor to those faithful men and + women who have been blessed of God in bringing many <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page131">[pg 131]</span><a name="Pg131" id="Pg131" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> of their own descendants into the + Divine family. Instances are on record where as many as twelve + children in one family have all come into the light of Present + Truth and consecrated, as a result of the life and teachings of a + noble father and mother. There is a family interest on the part of + the Heavenly Father in every family that rightly seeks His face. + Not a crown is available for others, so long as even one child of + one of the consecrated is ready to run for that crown. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The promise is unto you [first], and to your children + [next], and [after that] to all that are afar off, even as many as + the Lord your God shall call.”</span> (Acts 2:39; 1 Cor. 7:14.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“Of the childhood and life of the patriarch + Gad nothing is preserved. At the time of the descent into Egypt, + seven sons are ascribed to him, remarkable from the fact that a + majority of their names have plural terminations, as if those of + families rather than persons.”</span> (McC.)—Gen. 46:16; Num. + 26:15-18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + the tribe of Aser [were sealed] twelve + thousand.</span></span>—Aser's name signifies <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Happy</span></span>. + <span class="tei tei-q">“And Leah said, Happy am I, for the + daughters will call me blessed: and she called his name + Asher.”</span> (Gen. 30:13.) Apparently the fourth highest place of + honor goes to the happy Christians. Wherever else the long-faced + saints go they do not get into the Asher tribe. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say rejoice. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Finally</span></span>, my brethren, rejoice in + the Lord.”</span>—Phil. 4:4; 3:1; 2 Chron. 20:22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the tribe of + Nephtalim [were sealed] twelve thousand.</span></span>—Naphtali's + name signifies <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Great wrestlings</span></span>, and suggests + that the fifth highest place will go to those who have especially + sought the face of the Father in prayer. By his birth Naphtali was + allied to Dan, the class that goes into the Second Death. (Gen. + 35:25; 49:17.) The suggestion is not strained, then, that here is a + class that has overcome largely because they have so much + appreciated, and have used to such good purpose, the privilege of + seeking the Father's face in prayer.—Luke 11:5-13; James 1:5; + 3:17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the tribe of + Manasses [were sealed] twelve thousand.</span></span>—Manasseh's + name signifies <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Forgetting</span></span>, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“For God hath made me forget all my toil and all my + father's House.”</span> (Gen. 41:51.) The sixth honor apparently + refers to a class having naturally very strong human attachments, + for the dear ones of their earthly families, and yet love the Lord + still more. Great is the love, great the faithfulness of those that + hear and heed the Divine proposal: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Hearken, O daughter, and consider, and incline thine + ear; forget also thine own people, and thy father's + House.”</span>—Psa. 45:10.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page132">[pg 132]</span><a name="Pg132" id="Pg132" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + the tribe of Simeon [were sealed] twelve + thousand.</span></span>—Simeon signifies <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Hearing</span></span>. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Because the Lord hath heard that I was hated, He hath + therefore given me this son also.”</span> (Gen. 29:33.) This + suggests that the seventh place of honor is reserved for those who + have been hated in their home circles because of faithfulness to + the Word of the Lord. The Lord saw that the beauties of their + characters would only shine forth to the best advantage if they + were made ready in just such environment. How sweet, how beautiful, + is the patient heart developed under such conditions!—Rom. 5:3; + Col. 1:11, 12; 1 Pet. 1:7; 4:12; 5:10; Rom. 8:17; 2 Tim. 2:12; + James 1:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the tribe of + Levi [were sealed] twelve thousand.</span></span>—Levi's name + signifies <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">A joining</span></span>. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“This time will my husband be joined unto me, because I + have borne him three sons.”</span> The next honor is apparently + reserved for those who have literally sacrificed all their + possessions in this world in order that they might be more closely + joined to the Lord and His service. Levi had no inheritance in the + land, as a tribe, and as an individual the only event recorded in + the life of the patriarch is one of destruction of the + unfaithful.—Gen. 34:25-29.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the tribe of + Issachar [were sealed] twelve thousand.</span></span>—Issachar + signifies <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">There is reward</span></span>, or <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">He brings + reward</span></span>. <span class="tei tei-q">“God hath given me my + hire, because I have given my maiden to my husband.”</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">“Issachar is a strong ass couching down + between two burdens: and he saw that rest was good, and the land + that it was pleasant; and bowed his shoulder to bear.”</span> (Gen. + 30:18; 49:14, 15.) This seems to signify that the next honor goes + to the zealous, those who joyfully undertake, in the Lord's name + and cause, to work hard for the glory of His name.—1 Cor. + 15:58.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + the tribe of Zabulon [were sealed] twelve + thousand.</span></span>—Zebulun signifies <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Habitation</span></span> or <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Dwelling</span></span>. It signifies the + blessed satisfaction that comes to those who, like the Master, + during their earthly pilgrimages have not known where to lay their + heads; but, although they have wrestled with poverty throughout + life's little day, have nevertheless held faithfully to the Lord, + serving Him, with limited education, strength, talents and + opportunities, in hope of finally reaching <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Home where changes never come, nor pain, nor + sorrow, toil nor care.”</span> What a homecoming they will have! In + the Father's House of many mansions theirs will be the happiest + home.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the tribe of + [Joseph were sealed] BENJAMIN twelve + thousand.</span></span>—Benjamin signified <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Son of my + Sorrow</span></span> originally, but the name was changed to + signify <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Son of the right hand</span></span>. The + youngest of Jacob's children, he seems <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page133">[pg 133]</span><a name="Pg133" id="Pg133" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> in some aspects to typify the Great Company + class (Z. '81-1-7), but succeeds in gaining the higher reward, + probably because of being the companions of those that occupy more + advanced positions in the Body. Thus the humble-minded and faithful + servants and <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">companions</span></em> may and do fill up that + which is behind of the afflictions of Christ, even though their + personal sufferings be slight.—Heb. 10:33.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the tribe of + [Benjamin were sealed] JOSEPH twelve thousand.</span></span>—The + Sinaitic MS. mentions Joseph last, with peculiar fitness. Joseph + was one of the most beautiful characters of the Bible. His name + signifies <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Whom may God increase</span></span>. He had so + many virtues that it is inadvisable to attempt their enumeration, + but the story is told at length in Gen. 37-50. He is one of the + very few characters named in the Bible about whom nothing + uncomplimentary is expressed. He well represents all the other + members of the Divine family, all of whom have attained the Divine + likeness in their hearts and given expression to that likeness as + well as the frailties and weaknesses of the flesh would permit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">It will be + noticed that the tribes of Dan and Ephraim are omitted from the + foregoing list. Dan evidently represents the class that goes into + the Second Death. The name signifies <span class="tei tei-q">“God + hath judged me.”</span> (Gen. 30:6.) We know that all God's + judgments are just and look for the reason for Dan's rejection. + Jacob prophesied that it would be Dan <span class="tei tei-q">“that + biteth the horse heels, so that his rider shall fall + backward.”</span> (Gen. 49:17.) Horses are symbols of doctrines. + Dan evidently represents a class tampering with doctrines, + resulting in the overthrow of the New Creature. A study of the + history of the tribe of Dan confirms this. Originally Dan was given + one of the choicest parts of Palestine, one of the most fertile and + the most secure. It was completely embraced by its two brother + tribes Ephraim and Benjamin, while on the south-east and south it + joined Judah, and was thus surrounded by the three most powerful + states of the whole confederacy. The Danites however failed to + conquer the land originally assigned to them (representing the + failure of the New Creature to gain the victory over the mind of + the flesh) and chose another inheritance to the far north (Judges + 18:1-31). This selection of the farthest north resembles Satan's + similar choice (Isa. 14:13) and suggests that the Danite New + Creatures were led away from their original inheritance by + ambition. The context shows an unreasonably high valuation of their + own judgment and a wilful interference with the priestly office, + and this we may judge has <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page134">[pg + 134]</span><a name="Pg134" id="Pg134" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + been a frequent offense of those who commit the great sin that lies + just beyond the sin of presumption. (Psa. 19:13; 2 Sam. 6:6, 7.) + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">THE TEST + IS ON</span></span>; take heed! take heed!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The half tribe + of Ephraim represents the Great Company, mainly to be found in the + Nominal Church. They are more or less intoxicated with error (Isa. + 28:1, 7), they fear to let go of their idols of creeds and + catechisms (Hos. 4:17), they are, in a way, half-baked Christians, + not wholly devoted to the Lord—<span class="tei tei-q">“Ephraim is + a cake not turned.”</span> (Hos. 7:8.) From first to last the + prophecy of Hosea is eloquent with Jehovah's pleadings to the Great + Company class not to miss the great prize of Immortality.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">After this, I beheld, and lo, a great + multitude.</span></span>—When the Apostle tells us in 2 John 8, + <span class="tei tei-q">“Look to yourselves that ye lose not those + things which we have wrought, but that ye receive a full + reward,”</span> he is teaching that a Heavenly reward may be gained + that is not as full as if a course more pleasing to the Heavenly + Father is pursued.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Instead of + teaching that the saved of our race will all be saved to the same + thing, the Scriptures show two degrees or kinds of Heavenly + salvation, and two degrees or kinds of earthly salvation. In the + second chapter of Genesis the stream which went forth from the + Garden of Eden was divided into four parts. This is a Scriptural + recognition of the fact that from Adam, the original fountain of + life, will flow four streams: The Little Flock, who are to sit down + with Christ in His Throne; the Great Company, who are to stand + before the Throne, having the palms of martyrdom but without the + crowns of glory; the Ancient Worthies, the Jewish fathers, Abraham, + Isaac, Jacob, Daniel, etc., who are to be made princes in all the + earth; and the world of mankind, who will constitute the subjects + of the Kingdom over which the Ancient Worthies will rule. The same + lesson is taught in the division of the Levites into four camps, + each located on a different side of the Tabernacle. (Num. 3:15; F. + 128, 129.) It is also taught in the Apostle's statement in 2 Tim. + 2:20, that in God's great House there will ultimately be found four + classes of vessels to His praise.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The question for + the saints is not as to which of the earthly classes may ultimately + include them, for they have given up their earthly hopes in + exchange for Heavenly hopes. The question is whether they shall be + wise virgins, faithful students of the Word, building with the + gold, silver and precious stones of Divine Truth instead of foolish + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">virgins</span></em> (pure of heart) (Matt. + 25:2; C. 91; F. 75) who build faith structures with the wood, hay + and stubble of human tradition. The Apostle says the fiery trials + of life will <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page135">[pg + 135]</span><a name="Pg135" id="Pg135" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + try every man's work so as by fire, and intimates that those who do + not build wisely shall suffer loss—not go into eternal torment, but + fail to gain the great reward which otherwise might be theirs. (1 + Cor. 3:15; T. 69.) The question is whether as branches in Christ + the Vine, to go onward to fruit-bearing, or as other branches, to + be principally devoted to leaves (professions), or tendrils + (feelers after earthly honors and emoluments). (John 15:2; F. 78, + 170.) Christ said of a similar class in His day, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“How can ye believe [effectively] which receive honor + one of another, and seek not the praise which cometh from God + only!”</span> The question is whether we are to be termed children + of disobedience (Col. 3:6; Z. '99-140) because, though God's + children, we have failed to mortify, or put to death, our earthly + and sinful tendencies; whether we are sinners against the covenant + we have made with God to lay down our lives in His service (Psa. + 1:1; Z. '00-281), whether, like Lot's wife, we look back to the + earthly good things we have given up (Gen. 19:26; C. 194), or + whether we retain the singleness of heart and purpose, without + which the prize of the High Calling cannot be gained.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The question is + whether, as babes in Christ, we shall wink at the unscriptural + divisions of God's people, into followers of Paul or Apollos, + Cephas or Luther, Calvin or Wesley (1 Cor. 3:4; D. 17); whether, + like Rahab, we shall be in the citadel of error when it falls, or + like Joshua who caused it to fall (Josh. 6:25; Z. '07-267); + whether, like the fitches and cummin, we shall easily divest + ourselves of the entangling associations of life, represented by + the pods from which the fitches and cummin are so easily shaken, or + whether we shall be like the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“bread-corn”</span> which requires a vast amount of + threshing before it will let go of the close-clinging chaff. (Isa. + 28:27; Z. '84-1-4.) The question is whether, like the rejected + members of Gideon's army, we shall forget our mission, and bury our + heads in the waters of truth; or whether, with equal appreciation + of its message, we shall remember why the Lord gave it to us, and + shall drink of it, with our eyes out over the horizon, seeking to + serve, to spend and be spent in the Master's service. (Judg. 7:6; + Z. '07-331.) The question is whether, like Caleb and Joshua, we + shall retain our confidence in Him who has called us, and bring + back true reports of the land we hope ere long to possess, or, + whether we shall be of the larger company that through fear and + faint-heartedness never enter in. (Num. 13:31; Z. '07-251.) Shall + we rejoice to lay down our lives for the Lord's brethren, or shall + we, through fear of this sacrificial death, be all our lifetime + subject to bondage? (Heb. 2:15; <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page136">[pg 136]</span><a name="Pg136" id="Pg136" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> T. 70, 71.) The question is whether we shall + be like the servant who hid his Lord's talent in the earth (in + earthly enjoyments and pursuits) (Matt. 25:24; Z. '01-61; Z. + '06-318), whether we shall be double minded, having some idea of + attaining heavenly things and some idea of getting all we can of + earthly things (Jas. 1:8; Z. '07-316), whether, like Obadiah, we + are merely friendly toward the Truth and those who stand for the + Truth, but conceal our interest for fear of the consequences to + ourselves and our families.—1 Ki. 18:3; Z. '04-221.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">If, in these + tests of faith and character, we come off victorious in the Lord's + sight, we shall not need to be of those who wash their robes and + make them white in the blood of the Lamb, in the great tribulation + with which this Age will close, but shall keep our robes unspotted + so that they will not need such a general cleansing. If we have + fled to the Lord before the winter time of His disfavor has come + upon the man-made systems of our day, we shall be spared the rigors + of the flight, of which He said, <span class="tei tei-q">“Pray that + your flight be not in <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">the winter</span></em> [of 1917-1918 + (?)]”</span> (Matt. 20:10; D. 578), and we shall be spared, too, + the bitter disappointment of saying at that time, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Harvest [the time of special favor] is past, the + summer is ended and we are not saved”</span> [not saved with the + chiefest salvation, with the salvation to which we aspired]. (Jer. + 8:20; D. 578.) In the time of Zion's travail these children of God + will all be delivered. (Isa. 66:8; Z. '94-135.) Let us be glad of + our hope that we shall be of the Man-child delivered before that + travail comes. Let us hope we may not be of the lambs (Isa. 34:6; + D. 17) or the goats found together in the nominal sheepfolds when + the time has come to wind up present ecclesiastical systems. All + down the Age, some of God's children have been <span class= + "tei tei-q">“turned over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, + that the spirit might be saved in the day of the Lord”</span> (1 + Cor. 5:5; T. 69, 71), because they have not lived up to their + covenants. The sufferings of the scapegoat class, turned into the + wilderness, dying of thirst, hunger, snake-bites, thorns, briars, + burrs, fleas or attacks of wild animals, were far greater than + those of the Lord's goat, killed sacrificially. (Lev. 16:7-10; T. + 60.) Those who withhold from the Lord what they have promised Him + suffer far more than those who fight manfully the good fight of + faith and lay hold with both hands on the hope set before us.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The Great + Company class will say <span class="tei tei-q">“Alleluia”</span> as + soon as they perceive that the Church is complete. (Rev. 19:1; A. + 240; F. 128.) But like Rebecca's damsels of old, they must go the + same long journey as the Bride class, only to <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page137">[pg 137]</span><a name="Pg137" id="Pg137" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> be received as servants in the end. + (Gen. 24:61; Psa. 45:14; F. 121, 171.) Shall we enter fully into + our inheritance now, while the door is still open to do and dare in + the Master's Cause; or shall we be like the class mentioned in + Ezekiel 44 that finds the door shut because the start is made too + late, and must know that forever the Heavenly Priesthood, the prize + of the High Calling, is closed, and that the most that can be then + attained is the place as keepers or servants in the Temple? (Ezek. + 44:1-14; Z. '05-269.) Let us rejoice if we are heirs of salvation + at all; but let us resolve, by God's grace, that we shall, in the + words of our text, <span class="tei tei-q">“Look to ourselves, that + we lose not those things that we have wrought, but that we receive + a full reward”</span>—all that the Father is pleased to give to + those who love Him supremely.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“What we see going on about us seems natural to our + minds. The way in which other people spend time and money is a + temptation to the Lord's people which must be <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">steadfastly + resisted</span></em>. For us to do what others do, and to devote to + the Lord's service only what the world considers a reasonable day's + work, would not be fulfilling our Covenant of Sacrifice at all. + Those who seek merely to do right, and to put in eight hours or so + a day faithfully, after the manner of the world, will be judged + from this standpoint; and they will merely obtain a place in the + Great Company. They are not fulfilling the conditions of the + Covenant of Sacrifice.”</span>—Z. '14-71.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“We do not think we should understand the Scriptures to + teach that the Great Company will attain to the same degree of + spiritual development as the Little Flock. They fail to display + that love and zeal which the Lord has set as the mark for + participation in the Royal Priesthood.”</span> (Z. '14-68.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“In determining to sacrifice themselves + piecemeal when and how they and their friends might please, is the + primary mistake.”</span> (Z. '96-191.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“While the living members of the Bride are being + separated from others by the <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Truth</span></em>, the ears of this class are + dull of hearing and they are slow to believe and slow to + act.”</span> (A. 240.) <span class="tei tei-q">“In one parable the + Lord styles this class a wicked and slothful servant. He does not + deny him the honor of being a servant, He does not charge him with + becoming an enemy. He is counted wicked and slothful because, + having undertaken certain responsibilities as a servant, he has + failed to manifest the proper spirit of earnest + devotion.”</span>—Z. '07-315.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which no man + could number.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Whose number + no man is able to tell (i. e., it is not a foreordained or fixed + number—none were called to be of this company.)”</span>—Rev. + 5:11.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page138">[pg + 138]</span><a name="Pg138" id="Pg138" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of all nations, + and kindreds, and people, and tongues.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“As the number of the Bride of Christ is to be 144,000, + it would be reasonable to think that each number of this class may + have 144,000 to look after, as 144,000 x 144,000 equals + 20,736,000,000 (twenty billions seven hundred and thirty-six + millions), evidently just about the right number to be cared + for—144,000 would be quite a host for each individual of the Bride + class to look after. So we can see the necessity for the work of + the Great Company.”</span>—<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Question Meeting.</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Stood before the + Throne.</span></span>—Not in the Throne, as in the case of the + Bride. (A. 214.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The Scriptures inform us + that as that which is begotten of the flesh is flesh, so that which + is begotten of the Spirit is spirit. That is to say, that whoever + has been begotten of the Holy Spirit has experienced a change of + nature so radical that it would be impossible for him to share a + resurrection with the world on the human plane.”</span>—Z. + '07-316.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And before the + Lamb.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Since their hearts are + loyal to the Redeemer, and since they maintain their faith in the + precious blood and hold fast and do not deny the same, therefore + the Lord Jesus, the Advocate, the Captain of our Salvation, who + leads the Very Elect to glory through the steps of willing + sacrifice, will lead these to a spiritual blessing—to perfection on + a lower plane of spirit-being—because they have trusted in Him and + have not denied His name or His work.”</span>—F. 169.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Clothed with + white robes.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“They let slip + their opportunity for becoming members of the Bride; but they are, + nevertheless, <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">virgins</span></em>, pure in their + heart-intentions.”</span>—F. 127; Rev. 7:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And palms in + their hands.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The palm is + especially the symbol of <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">martyrdom</span></em>. The palm of martyrdom + has become in the language of the Church, a classical and + sacramental expression. In the diptychs, the acts of the martyrs, + and the martyrologies, we read, <span class="tei tei-q">‘He has + received the palm of martyrdom’</span>—he has been crowned with the + palm of the martyrs.”</span> (McC.) Many of the martyrs of the Dark + Ages were undoubtedly of the Great Company.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [cried] THEY CRY with a loud voice.</span></span>—In grand and + happy chorus of exultant praise and thanksgiving over their final + deliverance.—Rev. 19:1-3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, + Salvation.</span></span>—Our glorious and unmerited boon of life on + so high a plane.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To our + God.</span></span>—Be ascribed to Him as the Author.—Psa. 3:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Which sitteth] + upon the Throne.</span></span>—Jehovah.—Rev. 4:2; + 5:13.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page139">[pg + 139]</span><a name="Pg139" id="Pg139" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And unto the + Lamb.</span></span>—The Tower of the Flock, Christ as the + instrument of salvation.—Micah 4:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + all the angels.</span></span>—The beautiful sons of the morning who + shouted for joy in the dawn of earth's creative week 48,000 years + ago.—Job 38:7; Lu. 2:9-14; Matt. 4:11; 28:2; F. 51.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Stood round + about the Throne.</span></span>—With eager joy welcoming this new + addition to the family of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And about the + elders.</span></span>—The prophecies, many of which have pointed + out this second and greater company. But notice the exquisite + nicety of the Word of God and the Wisdom of our Father! Not + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">all</span></em> the elders do mention the + Great Company, and therefore the designation <span class= + "tei tei-q">“four and twenty,”</span> in this instance, is + omitted.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the four + beasts.</span></span>—Justice, Power, Love and Wisdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And fell before + the Throne on their faces.</span></span>—No wonder such humble + characters <span class="tei tei-q">“always behold the face of the + Father.”</span>—Matt. 18:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And worshipped + God.</span></span>—There is no self-seeking among the angels. When + an angel appeared to Manoah and his wife, and Manoah sought to know + his name, he left an everlasting lesson in his reply, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Why askest thou thus after my name, seeing it is + secret?”</span>—Judges 13:2-23.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Saying, Amen.</span></span>—So be it! We + are not at all jealous. We are delighted to have these new helpers + in the Heavenly realm.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Blessing.</span></span>—The praises and + blessings of all who owe their existence to His goodness.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + wisdom.</span></span>—To continually and forever unfold some new + and wonderful features of goodness and grace towards the work of + His hands.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + thanksgiving.</span></span>—From <span class="tei tei-q">“every + creature which is in Heaven and on earth.”</span>—Rev. 5:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + honor.</span></span>—To the Name so long and so unjustly and foully + dishonored, by the eternal torment theory.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + power.</span></span>—Restrained for thousands of years, but now + about to be exercised in man's behalf.—Psa. 76:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + might.</span></span>—The ability to accomplish fully all His + purposes.—Isa. 55:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Be unto our God + for ever and ever. Amen.</span></span>—Be ascribed to Jehovah for + eternity.—Rev. 5:13,14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + one of the elders.</span></span>—The prophecy of Isaiah + 1:10-20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Answered, saying + unto me.</span></span>—Under symbolism of Sodom because of their + identification with spiritual Sodom's work and hopes.—Rev. + 11:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">What are these + which are arrayed in white robes.</span></span>—Who are these of + whom it is said, <span class="tei tei-q">“Your hands are full of + blood. <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page140">[pg + 140]</span><a name="Pg140" id="Pg140" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings before + mine eyes,”</span> etc.?—Isa. 1:15, 16; Rev. 7:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And whence came + they.</span></span>—Why are they figuratively represented as + stained with blood?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I said unto him, [Sir,] MY LORD, thou knowest.</span></span>—It is + doubtless contained in your prophecy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And he said unto + me.</span></span>—In Isa. 34:5, 6, <span class="tei tei-q">“My + sword shall be bathed in Heaven: behold, it shall come down upon + Idumea, and upon the people of My curse, to judgment. The sword of + the Lord is filled with blood, it is made fat with fatness, and + with the blood of lambs.”</span>—D. 17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">These are they + which came out of great tribulation.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘The tribulation, the great + one’</span>—the twofold article being specially emphatic. See Rev. + 3:10; 6:17; Matt. 24:21.”</span> (Cook.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“They are those,”</span> he said, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“who have just passed through the great + distress.”</span> (Weym.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The slaughter of + this day of vengeance is said to be of the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘lambs and goats.’</span> (Isa. 34:6.) The lambs would + represent the tribulation saints.”</span> (D. 17.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Great Company will pass through a great + tribulation, with a view to effecting in them a proper penitence + for sin and a proper appreciation of the Divine standard of truth + and righteousness. This class, particularly large in the present + day, will be delivered over to the Adversary—to suffer in a Time of + Trouble such as was not since there was a nation—the great time of + trouble with which this Age shall end. Such of them as fail to + respond to those tribulations and to seek the Lord will die the + Second Death, but such as respond faithfully will be counted as + overcomers.”</span> (Z. '07-232.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Many such are now being closely bound in with the + various bundles of tares for the burning; and not until the fiery + trouble of the latter end of the Harvest period shall burn the + binding cords of Babylon's bondage shall these be able to make + their escape—<span class="tei tei-q">‘saved so as by fire.’</span> + They must see the utter wreck of Great Babylon and receive some + measure of her plagues.”</span> (C. 364.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Sad disappointments attach to the experiences of this + company: it is because they <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">fear</span></em> the reproaches of Christ that + they shirk present privileges and opportunities for walking with + Him in white in the <span class="tei tei-q">‘sufferings of this + present time:’</span> behold, they not only miss the present joy + and rejoicing of those who are faithful, but eventually they must + come through <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">still greater</span></em> sufferings, if they + would attain even to a lower place. Although loving the Lord and + His people, they are somewhat ashamed of them and hide, as it were, + their faces from them, in the presence of the worldly: and behold + the Master at His Coming for His <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Bride’</span> cannot confess their names in the + presence of the <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page141">[pg + 141]</span><a name="Pg141" id="Pg141" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + Father and the holy angels.”</span> (Z. '97-162.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“These will be helped out of Babylon when she is + falling, and will flee in the winter-time, saying in the words of + the Prophet, <span class="tei tei-q">‘The Harvest is past, the + Summer is ended [Winter has come], and we are not saved.’</span> + (Jer. 8:20.)”</span> (D. 578.) <span class="tei tei-q">“These, + surely, we cannot expect to see shielded from the very trouble + which the Lord declares they need; and which in special mercy He + will inflict for their perfecting.”</span>—Z. '96-191.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And have washed + their robes.</span></span>—Spotted and soiled by contact with the + world.—Z. '97-161.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And made them + white in the blood of the Lamb.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Not that their sufferings will wash their robes, but + that in their sufferings they will learn to appreciate as never + before their relationship to the Lamb of God and to His atoning + merit, and by faith will be permitted to apply the same to their + own cleansing.”</span>—Z. '07-233; 1 John 1:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore.</span></span>—Because, in the + final test, they suffered martyrdom and cleansed their robes rather + than deny the Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are they before + the Throne of God.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“With the + world in the next Age, the Lord's power will be represented through + the Great Company class, under the Bride. They will be a great + police force, looking out for the whole people. They will have + enough to do; for God has guaranteed that <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘nothing shall hurt or offend in all His holy + Mountain’</span>—Kingdom (Isa. 11:9). That will mean a careful + supervision. Yes, indeed! How will they hinder wrong-doing? If a + person were about to speak blasphemy or slander, the tongue might + be instantly paralyzed. Very easy! A policeman right on the + spot!—not waiting until the offender had done the mischief and then + punishing him, but fixing him so that he will not get the chance to + do it, and punishing him for trying to do so.”</span>—<span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Question + Meeting.</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And serve Him + day and night in His Temple.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Although they can never be the living Temple of which + Christ is the Head (Rev. 3:12; 11:1), we are told they shall be + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">servants</span></em> in that Temple; and + although they shall never sit in the Throne, they are highly + privileged to serve <span class="tei tei-q">‘before the + Throne.’</span> Grand and glorious privileges will be + theirs.”</span>—Z. '97-162; Rev. 22:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And He that + sitteth on the Throne.</span></span>—Jehovah.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Shall dwell + among] KNOWETH them.</span></span>—To be known of the Lord is to be + the sure recipient of blessings. Not to be known or recognized of + Him is the greatest of all calamities. God keeps a record of His + friends (Mal. 3:16) but no record of His enemies; and therein lies + their ruin. <span class="tei tei-q">“I never <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">knew</span></em> + you; depart from Me.”</span>—Matt. 7:23.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page142">[pg 142]</span><a name="Pg142" id="Pg142" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They + shall NOT hunger [no more].</span></span>—Poor things, how hungry + they have been! How the light has shone in their poor, hunted, + starved faces, as they have listened to Pastor Russell, by the tens + of thousands; and yet, when the lecture was over, they have wearily + gone back to the <span class="tei tei-q">“husks,”</span> from a + sense of duty to the memory of some man, dead for hundreds of + years, who would, if alive today, be a follower of <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">the</span></em> + Reformer, Charles T. Russell, because he followed Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Neither thirst + any more.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The waters of + Truth shall no longer be brackish with error, being healed at the + very spring by a clearer understanding of the Word of + God.”</span>—B. 266.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Neither shall + the sun light on them, nor any heat.</span></span>—During the + Harvest time the Lord's people, illuminated with the light of + Present Truth, have been shining forth, not with any brilliancy of + their own, but with much of the coming splendor of the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Sun of Righteousness.”</span> Coming in contact with + them, it has been inevitable that the Great Company class should + frequently be singed, unable to answer the Truth, and should feel + considerable heat. Their condition has been aptly described by the + Prophet, <span class="tei tei-q">“It shall be a vexation only to + understand the report.”</span> (Isa. 28:19.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“As if a man did flee from a lion, and a bear met him; + or went into the house and leaned his hand on the wall, and a + serpent bit him.”</span>—Amos 5:19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + the Lamb.</span></span>—Jesus Christ, their eternal + Friend—<span class="tei tei-q">“The same yesterday, today, and + forever.”</span>—Heb. 13:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which is in the + midst of the Throne.</span></span>—Authority, rulership.—A. 92; + Rev. 5:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shall feed + them.</span></span>—Be their shepherd. (John 10:1-28; 21:16.) They + will not have immortality. Their lives will always require to be + sustained, as in the case of the angels.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And shall lead + them unto [living] fountains of waters OF LIFE.</span></span>—They + will not have within them the <span class="tei tei-q">“well of + water springing up unto everlasting life,”</span> as will the Bride + class, but may freely take of the <span class="tei tei-q">“Water of + life”</span> which flows forth from the united well-springs of the + Fountain and its 144,000 associates.—John 4:14; Rev. 22:1, 17; + Ezekiel 47:1-5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And God shall + wipe away all tears from their eyes.</span></span>—There will be + tears at first that will require wiping away, when they see all + they have missed. Nevertheless, <span class="tei tei-q">“With + gladness and rejoicing shall they be brought into the King's + Palace.”</span> (Psa. 45:15.) And it is a good place; there we + leave them, to bask in the sunlight of His presence forevermore. We + shall <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">know</span></em> them all, then, even as we + shall be known by them.—1 Cor. 13:12.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page143">[pg 143]</span><a name= + "Pg143" id="Pg143" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc21" id="toc21"></a> <a name="pdf22" id="pdf22"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 8—Four Preliminary + Reformations</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when He.</span></span>—The Lord Jesus, whose privilege it is to + open them all.—Rev. 6:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Had opened the + seventh seal.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The seal of + the living God.”</span> (Rev. 7:2.) The opening of the seventh seal + is <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">progressive</span></em>. The opening and + unfolding of the Truth goes on as the saints are sealed. By the + time the saints are all sealed in their hearts and minds with the + Present Truth, the deepest features of the Truth itself will have + been disclosed. <span class="tei tei-q">“The time will undoubtedly + come in the near future when the number of the Elect will be + complete. Then only such vacancies as might still occur by some + falling out would remain.”</span> (Z. '14-68.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“God's people down through this Gospel age have been + privileged to know something of the <span class="tei tei-q">‘Secret + of the Lord’</span>—the Divine Plan. But not until the last seal is + broken, does the scroll fly wide open, permitting the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Mystery of God’</span> to be fully disclosed; as it is + written: <span class="tei tei-q">‘In the days of the voice of the + seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the Mystery of God + should be finished, as He hath declared to His servants the + Prophets.’</span> (Rev. 5:1; 10:7.)”</span>—Z. '97-257.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">There was + silence.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Assemble + yourselves, and let us enter into the defenced cities, and let us + be silent there: for the Lord our God hath put us to + silence.”</span> (Jer. 8:14.) <span class="tei tei-q">“They (the + clergy) somehow realize that neither reason nor Scripture supports + their false doctrines, and that the wisest method is to keep + silent, in the shadow of old superstitions and under the protection + of so-called Christian governments.”</span>—C. 158.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + heaven.</span></span>—In the nominal ecclesiastical heavens.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">About the space + of half an hour.</span></span>—On the scale of a year for a day + this would mean but a week, and indicates that, as soon as the full + number to complete the Body of Christ have been sealed with the + Present Truth, persecution in a public way, and on an unprecedented + scale, may be expected to begin almost immediately. (This verse + should properly be included in Chapter 7.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw.</span></span>—As the next vision of the grand series. + Something never seen until the seventh seal is broken and the + Mystery of God finished.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The seven + angels.</span></span>—Instrumentalities suitable for the work to be + performed.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page144">[pg + 144]</span><a name="Pg144" id="Pg144" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which stood + before God.</span></span>—Featuring the <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Reformation</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And to them were + given seven trumpets.</span></span>—Bugles with which to blow + bugle-blasts of liberty from the oppressions of the papacy, leading + up to and including the final blast of <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Liberty throughout all the land unto all the + inhabitants thereof.”</span>—Lev. 25:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + another angel.</span></span>—Not the <span class="tei tei-q">“voice + of the Lord,”</span> mentioned in the preceding chapter, but the + corporate body—the <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">Watch Tower Bible and Tract + Society</span></span>, which Pastor Russell formed to finish his + work. This verse shows that, though Pastor Russell has passed + beyond the veil, he is still managing every feature of the Harvest + work. <span class="tei tei-q">“<span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-variant: small-caps">The Watch Tower + Bible and Tract Society</span></span> is the greatest corporation + in the world, because from the time of its organization until now + the Lord has used it as His channel through which to make known the + Glad Tidings.”</span>-Z. '17-22; Rev. 14:18; 19:17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Came and + stood.</span></span>—Waited before the Lord, after the Pastor's + death, ready to do the Master's will.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">At the + altar.</span></span>—The Brazen Altar, the place of sacrifice. (Ex. + 38:1-7; Lev. 16:12, 13.) The fire for the sacrifice at the Golden + Altar was obtained here and then carried to the Golden Altar where + the incense was crumbled in it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having a golden + censer.</span></span>—Censers, or fire-pans, were of two forms, + with handles and without. In this case the kind with the handle, + used only on the Day of Atonement, is the one referred to. The + incense was burnt while the high priest held the censer in his + hand. Thus, in this prophecy, the great antitypical High Priest + identifies Himself with the work of the Society, and places in its + care—holds in His hand—the fire-pans, the things that lead us to + the place where we sacrifice ourselves. Thus seen, the censer + represents teachings, understandings of the Word; for it is our + understanding of the Word which leads us to offer up all we have in + the Lord's service.—Num. 16:6, 7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there was + given unto him much incense.</span></span>—The heart's best + endeavors of the faithful fellow-members of the Body.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That he should + offer it.</span></span>—To Jehovah, through the Son.—Rev. 5:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With the prayers + of all saints.</span></span>—The Society is the only entity in the + world answering to this description. It alone has offered on its + behalf the prayers of all the saints, in harmony with the clause of + the Vow which reads, <span class="tei tei-q">“Daily will I remember + at the Throne of heavenly grace the general interests of the + Harvest work—the dear co-laborers at the Brooklyn Tabernacle and + Bethel, and everywhere.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Upon the golden + altar [which was] before the Throne.</span></span>—The <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page145">[pg 145]</span><a name="Pg145" id="Pg145" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> offerings take place <span class= + "tei tei-q">“before the Throne,”</span> on this side the veil.—Rev. + 1:4; 5:6; Ex. 30:1-10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the smoke.</span></span>—The fragrant, sweet perfume.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + incense.</span></span>—Life's dearest ties, sacrificed in the + Master's cause.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which came with + the prayers of the saints.</span></span>—In harmony with the Vow of + faithfulness.—Psa. 141:2; Luke 1:10; Acts 10:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Ascended up + before God out of the angel's hand.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“An odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, + wellpleasing to God.”</span>—Phil. 4:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the angel.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">The Watch Tower Society</span></span> + through its proper representatives.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Took the + censer.</span></span>—The Seventh Volume of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-variant: small-caps">Studies in the + Scriptures</span></span>, Divinely provided.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And filled it + with fire of the altar.</span></span>—Coals from the altar signify + burning truths; and such the Lord's prophecies always are, when + rightly understood.—Isa. 6:5-8. This is a plain intimation of God's + purpose to use the <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">Society</span></span> in further + unfoldings of His Truth as it becomes due. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“We believe that the Lord will not scatter, but will + <span class="tei tei-q">‘turn His hand [power] upon the little + ones,’</span> in this dark hour of trial (Zech. 13:7).”</span>—Z. + '17-30.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And cast + it.</span></span>—Greek, <span class="tei tei-q">“Deliberately + hurled it.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Into the + earth.</span></span>—Among order-loving people.—Ezek. 10:2; Luke + 12:49.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there were + [voices and] thunderings.</span></span>—Seven Volumes of + <span class="tei tei-q">“<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">Scripture Studies</span></span>,”</span> + this one being the last of the series. (Rev. 10:3, 4.) Thunders are + symbolical of controversy, and this volume may cause some. + Particularly is it to be expected that the clergy will thunder + against whatever Truth it contains. Thunder is caused by the + flashing of lightning through the heavens, opening them up, as it + were. Immediately after the flash they come together with an angry + roar. Thunder, of itself, never does anybody any harm.—Rev. + 16:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + voices.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“These voices have + been circulated here and there throughout the whole civilized + world, not by worldly agents, not through book-sellers, but by + those who have themselves been blessed by the light, and who desire + to render a service to the Lord and to the Truth, and to lay down + their lives for the brethren by taking to them the glorious and + encouraging message now due to the Lord's people.”</span> (Z. + '02-118.) Voices also symbolize discussion, contention.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + lightnings.</span></span>—See Rev. 4:5; 11:19; 16:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And an + earthquake.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The term + earthquake is used to symbolically represent revolution—it is in + this sense of <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page146">[pg + 146]</span><a name="Pg146" id="Pg146" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + the word that it is used throughout the Book of Revelation. What we + are to look for then will be a great revolution, the great symbolic + earthquake, the great shaking of the present institutions which + will overthrow everything that is not of the Lord's establishment + and approval. Perhaps the symbolical earthquake will be accompanied + by a literal one.”</span>—B. S. M.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:6 <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the seven + angels which had the seven trumpets.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“We, in common with almost all expositors, recognize + that the seven trumpets of Revelation are symbolical and not + literal.”</span>—Z. '02-116; Josh. 6:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Prepared + themselves to sound.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Christian people in general understand that five of + these trumpets have already <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘sounded’</span> and are in the past—we would say six. + It is admitted that those that have already <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘sounded’</span> have not been literal blasts of a + bugle on the air. But literal things are so much more easily + received by the natural man that many advanced Christians, Bible + students and ministers, are really expecting some day to hear what + is sometimes denominated <span class="tei tei-q">‘Gabriel's + horn,’</span> shrill enough and loud enough to awaken the + dead.”</span> (Z. '02-116.) As thoughtful Christians we should + expect that, as this period is that in which the great sects have + risen, its history should pay particular attention to them, and + thus we find. The Reformation particularly affected <span class= + "tei tei-q">“three parts”</span> of the papal dominion, Germany, + England and France.—Rev. 8:7-10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the first [angel] sounded.</span></span>—The movement began, which + later developed into the Lutheran General Synod, Lutheran United + Synod South, Lutheran General Council, Lutheran Synodical + Conference, United Norwegian Lutheran Synod, Ohio Independent + Lutheran Synod, Buffalo Lutheran Synod, Hauge's Lutheran Synod, + Eleisen's Lutheran Synod, Norwegian Lutheran Synod, Danish in + America Lutheran Synod, Icelandic Lutheran Synod, Immanuel Lutheran + Synod, Suomai Finnish Lutheran Synod, Finnish National Synod, + Finnish Apostolic Synod, Norwegian Free Lutheran Synod, Danish + United Lutheran Synod, Church of the Lutheran Brethren and + Independent Lutheran Congregations.—1 Cor. 3:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there + followed hail.</span></span>—Sharp, cutting, hard truth, contained + in Luther's 95 theses nailed on the church door at Wittenberg.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + fire.</span></span>—Destructive judgments upon the papacy. Luther + sized up the Papal system of <span class="tei tei-q">“Heads, I win; + and tails, you lose”</span> in a few words when he said, + <span class="tei tei-q">“The Romanists have with great dexterity + built themselves about with three walls, which have hitherto + protected them against reform. In the first place, when the + temporal power has pressed <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page147">[pg 147]</span><a name="Pg147" id="Pg147" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> them hard, they have affirmed and maintained + that the temporal power has no jurisdiction over them—that on the + contrary, the spiritual is above the temporal. Secondly, when it is + proposed to admonish them from the Holy Scriptures they said, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘It beseems no one but the pope to + interpret the Scriptures,’</span> and thirdly, when they were + threatened with a council, they invented the idea that no one but + the pope can call a council.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Mingled with + blood.</span></span>—Blood is a symbol of death-dealing doctrine, + and this teaches that Luther did not get entirely free from error. + The following illustrates this point: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“There gradually developed a group of radicals who were + convinced that Luther had not the courage of his convictions. They + proposed to abolish the idolatry of the Mass and all other outward + signs of what they deemed the old superstitions. Luther's colleague + at Wittenberg, Carlstadt, began denouncing the monastic life, the + celibacy of the clergy, the veneration of images; and before the + end of 1521 we find the first characteristic outward symptoms of + Protestantism. In January 1522, Carlstadt induced the authorities + of Wittenberg to publish the first evangelical church ordinance. + The service of the Mass was modified, and the laity were to receive + the elements in both kinds. Reminders of the old religious usages + were to be done away with, and the fast-days were to be no longer + observed. These measures led Luther to return to Wittenberg in + March, 1522, where he preached a series of sermons attacking the + impatience of the radical party. In 1525 the conservative party, + which had from the first feared that Luther's teaching would result + in sedition, received a new and terrible proof, as it seemed to + them, of the noxious influence of the evangelical + preachers.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The peasant movements which had caused so much anxiety + at the diet of Augsburg in 1518, culminated in the Peasant Revolt + in which the common man, both in country and town, rose in the name + of God's justice to avenge long-standing wrongs and establish his + rights. Luther was by no means directly responsible for the civil + war which followed, but he had certainly contributed to stir up the + ancient discontent. He had asserted that, owing to the habit of + foreclosing small mortgages, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Any one with + a hundred gulden could gobble up a peasant a year.’</span> The + German feudal lords he pronounced hangmen, who knew only how to + swindle the poor man. Yet in spite of this harsh talk about + princes, Luther relied upon them to forward the reforms in which he + was interested. The peasants demanded that the gospel should be + taught them as a guide in life, and that each community should be + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page148">[pg 148]</span><a name= + "Pg148" id="Pg148" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> permitted to choose + its pastor and depose him if he conducted himself improperly. More + radical demands came from the working classes in the towns. The + articles of Heilbronn demanded that the property of the Church + should be confiscated and used for the community; clergy and + nobility alike were to be deprived of all their privileges, so that + they could no longer oppress the poor man. The more violent leaders + renewed the old cry that the parsons must be slain. Hundreds of + castles and monasteries were destroyed by the frantic peasantry, + and some of the nobles were murdered with shocking cruelty. Luther, + who believed that the peasants were trying to cloak their dreadful + sins with excuses from the gospel, exhorted the government to put + down the insurrection. <span class="tei tei-q">‘Have no pity on the + poor folk; stab, smite, throttle, who can.’</span> The German + rulers took Luther's advice with terrible literalness, and avenged + themselves upon the peasants, whose lot was apparently worse + afterwards than before.”</span>—Brit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they were + cast upon the earth AND THE THIRD PART OF THE EARTH WAS BURNED + UP.</span></span>—Luther's teaching had the effect of transforming + the order-loving German people into anarchists.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the third + part.</span></span>—The German part.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + trees.</span></span>—Trees are symbols of saints. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“St. Paul gives us the picture of a tree, the roots of + which push down deep into the knowledge of the Divine Plan, while + the tree of character grows higher and higher, developing and + maturing the rich fruits of the Holy Spirit of God; for instruction + is a form of <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">construction</span></em>.”</span>—Z. '14-312; + Isa. 61:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was burnt + up.</span></span>—Hindered from standing alone, and absorbed into + the Lutheran system.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And all green + grass.</span></span>—Natural men of independent thought.—Isa. 40:6, + 7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was burnt + up.</span></span>—Similarly absorbed into the Lutheran system, a + welcome substitute for papacy's intolerable yoke.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the second [angel] sounded.</span></span>—The Anglican church + movement began.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And as it were a + great mountain.</span></span>—England in the time of Henry VIII. + Mountains symbolize kingdoms.—Dan. 2:35; Jer. 51:25.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Burning with + fire.</span></span>—Aflame with another great movement destructive + to the papacy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was cast into + the sea.</span></span>—Was suddenly thrown into a condition of + isolation from the papacy—no longer placed under religious + restraint to it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the third + part of the sea.</span></span>—The English part.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Became + blood.</span></span>—The much-married Henry VIII., founder + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page149">[pg 149]</span><a name= + "Pg149" id="Pg149" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> of the Anglican + Church, and the second great sect-founder, has some slight + blemishes on his escutcheon also. <span class="tei tei-q">“Henry + VIII. himself stoutly maintained the headship of the pope, and as + is well known, after examining the arguments of Luther, published + his defence of the Seven Sacraments in 1521, which won for him from + the pope the glorious title of <span class="tei tei-q">‘Defender of + the faith.’</span> By 1527 the king had become hopeless of having a + male heir by Catherine. He was tired of her, and in love with the + black-eyed Anne Boleyn, who refused to be his mistress. The king's + agents secured the opinion of a number of prominent universities + that his marriage was void, and an assembly of notables, which he + summoned in June 1530, warned the pope of the dangers involved in + leaving the royal succession in uncertainty. Henry's next move was + to bring a charge against the clergy, accusing them of having + violated the ancient laws of praemunire in submitting to the + authority of papal legates (although he himself had ratified the + appointment of Wolsey as legate <span lang="la" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="la"><span style="font-style: italic">a + latere</span></span>). The clergy of the province of Canterbury + were fined 100,000 pounds and compelled to declare the king their + singular protector and only supreme lord, and, as far as that is + permitted by the law of Christ, the supreme head of the Church and + of the clergy.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The following year, 1532, an obedient parliament + presented a petition to the king (which had been most carefully + elaborated by the king's own advisers) containing twelve charges + against the bishops. For the remedy of these abuses parliament + turned to the king <span class="tei tei-q">‘in whom and by whom the + only and sole redress, reformation and remedy herein absolutely + rests and remains.’</span> [These charges were answered by the + clergy, but the answer did not suit the king so on the 15th of May, + 1532.] The king's most humble subjects, daily orators and bedesmen + of the clergy of England, in view of his goodness and fervent + Christian zeal and his learning far exceeding that of all other + kings that they have read of, agree never to assemble in + convocation except at the king's summons, and to enact and + promulgate no constitution or ordinances except they receive the + royal assent and authority. [Then Henry divorced Catherine and + married Anne Boleyn and the English Reformation was officially + launched.] The king had now clarified the ancient laws of the realm + to his satisfaction, and could proceed to seize such portions of + the Church's possessions as he deemed superfluous for the + maintenance of religion. [On the 30th of July, 1540, three Lutheran + clergymen were burned and three Roman Catholics beheaded, the + latter for denying the king's spiritual supremacy. The king's + ardent desires that diversities of minds and opinions <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page150">[pg 150]</span><a name="Pg150" id="Pg150" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> should be done away with and unity be + <span class="tei tei-q">‘charitably established’</span> was further + promoted by publishing in 1543 A Necessary Doctrine and Erudition + for any Christian Man, set forth by the King's Majesty of England, + in which the tenets of mediaeval theology, except for denial of the + supremacy of the bishop of Rome and the unmistakable assertion of + the supremacy of the king, were once more restated. The First + Prayer Book of Edward VI was issued in 1549 and was followed in + 1552 by the Second Prayer Book and] <span class="tei tei-q">‘The + foundations of the Anglican church were + laid.’</span></span>—Brit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the third part.</span></span>—The English part.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + creatures.</span></span>—The clergy <span class= + "tei tei-q">“apostolically”</span> of the Church of Rome, but + actually doing business under Henry VIII. Be it noted that they + were not counted worthy of being called <span class= + "tei tei-q">“men.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which were in + the sea.</span></span>—No longer under religious restraint to the + papacy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And had + life.</span></span>—The apostolic succession, from the line of + popes, etc., described in Rev. 2:13 comments.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Died.</span></span>—Were excommunicated + by the pope, lost their <span class="tei tei-q">“apostolic (?) + succession.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the third + part.</span></span>—The English part.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + ships.</span></span>—Independent bodies of Christian worshippers + called Lollards, followers of Wycliffe.—Mark 4:36; 6:48-51; John + 6:21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Were + destroyed.</span></span>—Compelled to acknowledge Henry VIII as + head of the Church or lose their lives. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Thus, when the English Reformation of the 16th century + commenced, it derived a new impulse from the earlier Lollard + movement which it was destined to absorb into + itself.”</span>—McC.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the third angel sounded.</span></span>—The Calvinistic movement + began, which later developed into the Northern Presbyterian Church, + Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Welsh Calvinistic Church, United + Presbyterian Church, Southern Presbyterian Church, Associate + Presbyterian Church, Associate Reformed Southern Presbyterian + Church, Reformed Synod Presbyterian Church, Reformed General Synod + Presbyterian Church, Reformed Covenanted Presbyterian Church, + Reformed Presbyterian Church in the United States and Canada, Dutch + Reformed Church, German Reformed Church, Christian Reformed Church, + Hungarian Reformed Church, and Congregational Church.—1 Cor. + 3:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there fell a + great star from heaven.</span></span>—John Calvin tore a + large-sized hole in the Catholic firmament when he started the + manufacture of a firmament of his own.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Burning as it + were a lamp.</span></span>—The precipitation of the Calvinistic + movement in France and Switzerland was as sudden as the Anglican + movement had been in England or the <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page151">[pg 151]</span><a name="Pg151" id="Pg151" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> Lutheran movement in Germany. In 1533 Francis + I, King of France, <span class="tei tei-q">“anxious to conciliate + both German Protestants and anti-papal England, invited some of the + reformers to preach in the Louvre,”</span> as an offset to a fierce + attack that had but lately been made upon them, caused by the + mutilation of a statue of the Virgin. On the festival of All + Saints, Cop, the rector of the University of Paris, was to deliver + the address, but Jean Cauvin (Calvin) persuaded the rector to read + an address which he had written. It was a defence of the new + evangelical views and so aroused the Sorbonne that Calvin and Cop + were both obliged to flee from Paris. Calvin went to Basle, + Switzerland, and in 1536 wrote and published the first great + textbook of Protestant theology, <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Institutes of the + Christian Religion</span></span>. He did his best, but his best was + not very good.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And it fell upon + the third part.</span></span>—The French part.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + rivers.</span></span>—Channels of religious instruction.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And upon the + fountains of waters.</span></span>—The Word of God. Although Calvin + misunderstood and misapplied them, yet he constantly appealed to + the Scriptures as the support for his theories.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the name of the star.</span></span>—Calvin is entitled to the honor + of having at one time been a papal star. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“He was from the first educated for the Church, and + before he was twelve years old was presented to a benefice in the + Cathedral of Noyon. Six years after this he was appointed to a cure + of souls at Montville, and thus, although not yet twenty, and not + even in the minor orders, he was enjoying the titles and revenues + of a cure.”</span>—McC.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is called + Wormwood.</span></span>—What an ideal name for the doctrine which + has caused more bitterness against God than any other doctrine ever + taught, and for the man who roasted Servetus at the stake.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the third + part of the waters.</span></span>—Many portions of the Scriptures, + misunderstood, misconstrued and misapplied.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Became.</span></span>—Were made to appear + in the eyes of many.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Wormwood.</span></span>—Bitter as gall. + <span class="tei tei-q">“None now would justify Calvin's course in + sentencing Servetus to be burned. Others burned at the stake + usually had the fuel piled at their feet. The flames were inhaled + with the smoke, and the victim was speedily unconscious to + suffering. For Servetus Satanic ingenuity arranged the burning + fagots at a distance. He literally roasted alive, in horrible + torture, nearly five hours—in the name of God, of Jesus, of + Righteousness, Truth, Justice, Love, Christianity and + Civilization.”</span> (P. D.)—Jer. 9:15; 23:15; 9-40; Deut. + 29:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And many men + died of the waters.</span></span>—Lost their manhood, reason and + common sense by becoming Calvinists.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page152">[pg 152]</span><a name="Pg152" id="Pg152" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Because they + were made bitter.</span></span>—Because the Scriptures were made to + appear to teach what actually they do not. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“It seems remarkable that only now are we realizing + that a man so deficient in the spirit of his Master as to murder + his brother, should not be an accepted teacher of the Word of God + and its spirit. Only now are Bible students realizing that Brother + Calvin was not the inventor of the doctrine of election, but merely + of the doctrine that all the non-elect would suffer everlastingly. + Now we see that the terms, <span class="tei tei-q">‘the + elect,’</span> <span class="tei tei-q">‘the very elect,’</span> are + Bible terms! and that those who make their calling and election + sure, will be glorified in the First Resurrection. Now we see that + the Elect will be associated with Jesus in His Kingdom, which will + bless the non-elect—<span class="tei tei-q">‘all the families of + the Earth.’</span> ”</span>—P. D.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the fourth angel sounded.</span></span>—The Baptist sectarian + movement began, resulting in Baptist Churches North, Baptist + Churches South, Baptist Churches Colored, Seventh-Day Baptists, + General Baptists, Separate Baptists, United Baptists, Baptist + Church of Christ, Primitive Baptist Church, Primitive Colored + Baptist Church, Old Two Seed in the Spirit Predestinarian Baptist + Church, Church of God and Saints of Christ, Mennonites, Six + Principle Baptist Church, Free Baptist Church, Freewill Baptist + Church—not forgetting the Selfwill Baptist Church, which also has a + large membership, but is not listed.—1 Cor. 3:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">From an + examination of history <span class="tei tei-q">“It does not appear + that the Baptists were formed into any stability (as a sect) until + the time of Menno, about the year 1536. About 1644 they began to + make a considerable figure in England, and spread themselves into + several separate congregations. They separated from the + Independents about the year 1638, and set up for themselves under + the pastoral care of Mr. Jesse; and, having renounced their former + baptism, they sent over one of their number to be immersed by one + of the Dutch Anabaptists of Amsterdam, that he might be qualified + to baptize his friends in England after the same manner.”</span> + (Buck.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Menno Simons, born in 1492 at + Witmarsum in Friesland, at the age of 24 entered the priesthood. + Doubts about transubstantiation made him uneasy; some of Luther's + tracts fell in his way, and he was comforted by Luther's dictum + that salvation does not depend on human dogmata. Hence he began to + study the New Testament. The question as to the right age for + baptism came up; he found this an open matter in the early church. + Then the execution, in March, 1531, at Leeuwarden, of the tailor + Sicke Freerks, who had been rebaptized in the previous December at + Emden, introduced <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page153">[pg + 153]</span><a name="Pg153" id="Pg153" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + further questions. Menno was not satisfied with the inconsistent + answers which he got from Luther, Bucer and Bullinger; he resolved + to rely on Scripture alone, and from this time describes his + preaching as evangelical, not sacramental. Anabaptism of the + Munster type repelled him. A brother of Menno joined the insurgent + followers of Matthyzoon and was killed at Bolsward, April 1535. + Blaming the leaders by whom these poor people had been misled, + Menno blamed himself for not having shown them a straight course. + Accordingly on the 12th of January 1536 he left the Roman + communion.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Among the so-called Anabaptists were four parties, the + favorers of the Munster faction, the Batenburgers, extremists, the + Melchiorites and the Obbenites. For a time Menno remained aloof + from both Melchior Hofman and Obbe Philipsz. Before the year was + out, yielding to the prayer of six or eight persons who had freed + themselves from the Munster spell, he agreed to become their + minister and was set apart January 1537 to the eldership at + Groningen, with imposition of hands by Obbe Philipsz. Menno + repudiated the formation of a sect; those who had experienced the + <span class="tei tei-q">‘new birth’</span> were to him the true + Christian church. His Christology was in the main orthodox though + he rejected terms such as Trinity which he could not find in + Scripture. Of the introduction of Anabaptist views into England we + have no certain knowledge. Fox relates that <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘the registers of London make mention of certain + Dutchmen counted for Anabaptists, of whom ten were put to death in + sundry places in the realm, anno 1535; other ten repented and were + saved’</span>. In 1536 King Henry VIII issued a proclamation + concerning faith agreed upon by Convocation, in which the clergy + are told to instruct the people that they ought to repute and take + <span class="tei tei-q">‘The Anabaptists' opinions for detestable + heresies and to be utterly condemned.’</span> Thomas Fuller tells + us from Stow's Chronicles that in the year 1538 four Anabaptists, + three men and one woman, all Dutch, bare faggots at Paul's Cross, + and three days after a man and woman of their sect were burnt in + Smithfield. The early English Baptists, while they utterly rejected + the baptism of infants, were as yet unpledged to immersion and + rarely practiced it.”</span>—Brit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the third + part of the sun was smitten.</span></span>—Though not apparently so + stated in any confession of faith, it is a prevalent view among + Baptists that the Old Testament has been entirely fulfilled. + Believing thus they lose the force of a large part of the Gospel + Message, typified by the sun.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the third + part of the moon.</span></span>—Similarly, they do not <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page154">[pg 154]</span><a name="Pg154" id="Pg154" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> see the force of the teachings of the + Law Dispensation, as in the Tabernacle arrangements, etc., in their + application to the Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the third + part of the stars.</span></span>—The teachings of the true + light-bearers, the Apostles, cannot be fully appreciated except in + connection with the prophecies of the Old Testament.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So as the third + part of them was darkened.</span></span>—If pressed to estimate the + relative worth to us as New Creatures of the writings of the Old + and New Testaments, we would admit that the writings of the New + Testament are worth perhaps twice as much to us as those of the Old + Testament because they contain the message addressed to the New + Creation, but <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">we</span></em> want all <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">three</span></em> + thirds of the Word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + day.</span></span>—The Scripture teaching of the coming Millennial + Day.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shone not for a + third part of it.</span></span>—At least a third of the light we + get on the subject of the Lord's Millennial Reign is from the Old + Testament.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the night + likewise.</span></span>—The same is true of the world's dark night + of sin and death, and the darkest feature of that night—the Time of + Trouble such as was not since there was a nation. The Old Testament + has much of light and instruction on this subject.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I beheld, and heard an [angel] EAGLE.</span></span>—One of Pastor + Russell's humble followers (Matt. 24:28) apprehending correctly the + significance of the three woes.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Flying through + the midst of heaven.</span></span>—Beginning with the papal heavens + and then in their order of development, the Lutheran heavens, + Anglican heavens, Calvinistic heavens and Baptist heavens (and + others shortly.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying with a + loud voice.</span></span>—With considerable plainness of + speech.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Woe, woe, woe, + to the inhabiters of the earth.</span></span>—Great distress and + perplexity of mind to all supporters of Satan's Empire.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By reason of the + other voices.</span></span>—Later movements in the ecclesiastical + heavens described in Chapters 9 and 10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the three + angels, which are yet to sound.</span></span>—The four great + denominations—Lutheran, Anglican, Presbyterian and Baptist—were + formed in swift succession within twenty years from the time Luther + nailed the theses on the Wittenberg door. But the work of forming + new movements away from papal bondage did not stop there.</p> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">Ye + curious minds, who roam abroad,</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And trace creation's wonders + o'er,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Confess the footsteps of your + God,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">And bow before Him, and + adore.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page155">[pg 155]</span><a name= + "Pg155" id="Pg155" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc23" id="toc23"></a> <a name="pdf24" id="pdf24"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 9—Two Ineffective + Reformation Woes</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the fifth angel sounded.</span></span>—The Wesleyan movement began, + leading up to the Methodist Episcopal Church, United American + Methodist Episcopal Church, African Methodist Episcopal Church, + African United Methodist Protestant Church, African Methodist + Episcopal Zion Church, Methodist Protestant Church, Wesleyan + Methodist Church, Methodist Episcopal Church South, Congregational + Methodist Church, New Congregational Methodist Church, Zion Union + Apostolic Church, Colored Methodist Episcopal Church, Free + Methodist Church, Reformed Methodist United Episcopal Church, and + Independent Methodist Churches.—1 Cor. 3:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I saw a + star.</span></span>—John Wesley became a star in the Anglican + heavens in 1728, at which time he was ordained a priest by Bishop + Potter.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Fall from heaven + unto the earth.</span></span>—For many years Wesley had no thought + of forming a sect; and yet, unconsciously, he began to do so from + the time he was ordained. He was then in Oxford University, where + <span class="tei tei-q">“the completeness of his self-devotion to + the service of God, combined with his rare moral courage and + superior strength of character, caused him to be recognized as the + leader of a group of under-graduates which was nicknamed the + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Holy Club’</span> by the ungodly of the + University, who derided its members for their rigid rules and + charitable practices by calling them <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Methodists.’</span> ”</span> (McC.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“He fully accepted the recognized teaching of the + Church of England, and publicly appealed to the Prayer-Book and the + Thirty-nine articles in justification of the doctrines he preached. + Methodism began in a revival of personal religion, and it professed + to have but one aim, to spread Scriptural holiness over the land. + Its doctrines were in no sense new.”</span> (Brit.) The work in the + Western World, particularly in the United States, grew to vast + proportions. <span class="tei tei-q">“The preachers in the South + determined upon administration of the sacraments, and a committee + was chosen who ordained themselves and others. The Northern + preachers opposed this step and for several years the Connexion was + on the verge of disruption. Wesley perceived that the Society would + disintegrate unless effective <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page156">[pg 156]</span><a name="Pg156" id="Pg156" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> measures were speedily taken, and, aided by + two presbyters of the Church of England, (one of whom was James + Creighton) early in 1784 he ordained Thomas Coke, a presbyter of + that Church, as Superintendent.”</span>—Brit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">His brother + Charles heartily disapproved of this and wrote the following (which + does not, however, appear with his other hymns in the Methodist + hymnal):</p> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">So + easily are bishops made</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">By man or woman's whim;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Wesley his hands on Coke hath + laid,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">But who laid hands on</span> <em class= + "tei tei-emph" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%; font-style: italic">him</span></em><span style="font-size: 90%">?</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">In 1787 the + American Conference changed Mr. Coke's title to <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Bishop.”</span> Mr. Coke tried to introduce this title + into the English Conference of which he was president, but the + English Brethren could not accept it, despite his great earnestness + in the cause. It must have been a strange sight to see a bright man + like Wesley engaging those two presbyters of the Church of England + to help him ordain somebody to a higher office than any of + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">them</span></em> had ever held. But <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">the plan + worked</span></em>. All Methodists believe that Bishop Coke, the + first Bishop of the Methodist Church received some <span class= + "tei tei-q">“apostolic succession”</span> from the original line + described in comments on Rev. 2:13. These brethren have grieved + that Pastor Russell did not get his ordination from the same + source.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And to him was + given the key of the [bottomless] pit OF THE + ABYSS.</span></span>—Wesley was given the key to <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">nothing</span></em> + and to <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">nowhere</span></em>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And + he opened the bottomless pit].</span></span>—Wesley opened nothing. + He did interpret Rom. 8:21 as meaning that the lower animals would + go to Heaven, but that was an error. He was honest enough, however, + to object to using the word Trinity because he did not find it in + the Bible. <span class="tei tei-q">“Christian Advocates”</span> + please note.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there arose + a smoke.</span></span>—Confusion—a blinding haze.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Out of] OVER + the pit.</span></span>—In the <span class="tei tei-q">“air,”</span> + the ecclesiastical heavens.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As the smoke of + a great furnace.</span></span>—Methodism was no ordinary + smudge.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + sun.</span></span>—The true Gospel.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + air.</span></span>—The Anglican Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Were darkened by + reason of the smoke of the pit.</span></span>—Methodism damaged the + Anglican communion as much as it did the Truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there came out of the smoke locusts.</span></span>—An immense + number of followers.—Judges 7:12.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page157">[pg 157]</span><a name="Pg157" id="Pg157" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Upon the + earth.</span></span>—Among order-loving people.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And unto them + was given power.</span></span>—To attend an old-time Methodist + meeting and witness the <span class="tei tei-q">“getting the + power”</span> was to see the sight of a life-time.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As the scorpions + of the earth have powers.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“A + well-known injurious insect of <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">hot</span></em> + climates, which is shaped very much like a lobster. They are + carnivorous in their habits, and move along in a threatening + attitude with the tail elevated. The sting, which is situated at + the extremity of the tail, has at its base a gland that secretes a + poisonous fluid, which is discharged into the wound by two minute + orifices at its extremity. The scorpion makes a painful wound in + men and beasts which produces fatal results unless speedy remedies + be provided such as scarifying the wound or sucking out the + poison.”</span>—McC.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the + earth.</span></span>—Men of independent thought.—Rev. 8:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Neither any + green thing.] Neither any tree.</span></span>—Saint.—Rev. 8:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But [only] those + men.</span></span>—The unconverted.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which have not + the seal of God in their foreheads.</span></span>—Methodists + understand that to be converted from being a sinner means to have + the seal of God in one's forehead. All the energies of that church + are devoted to gathering in goats to the sheepfold.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + to them it was given that they should not kill + them.</span></span>—No such sane and merciful sentence as + <span class="tei tei-q">“The wages of sin is death”</span> has any + place in Methodist theology. Wesley was born at a time when the + original meaning of the word <span class="tei tei-q">“Hell”</span> + had become hidden, and was saturated with the later teachings that + it signifies a place of torment. He threw his whole heart into the + work of spreading this error throughout the earth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But that they + should be tormented five months.</span></span>—In symbolic time, + 150 years. (Rev. 2:21). Wesley became the first Methodist in 1728. + (Rev. 9:1). When the Methodist denomination, with all the others, + was cast off from favor in 1878 (Rev. 3:14) its power to torment + men by preaching what Presbyterians describe as <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Conscious misery, eternal in duration”</span> came to + an end legally, and to a large extent actually.—Rev. 9:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And their + torment.</span></span>—The torment of those tormented by the + tormenting doctrine of torment.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was as the + torment of a scorpion, when he striketh a man.</span></span>—See + Rev. 9:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + in those days.</span></span>—Throughout the 150 years of widely + prevalent <span class="tei tei-q">“Methodist + hell-fire”</span>.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page158">[pg + 158]</span><a name="Pg158" id="Pg158" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shall men seek + death.</span></span>—Would be glad to know that <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The wages of sin <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">is</span></em> death.”</span>—Rom. 6:23.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And shall not + find it.</span></span>—Because all the texts which plainly teach + that <span class="tei tei-q">“All the wicked will God + destroy,”</span> were perverted to mean <span class= + "tei tei-q">“All the wicked will God immortalize in + hell.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And shall desire + to die.</span></span>—Real men would prefer to die and stay dead + rather than forever companion and worship the greatest devil of the + Universe.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And death shall + flee from them.</span></span>—They were told that men only seem to + die, although touch, hearing, sight and smell all bear eloquent + testimony to the contrary.—Rom. 6:23; Ezek. 18:4; Gen. 3:19; Psa. + 115:17; Ecc. 9:5; Psa. 37:10, 20; Ecc. 3:19-21; 1 Cor. 15:13, 18; + Dan. 12:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the [shapes] LIKENESSES of the locusts were like unto horses + prepared unto battle.</span></span>—The battle-cry of the old-time + Methodist was <span class="tei tei-q">“All at it, and always at + it”</span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And on their + heads were as it were crowns like gold.</span></span>—Those born of + the spirit, changed from human conditions and made like the Lord, + have received the very highest blessing, the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Crown of life”</span>, the Divine nature. Gold is a + symbol of Divinity. To receive a crown of gold is to be born of the + spirit. All old-time Methodists felt certain that they were + <span class="tei tei-q">“born of the spirit”</span> when converted, + no begetting or quickening being necessary. But here is pointed out + that these good people had <span class= + "tei tei-q">“as-it-were”</span> crowns instead of real ones.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And their faces + were as the faces of men.</span></span>—They were not <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Born of the spirit”</span> as they supposed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they had hair as the hair of women.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“If a woman have long hair it is a glory to her: for + her hair is given her for a covering.”</span> (1 Cor. 11:15.) The + Church's glory is her wedding robe, the robe of Christ's + righteousness. It is to the credit of old-time Methodists that they + trusted for salvation in the precious blood of Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And their teeth + were as the teeth of lions.</span></span>—Lions are able to chew + and swallow almost anything. When the conference at Baltimore in + 1787 turned John Wesley's Superintendent into a Bishop, the + Methodist people swallowed it all; and to this day most of them + really believe that their clergy are a Divinely appointed + institution, despite the fraud perpetrated.—Joel. 1:4-6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they had breastplates.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Breastplates of righteousness.”</span>—Eph. 6:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As it were + breastplates of iron.</span></span>—An iron breastplate would be a + good one but an <span class="tei tei-q">“as-it-were”</span> + breastplate would need examination. It was not uncommon for + old-time Methodists to deceive themselves into thinking they + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page159">[pg 159]</span><a name= + "Pg159" id="Pg159" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> had not sinned for + years. Those who had such breastplates wore the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“As-it-were”</span> variety.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the sound of + their wings.</span></span>—When engaged in <span class= + "tei tei-q">“getting the power”</span>.—Rev. 9:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was as the sound + of chariots.</span></span>—The noisiest vehicles known in the + Revelator's day.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of many horses + running to battle.</span></span>—The old-time Methodist hell-fire + revival was in days gone by the noisiest place on earth, excepting + the camp-meeting. Those good old days have long since gone.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they had tails.</span></span>—Followers—class-leaders.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Like unto + scorpions.</span></span>—The old-time class-leader was an + invaluable adjunct of the Methodist Church. Upon him devolved the + duty of requiring each probationer to attend the class-meeting and + report his spiritual progress weekly, whether he had made any or + not. After each report it was the class-leader's duty to squirt in + a little more of the poisonous doctrines from the two orifices + referred to in comments on Rev. 9:3. From the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“heaven”</span> orifice came the doctrine <span class= + "tei tei-q">“If you are good you will go to Heaven when you + die”</span>—and from the <span class="tei tei-q">“hell”</span> + orifice came the message <span class="tei tei-q">“If you are bad + you will go to hell when you die.”</span> It was all very simple. + Everybody was simple in those days.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [there were] + stings.</span></span>—Revivals in which the attendants were stung, + doctrinally and financially.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">AND in their + tails [and] WAS their power [was] to hurt men five + months.</span></span>—One hundred and fifty years, from Wesley's + ordination in 1728 to the casting off of Methodism in 1878.—Rev. + 9:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">[And] they [had a] HAVE THEIR king [over + them].</span></span>—The same king as exercises general rulership + over all the ecclesiastical affairs of this present evil world.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Which is] the + angel of the [bottomless pit] ABYSS.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The prince of the power of the air.”</span>—Eph. + 2:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Whose name in + the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon.</span></span>—And he is <span class= + "tei tei-q">“a bad one,”</span> sure enough.—2 Cor. 4:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But in the Greek + tongue hath his name Apollyon.</span></span>—That is, Destroyer. + But in plain English his name is Satan, the Devil. As a means for + preventing people from seeing the Truth, Methodism has been as + efficient as any of the five systems previously described, or any + that follow. All have been sadly misled and deceived by our great + and wily Adversary; <span class="tei tei-q">“Taken captive by him + at his will.”</span>—2 Tim. 2:26.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">One + woe is past.</span></span>—Methodism was the first woe of the epoch + leading up to and associated with the Time of the End. It was a + serious blow to the pretensions of the Papacy, but its days of + usefulness have long since passed.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page160">[pg 160]</span><a name="Pg160" id="Pg160" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And, behold, + there come two woes more [hereafter].</span></span>—One outlined in + the remainder of this chapter and one in Chapter 10. It was the + discovery of Methodism as the first woe that led to an + identification of the four movements of the Reformation proper + which preceded it.—Rev. 8:7-13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">[And] AFTER THESE THINGS the sixth angel + sounded.</span></span>—The Evangelical-Alliance-Spiritism movement + began in 1846-1848 culminating in the Federal Council of the + Churches of Christ in America. The following great denominations + which comprise 90% of the Protestant Church membership are + represented in this council: Baptist (North), Free Baptist, + Christian, Congregational, Disciples of Christ, Evangelical + Association, Evangelical Synod, Friends, Lutheran General Synod, + Methodist Episcopal, Methodist Episcopal (South), German + Evangelical Synod, Colored Methodist Episcopal, Methodist + Protestant, African Methodist Episcopal, African Methodist + Episcopal Zion, Mennonite, Moravian, Presbyterian, Presbyterian + (South), Welsh Presbyterian, Reformed Presbyterian, United + Presbyterian, Protestant Episcopal, Reformed Church in America, + Reformed Church in the U. S. A., Reformed Episcopal, Seventh-Day + Baptist, United Brethren in Christ, United Evangelical, National + Baptist Convention.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img165.png"><img src="images/img165.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Methodism + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img166.png"><img src="images/img166.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Babylon Perplexes The World + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Although these + sects are the only ones now members of the Federal Council, yet, in + hatred of the Truth, and darkness in regard to God's Plan, the + following are also entitled to membership: Evangelical Adventists, + Advent Christians, Seventh-Day Adventists, Church of God, Life and + Advent Union, Church of God in Jesus Christ, fifteen kinds of + Baptists named in comments on Rev. 8:12, four kinds of Dunkard + brethren, the Conservative, Old Order, Progressive and Seventh-Day + German varieties, four kinds of Plymouth Brethren, three kinds of + River Brethren, the Brethren in Christ, Old Order or Yorker and + United Zion's Children, Catholic Apostolic, New Apostolic, + Christadelphians, Dowie's Christian Catholic, Christian Union, + Church of Christ Scientist, Winnebrenarian Churches of God, Colored + Churches of the Living God, Christian Workers for Friendship, + Apostolic, Church of Christ in God, Churches of the New Jerusalem, + General Convention, General Church, Church Transcendent, + Communistic Societies, Shakers, Amana, Churches of Christ, + Apostolic Faith Movement, Peniel Missions, Metropolitan Church + Association, Hepziba Faith Association, Missionary Christian + Association, Heavenly Recruit Church, Apostolic Christian Church, + Christian Congregation, Colored Voluntary Missionary Society, + Hicksite Friends, Wilburite <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page161">[pg 161]</span><a name="Pg161" id="Pg161" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> Friends, Primitive Friends, Friends of the + Temple, German Evangelical Protestant, Latter-Day Saints, + Reorganized Latter-Day Saints, twenty-one kinds of Lutherans shown + in comments on Rev. 8:7, Swedish Evangelical Missionary Covenant. + Swedish Evangelical Free Mission, Norwegian Evangelical Free + Church, twelve kinds of Mennonites, Bruederhoef, Amish, Old Amish, + Conservative Amish, Reformed, General Conference, Church of God in + Christ, Old Wisler, Bundes Conference, Defenceless, Brethren in + Christ, sixteen kinds of Methodists shown in comments on Rev. 9:1, + Union Moravian, Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene, Other + Pentecostal Associations, twelve kinds of Presbyterians shown in + comments on Rev. 8:10, 11, Christian Reformed, Hungarian Reformed, + Reformed Catholic, Salvation Army, Schwenkfelders, Social Brethren, + Society for Ethical Culture, Spiritualists, Theosophical Society, + Old Constitution Brethren, Unitarians, Universalists, etc.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Their + <span class="tei tei-q">“faiths”</span> are quite as varied as + their names, but without exception they deny the central truth of + the Scriptures (1 John 4:2, 3) that when Jesus Christ came to earth + He came as a man only, devoid of immortality or Divinity, that when + He died He was as dead as though He never had lived, and that by + that death He bought for Adam and his race the Restitution of all + things foretold by <span class="tei tei-q">“the mouth of all the + holy Prophets since the world began.”</span> (Rev. 4:10.) The + common ground upon which they stand is this, their denial of the + Ransom, their affirmation of Spiritism, in some form, and their + adherence to the principle of Federation. All of these things are + condemned in the Scriptures but the Scriptures will never be + allowed to stand in the way of those who live by shearing the wool + from the sheep. (2 Tim. 4:3, 4; Deut. 18:10, 11; Isa. 8:9-22.) The + latter passage is full of the deepest significance at this + time.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Christian Heralds”</span> that refused to publish + advertisements of Pastor Russell's books now give space to + advertisements of godless, Christless, Buddhist, demoniacal books, + glorifying the New Thought system of mind worship, the boot-strap + system of religion by which men, by cultivation of the will, lift + themselves into money, piety and immortality, and by making + assertions to and demands of the alleged <span class= + "tei tei-q">“sub-conscious mind”</span> invite and receive the + assistance of evil spirits, and finally come under their control. + Modern <span class="tei tei-q">“Christianity”</span> is + Buddhism.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Rev. Dr. Day, Chancellor of the Syracuse + University, recently, in an address to the Y. M. C. A., is reported + by the public press to have said: <span class="tei tei-q">‘Wouldn't + you rather live in America than in Heaven? I would. I'd like to + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page162">[pg 162]</span><a name= + "Pg162" id="Pg162" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> go to Heaven when I + can't be here. In fact, I think I'd be rather discontented in + Heaven till I got adjusted. You can get anything you want here. You + can live under forty odd governments, meet all the nations of the + world, eat all the fruits of the world and get any kind of climate + that you choose. So America is the beat place to live; but I think + when a man can't stay here any longer he ought to steer for + Heaven,’</span> ”</span> (Z. '08-196.) Having concluded to stay + here as long as possible, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Christians”</span> are now flocking by thousands to + the purchase of works which will show them how to use spiritism to + take advantage of their fellow men. The religious and other + periodicals are now filled with advertisements of these books. We + quote a few extracts to show their Satanic character:</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“It is necessary to control others, to discover their + plans. This you may be able to do if you have developed your inner + faculties. We show you how to so develop your intuitional nature + that you are able to detect the feelings of others; to penetrate + their secret motives; and to discover what they try to conceal. The + Golden Rule must be followed in controlling others. <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Do unto others as you would that they should do unto + you.’</span> There comes more and more the power of seeing the + future, so that more and more true becomes the old adage that + coming events cast their shadows before. Health in time takes the + place of disease; for all disease and its consequent suffering is + merely the result of the violation of law, whether consciously or + unconsciously. There comes a spiritual power which, as it is sent + out, is adequate for the healing of others the same as in the days + of old.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Many omniscient men and women will soon walk the + earth. Omniscience and Freedom are the goal of all, and in this + Great Age of Light many Egos are approaching the blessed + omniscience state.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Suddenly it seemed that the top of my head had been + lifted, and I became aware of an immense increase of personal + consciousness. I became conscious, I say—I know what I am + writing—of the vast sky above, and the mighty deeps below, and the + wide sweep of present human life, and the long forward and backward + stretch of human history. It seemed that I could sense the All. + Since that day all is well. Life is deeper, richer, + stronger—assured, fearless, and saturated with perennial vital + interests.”</span> (What really happened to this man was that he + became obsessed by demons.)—Rev. 7:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The strength of these delusions lies in the grave + errors mixed with truths long held by Christian people, because of + the <span class="tei tei-q">‘falling away’</span> from the pure + faith of the Apostolic <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page163">[pg + 163]</span><a name="Pg163" id="Pg163" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + Church, foretold in the Scriptures. Among these errors none is + designed to open the heart and mind to these delusive and + destructive theories of today more effectually than the general + belief of the first lie—<span class="tei tei-q">‘Ye shall + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">not</span></em> surely die.’</span> (Gen. + 3:4.) The general acceptance of it results from a failure to + understand the Bible doctrine concerning <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">life</span></em> + and <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">immortality</span></em>, which were brought to + light by our Lord Jesus through His Gospel of salvation from sin by + His Ransom-sacrifice. The advocates of these false doctrines are + surprisingly alert and active everywhere, especially in the United + States, where thought is most active and where liberty often means + license. Hundreds of thousands have embraced these errors as new + and advanced light. The extent of their success is not fully + apparent to many; for their success lies in a <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">still + hunt</span></em> for prey. Their advocates are to be found in + almost every congregation of every denomination, and especially + among the more cultured; and the <span class="tei tei-q">‘angel of + light’</span> feature is seldom neglected. The nominal churches are + already permeated, <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">leavened</span></em> with these false + doctrines. The Scriptural prophecy that <span class="tei tei-q">‘a + thousand shall fall at thy [the true Church's] side, and ten + thousand at thy right hand’</span> (Psalm 91:3-14), is now + fulfilled before our eyes.”</span>—Z. '15-343.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I heard a + voice.</span></span>—William Miller, from A. D. 1829 to 1844.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">From [the four + horns of] the golden altar which is before + God.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Golden Altar in the + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Holy’</span> would seem to represent the + <span class="tei tei-q">‘little flock,’</span> the consecrated + Church in the present sacrificing condition.”</span>—T. 120.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Saying.</span></span>—By pointing to the + near fulfillment of the 2300 days.—Dan. 8:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To the sixth + angel which had the trumpet.</span></span>—The Evangelical + Alliance-Spiritism movement. The Alliance proper was organized + Sept. 2nd, 1846, at the end of the 2800 years. The spiritism + feature began January, 1848. The two have been growing towards each + other ever since until now they are substantially one and the same + thing.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Loose the four + angels.</span></span>—Four errors in the nine fundamental + principles of the Evangelical Alliance. We give the erroneous + clauses by number: (3) <span class="tei tei-q">“The unity of the + Godhead, and the trinity of persons therein.”</span> See Rev. 6:4; + 5:7. (5) <span class="tei tei-q">“The incarnation of the Son of + God.”</span> (8) <span class="tei tei-q">“The immortality of the + soul.”</span> (9) <span class="tei tei-q">“The Divine institution + of the Christian ministry”</span> (i. e., the clergy).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which are + bound.</span></span>—Hindered from gaining fullest expression.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In the great + river Euphrates.</span></span>—The world of mankind.—B. 209, D. + 24.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page164">[pg + 164]</span><a name="Pg164" id="Pg164" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the four + angels.</span></span>—The four great errors of trinity, + incarnation, immortality and lordship over God's heritage.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Were + loosed.</span></span>—Given greater liberties than ever before.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which were + prepared.</span></span>—Each sect for itself, and in its own + time.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For [an] THE + hour.</span></span>—The hour of judgment, 1918.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And a day] and + [a] month, and [a] year.</span></span>—Thirteen symbolic months, + the 390 years of Protestantism's siege of the Papacy.—Ezek. + 4:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For to + slay.</span></span>—To make nominal Christians of, to take away the + manhood of.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The third part + of men.</span></span>—According to the World Almanac for 1917, the + total number of Christians in the world at the beginning of the + twentieth century was 571,400,000, of whom one third, 177,800,000, + were Protestants.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the number of the army of the horsemen.</span></span>—In round + numbers, at the time of identification.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Were two hundred + thousand thousand.</span></span>—Approximately two hundred + millions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] I heard + the number of them.</span></span>—Heard, heeded, or noted, the + count as given in the World Almanac, as correct. This is a tribute + to a journal notorious for its ignoble, unjust and dishonest + attacks on Pastor Russell. <span class="tei tei-q">“Out of thine + own mouth will I judge thee.”</span> And have you noticed, on the + same principle, that nearly all the encyclopedic references herein + are to the great standard Protestant works to be found in every + capable minister's library? How is it that <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">they</span></em> do + not know these things?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + thus I saw the horses in the vision.</span></span>—Horses are + symbols of teachings. It is the doctrines a man has been taught + that carry him along to do things. <span class="tei tei-q">“As a + man thinketh, so is he.”</span> The man and his beliefs are + inseparable.—Joel 2:4. (The four kinds of horses of Zech. 6:1-8 + seem to refer to four companies of saved ones. Red, the Ancient + Worthies; black, the Little Flock; white, the Great Company; bay, + the world of mankind.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And them that + sat [on] UPON them.</span></span>—The total Protestant church + membership.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having + breastplates of fire.</span></span>—Keeping the doctrine of + hell-fire well to the front in their teachings.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And of + jacinth.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The hyacinthus of + the Romans is invariably blue and lustrous. This description + suggests the blue flame which issues between the fire and the + brimstone, represented as <span class="tei tei-q">‘smoke’</span> in + verse 18.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + brimstone.</span></span>—Yes, indeed, plenty of brimstone went + along with the hell-fire.—Rev. 14:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + heads.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The ancient and + honorable, he is the head; and the prophet that teaches lies, he is + the tail.”</span>—Isa. <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page165">[pg + 165]</span><a name="Pg165" id="Pg165" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + 9:15. <span class="tei tei-q">“In a genus of serpents or ophidian + reptiles called <span lang="la" class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang= + "la"><span style="font-style: italic">amphisboena</span></span> the + tail and head are equally obtuse, and the scales on the head so + similar to those on the back as to render it difficult to + distinguish one extremity from the other. Hence these reptiles have + been supposed to have the power of creeping backwards or forwards + with equal facility.”</span> (Cook.)—Isa. 29:10-14; John 4:22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Were as the + heads of lions.</span></span>—Able to swallow the most ridiculous + and impossible theories.—1 Chron. 12:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And out of their + mouths issued fire.</span></span>—Sermons full of hell-fire.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + smoke.</span></span>—See Rev. 9:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + brimstone.</span></span>—O yes, surely; plenty of brimstone, to go + with the hell-fire.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By + these [three] PLAGUES was the third part of men.</span></span>—The + Protestant third of Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Killed.</span></span>—Deprived of reason, + manhood and dignity.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By the + fire.</span></span>—The sermons full of hell-fire.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [by] the + smoke.</span></span>—Smoke is a symbol of confusion. The following + is an extract from an article on the brain written by a well-known + physician and alienist:</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“To illustrate how effectually such conceptions served + to block all progress in the science of life we may quote one + instance from a ponderous volume in my library with the date 1618 + on <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Physiology and Anatomy</span></span> by + Hilkiah Crooke, Physician and Professor on Anatomy and Chirurgery + to His Majesty, James I. Speaking of the origin and growth of hair, + he says: <span class="tei tei-q">‘The immediate matter of the + haires is a sooty, thicke, and earthly vapour, which in the time of + the third concoction (distillation) is elevated by the strength of + the action of naturall heate, and passeth through the pores of the + skin, which heate exiceateth or drieth this moysture of these + sootie and thicke vapours, for the vapour being thicke, in his + passage leaveth some part of it selfe, to wit, the grossest, in the + very outlet, where it is impacted by a succeeding vapour arising + where the former did, is protruded and thrust forward, so that they + are wrought together in one body. The straightness of the passages + of the skin were through the matter of the haires is anoyded, + formeth them into a small roundness, even as a wyre receyeth that + proportion whereof the whole is, where through it is + drawne.’</span> One great office of the hairs of the head, + therefore, Crooke perceived to be to lead off <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘the vapors which otherwise would choke and make smoaky + the braine,’</span> though how hopelessly choked the brains of all + bald heads hence would be he does not mention.”</span> A study of + the foregoing leads to the conclusion that the various churches + must have been founded by <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page166">[pg + 166]</span><a name="Pg166" id="Pg166" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + bald-headed men, and the smoke being unable to find its way out + through their scalps naturally had to come out of their mouths!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [by] the + brimstone.</span></span>—Yes, indeed; plenty of brimstone.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which issued out + of their mouths.</span></span>—Especially when an evangelist firm + is in town looking for shekels.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + [their power] THE POWER OF THE HORSES is in their + mouth.</span></span>—Assuredly, assuredly; it certainly is not in + the Scriptures.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And in their + tails.</span></span>—Followers, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Workers,”</span> class-leaders.—Isa. 9:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For their tails + were like unto serpents.</span></span>—Bright enough to know + better.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And had + heads.</span></span>—Wills of their own—unlike the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Beheaded”</span> saints (Rev. 20:4.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And with them + they do hurt.</span></span>—Damage the cause of Truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the rest of the men.</span></span>—Those ordinary <span class= + "tei tei-q">“good fellows”</span> (and bad ones too), men of the + world who had too much sense to swallow what is taught by any of + the sects.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which were not + killed by these THEIR plagues.</span></span>—Who remained + <span class="tei tei-q">“unconverted”</span> to the mass of errors + masquerading in the name of religion.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yet repented not + of the works of their hands.</span></span>—Failed to turn their + money, brains and service over to the nominal church, but continued + on in their own way.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That they should + not worship devils.</span></span>—Joining, if they choose, the + Masons, Odd Fellows and other secret organisations teaching a + debased form of religion.—Lev. 17:7; Deut. 32:17; 1 Cor. 10:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And idols of + gold, and silver and [brass] COPPER.</span></span>—Having their + affection set upon currency in hand and in the bank.—Psa. 115:1-4; + Dan. 5:22, 23.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And stone, and + of wood.</span></span>—Giving their attention to earthly affairs, + improvements in real estate, etc.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which neither + can see, nor hear, nor walk.</span></span>—But are more or less + permanent, tangible and fixed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Neither repented they of their + murders.</span></span>—Teaching hell-fire keeps nobody from being a + murderer or a slanderer.—Rev. 21:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Nor their + sorceries.</span></span>—Use of drugs, Greek. Teaching hell-fire + keeps nobody from being a drug fiend or pseudo-philosopher.—Rev. + 21:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Nor of their + [fornication] WICKEDNESS.</span></span>—Teaching hell-fire keeps + nobody from being a wicked man.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Nor of their + thefts.</span></span>—Teaching hell-fire keeps nobody from engaging + in <span class="tei tei-q">“high finance.”</span></p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page167">[pg 167]</span><a name= + "Pg167" id="Pg167" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc25" id="toc25"></a> <a name="pdf26" id="pdf26"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 10—The True Reformation + Woe</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw another angel.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + Messenger of the Covenant,”</span> the Lord Jesus.—Mal. 3:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Come down from + Heaven.</span></span>—At the time of the Second Advent, Oct. + 1874.—Rev. 3:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Clothed with a + cloud.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“ <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘He cometh with clouds;’</span> and while the clouds of + trouble are heavy and dark, when the mountains (kingdoms of this + world) are trembling and falling, and the earth (organized society) + is being shaken, disintegrated, melted, some will begin to realize + what we now proclaim as already at hand—that Jehovah's Anointed is + taking to Himself His great power and beginning His work of laying + justice to the line and righteousness to the plummet. (Isa. + 28:17.)”</span>—B. 138.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [a rainbow + was] THE HAIR upon His head, and His face was as it were the sun, + and His feet as pillars of fire.</span></span>—See Rev. 1:14-16; + 7:2; 18:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [He had] HAVING in His hand.</span></span>—In His power, given to + Him by the Father.—Rev. 5:7, 5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A little book + open.</span></span>—The Present Truth message.—C. 89.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And He set His + right foot.</span></span>—Exerted the strongest power of + restraint.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Upon the + sea.</span></span>—The masses not under religious control, who, + without the Lord's control of the situation, would have long since + swallowed up the present order of things.—Rev. 7:1-3; Luke 21:25; + Psa. 46:2, 3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And His left + foot on the earth.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Throughout the Scriptures, earth, when used + symbolically, represents society; seas, the restless, turbulent, + dissatisfied masses of the world.”</span>—A. 318.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + cried with a loud voice.</span></span>—Pastor Russell was the voice + used.—Rev. 7:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As when a lion + roareth.</span></span>—Symbolical of Justice.—Rev. 4:7; Amos + 3:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when.</span></span>—In 1881 A. D.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He had + cried.</span></span>—With the first great cry, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Food for Thinking + Christians</span></span>,”</span> 1,400,000 copies given away, + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">free</span></em>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Seven + thunders.</span></span>—Seven volumes of <span class= + "tei tei-q">“STUDIES IN THE SCRIPTURES.”</span>—Rev. 8:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Uttered their + voices.</span></span>—Were foreseen as necessary to the complete + statement of the Plan, and the fulfillment of this and other + Scriptures.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page168">[pg + 168]</span><a name="Pg168" id="Pg168" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [when] WHATSOEVER the seven thunders had uttered [their voices], + I.</span></span>—Pastor Russell as a representative of the John + class.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was about to + write.</span></span>—Intended to put on paper at once.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I heard a + voice from Heaven.</span></span>—The guidance of the Heavenly + Father, directing and overruling, knowing that the results would be + better if the interest of His little ones were sustained by + expectancy throughout the whole time of Harvest, rather than to + give them all the light at once.—John 16:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying [unto + me], Seal up [those] WHAT things [which] SOEVER the seven thunders + uttered.</span></span>—Do not immediately disclose their full + contents.—Dan. 8:26; 12:4, 9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And write them + not.</span></span>—Observe how the Lord retarded the publications: + Vol. I was published in 1886. <span class="tei tei-q">“In sending + forth this first volume of the MILLENNIAL DAWN, it is but proper + that we apologize to the many friends who have waited for it so + patiently since promised.”</span> (A. 3.) Volume II was published + in 1889, and III in 1891. <span class="tei tei-q">“Some have urged + greater haste in the writing and publishing of the several volumes + of this series, and, to a large extent, I have shared the same + feelings of impatience; but my observations of the Lord's dealings + and leadings and unfoldings of His Plan are gradually convincing me + that He has not shared our impatience. Indeed, I can clearly trace + His hand in some of the hindrances encountered and can realize by + the delay I have been enabled to grasp the subjects more + thoroughly, and to present them more fully, than if the work had + been hastened more. Not only has this delay worked for my good and + yours, but in another way also. It has afforded time for a more + thorough digestion of the truths of each volume, and thereby has + given to the faithful student the very necessary preparation for + that which was to follow. And not only so, but it has also given + opportunity for practicing the lessons learned, and for exercising + the talents of each in spreading the advancing light before others + of God's saints.”</span> (C. 12.) Volume IV was published in 1897, + V in 1899, VI in 1904 and VII in 1917. This makes a total lapse of + 36 years from the publication of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">FOOD FOR THINKING + CHRISTIANS</span></span> to the last volume of the <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">SCRIPTURE + STUDIES</span></span>. Meantime the Harvest work grew to a movement + of vast proportions; and Volume VII was delayed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the angel which I saw.</span></span>—The Lord Jesus, since + 1874.—Rev. 10:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Stand upon the + sea and upon the earth.</span></span>—In control of the masses not + under religious restraint as well as order-loving + society.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page169">[pg + 169]</span><a name="Pg169" id="Pg169" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Lifted up His + RIGHT hand to Heaven.</span></span>—The seventh angel was in that + hand when He did so.—Rev. 1:16, 20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + sware by Him that liveth for ever and ever.</span></span>—By + Jehovah, His Father and our Father, His God and our God.—John + 20:17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Who created + Heaven, and the things that therein are.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The heavens declare the glory of God.”</span>—Psa. + 19:1-6; Neh. 9:6; Rev. 4:11; 14:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the earth, + and the things that therein are, [and the sea, and the things which + are therein].</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“When the + morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for + joy.”</span>—Job 38, 39, 40 and 41 chapters.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That there + [should be] IS time no longer.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“There shall be no further delay.”</span>—Weym.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + in the days of the voice of the seventh angel.</span></span>—Pastor + Russell was the seventh angel.—Rev. 3:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When he shall + begin to sound.</span></span>—In the autumn of 1881, at which time + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">FOOD FOR + THINKING CHRISTIANS</span></span> was circulated, and the General + Call ceased.—Rev. 11:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The mystery of + God [should be] WAS finished.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The great unfolding of the Divine mystery we are + expressly told was reserved until the close of the Gospel + Age.”</span> (Z. '97-255.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The Plan ceases + to be a mystery, because there is no further object in perpetuating + its secrecy. The greatness of the mystery, so long kept secret, and + the wonderful grace bestowed on those called to fellowship in this + mystery (Eph. 3:9), suggest to us that the work to follow its + completion must be an immense work, worthy of such great + preparations. What may we not expect in blessings upon the world, + when the veil of mystery is withdrawn and the showers of blessing + descend! It is this for which the whole creation groans and + travails in pain together until now, waiting for the completion of + this mystery, for the manifestation of the Sons of God, the + promised <span class="tei tei-q">‘Seed’</span> in whom they shall + all be blessed.—Rom. 8:19, 21, 22.”</span> (A. 87.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“While the door stands open, it indicates that any + believer who is anxious to enter and ready to comply with the + conditions may yet do so, even though the general <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘call’</span> or invitation to enter is no longer sent + out. The opportunity to labor and sacrifice has not yet closed + though the general call ceased in 1881.”</span>—C. 213.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As He hath + declared to His servants.</span></span>—The Harvest Workers.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">AND the + Prophets.</span></span>—Daniel (12:4-12) and Habakkuk (2:1-3).—Rev. + 1:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the Voice which I heard from Heaven.</span></span>—The Heavenly + Father's voice.—Rev. 10:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Spake unto me + again.</span></span>—By His Holy Spirit.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page170">[pg 170]</span><a name="Pg170" id="Pg170" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + said.</span></span>—Through the Bible, His Word, His Voice.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Go take the + little book.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Study to show + thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be + ashamed.”</span>—2 Tim. 2:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which is open in + the hand of the angel.</span></span>—The Lord Jesus. Rev. 10:1, + 5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which standeth + upon the sea and upon the earth.</span></span>—See Rev. 10:2, + 5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I went unto the angel.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In + coming out of bondage to human traditions, creeds, systems and + errors, we are coming directly to our Lord, to be taught and fed by + Him, to be strengthened and perfected to do His pleasure, and to + stand, and not fall with Babylon.”</span>—C. 167.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And said unto + Him.</span></span>—By my act in obeying His command.—Rev. 18:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Give me the + little book.</span></span>—Take me into Your confidence; give me + Your Holy Spirit; show me, as promised, the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“things to come.”</span>—John 16:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And He said unto + me, Take it, and eat it up.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“It is absolutely useless for us to pray Lord, Lord, + give us the Spirit, if we neglect the Word of Truth which that + Spirit has supplied for out filling.”</span>—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">245</span></span>, + 225; Ezek. 2:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And it shall + make thy belly bitter.</span></span>—Lead to self-sacrifice, with + its attendant sufferings, but create an appetite for more. + <span class="tei tei-q">“The after effects are always more or less + blending of the bitterness of persecution with the + sweetness.”</span>—C. 89; Ezek. 2:10; 3:14; Dan. 8:27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But it shall be + in thy mouth sweet as honey.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“O the blessedness.”</span>—Dan. 12:12; Psa. 19:10; + 119:103.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I took the little book out of the angel's hand and ate it + up.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Thy words were found and + I did eat them; and Thy Word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of + mine heart.”</span>—Jer. 15:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And it was in my + mouth sweet as honey.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“So I + opened my mouth, and He caused me to eat that roll. And it was in + my mouth as honey for sweetness.”</span>—Ezek. 3:2, 3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And as soon as I + had eaten it, my belly was [bitter] + FILLED.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It satisfies my + longings as nothing else could do.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [He said] THEY SAY unto me.</span></span>—The Scriptures do the + saying.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou must + prophesy again.</span></span>—Continue to proclaim the Message of + Truth Divine.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Before many + peoples, and nations, and tongues, and kings.</span></span>—Until + it has been fully testified to all.—1 Tim. 2:6. The concluding word + of this Scripture suggests that the last witness of the church in + the flesh is, like their Lord's as alleged malefactors, before + earth's rulers.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page171">[pg 171]</span><a name= + "Pg171" id="Pg171" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc27" id="toc27"></a> <a name="pdf28" id="pdf28"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 11—The Time Of The + End</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there was given me.</span></span>—The John class in the Time of the + End.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A reed like unto + a rod.</span></span>—The Lord's Word is both a rod to lean upon, + (Isa. 11:4) and a reed with which to measure. (Jer. 1:11-12). The + word here tendered <span class="tei tei-q">“rod”</span> is rendered + <span class="tei tei-q">“staff”</span> in Matt. 10:10; Heb. + 11:21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And the angel + stood, saying], HE SAITH.</span></span>—It is the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“reed”</span> or <span class="tei tei-q">“rod”</span> + itself, the Divine Word, that does the saying.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Rise.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“At the exact <span class="tei tei-q">‘time + appointed,’</span> 1799, the end of the 1260 days, the power of the + Man of Sin, the great oppressor of the Church, was broken, and his + dominion taken away. With one stroke of His mighty hand, God there + struck off Zion's fetters, and bade the oppressed go free. And + forth came, and are coming, the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Sanctuary’</span> class, the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘holy people,’</span> weak, and halt, and lame, and + almost naked, and blind, from the dungeon darkness and filth and + misery of papal bondage. Poor souls! they had been trying to serve + God faithfully in the very midst of the lurid flames of + persecution, clinging to the cross of Christ when almost every + other truth had been swept away, and courageously endeavoring to + emancipate God's <span class="tei tei-q">‘Two Witnesses’</span> + (the Old and New Testaments), which had so long been bound, and + which had prophesied only under the sackcloth of dead + languages.”</span>—C. 122.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And measure the + Temple of God.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“That symbolic + Temple which is The Christ.”</span> (T. 70.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The mention of worshippers proves that the measuring + is symbolical. To <span class="tei tei-q">‘<em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">measure</span></em>’</span> is to separate for + sacred purposes; what is excluded from the measurement is, + accordingly, more or less mingled with evil. Hence, in this place, + what is measured—the true believer typified—is to be exempted from + the Judgments in which what is <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">not</span></em> + measured (ver. 2) is involved.”</span> (Cook). <span class= + "tei tei-q">“If the direction be understood figuratively, as + applicable to the Christian Church, the work to be done would be to + obtain an exact estimate or measurement of what the true Church + was—as distinguished from all other bodies of men, and as + constituted, and appointed, by the direction of God; such a + measurement that its characteristics could be made known; that a + church could be organized according to this, and that the accurate + description <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page172">[pg + 172]</span><a name="Pg172" id="Pg172" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + could be transmitted to future times.”</span> (Barnes.)—Ezek. 40:3; + Rev. 21:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + altar.</span></span>—The Golden Altar, within the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Holy”</span>, the true Church, as sacrificers.—Ex. + 30:1-10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And them that + worship therein.</span></span>—The several volumes of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span> and the booklet <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Tabernacle + Shadows</span></span> are devoted to the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“measurements”</span> herein prophesied.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + the court which is [without] WITHIN the Temple leave + out.</span></span>—The court here represents the same thing as is + represented in the Court of the Tabernacle in the wilderness, the + condition of progression toward complete Justification.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And measure it + not.</span></span>—Devote all attention to the higher privileges of + the <span class="tei tei-q">“Holy”</span>. The <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Court”</span> was merely provided as a proper approach + to the <span class="tei tei-q">“Holy”</span>. Acceptance of Christ + as one's Savior, appreciation of His work at Calvary, and washing + one's self in the water of the Word as represented respectively by + the First Gate, Brazen Altar, and Laver of the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Court”</span> are not the things to which we are + particularly invited; but consecration to God's will, illumination + by His Spirit, appropriation of His promises and sacrifice of our + all, acceptable to the Father through our great High Priest, + represented respectively by the Second Gate or Door, the + Candlestick, Table of Shew-bread and Golden Altar of the + <span class="tei tei-q">“Holy”</span>, are the things to which we + were called: so that we might pass the Third Gate or Veil, actual + death of the body, and finally become a part of The Christ, + represented by the Ark of the Covenant, of which our Father is the + Head.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For it is given + ALSO unto the Gentiles.</span></span>—With the deliverance of the + Little Flock, the condition represented by the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Holy”</span> ceases. This leaves the Great Company + still in the <span class="tei tei-q">“Court”</span> and the special + objects of Gentile wrath as their kingdoms fall into ruin. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Being denied the liberty accorded to the + Priests, these will have merely the standing of justification, + which, if they maintain, will constitute them worthy of eternal + life. But that life will not be human life, because they gave that + up in order to become Priests. Their failure puts them out of the + Holy condition back into the Court condition.”</span> (Z. + '11-22.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“After the establishment of Messiah's Kingdom, this + distinction between the Church proper, joint-heirs with Christ, and + the larger company of antitypical Levites, will be perpetual, and + the services of the two will be different. The former will be a + Priesthood corresponding to that of Melchizedek—a Priest upon His + Throne. The work of the latter will correspond more to that + accomplished by the Levites; namely, teaching the people, etc., as + servants <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page173">[pg + 173]</span><a name="Pg173" id="Pg173" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + of the Priests, from whom they will receive their + directions.”</span>—Z. '14-79.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the Holy + City.</span></span>—The embryo Kingdom of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shall they tread + under foot.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Kingdom of + Heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by + force.”</span>—Matt. 11:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Forty and two + months.</span></span>—1260 years from papacy's establishment as a + temporal power, 539 A. D. to 1799 A. D.—B. 91, 310; C. 50, 64; Dan. + 7:25; 12:7; Rev. 12:6, 14; 13:5; Jas. 5:17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will give power unto My Two Witnesses.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Lord refers to the Old and New Testament + Scriptures, and faithfully they have borne their testimony to every + nation.”</span>—D. 258.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they shall + prophesy.</span></span>—Teach.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A thousand, two + hundred and three score days.</span></span>—1260 years, from A. D. + 539 to 1799.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Clothed in + sackcloth.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Kept covered in + dead languages.”</span>—C. 50.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">These are the Two Olive + Trees.</span></span>—Sources of the oil, the holy Spirit.—Zech. + 4:1-6; Rom. 11:17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the Two + Candlesticks.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">light</span></em> + of the world, during all the darkness of the past.”</span>—D. + 652.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Standing before + the [God] LORD of the earth.</span></span>—Jehovah. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The earth is the Lord's.”</span>—Psa. 24:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + if any man will hurt them.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“And if any man <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">desireth</span></em> to hurt them. The present + tense here points to the continued enmity of the world to the + Church, during the entire course of the Witnesses' + testimony.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Fire proceedeth + out of their mouth.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“I will + make My words in thy mouth fire, and this people wood, and it shall + devour them.”</span>—Jer. 5:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And devoureth + their enemies.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“History + supplies the illustrations—the fire that consumed the opponents of + Moses (Num. 16:28, 35), and that which came down at the word of + Elijah. (2 Kings 1:10, 12)”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And if any man + will hurt them, he must in this manner be + killed.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Therefore have I + hewed them by the Prophets; and I have slain them by the words of + My mouth.”</span>—Hos. 6:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">These have power to shut + heaven.</span></span>—The literal heavens and the spiritual + heavens.—1 Ki. 17:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That it rain + not.</span></span>—That there be no literal showers, or spiritual + showers of blessings.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In the days of + their prophecy.</span></span>—Literally in the three and one half + years in Elijah's day in which there was no rain (James 5:17) and + spiritually in the three and one half times, or 1260 years, from A. + D. 539 to 1799 in which <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page174">[pg + 174]</span><a name="Pg174" id="Pg174" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + the showers of blessing were withheld from the world.—Rev. + 2:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And have power + over waters.</span></span>—Literal and symbolic.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To turn them + into blood.</span></span>—Literally as when Moses turned the waters + of Egypt into blood (Exodus 7:21.) Symbolically during this Harvest + time in which the Heavenly Harvest truths have become <span class= + "tei tei-q">“bloody”</span>, repulsive, abhorrent, symbolizing + death where they should be received as a blessing.—Z. '07-279.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] to smite + the earth with all plagues.</span></span>—Literal and symbolic.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As often as they + will.</span></span>—Literally in the plagues which Moses poured out + upon the Egyptians (Exodus 7 to 11.) Symbolically in the spiritual + plagues, the seven last upon Christendom.—Rev. 16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when they shall have finished their testimony.</span></span>—In the + dead languages, about the time of the end of papacy's power to + persecute.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The beast that + THEN ascendeth out of the [bottomless pit] ABYSS.</span></span>—The + government without a foundation; revolutionary France during the + <span class="tei tei-q">“Reign of Terror.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shall make war + against them.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In 1793 a + decree passed the French Assembly forbidding the Bible; and under + that decree the Bibles were gathered and burned, every possible + mark of contempt was heaped upon them.”</span>—Smith.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And shall + overcome them, and kill them.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“All the institutions of the Bible were abolished; the + weekly rest day was blotted out, and every tenth day substituted + for mirth and profanity. Baptism and the communion were abolished. + The being of God was denied, and death proclaimed an eternal sleep. + The Goddess of Reason, in the person of a vile woman, was set up, + and publicly worshipped.”</span>—Smith.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + their dead bodies shall lie in the + street.</span></span>—France.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the great + city.</span></span>—Christendom, the Old Roman Empire.—Rev. 14:8; + 16:19; 17:9, 18; 18:2, 10, 16, 18, 19, 21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which + spiritually is called Sodom.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘Remember Lot's wife!’</span> + is our Lord's pointed warning. How intensely forceful it is as a + caution to God's people here, in the close of the Gospel Age. When + we learn that Babylon is doomed, and hear the Lord's message, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Come out of her My people that ye be not + partakers of her sins and that ye receive not of her + plagues,’</span> it is indeed like the voice of the messengers who + hastened Lot and his family out of Sodom, saying, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Stay not in all the plain; escape for thy life; escape + to the mountain lest thou be consumed; look not behind + thee.’</span> (Gen. 19:17). Christendom is <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘that great <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page175">[pg + 175]</span><a name="Pg175" id="Pg175" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + city [Babylon] which spiritually is called + Sodom.’</span> ”</span>—D. 607, 608; Rev. 17:5; Isa. 1:9, 10; 3:8, + 9; Jer. 23:14; Ezek. 16:48, 41.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + Egypt.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Egypt is recognized + as a symbol or type of the world of mankind, full of vain + philosophies, but ignorant of the true Light.”</span>—C. 315; Ezek. + 23:3, 4, 8, 27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Where also [our] + THE Lord was crucified.</span></span>—Catholic France, through its + connection with the papacy, is a part of the old Roman Empire, in + another part of which our Lord was slain. In another aspect France + is identified with the death of the Lord. Anything done to the + least of one of the Lord's little ones is counted as done to + Himself. When Saul of Tarsus persecuted the Lord's saints, the One + who met him in the way said, <span class="tei tei-q">“I am Jesus + whom thou persecutest.”</span> (Acts 9:4, 5; 22:7, 8; 26:14, 15.) A + plot was laid in France to destroy all the Protestants; and on Aug. + 24, 1572, sixty thousand were murdered, and the streets of Paris + literally ran with blood. The Protestants were in Paris under a + solemn oath of safety, to celebrate the marriage of the king of + Navarre. Admiral Coligny, a Protestant of great ability and + prominence, was basely murdered in his own house, and his head was + sent to his holiness, the Pope, as proof that he was really dead. + The <span class="tei tei-q">“Holy Father of Fathers”</span>, the + <span class="tei tei-q">“Vicar of Christ”</span>, the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Chief Pastor and Teacher”</span>, was so pleased that + <span class="tei tei-q">“bells were rung, and guns were fired, + bonfires were set ablaze; and Gregory XIII, attended by cardinals, + archbishops, bishops, and a great throng of prelates, marched in + procession. A <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Te Deum</span></span> was chanted, and the + Pope commissioned the painter Vasari to paint the scene of the + massacre, and employed an artist to engrave a medal commemorative + of the event. The preachers in Rome delivered eloquent orations, + and a messenger carried a golden rose to Charles as a present from + the Pope.”</span>—Coffin.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they of the people.</span></span>—The Protestant people.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And kindreds and + tongues and nations.</span></span>—Of other parts of Europe.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Shall] see + their dead [bodies] BODY.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“As + if though silenced in death they continued witnesses still.”</span> + (Cook.) Take note of the horrible effect upon France of their + effort to exterminate the Scriptures. <span class="tei tei-q">“The + more deeply the French Revolution is considered, the more manifest + is its preeminence above all the strange and terrible things that + have come to pass on this earth. Every ancient institution and + every time honored custom disappeared in a moment. The whole social + and political system went down before the first stroke. Monarchy, + nobility and <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page176">[pg + 176]</span><a name="Pg176" id="Pg176" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + church were swept away almost without resistance. The good things + of this world,—birth, rank, wealth, fine clothes and elegant + manners,—became worldly perils, and worldly disadvantages. The + people waged a war of such extermination with everything + established, as to abolish the common forms of address and + salutation, and the common mode of reckoning time, abhorred + <span class="tei tei-q">‘you’</span> as a sin, and shrank from + <span class="tei tei-q">‘monsieur’</span> as an abomination, turned + the weeks into decades, and would know the old months no more. The + demolished halls of the aristocracy, the rifled sepulchres of + royalty, the decapitated king and queen, the little dauphin so + sadly done to death, the beggared princes, the slaughtered priests + and nobles, the sovereign guillotine, the republican marriages, the + Meudon tannery, the couples tied together and thrown into the + Loire, and the gloves made of men's and women's skins: these things + are most horrible.”</span> (T. H. Gill, <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">The Papal + Drama</span></span>.)—D. 537.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Three days and + an half.</span></span>—See Rev. 11:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [shall not] + suffer NOT their dead bodies to be put in [graves] A + GRAVE.</span></span>—On the contrary, this very attempt + <span class="tei tei-q">“served to arouse Christians everywhere to + put forth new exertions in behalf of the Bible.”</span>—Smith.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they that dwell upon the earth.</span></span>—The people of France, + then infidels, without any hopes except for the present poor + earth-life.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Shall] rejoice + over them, and make merry.</span></span>—Literally fulfilled when + the Assembly proscribed the Scriptures.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [shall] send + gifts one to another.</span></span>—Literally fulfilled, the gifts + being expressions of joy over the sudden <span class= + "tei tei-q">“liberty,”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“a custom + usual in times of festivity.”</span>—Neh. 8:10, 12; Esth. 9:19, + 22.—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Because these + Two Prophets tormented.</span></span>—By continuing to proclaim the + coming Reign of Christ and His Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Them that dwelt + on the earth.</span></span>—The classes whose hopes and destinies + are earthly.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + after three days and an half.</span></span>—Three years and one + half.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The Spirit of + life from God entered into Them.</span></span>—In a symbolic sense + They were <span class="tei tei-q">“raised from the + dead.”</span>—Ezek. 37:5, 9, 10, 14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And They stood + upon Their feet.</span></span>—See Ezek. 37:10. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“In 1793, a decree passed the French Assembly + suppressing the Bible. Just three years after, a resolution was + introduced into the Assembly superseding the decree, and giving + toleration to the Scriptures. That resolution lay on the table six + months, when it was taken up, and passed without a dissenting vote. + Thus, in just three years and a half, the Witnesses <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘stood upon their + feet.’</span> ”</span>—Smith.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page177">[pg 177]</span><a name="Pg177" id="Pg177" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And great fear + fell upon them which saw them.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Nothing but the appalling results of the rejection of + the Bible, could have induced France to take her hands off these + Witnesses.”</span> (Smith.) <span class="tei tei-q">“In the light + of the foretold character of coming events of this battle, we may + regard the French Revolution as only the rumbling of distant + thunder, giving warning of an approaching storm; as a slight tremor + preceding the general earthquake shock; as the premonitory click of + the great clock of the ages, which gives notice to those already + awake that the wheels are in motion, and that shortly it will + strike the midnight hour which will end the present order of + affairs and usher in a new order,—the Year of Jubilee, with its + attendant commotion and changes of possession.”</span>—D. 535.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">In comments on + Rev. 3:14, reasons are given for anticipating the deliverance of + the Little Flock about Passover, 1918 [possibly on the <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Passover + day</span></span>, as a result of activities by the tribe of Dan. + (Jer. 8:16.)] There we noted the Lord's use of the half-week + principle. In this prophecy, we have the same principle. The French + Revolution is Divinely provided as a picture of events now at hand, + and we therefore expect three and a half years of proscription of + the Truth, from the spring of 1918 to the fall of 1921. This will + give the Great Company splendid opportunities for martyrdom and + allow another three and a half years, to the spring of 1925, for + the world to think the matter over, by which time, doubtless, they + will be quite ready to listen to the voice that speaketh from + Heaven.—Heb. 12:19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they heard a great voice from Heaven.</span></span>—The voice last + referred to—the Lord Jesus Himself, the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“voice,”</span> the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Word,”</span> of the Heavenly Father.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying unto + them, Come up hither.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + Two Witnesses of God, the Old and New Testaments, ascended to + heaven, the place of honor and power, as the Scriptures + symbolically represent the matter.”</span>—Z. '15-199.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they + ascended up to heaven.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + British and Foreign Bible Society (which has distributed + 230,000,000 copies of the Bible) was established in 1803; the New + York Bible Society in 1804; the Berlin-Prussian Bible Society in + 1805; the Philadelphia Bible Society in 1808; and the American + Bible Society (127,000,000 copies distributed) in 1817. Bibles by + the million, in over 300 languages, are published yearly and sold + at low prices, and many thousands are given away to the poor. It is + difficult to estimate the wide influence of this work. Its quiet + teaching is the greatest of all levelers and equalizers.”</span>—C. + 51.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page178">[pg + 178]</span><a name="Pg178" id="Pg178" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In a + cloud.</span></span>—In a time of trouble, the French Revolution. + The exaltation which the Word of God received as a result of the + French Revolution is as nothing compared with the exaltation which + awaits it after the <span class="tei tei-q">“Time of Trouble such + as was not since there was a nation.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And their + enemies beheld them.</span></span>—As the enemies of the Word of + God were compelled by the stern logic of events to consent to its + restoration in the French time of trouble, so the Lord's enemies, + and the enemies of His Church, will be compelled to submit to the + Reign of Truth when their forces have been exhausted in the Battle + of the great Day of God Almighty.—Luke 19:27; Isa. 54:11-17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the same hour was there a great + earthquake.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In the symbolic + language of Revelation, the French Revolution was indeed a + <span class="tei tei-q">‘great earthquake’</span>—a social shock so + great that all <span class="tei tei-q">‘Christendom’</span> + trembled until it was over; and that terrible and sudden outburst + of a single nation's wrath, only a century ago, may give some idea + of the fury of the coming storm, when the wrath of all the angry + nations will burst the bands of law and order and cause a reign of + universal anarchy. In fact, the French Revolution seems referred to + by our Lord in His Revelation to John on Patmos as a prelude to, + and an illustration of, the great crisis now + approaching.”</span>—D. 531.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The French + Revolution lasted ten and a half years, from June 17th, 1789, when + the Assembly began its reign, until Napoleon seized the government + and caused himself to be appointed First Consul, November 9th, + 1799. This coincides well with the thought previously expressed + (Rev. 7:3) that all phases of Babylon will not be disposed of until + about ten and a half years from the fall of 1914. The Assembly was + in control from the first, but did not execute the king until + January 21st, 1793, three years and one-half from the time the + trouble started. The Assembly continued in control until June 25th, + 1795, six years from the time the trouble began, when the + government was intrusted to five persons under the name of the + Directory. It was on October 4th of the same year that Napoleon + cleared the streets of Paris of the mobs, and from that point + onward his star began to rise. Some interesting developments in + connection with the setting up of the Kingdom may occur in 1920, + six years after the great Time of Trouble began. It would not be + strange if this were so, when we recall that after forty years + wandering in the wilderness the Israelites came into possession of + the land of Canaan after a further six years. As these matters are + still future we can but wait to see. <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page179">[pg 179]</span><a name="Pg179" id="Pg179" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> We anticipate that the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“earthquake”</span> will occur early in 1918, and that + the <span class="tei tei-q">“fire”</span> will come in the fall of + 1920.—1 Kings 19:11, 12; Z. '98-207, 208.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the tenth + part of the city fell.</span></span>—The French part of + Christendom; one of the ten toes of the image seen by + Nebuchadnezzar; one of the ten horns of Daniel's beast and John's + dragon.—Dan. 2:41-43; 7:24; Rev. 12:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And in the + earthquake were slain of men seven + thousand.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“And by the + earthquake were destroyed seven thousand names of men.”</span> + (Diaglott.) <span class="tei tei-q">“France made war, in her + revolution of 1793-98, on all titles of nobility. It is said by + those who have examined the French records, that just seven + thousand titles of men were abolished in that + revolution.”</span>—Smith.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the remnant + were affrighted and gave glory to the God of + Heaven.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Their + God-dishonoring and Heaven-defying work filled France with such + scenes of blood, carnage, and horror, as made even the infidels + themselves tremble, and stand aghast; and the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘remnant’</span> that escaped the horrors of that hour + <span class="tei tei-q">‘gave glory to God’</span>—not willingly, + but the God of Heaven caused this <span class="tei tei-q">‘wrath of + man to praise Him,’</span> by causing all the world to see that + those who make war on Heaven make graves for themselves; thus glory + redounded to God by the very means that wicked men employed to + tarnish that glory. For the statistics and many of the foregoing + thoughts on the Two Witnesses, we are indebted to an exposition of + the subject of The Two Witnesses, by the late George + Storrs.”</span> (Smith.) <span class="tei tei-q">“And here I + gratefully mention assistance rendered by Brothers George Stetson + and George Storrs, the latter the Editor of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">The Bible + Examiner</span></span>, both now deceased. The study of the Word of + God with these dear brethren led step by step into greener pastures + and brighter hopes for the world.”</span>—Pastor Russell's + Autobiography. Z. '16-170.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + second woe is past.</span></span>—In the narrative of Chapter XI + are briefly summed up the three most important events of the Time + of the End. Between the French Revolution and the great Time of + Trouble occurs a most significant event, which leads up to and is + the direct cause of the great Time of Trouble. That event is the + second woe. It is described in detail in Rev. 9:14-21. But for this + the great Time of Trouble would never have been necessary (Mal. + 4:6); but it is necessary now, as necessary as was the Flood in + Noah's day, and for the same reason—to rid the earth of the progeny + of the evil spirits, the <span class="tei tei-q">“abominations of + the earth.”</span>—Rev. 17:5; 9:13.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page180">[pg 180]</span><a name="Pg180" id="Pg180" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And, behold, the + third woe cometh quickly.</span></span>—The third woe is the Reign + of the Lord begun, with its attendant upsetting of the present + order. The woes are visited upon those interested in maintaining + the present order of things, who would like to retain indefinitely + the advantages they have obtained. <span class="tei tei-q">“The + battle of this great Day of God Almighty will be the greatest + revolution the world has ever seen. Behold, how, even now, the + searchlight of general intelligence is discovering the secret + springs of political intrigue, financial policies, religious + claims, etc., and how all are brought to the bar of judgment, and + by men, as well as by God, declared right or wrong as judged by the + teachings of the Word of God.”</span>—D. 541.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the seventh angel.</span></span>—Pastor Russell. See Rev. 3:14; + 10:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Sounded.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“We find the <span class="tei tei-q">‘<em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">shout</span></em>,’</span> the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘<em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">voice of the Archangel</span></em>’</span> and + <span class="tei tei-q">‘<em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">the trump of God</span></em>’</span> all + symbols, and now in process of fulfillment.”</span> (B. 149, 197.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“The <span class="tei tei-q">‘great + trumpet’</span> we understand to be the antitypical <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘trumpet of Jubilee,’</span> as symbolic as the + preceding six, none of which ever made any literal sound. It has + been symbolically sounding since October, 1874, and will continue + to the end of the Millennium.”</span>—D. 601; Rev. 10:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there were + great voices in heaven.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“These voices have been uttered, and to some extent + heard, in the symbolic heavens, the nominal church. For some years + past a <span class="tei tei-q">‘volunteer work’</span> has been + steadily progressing amongst the brethren—the work of rendering + assistance to the members of the Household of Faith still in + Babylon, still in darkness respecting the Lord, His true Character, + His true Plan, and respecting the nearness of His + Kingdom.”</span>—Z. '02-118.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, The + [kingdoms] KINGDOM of this world [are] IS become the [kingdoms] + KINGDOM of our Lord, and of His Christ.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The volunteer matter prepared for this present year + (the issues of our journal for February 15 and March 15) had + already been prepared before we thought of how wonderfully this + year's distribution will agree with the declaration of our text. + Here will be a million voices proclaiming throughout the nominal + Church (symbolic heavens) the great message of this present time; + namely, the Second Presence of our Lord as the reaper of the + Harvest of the Gospel Age, gathering the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘wheat’</span> into the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘garner,’</span> destroying the tares (as tares—not as + human beings) and establishing His glorious Kingdom upon a firm + foundation of righteousness and equity, for the blessing of every + creature.”</span>—Z. '02-119.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page181">[pg 181]</span><a name="Pg181" id="Pg181" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And He shall + reign for ever and ever. AMEN.</span></span>—See Rev. 5:13; Dan. + 2:44; 7:14, 18, 27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the [four and] twenty-FOUR elders.</span></span>—The prophecies + pertaining to the Kingdom of God.—Rev. 4:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which [sat] SIT + before God on their seats.</span></span>—Rev. 4:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Fell upon their + faces, and worshipped God.</span></span>—Rev. 4:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Saying, We give thee + thanks.</span></span>—See Rev. 5:11-13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O Lord God + Almighty.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Represented in + Christ—<span class="tei tei-q">‘All things are <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">of</span></em> the + Father,’</span> and <span class="tei tei-q">‘all things are + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">by</span></em> the Son,’</span> His honored + Representative.”</span>—D. 624.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which art, and + wast, and [art to come].</span></span>—See Rev. 1:4. He is not to + come. He <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">has</span></em> come.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Because Thou + hast taken to Thee Thy great power, and hast + reigned.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“ <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Thy God reigneth!’</span> The oft-repeated prayer of + the Church has been answered: the Kingdom of God has indeed come. + The dead in Christ are even now risen and exalted with our Lord and + Head. And the <span class="tei tei-q">‘feet’</span> members of the + Body of Christ, who still tarry in the flesh, catching the + inspiration of the glorified throng who have already ascended into + the Mount (Kingdom) of God, reflect a measure of that transcendent + glory, as did Moses when he came down from Mount Sinai.”</span> (C. + 301.) <span class="tei tei-q">“In describing the events under the + Seventh Trumpet, this order is observed:—(1) the power is taken by + the Lord as King of Earth, and His Reign begun; (2) as a + consequence the great judgment-trouble comes upon the + world.”</span>—D. 622; Rev. 19:6; Psa. 99:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the nations were angry, and Thy wrath is + come.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Although they are + called Christian nations, they have not received the Spirit of the + Lord; they have not received the spirit of meekness, gentleness, + long-suffering, brotherly kindness and love, the fruits of the Holy + Spirit; but on the contrary, the spirit which St. Paul says + consists of hatred, wrath, strife, murder—works of the flesh and + the Devil. For this reason they did not even wait for God's wrath + to come, but began to bring it upon themselves nearly two months in + advance. They became so angry that they began to destroy each other + even before their lease of power had expired.”</span>—Z. + '14-328.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the time of + the dead, that they should be judged.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“They cannot be judged without His words, and the vast + majority,—<span class="tei tei-q">‘dead in trespasses and + sins,’</span> blinded and deafened by the Adversary, through + sin,—have not thus far been enabled to hear their Redeemer's + wonderful words of life. In the Millennial Kingdom the dead world + will have the eyes of its understanding opened and its ears + unstopped, and the knowledge of the Lord shall fill the + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page182">[pg 182]</span><a name= + "Pg182" id="Pg182" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> whole earth and + reach every member of the dead race, not only those who have not + yet gone down into the tomb, but <span class="tei tei-q">‘all the + families of the earth;’</span> for, <span class="tei tei-q">‘all + that are in the grave shall come forth’</span> for the very purpose + of hearing the <span class="tei tei-q">‘wonderful words of + life,’</span> and of being judged by them. If they shall accept + them heartily they shall, by restitution processes, be brought + fully up to life conditions.”</span>—Z. '02-116; Dan. 7:10; Rev. + 14:7; 15:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And that Thou + shouldest give reward unto Thy Servants the + Prophets.</span></span>—Who are therefore without their rewards + until Christ's Second Advent.—Heb. 11:39, 40.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And to the + saints.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“We hold that it is a + most reasonable inference, and one in perfect harmony with all the + Lord's Plan, that in the spring of 1878 all the holy Apostles and + other <span class="tei tei-q">‘overcomers’</span> of the Gospel Age + who slept in Jesus were raised spirit beings, like unto their Lord + and Master.”</span>—C. 234.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And them that + fear Thy name, small and great.</span></span>—All other classes of + believers, past, present and future.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And shouldest + destroy them.</span></span>—The Papal and Protestant sects.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which destroy + the earth.</span></span>—Corrupt the earth, Greek.—Rev. 19:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the Temple of God.</span></span>—The true Church.—1 Cor. 3:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was opened in + heaven ABOVE.</span></span>—Was revealed as in the ascendency over + the nominal ecclesiastical heavens.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there was + seen in His Temple.</span></span>—Clearly revealed to His + Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Ark.</span></span>—The repository of the sacred and hidden things + of Revelation and Ezekiel.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of [His] THE + testament of God.</span></span>—The Secret—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Finished Mystery.”</span>—Psa. 25:14; Col. 1:27; + Rev. 14:17; 16:1, 17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there were + lightnings, and voices and thunderings.</span></span>—See Rev. + 8:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And an + earthquake.</span></span>—See Rev. 8:5; 16:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And great + hail.</span></span>—A deluge of Truth in its most compact + form.—Isa. 28:17; Rev. 16:21.</p> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">The + tidal wave is coming, the Year of Jubilee;</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">With shout and song it sweeps + along, like billows of the sea,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">The jubilee of nations shall + ring through earth and sky;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">The dawn of grace draws on apace—'tis coming + by and by.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page183">[pg 183]</span><a name= + "Pg183" id="Pg183" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc29" id="toc29"></a> <a name="pdf30" id="pdf30"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 12—The Birth Of + Antichrist</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there appeared a great wonder.</span></span>—Sign, Greek.—Rev. + 1:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + heaven.</span></span>—In the power of spiritual control.—A. 318; + Eph. 2:4-6; Phil. 3:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A + Woman.</span></span>—The early Church, Nominal Zion, (D. 591), + originally a chaste Virgin.—2 Cor. 11:2; Matt. 9:15; 22:2; John + 3:29; Eph. 5:25, 32.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Clothed with the + sun.</span></span>—Resplendent in the full, clear light of the + unclouded Gospel.—D. 591.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the moon + under her feet.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The moon + under her feet represents that the Law which supports her is + nevertheless not the source of her light.”</span>—D. 591.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And upon her + head a crown of twelve stars.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The twelve stars about her head as a crown represent + her Divinely appointed and inspired teachers—the Twelve + Apostles.”</span> (D. 591.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Now if God + ordained only twelve stars as lights for His Church, as here + represented, is it not a great mistake for popes, bishops and + clergy to regard themselves as successors of the Apostles,—stars + also?”</span>—D. 594.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [she] being with child.</span></span>—As a result of the Mystery of + Iniquity which was working within her.—2 Thes. 2:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Cried], AND SHE + CRIETH travailing in birth.</span></span>—Felt the weight of the + burden even in apostolic days.—Rev. 2:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And pained to be + delivered.</span></span>—Desired to get rid of the loathsome thing + from which, by the machinations of Satan, she was at the time + suffering. In a sense the birth of the Antichrist from the early + Church was a counterfeit of the birth of Christ from the virgin + Mary, the one a manifestation of the power of God, the other of + Satan.—John 16:21, 22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there appeared another wonder in heaven.</span></span>—Among the + ecclesiastical powers of the same epoch.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And behold a + great red dragon.</span></span>—The Pagan Roman Empire, which had + its own religious system. <span class="tei tei-q">“The Roman Empire + had not only conquered the world and given it politics and laws, + but, recognizing religious superstitions to be the strongest chains + by which to hold and control a people, it had adopted a scheme + which had its origin <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page184">[pg + 184]</span><a name="Pg184" id="Pg184" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + in Babylon, in the time of her greatness as ruler of the world. + That plan was, that the emperor should be esteemed the director and + ruler in religious as well as in civil affairs. In support of this, + it was claimed that the emperor was a demi-god, in some sense + descended from their heathen deities. As such he was worshipped and + his statues adored; and as such he was styled <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Pontifex + Maximus</span></span>—i. e., Chief Priest or Greatest Religious + Ruler.”</span>—B. 288.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having seven + heads and ten horns.</span></span>—See Dan. 7:7, 20; Rev. 13:1; + 17:3, 9-12; 5:6; 1 Sam. 2:10; Deut. 33:17; 1 Ki. 22:11. The + Eastern, or Byzantine Empire, was founded in A. D. 395, when + Theodosius divided the Roman Empire between his two sons, Honorius + and Arcadius, assigning to the latter all the portion lying east of + the Adriatic sea. At this time the Roman Empire became the two legs + of Nebuchadnezzar's vision. At the time the division was made the + five potential races in the East were the Greeks, Lombards, + Ostrogoths, Heruli and Vandals. The five potential races in the + West were the Franks, Britons, Saxons, Visigoths and Suevi. During + the next one hundred and fifty years great migrations and invasions + have so confused history that there is great difference of opinion + among historians on many important details. It is plain, however, + that three of the migratory races disappeared from history, all + within a few years of each other, apparently in order to leave Rome + and its environs free for the development of the papacy. The + Heruli, a race from Germanic territory, disappeared from Italian + territory in A. D. 489; the Vandals, a race from the shores of the + Baltic (never in control of Rome except on a brief raid, but a + great enemy of the papacy) disappeared in A. D. 534; and the + Ostrogoths, an Asiatic race, in A. D. 539. The Western Empire + itself disappeared in A. D. 476. The matter is treated by Pastor + Russell at greater length in C. 76, 77, and all his statements are, + of course, correct.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And seven crowns + upon his heads.</span></span>—In the Eastern Empire, corresponding + to the present Turkey and the Balkans, and in Lombardy, + corresponding to the present Austria, we may see the two horns + which remained of the five Eastern powers after the Ostrogoths, + Heruli and Vandals disappeared. And in the Visigothic Kingdom, + corresponding to Spain; Suevia, corresponding to Portugal; the + Kingdom of the Franks, corresponding to France and the Netherlands; + Saxonia, corresponding to Germany and Scandinavia; and Britannia, + corresponding to Great Britain, we may see the five horns which + represented the <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page185">[pg + 185]</span><a name="Pg185" id="Pg185" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + five western powers. The following explains why Italy is not + included in the list:</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The difficulty of Italian history lies in the fact + that until modern times the Italians have had no political unity, + no independence, no organized existence as a nation. Split up into + numerous and mutually hostile communities, they never, through the + fourteen centuries which have elapsed since the end of the old + Western Empire, shook off the yoke of foreigners completely; they + never until lately learned to merge their local and conflicting + interests in the common good of undivided Italy. Their history is + therefore not the history of a single people, centralizing and + absorbing its constituent elements by a process of continued + evolution, but a group of cognate populations, exemplifying divers + types of constitutional developments.”</span>—Brit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The foregoing + justifies Pastor Russell's thought that the Western Empire should + be counted as one of the horns rooted up to make way for the + Papacy. As to whether it or the Vandal race should be counted as + the third horn, since both were destroyed, is a matter of no great + importance to us. The point of greatest interest now is that the + Lord is about to destroy the other seven, including the Papacy. All + the powers named, except Spain, are already in the great War. + Indeed, except South America, which expects to be dragged in, the + only countries of the world not now (June, 1917) engaged in the war + are Scandinavia, Holland, Switzerland, Spain, Abyssinia and + Mexico.—Jer. 25:15-38.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + his tail.</span></span>—Constantine, last of the Roman emperors to + maintain his capital at Rome. <span class="tei tei-q">“After the + senate and people of Rome had ceased to be the sovereigns of the + Roman world, and their authority had been vested in the sole person + of the emperor, the eternal city could no longer claim to be the + rightful throne of the state. That honor could henceforth be + conferred upon any place in the Roman world which might suit the + convenience of the emperor, or serve more efficiently the interests + he had to guard. Furthermore, the empire was now upon its defense. + When Constantine, therefore, established a new seat of government + at Byzantium, he adopted a policy inaugurated before his day as + essential to the preservation of the Roman dominion. He can claim + originality only in his choice of the particular point at which + that seat was placed, and in his recognition of the fact that his + alliance with the Christian church could be best maintained in the + new atmosphere. The city was founded by Constantine the Great, + through the enlargement of the <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page186">[pg 186]</span><a name="Pg186" id="Pg186" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> old town of Byzantium, in A. D. 328, and was + inaugurated as a new seat of government on the 11th of May, A. D. + 330. To indicate its political dignity, it was named New Rome, + while to perpetuate the name of its founder it was styled + Constantinople. The chief patriarch of the Greek church still signs + himself <span class="tei tei-q">‘Archbishop of New + Rome.’</span> ”</span>—Brit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img199.png"><img src="images/img199.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Paganism Attacks the Early Church + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Drew the third + part.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Roman Emperor + Constantine saw a vision—probably when wide awake—a vision of + greater prosperity for himself and his Empire, by a recognition of + Christianity as the religion of his Empire instead of paganism, + which had previously been recognized. Constantine's influence in + Church affairs became great. He proposed the calling of a council + of all the bishops, <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">numbering about one thousand</span></em>. He + wanted to know why these apostolic bishops, all inspired with the + same Spirit of God, taught so differently. He offered to pay the + expenses of all the bishops to the Council of Nice; but the + majority, fearing that the Emperor would be under the control of + the Roman bishop (not yet claiming to be pope), declined to attend. + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">Only 384 + came.</span></em> But even they were unable to agree. Many held to + the Bible teaching, but the mystification thought of trinity had + gained a hold on some of the bishops. Thereupon Constantine decided + the matter; and the Nicene Creed, backed by the Emperor's power, + was declared to be the Christian faith, and anything contrary to + it, heresy. Yet be it remembered that <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">only about + one-third</span></em> of the bishops were present at the Council; + and that they could not be coerced into substituting <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘mystery’</span> for the Word of God, until the Emperor + lent his influence. Thus was the mystery of trinity enshrined by a + heathen emperor, not baptized—not even sprinkled. The history of + the persecution of all who would not worship the trinitarian + mystery would fill volumes. One sad illustration is familiar to + all—the burning of Servetus, by good Brother Calvin's signature to + the death warrant. Is it any wonder that with such conditions + prevailing for centuries, the Bible ignored and the creeds + worshipped, the true teachings of the Bible on many subjects were + completely lost sight of? Is it any wonder that, when in the + sixteenth century God began to bring the Bible back to the + attention of the world, it was burned by the Episcopal bishops in + front of St. Paul's Cathedral in London? Is it any wonder that the + Christians of that time were persecuted for studying it, and could + meet only in secret?”</span>—B. S. M.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the stars of + heaven.</span></span>—False stars, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“wandering stars,”</span> man-ordained lights of the + nominal heavens.—D. 595. There the bishops became substitutes for + the true Apostolic stars.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page187">[pg 187]</span><a name="Pg187" id="Pg187" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And did cast + them to the earth.</span></span>—Forced them to teach what he told + them or else be banished, as was Arius.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + dragon.</span></span>—Imperial Rome, represented by + Constantine.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Stood before the + woman which was ready to be delivered.</span></span>—The early + Christian Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For to devour + her child.</span></span>—Absorb it, make it a subordinate feature + of the Roman system of government.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As soon as it + was born.</span></span>—As soon as the development of the clergy + class and others equally unfaithful to Christ had made it + impossible for them to be retained longer in the true Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + she brought forth a man child.</span></span>—The papacy.—Z. + '79-12-2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Who was to rule + all nations with a rod of iron.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“In a bull, or edict, Sixtus V declares: <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The authority given to St. Peter and his successors, + by the immense power of the eternal King, excels all the power of + earthly kings and princes. It passeth uncontrollable sentence upon + them all. And if it find any of them resisting God's ordinance, it + takes more severe vengeance on them, casting them down from their + thrones, however powerful they may be, and tumbling them down to + the lowest parts of the earth as the ministers of aspiring + Lucifer.’</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“A bull of Pope Pius V., entitled <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The damnation and excommunication of Elizabeth, queen + of England, and her adherents’</span> reads as follows: + <span class="tei tei-q">‘He that reigneth on high, to whom is given + all power in heaven and in earth, committed one holy, catholic and + apostolic church (out of which there is no salvation) to one alone + upon earth, namely, to Peter, the Prince of the apostles, and to + Peter's successor, the bishop of Rome, to be governed in fulness of + power. Him alone he made prince over all people and all kingdoms, + to pluck up, destroy, scatter, consume, plant and + build.’</span> ”</span>—B. 311.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And her child + was caught up unto God, and [to] UNTO His + throne.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“St Bernard affirms + that <span class="tei tei-q">‘none except God is like the pope, + either in heaven or on earth.’</span> <span class="tei tei-q">‘The + Emperor Constantine,’</span> says Pope Nicholas I., <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘conferred the appellation of God on the pope; who, + therefore, being God, cannot be judged by man.’</span> Said Pope + Innocent III.—<span class="tei tei-q">‘The pope holds the place of + the true God;’</span> and the canon law, in the gloss, denominates + the pope—<span class="tei tei-q">‘our Lord God.’</span> Innocent + and Jacobatius state that <span class="tei tei-q">‘the pope can do + nearly all that God can do,’</span> while Decius rejects the word + nearly, as unnecessary. Jacobatius and Durand assert that + <span class="tei tei-q">‘none dare say to him any more than to + God—Lord, what doest Thou?’</span> ”</span>—B. 311.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page188">[pg 188]</span><a name="Pg188" id="Pg188" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Pope Martin + stated the matter in his own behalf as follows: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“All the earth is my diocese, and I am the ordinary of + all men, having the authority of the King of all kings upon + subjects. I am all in all, and above all, so that God Himself, and + I, the vicar of God, have both one consistory, and I am able to do + almost all that God can do. In all things that I list my will is to + stand for reason, for I am able by the law to dispense above the + law, and of wrong to make justice in correcting laws and changing + them. Wherefore, if those things that I do be said not to be done + of man, but of God—What can you make me but God? Again, if prelates + of the church be called and counted of Constance for Gods, I then, + being above all prelates, seem by this reason to be above all Gods. + Wherefore, no marvel if it be in my power to change time and times, + to alter and abrogate laws, to dispense with all things, yea, with + the precepts of Christ”</span>—B. 314; Dan. 7:25.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the woman.</span></span>—The true Church of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Fled Into the + wilderness.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Error, always + more popular than truth, when exalted to influence and power, + hunted down, proscribed and made disreputable the truth, and all + who held it. This was the time when the true Church (woman) fled + into the wilderness—into solitude—an outcast because of her + fidelity to the truth, and to the true Lord and Head of the + Church.”</span>—B. 329.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Where she hath a + place prepared of God.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + secret place of the Most High.”</span>—Psa. 91:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That + they.</span></span>—The antitypical ravens that fed the Elijah + class, the unknown, <span class="tei tei-q">“faithful men”</span> + who, in secret, broke the bread of life to those that hungered for + righteousness.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Should feed her + there.</span></span>—As Elijah was fed in the wilderness.—Rev. + 2:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A thousand two + hundred and threescore days.</span></span>—1260 years, from A. D. + 539 to 1799.—Rev. 11:2, 3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there was war in heaven.</span></span>—Between the two + ecclesiastical powers, Pagan Rome and Papal Rome.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Michael.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Who as God,”</span> the Pope.—B. 275; C. 62.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And his + angels.</span></span>—The Bishops. The following is the reply given + in the Catholic catechism to the question, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Who are the successors of the Apostles?”</span> Ans. + <span class="tei tei-q">“The bishops who are rightly consecrated, + and are in communion with the head of the Church, the + Pope.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Fought against] + TO WAR WITH the dragon.</span></span>—Attempted to get the temporal + power away from the civil rulers.—Rev. 2:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + dragon.</span></span>—Imperial Rome.—B. 288; Rev. 12:3; + 20:2.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page189">[pg + 189]</span><a name="Pg189" id="Pg189" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Fought and his + angels.</span></span>—Did everything possible to circumscribe the + growing power of the papacy, but all in vain.—Rev. 2:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + THEY prevailed not AGAINST HIM, neither was [their place] HE THEN + found any more in heaven.</span></span>—The Papacy came out of the + contest victorious. <span class="tei tei-q">“Paganism, defeated, + relinquished all things pertaining to religious affairs and + contented itself with social, civic and political affairs,”</span> + so stated one of Pastor Russell's coworkers.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the great dragon was cast out.</span></span>—Verses 9 to 12 contain + the rejoicings of the Papacy over their triumph.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That old + serpent, called the Devil, [and] Satan.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“To this fourth beast, representing Rome, Daniel gives + no descriptive name. While the others are described as lion-like, + bear-like and leopard-like, the fourth was so ferocious and hideous + that none of the beasts of earth could be compared with it. John + the Revelator, seeing in vision the same symbolic beast + (government), was also at a loss for a name by which to describe + it, and finally gives it several. Among others, he called it + <span class="tei tei-q">‘the Devil.’</span> He certainly chose an + appropriate name; for Rome, when viewed in the light of its bloody + persecutions, certainly has been the most devilish of all earthly + governments. Even in its change from Rome Pagan to Rome Papal it + illustrated one of Satan's chief characteristics; for he also + transforms himself to appear as an angel of light (2 Cor. 11:14), + as Rome transformed itself from heathenism and claimed to be + Christian—the Kingdom of Christ.”</span>—A. 258.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which deceiveth + the whole world.</span></span>—By intimating that anybody in it + except the pope has any right to say anything about how it should + be run.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He was cast out + into the earth.</span></span>—We, the Papacy, are in control!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And his angels + were cast out with him.</span></span>—We, the cardinals, etc., have + the positions of power once held by the priests of Pagan Rome!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I heard a loud voice saying in heaven.</span></span>—In the Roman + Catholic Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Now is come + salvation, and strength.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Cardinal Manning, Papacy's chief representative in + England, endorses and draws public attention to the following + clause of the Catholic faith: <span class="tei tei-q">‘We declare, + affirm, define, and pronounce it necessary to salvation, for every + human creature to be subject to the Roman Pontiff.’</span> And in a + published discourse he represents the pope as saying, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘I claim to be the Supreme Judge and Director of the + consciences of men; of the peasant that tills the field, and the + prince that sits on the throne; of the household that lives in the + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page190">[pg 190]</span><a name= + "Pg190" id="Pg190" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> shade of privacy, + and the Legislature that makes laws for kingdoms. I am the sole, + last, Supreme Judge of what is right and wrong.’</span> ”</span>—B. + 317.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the kingdom + of our God.</span></span>—The Papacy really believed that its + exaltation to power was the exaltation of the kingdom of God in the + earth, and so it was, but not <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">our</span></em> God.—2 Cor. 4:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the power of + His Christ.</span></span>—The pope really believes he is the Vicar + of Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For the accuser + of our brethren is cast down.</span></span>—It seemed to the Papacy + that in undermining and supplanting Imperial Rome they had gained a + great victory for Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which accused + them before our God day and night.</span></span>—Pagan Rome + truthfully accused the Papacy of lying, simony, murder, adultery, + and every crime on the calendar.—Rev. 2:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb.</span></span>—This is + the way it looks to Catholics even to this day. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“By this sign [the cross] conquer!”</span> was the + Crusaders' standard.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And by the word + of their testimony.</span></span>—But not by the testimony of + history or of God's Word, both of which show that <span class= + "tei tei-q">“their testimony”</span> (i. e., the testimony of the + papacy, in the forged decretals and otherwise) was one of + continuous lies.—Dan. 11:27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they loved + not their lives unto the death.</span></span>—This was the Catholic + viewpoint.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore rejoice, ye + heavens.</span></span>—Catholic heavens—popes, bishops and + prelates.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And ye that + dwell in them.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + under-priests of Papacy, not parts or members of <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">the</span></em> + church or hierarchy, but called <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Brothers.’</span> ”</span>—B. 303.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Woe to the + [inhabiters of] the earth and [of] the sea.</span></span>—It seemed + to the Papacy as though the Millennium, and the great Time of + Trouble which the Scriptures everywhere show is to precede it, were + just at hand.—Rev. 7:1</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For the devil is + come down to you.</span></span>—The papal thought that Pagan Rome + was a good representative of the Devil is quite right; and the + Scriptures return the compliment.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having [great] + wrath.</span></span>—Being very greatly angered at Papacy's + aggressions. The Papal policy has ever been to crowd the civil + powers as far as they could possibly go, then wait until a + generation had passed and crowd some more. The horns have + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">always</span></em> hated the whore.—Rev. + 17:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Because he + knoweth he hath but a short time.</span></span>—Had Papacy been + able to bring it about it would surely, in time, have deprived all + the rulers of the world of every <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page191">[pg 191]</span><a name="Pg191" id="Pg191" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> particle of civil, social, ecclesiastical and + financial power. There has never been any limit to its ambitions or + pretensions, and there is none now.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when the dragon.</span></span>—The civil powers of the old Roman + Empire, under the control of the Papacy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saw that he was + cast unto the earth.</span></span>—Deprived of the superstitious + reverence now almost wholly absorbed by the Papacy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + persecuted.</span></span>—Not on his own account, but under the + orders and instructions and encouragements of the Papacy, and to + win Papal approval.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The woman which + brought forth the man child.</span></span>—The true Church. For + details of the infamous work of Charles V, Emperor of Germany and + King of Spain and the Netherlands, the Duke of Alva, Philip II of + Spain, the French kings Francis and Henry, see pages 337-338 of + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">Studies in the Scriptures</span></span>, + Vol. II. These are but illustrations of what occurred in all parts + of the old Roman world, and were all done at the behest of the + Papacy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + to the woman.</span></span>—The true Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Were given Two + Wings.</span></span>—The Old and New Testaments.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of a great + eagle.</span></span>—The eagle is a symbol of wisdom, a fit + representative of the Scriptures in which are contained the words + of our God. (Rev. 4:7.) <span class="tei tei-q">“I bare you on + eagle's wings, and brought you unto Myself.”</span>—Ex. 19:4; Deut. + 32:11-12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That she might + fly into the wilderness.</span></span>—Separateness from the world; + ostracism; represented by Elijah's three and a half years in the + wilderness.—Rev. 2:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Into her place, + where she is nourished.</span></span>—By Divinely provided means, + of which almost no records have been permitted to survive the + ravages of papal persecution.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Both for a time, + and times, and half a time.</span></span>—1260 years from A. D. 539 + to 1799.—Rev. 11:2, 3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">From.</span></span>—Safe from.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The face of the + Serpent.</span></span>—Satan himself, the real instigator of all + persecutions from the Lord's time even until now.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + Serpent.</span></span>—Satan himself, at the close of the 1260 + years of Papacy's power to persecute.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Cast out of his + mouth water as a flood.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + strength of the French revolution, to which reference is here had, + lay in the fact that it was instigated by many stern truths, + regarding priest-craft and king-craft, and regarding the individual + rights and liberties of all. Truths regarding human rights were + seen and expressed there which cause us surprise when we consider + the ignorance, superstition and servility of that day, under which + the masses had so <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page192">[pg + 192]</span><a name="Pg192" id="Pg192" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + long rested. Many of the truths which then swept as a flood over + France, deluging it with blood, are now very generally accepted + among all civilized peoples.”</span>—C. 65.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">After the woman, + that he might cause her to be carried away of the + flood.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Satan's design in + instigating the French revolution was to create an alarm throughout + Europe, especially the influential class, unfavorable to liberty, + and to illustrate in France the theory that, were the superstitions + of Rome to be overthrown and liberty to be given full sway, all law + and order would speedily end.”</span> This strategy Satan is now + about to repeat—this time with success, but his triumph will be + short.—C. 66.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + earth.</span></span>—The order-loving people of Europe.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Helped the + woman.</span></span>—The true Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the earth + opened her mouth, and swallowed up the + flood.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It is a fact of + history that the flood of truth which spread over France—arraigning + Papacy and its priestcraft, and monarchy and its parasitic + aristocracy, as the responsible causes of much of the ignorance, + poverty and superstition of the people—was swallowed up, or + absorbed by the people of Europe generally (The Roman <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘earth’</span>). And when the rulers of Europe formed + what was called <span class="tei tei-q">‘The Holy Alliance,’</span> + for the suppression of the liberties of the people and the + perpetuation of their own thrones, it was too late to fetter the + people; for, having drunk up the flood of waters, they would not + submit. It was too late to think of re-establishing Papacy, which + had been so terribly humiliated and whose anathemas against liberty + and the French had so reacted against itself; so the pope was not + even invited to join the <span class="tei tei-q">‘Holy + Alliance,’</span> of which before he would have been the recognized + head.”</span>—C. 66.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which the dragon + cast out of his mouth.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“This + sudden flood of waters (truth) was designed to act as an emetic, to + lead to the casting out of the food of liberty, already being + received by the people from the Bible, as the result of the + Reformation, and thus to force rulers and teachers to oppose the + truth through fear of anarchy.”</span>—C. 66.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the dragon was wroth with the woman.</span></span>—The protesting + Church of God. This will apply with great force shortly.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And went to make + war with the remnant of her seed.</span></span>—The true saints in + the Roman Catholic communion or wherever otherwise found,—always + objects of hatred and oppression by ecclesiasticism.—Rev. 13:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which keep the + commandments of God.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The law + is fulfilled in us.”</span>—Rom. 8:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And have the + testimony of [Jesus Christ] GOD.</span></span>—Have HIS word as the + man of their counsel.—Rev. 14:12.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page193">[pg 193]</span><a name= + "Pg193" id="Pg193" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc31" id="toc31"></a> <a name="pdf32" id="pdf32"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 13—The Papal And + Protestant Beasts</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [I] HE stood upon the sand of the sea.</span></span>—The sea + represents the masses not under religious restraint. It is this + symbolic sea that is to overturn and swallow up all kingdoms of + earth in the great Time of Trouble. The proper understanding of the + vision is located down at the edge of this sea, near the Time of + Trouble.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img200a.png"><img src="images/img200a.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Papacy As God Pictures It + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I saw a + beast.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“This character is + very forcibly delineated even in the names applied to it by the + inspired writers. Paul calls it <span class="tei tei-q">‘That + Wicked One,’</span> <span class="tei tei-q">‘The Man of + Sin,’</span> <span class="tei tei-q">‘The Mystery of + Iniquity,’</span> <span class="tei tei-q">‘The Antichrist,’</span> + and <span class="tei tei-q">‘The Son of Perdition;’</span> the + Prophet Daniel calls it <span class="tei tei-q">‘The Abomination + that maketh desolate’</span> (Dan. 11:31; 12:11); and our Lord + refers to the same character as <span class="tei tei-q">‘The + Abomination of Desolation, spoken of by Daniel the Prophet’</span> + (Matt. 24:15). This same character was also prefigured by a little + horn, or power, out of a terrible beast that Daniel saw in his + prophetic vision, which had eyes, and a mouth that spoke great + things, and which prospered and made war with the saints, and + prevailed against them. (Dan. 7:8, 21.) John also saw and warned + the Church against this character, saying, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Ye have heard that Antichrist shall come.’</span> He + then advises how to escape Antichrist's influence. (1 John + 2:18-27.) These various appellations and brief descriptions + indicate a base, subtle, hypocritical, deceptive, tyrannical and + cruel character, developed in the midst of the Christian Church; + claiming, to the last, peculiar sanctity and authority and power + from God.”</span> (B. 271.) <span class="tei tei-q">“We need not + look long to find a character fitting all the requirements + perfectly. But when we state that the one and only system whose + history fits these prophecies is Papacy, let no one misunderstand + us to mean that every Roman Catholic is a man of sin. Popes, + bishops and others are at most only parts or members of the + Antichrist system, even as all of the Royal Priests are only + members of the true Christ.”</span> (B. 277.) Antichrist now finds + its expression in the <span class="tei tei-q">“Christian”</span> + governments of the world founded upon its + teachings—Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Rise up out of + the sea.</span></span>—See Rev. 17:15; Psa. 65:7; 93:3, 4; Isa. + 57:20. At the time of papacy's birth the masses of the Roman people + had ceased to have reverence for the <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page194">[pg 194]</span><a name="Pg194" id="Pg194" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> ancient mythology of Pagan Rome. Constantine, + a shrewd politician, discerned this and discerned the growing + influence of the Christian religion. In adopting it, in forcing the + adoption of the Nicene Creed, and in removing his capital from + Rome, he gave the papacy its start.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having TEN HORNS + AND seven heads [and ten horns].</span></span>—See Rev. 12:3; Dan. + 7:7, 20; Rev. 17:3, 9-12; 5:6; 1 Sam. 2:10; Deut. 33:17; 1 Ki. + 22:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And upon his + horns ten crowns.</span></span>—In this calculation are included + the three potential races plucked up to make way for the papacy. + (Rev. 12:3; 17:3, 9.) In this picture the location of the crowns + upon the horns instead of upon the heads, as in Rev. 12:3, denotes + the changed situation after the papacy came into control. The + papacy ruled not directly, as did Pagan Rome, but through other + powers to which it was joined.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And upon his + heads.</span></span>—The seven kingdoms that still survive: Spain, + Portugal, France, England, Germany, Austria, Greece, and their past + and present dependencies.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The name of + blasphemy.</span></span>—Every one of these kingdoms falsely + claims, or has claimed, to be a part of the Kingdom of God, though + actually all part of the one great kingdom ruled by <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The god of this world.”</span>—2 Cor. 4:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the beast which I saw was like unto a + leopard.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The body of the + Papal beast was like a Leopard. The Leopard was the third beast + seen by Daniel, viz., Grecia. Greece was noted as the center of + learning, piety and wisdom (Acts 17:23); so Papacy's chief claim, + to be the ruler of all kingdoms, is based on the claim that it is + the center of wisdom, learning and piety. Other peculiarities of + the Leopard are its activity, vigilance and secretiveness; so with + Papacy. Again, a Leopard is spotted irregularly, so too Papacy's + policy in various parts of the earth.”</span> (Z. '79-12-2.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“In one place it is liberal, almost white + in its professions or appearances; in another quarter black, + corrupt, degrading, brutal; and in still other places it has + various neutral and tawny shades of correspondence to the natural + depravity of the people it rules with its rod of eternal torment + and its staff of Purgatory. In Spain, for example, which has been + for centuries one of its dark spots—as dark as the general + civilization of the people will permit,—the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘leopard’</span> has been accustomed to have its way, + and is incensed that freedom of worship, or even of thought, should + be dreamed of.”</span>—Z. '99-262.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And his feet + were as the feet of a bear.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The bear suggests another of Papacy's peculiarities as + an empire, viz., persistency. Like the Bear Empire (Medo-Persia) + which would besiege for years, and even turn a river aside to + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page195">[pg 195]</span><a name= + "Pg195" id="Pg195" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> accomplish its ends; + so Papacy moves cautiously and gets possession of kingdoms rather + by strategy than by battles. The bear hugs its prey to death with + its paws.”</span>—Z. '79-12-2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And his mouth as + the mouth of [a lion] LIONS.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Babylon was celebrated for its splendor and pride—the + Lion the king or ruler of all beasts—so Papacy had a mouth of this + sort, i. e., it claimed to be the kingdom over all kingdoms by + Divine right, the kingdom of God, which was to break in pieces and + consume all others—a strong mouth.”</span>—Z. '79-12-2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + dragon.</span></span>—Imperial Rome, represented by + Constantine.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Gave him his + power.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Ancient Pagan Rome + had only a mere skeleton of sacerdotal power as compared with the + complex and elaborate machinery and contrivances of doctrine and + practice of Papal Rome, the triumphant successor to their scheme, + who now, after centuries of cunning and skill, has its power so + intrenched that even today, when its power is outwardly broken and + it is shorn of civil dominion, it rules the world and controls + kingdoms secretly, under cover, more thoroughly than the Roman + emperors ever ruled the kings subordinate to them.”</span>—B. + 288.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And his + seat.</span></span>—His place in the city of Rome, by transferring + his own headquarters to Byzantium, <span class="tei tei-q">“New + Rome.”</span>—Rev. 12:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And great + authority.</span></span>—At the hands of the Roman Emperor + Justinian, in A. D. 539.—Rev. 12:3-5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw one of his heads.</span></span>—One of the dragon's + heads—Papacy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As it were + wounded to death.</span></span>—Whenever the Scriptures use the + expression <span class="tei tei-q">“as it were”</span> (as in Rev. + 9:7, 9) what seems or appears is not actually the case.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And his deadly + wound was healed.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“At the + Diet of Augsburg, in 1555, the Religious Peace was concluded. Every + prince was to be allowed to choose between the Catholic religion + and the Augsburg Confession [of the Reformers]; and the religion of + the prince was to be that of the land over which he reigned: that + is, each government was to choose the creed for its + subjects.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“In fact, the political circumstances of the time, + combined with the fact that even the leaders of the reform were + only beginning to get awake to some of the moral and a few of the + doctrinal errors of Papacy, lead us to wonder at the rapid strides + taken toward the right, rather than to harshly condemn them for not + making the cleansing more thorough. But when the Protestant + churches <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page196">[pg + 196]</span><a name="Pg196" id="Pg196" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + united with the state, progress and reform came to a standstill. + Soon creeds were formed which were almost as unyielding and opposed + to growth in knowledge as the decrees of Rome.”</span>—C. 111.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And all the + [world] EARTH wondered after the beast.</span></span>—The reference + is to the symbolic earth, the people, obedient to the ruling + powers.—Rev. 17:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they worshipped the dragon.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Dragon means civil power, Pagan Rome.”</span>—Z. + '79-12-2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Which] BECAUSE + HE gave THE power unto the beast.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The people respected the civil power all the more + because it had so honored ecclesiastical authority. The various + kingdoms (horns) soon learned that their hold over the people was + strengthened rather than weakened by allegiance to Papacy, for + Papacy in turn recognized them, and commanded the people to + recognize those despots as of divine appointment. Thus it is, that + to this day, the rulers of Europe claim to rule by Divine right and + appointment, and their children after them, no matter how + incompetent. For the same reason the Protestant churches of Europe, + to gain national favor, protection and assistance, became State + churches, and they, as Papacy did, recognize the reigning families + as possessed of Divine title to the office and rulership of the + people. God's Word, on the contrary, denounces all the governments + of earth as beastly, selfish, oppressive, and recognizes only one + Kingdom as being of God's appointment, viz., the Kingdom soon to be + established in all the earth—Christ and His saints in glory. (Dan. + 7:27; Rev. 11:15; 2 Tim. 2:12.) It is in that Kingdom only that the + saints have their citizenship, it alone they recognize, and for it + pray <span class="tei tei-q">‘Thy Kingdom come.’</span> ”</span>—Z. + '80-1-1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they + worshipped the beast.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + following, called The Adoration, is still a part of the ceremony + connected with the installation of a new pope: <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The pope is lifted up by the cardinals and placed by + them upon the altar-throne. One of the bishops kneels, and the + singing of <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Te Deum</span></span> [We praise thee, O God] + begins. Meantime the cardinals kiss the feet and hands and face of + the pope.’</span> A coin representing this ceremony, struck in the + Papal mint, bears the words, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Whom they + create, they adore.’</span> ”</span>—B. 316.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, Who is + like unto the beast.</span></span>—What other character in history + ever made such claims or received such homage?—Rev. 18:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">AND who is able + to make war with him.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“When, + in A. D. 455, the city of Rome was invaded and plundered by the + Vandals, and all around was distress and desolation, <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page197">[pg 197]</span><a name="Pg197" id="Pg197" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> Leo, the bishop of Rome, improved the + opportunity for impressing upon all, both barbarians and Romans, + his claim of spiritual power. To the rude and superstitious + barbarians, already greatly impressed by what they saw about them, + of Rome's greatness and wealth, Leo, arrayed in his pontifical + robes, exclaimed: <span class="tei tei-q">‘Beware! I am the + successor of St. Peter, to whom God has given the keys of the + Kingdom of Heaven and against whose church the gates of hell cannot + prevail; I am the living representative of divine power on the + earth; I am Cæsar, a Christian Cæsar, ruling in love, to whom all + Christians owe allegiance; I hold in my hands the curses of hell + and the benedictions of Heaven; I absolve all subjects from + allegiance to kings; I give and take away, by divine right, all + thrones and principalities of Christendom. Beware how you desecrate + the patrimony given me by your invisible king; yea, bow down your + necks to me and pray that the anger of God may be + averted.’</span> ”</span>—B. 295.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there was given unto him a mouth.</span></span>—The mouth of + Antichrist is one of its leading characteristics.—B. 305; Dan. 7:8, + 11, 25.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Speaking great + things and blasphemies.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“How + evident it must be to the simplest minds that Papacy's great + swelling words and boastful claims have, one and all, been + blasphemies. The establishment of a counterfeit Kingdom of God was + a libel upon God's government, a gross blasphemy, and a + misrepresentation of His character and Plan and Word. God's + character, i. e., His <span class="tei tei-q">‘name,’</span> was + blasphemed in the thousand monstrous edicts, bulls and decretals + issued in His name, by the long line of those who claimed, as + vice-gerents, to represent His Son by the titles, appropriate only + to the Father or to Christ, which they have applied to themselves; + and God's Tabernacle, the true Church, was blasphemed by the false + system which claimed to take its place.”</span>—B. 306; Dan. 7:8, + 20, 25.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [power] IT + was given unto him to [continue] DO WHAT HE WILL.</span></span>—He + still continues, though he can no longer do what he will.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Forty and two + months.</span></span>—1260 days, or a time, times and a half; + fulfilled in 1260 literal years from A. D. 539 to 1799 A. D. (Rev. + 11:2.) As a secondary fulfilment, we may see the end of the rule of + the Kaiser and others of his mouthpieces in 42 literal months from + Aug. 1, 1914. But what folly it would be to try to see in the + German Kaiser, or any other <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">one man</span></em>, the foretold + Antichrist.—Rev. 11:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he opened his mouth in [blasphemy] BLASPHEMIES against + God.</span></span>—Misrepresentations of the Divine Character and + Plan.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page198">[pg + 198]</span><a name="Pg198" id="Pg198" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To blaspheme + [His name] HIM.</span></span>—God was blasphemed, or misrepresented + by the titles used by the popes, by their claims to the exercise of + Divine power on earth (B. 311), by claims that the Pope is God on + earth (B. 314), by claims that he is the sole judge of right and + wrong (B. 317), by claims that he is infallible (B. 318), by + proscribing the Bible (B. 319), by the doctrines of eternal torture + and purgatory (B. 323), by masses for the dead and the sale of + indulgences (B. 324), and by devilish practices against His saints, + too numerous to name.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And His + tabernacle.</span></span>—The church in the wilderness.—Rev. 12:6, + 14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] Them that + dwell in heaven.</span></span>—God's Tabernacle is His true Church + in the flesh, but, nevertheless, <span class="tei tei-q">“Our + citizenship is in Heaven.”</span> (Phil. 3:20, R. V.) Even here we + have been made to <span class="tei tei-q">“Sit together in heavenly + places in Christ Jesus.”</span>—Eph. 2:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it was given unto him to make war with the + saints.</span></span>—See Rev. 2:20; Acts 9:32; Rom. 15:25; 1 Cor. + 6:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And to overcome + them.</span></span>—See Rev. 6:8; Dan. 7:21, 22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And power was + given him over all kindreds, AND PEOPLES, and tongues, and + nations.</span></span>—This has been literally fulfilled, but will + have a secondary fulfilment soon, through the beastly governments + that are Papacy's living representatives in spirit if not in + fact.—Rev. 17:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + all that dwell upon the earth shall worship + him.</span></span>—Yield either willing or forced obedience to his + mandates; bow the knee in submission.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Whose names are + not written in the Book of Life.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The deception of Papacy was so complete that the world + was deceived, and all the church, except the overcomers, whose + names were <span class="tei tei-q">‘written in Heaven,’</span> were + deceived in the same way, and hastened to unite themselves with, + and to worship the Beast, and have it enroll their names on its + books. From this has sprung the delusion so common to all + Protestants at this day, viz., that their names must be connected + with some such earthly system, or they are not the Lord's saints. + But the important item is, to have our names recorded in the Lamb's + Book of Life; His is the only record of any value.”</span>—Z. + '80:1-1; Psa. 69:28; Dan. 12:1; Lu. 10:20; Phil. 4:3; Rev. 3:5; + 21:27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the Lamb + slain from the foundation of the world.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“This selection of the Only Begotten to be the Head and + Chief of the New Creation—subject to the trials, disciplines, + humiliations and other necessary experiences to prove His + worthiness—had already been determined upon in the Divine counsel + before man was created.”</span>—F. 65; 1 Pet. 1:20; Eph. 1:4; Rev. + 5:6; John 1:29, 36; Acts 8:32.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page199">[pg 199]</span><a name="Pg199" id="Pg199" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">If + any man have an ear, let him hear.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Only those whose ears have been circumcised—those who + had come to a considerable knowledge of God's Word and who had the + hearing of faith—to respect Him and His Word, despite the + magnificence, success and power of error, would be able to receive + the foregoing statements concerning those who were deceived by + Papacy.”</span>—Z. '80-1-1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[He + that] IF ANY ONE leadeth into captivity [shall go] HE GOETH into + captivity.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Papal system + was one of bondage. All who acknowledge its claims must of + necessity render implicit obedience, as unto God; for it claimed to + be the kingdom of heaven; and its head, the Pope, to be God's + vice-gerent; consequently those who were for, or in favor of such + captivity of individual thought, and who would acknowledge the + right of that Papal system to limit and define the faith of all, by + consenting, became captives.”</span>—Z. '80-1-2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He that killeth + with the sword must be killed by the + sword.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“There were some who + asserted that Papacy was a usurpation of the titles and power of + the true Head and Ruler of the Church, and claimed their rights to + the individual liberty wherewith Christ had made them free. Such + used the <span class="tei tei-q">‘Sword of the Spirit,’</span> + which is the Word of God, in defense of their liberty, and such + were put to death by Papacy; it overcame the saints during its 1260 + years of power.”</span>—Z. '80-1-2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Here is the + patience and the faith of the saints.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“This was a severe test of true saintship—Would they go + into captivity and join in the usurper's ranks, or would they + remain faithful to the true King and wait for the Kingdom which He + promised to establish? Those whose names were written in Heaven + stuck to the Word, and sealed their testimonies by death.”</span> + (Z. '80-1-2.) The same situation now confronts the saints, in the + matter of aiding in some way the murderous spirit of the + governments which are permeated by Antichrist's spirit.—Rev. + 14:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I beheld another beast.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“If + the preceding wild beast represented an ecclesiastical power, as we + have just seen, then this beast called another should be understood + to represent a similar ecclesiastical or church power. As the first + beast had ten horns, or powers, which gave it their strength, so + this beast has <span class="tei tei-q">‘two horns’</span> which + indicates that two powers or governments will support it. Again, + notice that this beast <span class="tei tei-q">‘ascended (came + gradually) out of the earth,’</span> while the first came out of + the sea. Now, if our definitions be correct—as the coming of Papacy + from among the irreligious masses of the Roman Empire was shown by + its coming out of the <span class="tei tei-q">‘sea’</span>—then + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page200">[pg 200]</span><a name= + "Pg200" id="Pg200" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> the coming of this + second beast out of the <span class="tei tei-q">‘earth’</span> + should signify that it sprung up among a professedly religious + people. The Two-horned Beast is one ecclesiastical system, and the + two horns show that it is supported, and its authority recognized + by two kingdoms. Remember that to be simply aided or supported by + the empire does not make a symbolic <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Beast’</span>; a <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Beast’</span> is a government, and to become a + symbolic beast, a church must needs become an element in, or part + of the government.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“There is but one church which this symbol fits + perfectly, viz.: The established <span class="tei tei-q">‘Church of + England and Ireland.’</span> This system, like the Papal, was a + blending of church and state, an ecclesiastical empire. In the year + 1200 England became subject to the Pope. In 1531, owing to a + dispute between her king, Henry VIII, and the Pope, England + withdrew from allegiance to Papacy. The Convocation of its clergy + called the same year, in its decrees, declared King Henry VIII to + be <span class="tei tei-q">‘The one protector of the English + Church, its only and Supreme Lord; and as far as might be, by the + law of Christ, its Supreme Head.’</span> Those are the exact + sentiments of Papacy; that is exactly the sense in which the Pope + is recognized as Christ's vice-gerent. What a glorious + representation of the Lord Jesus they had in Henry VIII, who, out + of six wives, was divorced from two, beheaded two, and by many is + supposed to have poisoned one! He was a worthy rival of some of the + Popes as an Anti-christian claimant of headship to the church. The + Clerical Convocation which could acknowledge such a head was not + far from being as corrupt as Papacy.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The proof that the title, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘head of the church,’</span> was not an empty honor, + appears from the historian's words—<span class="tei tei-q">‘At the + same time it was ordained that no regard should be paid to censures + which the Pope might pass on account of this law and that Mass + should be said, and sacraments administered as usual. In 1534, all + payments made to the apostolic chamber, and dispensations, were + abolished; monasteries were subjected to royal government, and + exempted from all other; the right to summon Convocations, approve + or reject canons (laws or doctrines enacted by the Convocation of + clergy), and hear appeals from the Bishops, was vested in the King + alone. These matters are but imperfectly understood by people in + general, and the same titles—<span class="tei tei-q">“Supreme head + of the church on earth,”</span> etc., are still applied to English + sovereigns. It is needless to remark that the Lord Jesus never gave + this office to any one, but claims it Himself; and any others who + claim it are usurpers. Paul said: <span class="tei tei-q">“Christ + is the Head of the <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page201">[pg + 201]</span><a name="Pg201" id="Pg201" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + Church,”</span> and that we are to <span class="tei tei-q">“grow up + into Him in all things, which is the Head, even Christ.”</span> + Again he repeats that <span class="tei tei-q">“God gave Him to be + the Head over all things in the Church, which is His body.”</span> + (Eph. 1:22 and 4:15, and 5:23; Col. 1:18.) It is the church on + earth that Paul is speaking of, hence any Pope, Queen, Council, + Assembly, Conference, or any other man or company of men, who claim + or exercise the powers of the true Head—Jesus—are opposing Him. And + all who support such by influence, presence or money, are abettors + of evil and supporters of false systems. Now does this system (the + English church) fill the picture? The second Beast had two horns; + what two kingdoms (horns) supported this church? Bear in mind the + distinction between a church supported by a government, as the + Presbyterian in Scotland, and a church united in the government, as + in England; it is the latter relationship that constitutes a + <span class="tei tei-q">“beast.”</span> ’</span> ”</span>—Z. + '80-1-2; Rev. 13:14, 15; 14:9, 11; 15:2; 16:2, 13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Coming up out of + the earth.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“From the visible + church of God.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And he had two + horns like a lamb.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Now about + the two horns. England, of course, was one of them, and Ireland the + other. Let us see. History says that in 1537 the Irish Parliament + in Dublin <span class="tei tei-q">‘passed the Act of Supremacy, + declaring Henry VIII Supreme Head of the Church, prohibiting + intercourse with the court of Rome, and making it treason to refuse + the oath of supremacy.’</span> <span class="tei tei-q">‘Henry VIII + also took the title of King of Ireland.’</span> Thus it is seen + that the second horn came up within the brief space of five years + after the first. The fact that Ireland was not a powerful horn + matters not, for it was stronger than some that supported the Papal + Beast. What effects result from the disestablishment of the Church + in Ireland? From 1538 to 1871 (333 years), the title of the church + was <span class="tei tei-q">‘The Church of England and + Ireland,’</span> thus recognizing both <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘horns.’</span> On January 1, 1871 (by action of + Parliament and the consent of the Queen, the head of the church) + the Irish church was disestablished, or that horn was cast off. So, + too, all of the horns which once supported Papacy have broken off + from her; the difference being that in the case of Papacy the horns + have turned against her, and in the case of the second Beast it + casts off the Irish horn of itself, believing it to be a weakness + rather than a strength. And it would not be at all remarkable if + the other horn (England) would be separated from this Beast. + <span class="tei tei-q">‘The two horns like a lamb,’</span> would + seem to indicate that this Beast would be peaceably inclined—not + aggressive, but merely using the horns for defense.”</span>—Z. + '80-1-2.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page202">[pg + 202]</span><a name="Pg202" id="Pg202" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And, he spake as + a dragon.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“ <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘He spake like a dragon.’</span> Notice, it is not said + he spake like <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">the</span></em> dragon, but like <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">a</span></em> + dragon. We understand this to mean that its utterances resembled + those of a purely civil (dragon) power, and that in its words there + would be little to denote that it is an ecclesiastical + government.”</span> (Z. '80-1-2.) England's conduct in forcing + opium into China is evidence enough of its Satanic character. + <span class="tei tei-q">“China realizes that opium is her great + curse; she has passed laws against the growth of the poppy and the + manufacture of opium. But she finds that the imports of opium + amount to 5,000,000 pounds per year. She cries out again, as in the + past, that this Great Kingdom of Christ (?) (Great Britain) will + have mercy upon her and cease to insist on this curse being + introduced to blight China morally and physically. The young men of + heathen China have started a monster petition for the cessation of + opium importation. The text of this appeal appeared in the + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">New York + Herald</span></span>, February 17. It recounts that a previous + appeal, of similar character, was made without avail to the King's + royal grandmother in 1858, when she was the representative of this + branch of Christ's Kingdom (?).”</span> (Z. '11-115.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The False Prophet who causes the dwellers on earth to + worship the Beast symbolizes the deification of the world and of + the world power, throughout the conflict between the church and + Antichrist.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before + him.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“And the authority of + the first Wild Beast—the whole of that authority—he exercises in + his presence, and he causes the earth and its inhabitants to + worship the first Wild Beast.”</span> (Weym.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“This shows that the second does not take the place of + the first beast, but that they exist contemporaneously.”</span> (Z. + '80-1-2.) It also shows that the sufferings of the last members of + the Body of Christ, under the combination of governments dominated + by Great Britain, may be expected to be as great as in Papacy's + palmiest days.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And causeth the + earth and them which dwell therein.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“We make a distinction between the earth and those who + dwell on it. As the earth symbolizes those obedient to and + supporting the Beast, so <span class="tei tei-q">‘those dwelling on + the earth,’</span> we understand to mean independent Christians who + do not support either of these systems.”</span>—Z. '80-1-2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To worship the + first beast, whose deadly wound was + healed.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Church of + England claimed all the powers and authority which Papacy claimed. + It claimed to be the Church; it acknowledged and repudiated some of + the corruptions complained of by the Reformers, such as the + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page203">[pg 203]</span><a name= + "Pg203" id="Pg203" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> sale of indulgence, + transubstantiation, etc., and abandoned these as well as the name + Roman, for which they substituted the word Holy, calling it the + original <span class="tei tei-q">‘Holy Catholic Church.’</span> It + claims the same governmental authority and the same veneration for + its decrees as Papacy does for hers. And by establishing a similar + system, devoid of some of the grosser Papal errors, it attracted + the attention of all to those errors, as being the only possible + fault of Papacy. And when some of those errors were shortly after + discarded by Papacy, the inference was that both Beast systems were + right. People at that day, as now, seemed to think those systems + proper and right, if their powers, etc., were properly exercised; + but from God's standpoint the systems are abominations, and wrong + from the very center. These systems are based upon errors, and like + a corrupt tree, <span class="tei tei-q">‘cannot bring forth good + fruit.’</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The principal error was in this—the very basis of + those systems—their claim to be the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Kingdom of God’</span> in reigning power. That idea, + once admitted, justifies their persecution of individuals and + nations, forcing them to submit and bow in obedience. Scripture + accords these powers to the <span class="tei tei-q">‘Kingdom of + God’</span>—when <span class="tei tei-q">‘the Kingdom is the Lord's + and He is the Governor among the nations; all the ends of the world + shall remember and turn unto the Lord, and all the kindreds of + nations shall worship before Thee.’</span> (Ps. 22:27, 28.) He + shall <span class="tei tei-q">‘dash them in pieces as a potter's + vessel.’</span> (Ps. 2:9.) Unto Him every knee shall bow, and every + tongue confess. (Phil. 2:11.) And if their claim be good, who can + object to their carrying out the Scriptural statements? These + Antichrists, to make their claim of kingdom power appear true, had + simply to take another, viz., to compel obedience, backing up their + right to do so by the Scriptures just quoted. And not only was this + great evil sanctioned, but their claim, once admitted, that the + Kingdom was established and the reign in progress, those who + admitted it were hindered from looking for the true Head of the + Church to set up the true Kingdom under the whole heavens, which + shall break in pieces present imperfect governments, establish + righteousness in the earth, and cause every knee to bow and every + tongue to confess, to the glory of God.”</span>—Z. '80-1-2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he doeth great wonders.</span></span>—The strongest text of + Scripture forewarning against the impending Church Federation is + the strongest text of Scripture forewarning against spiritism. + (Isa. 8:9-22.) It is not by accident that these warnings are placed + together. <span class="tei tei-q">“We shall not be at all surprised + if some later manifestation of the powers of darkness, transformed + to appear as the angels of light <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page204">[pg 204]</span><a name="Pg204" id="Pg204" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> and progress, shall be much more specious and + delusive than anything yet attempted. We do well to remember the + Apostle's words,—<span class="tei tei-q">‘We wrestle not with flesh + and blood, but with princely powers of darkness, with the spiritual + things of the Evil One.’</span> (Eph. 6:12.) In 1842, six years + before <span class="tei tei-q">‘modern Spiritism’</span> began to + operate, Edward Bickersteth, a servant of God and student of His + Word, wrote,—<span class="tei tei-q">‘Looking at the signs of the + times, and the long neglect and unnatural denial of all angelic + ministration or spiritual influence, and at the express predictions + of false Christs, and false prophets, who shall show signs and + wonders, insomuch that if it were possible they should deceive the + Very Elect, and that when men receive not the love of the truth + that they might be saved, for this cause God shall send them strong + delusion, that they shall believe a lie; I cannot but think there + is a painful prospect of a sudden recoil and religious revulsion + from the present unbelief and misbelief, to an unnatural and + undistinguishing credulity.’</span> Satan is the inspirer and + supporter of every Antichrist; and as he led those who had pleasure + in error rather than the truth to the organization of the great + Antichrist, Papacy, symbolically the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘beast’</span> of Rev. 13, and as he is now operating + to produce a Protestant <span class="tei tei-q">‘image of the + beast’</span> with life, which will cooperate with the chief + Antichrist, so in combination with these will be the powers of + darkness, the powers of the air, the lying and seducing spirits, + operating in some manner or in a variety of ways,—Spiritism, + Christian Science, New Thought, Theosophy, Hypnotism, etc.”</span> + (S. 32.) <span class="tei tei-q">“If we gain the right conception + of the matter these deceptions are to affect the whole world, + including its wise men, and indeed practically + everybody.”</span>—Z. '09-123; Deut. 13:1-3; Matt. 24:24, 25; 2 + Thes. 2:9-12; Rev. 16:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Note the + readiness of Christendom to fall into the trap: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“In a sermon in which he told of the effect of + religious seances and the efforts of certain writers to shatter + belief in a future life, the Rev. H. D. C. Maclachlan preached to a + large congregation in Seventh Street Christian Church on + <span class="tei tei-q">‘The New Spiritualism,’</span> in which he + gave scientific proof of a future life and exhorted his hearers to + be of good cheer and continue to hope. Mr. Maclachlan spoke in part + as follows: <span class="tei tei-q">‘There has been no more + remarkable change in public opinion than that witnessed within the + last few years with regard to that class of facts known as + spiritualistic. There was a time when it was not quite respectable + to believe in them, but quite recently there has been a change. + Ghosts have become respectable; planchette and table rapping are + parlor amusements; the <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page205">[pg + 205]</span><a name="Pg205" id="Pg205" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + popular magazines vie with each other in saying nice things about + mediums and their ways. The cause of this change in public opinion + has been a similar change in scientific belief. It is not more than + thirty years ago that orthodox science refused so much as to + investigate the things of which we are speaking. Some twenty-five + years ago the Society for Psychical Research was formed in England + with such names as Crookes, Myers, Romanes, Eidgwick, Barrett and + others on its list of members, and since that day telepathy, table + rapping, clairvoyance, clairaudience, telekinesis, apparitions, + materializations, mental healing and all the other phenomena which + Professor James, of Harvard, aptly calls <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">residual</span></em>, have been investigated. + Mediums have been transferred from back parlors, where all sorts of + trickery was possible, to the physical laboratories of the + universities. They have been put under conditions of strictest + control. Even the traditional darkness has been denied them. And + still the wonderful results came. One after another leading + scientists entered into these investigations skeptical and + contemptuous, but came out of them believers in the facts on the + evidence of their own senses.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '09-164.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So that he + maketh fire come down from heaven.</span></span>—Fire from heaven + was the test by which Elijah proved that Jehovah is the true God, + and was the method by which Jehovah accepted the offerings made to + Him on the Day of Atonement. (1 Kings 18:38; Lev. 9:24.) In the + test at hand the second beast will be able to prove to all except + the Elect that his claims to Divine approval are correct. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Our Lord warns us of danger from false + Christs <span class="tei tei-q">‘then’</span>—that is now. Had it + been foretold precisely what form these deceptions would take, this + would have somewhat hindered their deceptive power. God permits + these deceptions for the very purpose of separating the + <span class="tei tei-q">‘overcomers’</span> from all others, and + merely guarantees us that the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Elect’</span> will be kept from falling. And yet it is + quite possible that some of these trials, siftings and delusions, + may come closest upon those possessing the largest degree of the + light of Present Truth.”</span> (D. 581; Rev. 7:3.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Lord allows the storms to press us more and more + so that we will cry unto Him. Then He will hear us and give us the + necessary deliverance. These storms may be right inside, in our own + person. Whether, therefore, storms financial, political, religious + or demoniacal, come his way, the child of God may rest secure and + be of good courage. The Lord is both able and willing to care for + his interests and bring him off victor.”</span> (Z. '13-150.) As + soon as the beast has apparently made out a clear case, perhaps by + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page206">[pg 206]</span><a name= + "Pg206" id="Pg206" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> outward, visible + evidences, but surely by evidences from the Scriptures (distorted) + of its standing with God, we may expect a very prompt and practical + use of the <span class="tei tei-q">“fire”</span> (Luke 9:54) thus + obtained. <span class="tei tei-q">“The Image, as soon as vitalized, + will very promptly use its influence, prestige, power, in every way + to punish in the name of the Lord those who in any sense of the + word it shall consider to be its opponents. Speedily none will be + allowed to buy or sell, in the spiritual marts [or perhaps in any + marts], except those who have either the mark or the number of the + Beast, or of the Image, either in the right hand of co-operation or + in the forehead of public confession. This will mean that the + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">International Bible Students + Association</span></span> and all others not in affiliation with + the Alliance will be subjected to radically coercive measures. + Truth shall fall in the streets. (Isa. 59:14.) Righteousness will + be unable to enter under the stress of the new order of things. For + a time it will appear as though a great Christian victory had been + won, shared equally by Papacy and Federated-Protestantism—no longer + protesting.”</span>—Z. '13-343.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">On the earth in + the sight of men.</span></span>—Amongst his own followers and among + Christians unattached to either beast.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + deceiveth them that dwell on the earth.</span></span>—The + independent Christians just named.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By the means of + those miracles.</span></span>—Signs, the laying on of hands, + doctrines of immortality, trinity and claims that none are + qualified to understand the Bible aright except those consecrated + by the imposition of holy orders by the episcopal succession.—Z. + '80-1-2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which he had + power to do in the sight of the beast.</span></span>—While the + papacy is still alive and active.—Rev. 19:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Saying.</span></span>—By its own + example.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To them that + dwell on the earth.</span></span>—Independent Christians.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That they should + ALSO make an Image to the beast.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“From the year 1800 to 1846 was a time in which great + numbers of new sects arose, whereas before that, they were few and + prominent. This gave rise to uneasiness among the older + denominations who wondered whereunto this thing would lead. As the + Bible came to be read more and more by the masses, occasional + individuals would feel free to preach what they thought it taught, + regardless of denominational creeds and the views of the older + sects. As a consequence, Protestants were fast splitting up into + fragments. They began to say, By what means shall we check and stop + this disposition to individual thought and opinion relative to the + teachings of Scripture? They wanted to stop the very thing God + desired; viz., that each individual <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page207">[pg 207]</span><a name="Pg207" id="Pg207" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> should be free and independent of restraint, + with his faith based, not on the views of others, not on the + decisions of Councils or Presbyters, nor in the decision of the + Pope, nor in things approved of the head of the English church, but + in the Word of God. The question came: How can we restrain these + preachers? This was a quandary to all except the Roman and + Episcopal churches, since these both claimed the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Apostolic Succession,’</span> and that this, by + ordination, conferred upon their ministers special power and + authority to preach and to administer the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Sacraments’</span>; hence that no others had a right + to do so, but were clerical pretenders. Other denominations could + not claim this continuation of apostolic power through their + preachers, but simply set them apart by prayer, consequently those + of one denomination could not object that the preachers of other + denominations, as well as all laymen, were not as truly authorized + of God to expound the Scriptures as their own clergy.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“But the example of the Church of England showed what a + prestige she had by reason of the voice of authority with which she + commanded a reverence for her clergy and her teachings. This + teaching by example was not lost. The various denominations felt a + necessity for some common Standard of Doctrine which would be + supported and upheld by all of them, and thus give prestige to + their teachings, and bring the combined influence of all against + any further advance in knowledge or the development of any + different phase of truth. Thus they would protect themselves by + being able to say: The combined opinion of all Protestants is + against you; therefore you are heretics, and therefore we will shun + you, and not call you Brethren, but use all our influence against + you. This was done by the formation of the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Evangelical Alliance.’</span> It was stated to be one + of the objects of the Alliance (and we believe the principal one) + to <span class="tei tei-q">‘Promote between the different + Evangelical denominations, an effective co-operation in the efforts + to repel common enemies and dangers.’</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img200b.png"><img src="images/img200b.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Evangelical Alliance—Church Federation The Image of The Beast + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Do not understand us as opposing the Christians + represented in that Alliance; we are opposed merely to their + attempt to muzzle truth, and to prevent the opening up of any other + truths buried by Papacy than those which they had received. It is + far from our purpose to say that they intentionally combined + against the unfolding of truth, nor would we say this of Papists. + But we do say, that by their action they were following Papacy's + tactics, and that in that Alliance they did make the Image of the + Beast. It has tended to make a separation clear and distinct + between the Clergy and the Laity.</span></p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page208">[pg 208]</span><a name="Pg208" id="Pg208" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“How much the Image resembles the Papal Beast may be + judged from the fact that Papacy acknowledged the Image—owned it as + a creditable likeness—by the Pope sending <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Greetings’</span> to the last meeting of the + Evangelical Alliance. Strange to say, the delegates to the Alliance + had so far lost sight of the principles and doctrines which led to + the protests against the Papal church (that it was the Harlot + church—Antichrist—Man of Sin—mentioned in the Scriptures) that they + actually felt flattered by the Pontiff's notice, instead of + becoming alarmed and examining how and why he who is <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The Chief Antichrist’</span> should feel pleased to + greet them as fellows. A prominent Presbyterian minister present at + the above named meeting mentioned the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Pope's Greeting’</span> with evident pleasure and + satisfaction to the writer.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“A prominent characteristic of the Beast copied by the + Image is the honoring of a special class, the Clergy, with special + honors and titles. They are known as Revs., Divines, etc., but + Jesus the Divine said: <span class="tei tei-q">‘Ye call Me Lord and + Master, and ye say well, for so I am.’</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Be not ye called Rabbi, neither be ye called Master, + for one is your Master, even Christ, and all ye are + brethren.’</span> (Matt. 23:8.) These titles are assumptions + fashioned after those of Papacy. When the various denominations + began their existence, more full of the spirit of Christ, they + claimed no such high-sounding titles. The Reformers were not known + as Rev., D. D., etc., but as John Knox, Martin Luther, etc. + Unpretentious, like Jesus and the Apostles, they were intent upon + serving God, and therefore became the servants (ministers) of the + Church. But now the Clergy are far from being servants; they are + Lords. They have itching ears, loving the approval of men. As pride + and worldliness have come in, vital godliness and power have + gradually departed. For the very same reason, they are losing all + power to expound the Word of God—the gift of teaching—because + <span class="tei tei-q">‘God abhorreth the proud, but giveth grace + (favor) to the humble.’</span> We find ministers of all + denominations ready to confess their ignorance of the Word. They + appeal, for their information, back to the early reformers, and + thus confess that they have less light than they. That their light + should grow dim, and their spiritual life become dwarfed, is the + natural result of their joining the Image, and subscribing to + creeds made in the fifteenth century, which, like the shoe of + China, will not admit of any growth. It is a shoe a little larger + than Papacy put upon its followers, but of the same + sort.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Papacy established the clerical hierarchy, who lorded + it over God's heritage instead of serving their brethren as + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page209">[pg 209]</span><a name= + "Pg209" id="Pg209" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> Jesus + explained—<span class="tei tei-q">‘One is your Master; all ye are + brethren,’</span> and as Paul said: <span class="tei tei-q">‘We are + to speak the truth in love and grow up into Him in all things who + is the Head, even Christ; from whom the whole Body fitly joined + together [not by creeds of men, but by love begotten by the one + Spirit of Truth] and compacted by that which every joint supplied + [every joint is every member, not the clergy only] maketh increase + of the Body unto the edifying of itself in love,’</span> thus + coming <span class="tei tei-q">‘to the unity of the faith, and of + the knowledge of the Son of God.’</span> (Eph. 4:15, 16.) As Papacy + established the priesthood over the church, so Protestantism has + established the same, and there is no opportunity for the Body to + edify itself, every joint taking part. True, there is a seeming + show of liberty at prayer meetings, etc., but it is only upon the + surface, for the ordained pastor is to watch zealously lest + anything contrary to the teachings of his church should be + expressed, and if so, to silence the audacious member at once, for + the church creed is the rule, not the Word of God. If this is not + sufficient, they must have a sort of church trial and excommunicate + him (<span class="tei tei-q">‘kill him’</span>). The trial, by the + way, gives evidence of another likeness to the Beast, namely, the + exaltation of the teachings of the organization above the Word of + God, for all such are tried according to <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘the authorities’</span> of their church.”</span>—Z. + '80-1-2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Alliance endeavored to establish a standard of + orthodoxy. They saw the power of the Papal argument, that it is the + Church, and that all others are heretical. In this sense it was a + copy, or image, of the Papal institution. It has been merely an + Image without life or power for now more than sixty years.”</span> + (Z. '13-342.) <span class="tei tei-q">“And he told the inhabitants + of the earth to erect a statue (possibly a symbol of corrupt public + opinion) to the Wild Beast who had received the sword-stroke and + yet had recovered.”</span>—Weym.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which had the + wound by a sword, and did live.</span></span>—Which was smitten by + the Sword of the Spirit in the hands of the reformers, but not + persistently enough to kill it. (Heb. 4:12.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“It is important to observe that the wound of one of + the heads is here ascribed to the whole beast.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he had power to give life.</span></span>—Either <span class= + "tei tei-q">“apostolic succession”</span> or its effect. + <span class="tei tei-q">“It may not be known to many how much + stress was laid upon the <span class="tei tei-q">‘apostolic + succession,’</span> which was supposed to be a virtue transmitted + through hundreds of years of Papal corruption, by the laying on of + the hands of the Bishop. This, of course, was vested in the Roman + church, and also in the English church on account of its being at + first rather a secession from <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page210">[pg 210]</span><a name="Pg210" id="Pg210" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> Papacy than a reformation. To many minds; + even among the clergy, there was a veneration for that ceremony, + which neither Papacy nor the English church were averse to + promoting.”</span> (Z. '80-1-2.) For the effect of this + superstition on the mind of Wesley, see Rev. 9:1, 2. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Lord's symbolic prophecy tells us that in the + close of this Age the Image will receive life, vitality, energy, + power. No longer will it stand as a mere Image. It will become as + active as the Beast. Moreover, it will not be antagonistic to the + Beast, but sympathetic, and cause that all shall either worship the + Beast or the Image—all must be in harmony either with Catholicism, + or with the Protestant Church Federation as soon as it receives the + vitalizing breath.”</span>—Z. '13-343.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Unto the Image + of the beast.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The vitality + of the Image is to come from the two-horned Beast; the Church of + England. A few years ago the Episcopal Church took an important + step toward vitalizing the Church Federation movement. That + important step was the recognition of the ministers of the + denominations represented in the Evangelical Alliance. Previously + no minister not ordained by the laying on of hands of a Catholic or + an Episcopalian bishop was allowed to preach from an Episcopalian + pulpit. Perhaps this recognition of the Image is all the + vitalization the Image needs, but we are inclined to expect more. + For years the Episcopalians have proffered reordination to the + ministers of the different denominations represented in the + Evangelical Alliance. And they still proffer it. We have been + inclined to expect that the ministers would finally concede the + point and accept a reordination at the hands of an Episcopal + bishop. But we are not sure of this. It is possible that, to meet + the requirements of the case, some other way will be found by which + the Episcopal Church will recognize the Church Federation without + obligating the ministers to be reordained. We are waiting for + this.”</span> (Z. '13-343.) <span class="tei tei-q">“If the various + ministers of other denominations in considerable numbers accept + reordination as ministers at the hands of Episcopalian Bishops, the + validity of other ordination will be speedily questioned. The + authority of this so-called <span class="tei tei-q">‘Apostolic + Ordination’</span> will give seeming right of authority, dignity + and power. After the prominent ministers of various denominations + submit themselves to such reordination, the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘lesser lights’</span> will make a rush for + it.”</span>—Z. '10-308.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Canon Henson, of + Westminster Abbey, has said: <span class="tei tei-q">“The logical + goal of modern tendencies is not toward Disestablishment, but + toward a fuller and worthier Establishment. Why should not the + nation draw into its service all the <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page211">[pg 211]</span><a name="Pg211" id="Pg211" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> organized Christianity instead of limiting + itself to a single denomination? I rejoice to observe a beginning + made in this direction by recent legislation, which has recognized + for certain civic purposes the status of Nonconformist + clergymen.”</span> (Z. '06-6.) The change of name of the + <span class="tei tei-q">“Image of the Beast”</span> to that of + <span class="tei tei-q">“False Prophet”</span> in Rev. 16:13, + between the <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">sixth</span></em> and <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">seventh</span></em> + plagues, indicates it was vitalized prior to the publication of + Vol. VII (the 7th plague). Truly it now <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">lives</span></em>—in the minds of the + clergy—but it will grow stronger.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The matter is + growing in the minds of those interested, as the following + dispatches show: <span class="tei tei-q">“Washington, Dec. 31, + 1916.—In a signed document addressed to the nation, more than fifty + prelates and laymen of various denominations representing many + sections of the country have united in a warning against what they + declare may be a premature peace in Europe which <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘may bring a curse instead of a + blessing.’</span> ”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“Last winter + commissions of all American Protestant churches met at Garden City, + L. I., for the first time, and adopted a general platform on which + it recommended that the World Conference on Faith and Order + proceed. Pope Benedict XV. sent a letter to the commissions, + assuring them of his <span class="tei tei-q">‘deep interest and + prayers.’</span> ”</span>—<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Literary Digest</span></span>, January 13, + 1917.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That the image + of the beast should both speak.</span></span>—Thus far he has been + significantly <span class="tei tei-q">“silent”</span> as far as + claiming any real power or authority is concerned; but the time for + the breaking of the silence is near.—Jer. 8:14-17; Rev. 8:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And cause that + as many as would not worship the Image of the + beast.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Worship of this + symbolic beast and his image is to be the great test or trial upon + professing Christians in every province of symbolic Babylon in the + end of this Age. And we have the same inspired record as authority + for the statement that only those who refuse to render worship to + those powerfully influential religious systems (symbolized by the + beast and his image) will be counted by the Lord as <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘overcomers’</span> and be made His joint-heirs as + members of His elect Church. (Rev. 20:4.) And there are some the + world over who, with a courage not less than that of Shadrach, + Meshach and Abed-nego, declare publicly that the Lord God alone + shall have the worship and the service which they can render. The + faithful few will be exposed to fiery experiences—boycotted + socially, boycotted in business, slandered in every conceivable + manner, and often by those of whom they least expect it, who, + according to the Lord's declaration, will say <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘all manner of evil against them falsely.’</span> + (Matt. 5:11,12.)”</span>—Z. '99-170.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page212">[pg 212]</span><a name="Pg212" id="Pg212" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Should be + killed.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Soon we shall have + their <span class="tei tei-q">‘Union’</span> or <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Confederacy’</span> (Isa. 8:12), and the bitter fruits + of Union in error will speedily manifest themselves in tyranny, as + during the Dark Ages.”</span> (Z. '04-212.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“To us the Scriptures indicate that the prosperity of + the Federated Protestant <span class="tei tei-q">‘Image’</span> + will for a little time be so great, so pronounced, and its + arrogance become so great that the sympathy of the masses will be + entirely alienated and turned into bitterness.”</span> (Z. + '10-309). It may be objected that the Church would have no part in + the killing of their fellow worshippers, but ecclesiastics + themselves have a better understanding of the ecclesiastical mind + and ecclesiastical conscience. The following is from the pen of Rt. + Rev. Chas. D. Williams, Protestant Episcopal Bishop of + Michigan:</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“It is an appalling thought that the Church should have + had a part in the crime of Calvary, and yet it did, and that the + chief part. The ecclesiastical mind is a closed mind—and there is + nothing it resents so much as being pried open to receive a new + idea. Its settled rule of judgment, its accepted test of truth, is, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘What is new is never true, and what is + true is never new.’</span> The other characteristic of a perverted + religion is the ecclesiastical conscience. It is strikingly + illustrated by one Good Friday scene. A procession is sweeping + through the streets of Jerusalem, bound for the Governor's Palace. + Who compose this procession? They are the religious leaders of the + people the prominent divines, the chief ecclesiastics. What is the + business they have in mind? They are intent on committing the + greatest crime in history. But at Pilate's threshold they stop. + Why? Ah, they have stumbled across a canon of the Church. If they + should enter a heathen house that Passover morning, they would + become ceremonially defiled and unfit to partake of the + sacrament.”</span> (Z. '15-339.) <span class="tei tei-q">“In 1526 + Prof. Tyndale, having prepared his MS., published it in Germany, + because of the opposition of the English clergy. He imported his + New Testaments into London, in whose shops the people began to + purchase them. At this same time the Germans were learning + something of the New Testament and its different teachings, from + Luther and his associates. The Church of England bishops forthwith + bought up the entire edition in the shops, and publicly burnt them + in front of St Paul's Cathedral, London. They knew that the + eighteen Ecumenical Councils had declared to be true Christian + faith many things not taught in the Bible, and had omitted many + things that are taught therein. They feared that the people, + becoming Bible students, would know of these things, and thus would + be upset the general belief based in the <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page213">[pg 213]</span><a name="Pg213" id="Pg213" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> creeds—and not in the Bible. Then, too, they + warned the people against putting any construction upon the Bible + that would make it different from the teaching of the so-called + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Apostolic Bishops’</span> in the + creeds—threatening them with eternal torment. As it was, Tyndale + and some of the others interested in the Bible suffered martyrdom, + as enemies of the <span class="tei tei-q">‘Apostolic + Bishops,’</span> and their creeds and institutions.”</span>—Z. + '15-253. Are the clergy divinely ordained?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he causeth all, both small and great.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The great feast which preceded the fall of Babylon + would seem to correspond well with the great denominational union + expected soon, and the season of rejoicing which will accompany it. + The gold and silver vessels of the Lord's house which were profaned + may fitly represent not only the precious truths of Divine + Revelation, but also the Lord's consecrated people—the golden + vessels representing the Little Flock, and the more numerous silver + vessels representing the <span class="tei tei-q">‘Great + Company.’</span> What may be the character of the defilement and + injury of these is of course problematical; but in any case we + remember that those consecrated vessels were all highly honored, + and restored to the Temple by Cyrus, and likewise we know that not + only the truths of Divine Revelation will all be cared for by our + Lord, but also that all that are His shall be glorified in the + spiritual Temple which He will rear shortly.”</span>—Z. + '99-175.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Rich and] Poor + AND RICH.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“So popular will + Federated Churchianity become that to even criticize it will be a + <span class="tei tei-q">‘crime’</span> worthy of crucifixion in + some form—socially and financially, if not physically. Politicians + will quickly realize that their bread is buttered on that side, and + be ready to enact legislation of any kind desired by the + Federation. Mammon-worship will take on new forms temporarily, but + power will soon debauch the unregenerate mass and drive out the + regenerate faithful who may temporarily be misled by the great + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Union’</span> movement in the name of + Christ, but without His Spirit or authority.”</span>—Z. '06-6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Free and + bond.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It is altogether + possible, indeed probable we think, that John's course which + brought him into conflict with Herod was in some degree typical of + the course of the Gospel Church in this present time; and of the + course of events that may be expected. If it be a type, Herod would + represent civil government, and the unlawful wife would represent + the nominal church, which throughout the symbolic Scriptures is + represented as a woman, Jezebel, etc. Should it prove to be a type + by its fulfilment in antitype, the fulfilment will probably be on + something like the following lines: (1) A partial reunion + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page214">[pg 214]</span><a name= + "Pg214" id="Pg214" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> of Church and State. + [This has now been accomplished by the Alliance of the United + States with Great Britain.] (2) In such case it would become the + duty of the true Church, the forerunners and announcers of the + Messianic Kingdom, to reprove the civil powers as well as the + nominal church systems, and to declare their union + unlawful—contrary to the Word of God. (3) The effect of this would + pretty surely be to awaken the animosity of both civil and + religious powers; but it would draw out specially the animosity and + venom of the latter. (4) The church nominal, in her false position + would be anxious to stifle the reproofs and to destroy the + reprovers, and the effect would be that the civil power would be + induced to pass such legislation as would restrain the liberty of + the faithful ones and hinder them from public utterances;—as John + was hindered by imprisonment. (5) Herodias' daughter (united + Protestantism) will become the tool for the destruction of the most + loyal servants of God.”</span>—Z. '98-95.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To [receive] + GIVE HIM a mark in their right hand or in their [foreheads] + FOREHEAD.</span></span>—By contrast with Ex. 13:9; 28:26-38; Deut. + 6:8; Z. '07-265; Rev. 7:3; 14:1; Ezek. 9:4-6. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Consecration to the service of the beast is what is + signified here.”</span> (Cook.) (Lev. 19:28.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“All classes of Christians must bow; all must, in some + way, give evidence of their support of the Image and consecration + to its interests and laws; either a public, open profession of + being members of the Alliance, and hence supporters (mark in + forehead), or at least a giving of some assistance and influence to + the principles of Image organisation—(the right-hand + support).”</span> (Z. '80-1-2.) This implies a re-establishment of + the inquisition <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">soon</span></em>—in some form of + house-to-house <span class="tei tei-q">“investigation”</span> or + public enrollment.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">[And] That no man might buy or + sell.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘buying and selling,’</span> like the other features, + is symbolic, and refers to dealing in spiritual things. [But it may + be literally fulfilled as well in the year of prospective famine + now at hand.] None may be recognized as having any right to teach + or preach or baptize or administer the emblems of our Lord's death, + except those licensed by some orthodox member of the Image, and + acts of such persons (<span class="tei tei-q">‘unlicensed’</span>) + are not counted valid.”</span>—Z. '80-1-2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Save he that had + the mark [or the name] of the beast.</span></span>—Protestants + affiliated with the Federal Council of Churches—already + <span class="tei tei-q">“marked,”</span> stamped O. K. by the + papacy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Or his + name.</span></span>—Roman Catholics.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Or the number of + his name.</span></span>—Consent to the principle of clergy rule in + matters of faith, order and war (murder.)—Rev. + 15:2.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page215">[pg + 215]</span><a name="Pg215" id="Pg215" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Here + is wisdom. Let him that hath [understanding] AN EAR count the + number of the beast.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Here is + scope for ingenuity. Let people of shrewd intelligence calculate + the number of the Wild Beast; for it indicates a certain man, and + his number is 666.”</span>—Weym.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For it is the + number of a man.</span></span>—The Man of Sin, the Papacy.—Rev. + 19:20; 2 Thes. 2:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And his number + is] Six hundred threescore and six.</span></span>—In the Greek this + number is six hundred (represented by the Greek letter χ), plus + sixty (represented by the Greek letter ξ), plus six (represented by + the Greek letter ζ). It is not as though it read six plus six plus + six.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The following extract on this point is from a work + entitled The Reformation, bearing the date of 1832:</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘Mrs. A.,’</span> said Miss + Emmons, <span class="tei tei-q">‘I saw a very curious fact the + other day; I have dwelt upon it much, and will mention it. A + person, lately, was witnessing a ceremony of the Romish Church. As + the pope passed him in the procession, splendidly dressed in his + pontifical robes, the gentleman's eye rested on these full, blazing + letters in front of his mitre (tiara—crown): VICARIVS FILII DEI, + the Vicar of the Son of God. His thoughts, with the rapidity of + lightning, reverted to Rev. 13:18.’</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Will you turn to it?’</span> said Mrs. A. Alice opened + the New Testament, and read: <span class="tei tei-q">‘Let him that + hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the + number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and + six.’</span> She paused, and Miss Emmons said, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘He took out his pencil, and marking the numerical + letters of the inscription on his tablet, it stood + 666.’</span> ”</span> (Smith.) This explanation was approved by + Pastor Russell, and was given by him at a Convention Question + Meeting.</p> + + <table summary="This is a table" cellspacing="0" class= + "tei tei-table" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"> + <colgroup span="2"></colgroup> + + <tbody> + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">V</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">5</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">I</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">1</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">C</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">100</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">A</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">0</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">R</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">0</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">I</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">1</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">V</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">5</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">S</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">0</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">——</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">F</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">0</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">I</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">1</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">L</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">50</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">I</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">1</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">I</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">1</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">——</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">D</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">500</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">E</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">0</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">I</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">1</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">——</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">——</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Total</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">666</td> + </tr> + </tbody> + </table> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">On the pope's + crown in the Vatican museum is the recognized and most used title + of the pope, VICARIVS FILII DEI (Vicar of the Son of God.) The word + VICARIVS is on the top of the threefold crown. The word FILII is on + the second circlet; and the words are made from dark, shining + precious jewels. The word DEI is on the under part of the threefold + crown and is made of 100 diamonds. <span class="tei tei-q">“The + Tiara is a bee-hive shaped, somewhat bulging head-covering, + ornamented with three crowns. It is first mentioned <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page216">[pg 216]</span><a name="Pg216" id="Pg216" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> by Pope Constantine, in A. D. 715. It + first appears on papal coins in the reign of Sergius III., A. D. + 911. At this period it was merely a cap of white stuff. The papal + coins of the 11th century leave it doubtful whether the ornamental + band at the lower edge of the tiara is intended to represent a + crown or merely a decoration. It is only in representations dating + from the late 13th century that the circlet appears as a regular + spiked crown. The second circlet was added by Pope Boniface VIII., + A. D. 1303. The third was added under Clement V., A. D. + 1311.”</span> (Brit.) The reason for the addition of any of these + crowns is unknown, or why the pope should have any crown at all. + The words VICARIVS FILII DEI are, it is said, also carved over the + entrance to the Vatican.</p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Gideon's Band.</span></p> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">Count + Me the swords that have come.</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">Lord, + thousands on thousands are ready.</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">Lo! + these are too many, and with them are some</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Whose hearts and whose hands are + not steady.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">He whose soul does not + burn,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Let him take up his tent and + return.</span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">Count + Me the swords that remain.</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">Lord, + hundreds on hundreds are daring.</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">These + yet are too many for Me to attain</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">To the victory I am + preparing.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Lead them down to the + brink</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Of the waters of Marah to + drink.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">Lord + those who remain are but few,</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And the hosts of the foe are + appalling,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">And what can a handful such as we + do?</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">When ye + hear from beyond, My Voice calling,</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Sound the trump! Hold the + light!</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Great Midian will melt in your + sight!</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page217">[pg 217]</span><a name= + "Pg217" id="Pg217" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc33" id="toc33"></a> <a name="pdf34" id="pdf34"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 14—The Five Harvest + Messages</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I looked, and, [lo, a] BEHOLD THE Lamb.</span></span>—See Rev. 5:6; + 13:8; John 1:29, 36; Acts 8:32; 1 Pet. 1:19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Stood on the + Mount Sion.</span></span>—The Return of the Lord is here pictured + as accomplished the sleeping saints raised, and the full number + called. This was all fulfilled in 1878. (Rev. 11:17.) At that time + our Lord took unto Himself His great power and began His Reign.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And with Him an + hundred forty and four thousand.</span></span>—See Rev. 7:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having His + [Father's] name AND THE NAME OF HIS FATHER.</span></span>—How + beautiful and how true that we have <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">both</span></em> + the Father and the Son in our minds, while trinitarians must + necessarily have more or less, and are proportionately + confused.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Written in their + foreheads.</span></span>—Isa. 44:5; Rev. 7:3; Ex. 13:9; 28:26-38; + Deut. 6:8; Z. '07-265; Ezek. 9:2-6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I heard a voice.</span></span>—The message of Present Truth from + the lips of the Lord's saints on this side of the veil. They are on + Mount Zion in the spirit of their minds.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">From + heaven.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“We are seated with + Him in Heavenly places.”</span>—Rev. 13:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As the voice of + many waters.</span></span>—A great outpouring of Truth, in many + tongues.—Rev. 1:16; 19:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And as the voice + of [a great] thunder.</span></span>—Seven thunders, the seven + volumes of <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Scripture Studies</span></span>.—Rev. 8:5; + 10:3, 4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [I heard] + the voice WHICH I HEARD WAS AS THAT of harpers harping with their + Harps.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Scriptures of the + Old and New Testaments constitute what the Lord Himself designates + <span class="tei tei-q">‘the Harp of God.’</span> (Rev. 15:2.) And + the various testimonies of the Law and the Prophets are the several + chords of that Harp, which, when tuned by the Holy Spirit dwelling + in our hearts, and swept by the fingers of the devoted servants and + searchers after Divine Truth, yields the most enchanting strains + that ever fell on mortal ears.”</span>—F. 233; Rev. 5:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they [sang as it were] SING a new song.</span></span>—The Lord + particularly promised that in this Harvest time, out of His + Storehouse would come things <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">new</span></em>. (Matt. 13:52; 24:45.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“In symbol He pointed out to us the fact + that <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page218">[pg 218]</span><a name= + "Pg218" id="Pg218" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> the Message of His + grace in the closing days of this Gospel Age would be so different + from the commonly accepted message, misnamed the Gospel, that it + would properly be termed a new song.”</span>—Z. '00-37; Rev. 5:9; + 15:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">AND IT WAS + before the Throne.</span></span>—While still on earth. Compare Rev. + 4:5 and 5:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And before the + four beasts.</span></span>—Every declaration of Present Truth has + for its object the presentation of one or more of the Divine + attributes—Justice, Power, Love and Wisdom. All that we do in the + service of the Truth is done in their sight.—Rev. 4:7-10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And BEFORE the + elders.</span></span>—The prophecies. In all that we do we are + pointing to the prophecies and fulfilling them. How often it was + said of our Lord Jesus, that He said or did this or that + <span class="tei tei-q">“That it might be fulfilled which was + spoken by the mouth of”</span> one of the Prophets.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And no man could + learn that song but the 144,000.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Nothing is more manifest than that it is necessary to + be somewhat of an <span class="tei tei-q">‘overcomer’</span> of the + world and its spirit which pervades nominal Christendom, ere any + would have the courage to sing this song—to declare before men the + lengths, breadths, heights and depths of the goodness and grace of + the Divine Plan, of which Jesus and His Sacrifice are the center. + To all others <span class="tei tei-q">‘the fear of man bringeth a + snare,’</span> and stoppeth their mouths from speaking <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘forth the praise of Him who called us out of darkness + into His marvelous light.’</span> <span class="tei tei-q">‘But the + people that do know their God [His Character and Plan] shall be + valiant and do exploits,’</span> and like the Apostles of old will + feel and say. <span class="tei tei-q">‘Whether it be right to obey + God or men, judge ye; but we cannot but speak the things which we + have seen and heard,’</span>—Dan. 11:32; Acts 4:19, 20.”</span>—Z. + '00-37.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which were + redeemed from the earth.</span></span>—<span lang="el" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Agorazo</span></span>, acquired at the + forum.—E. <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">443</span></span>, 429.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">These are they which were not defiled + with women; for they are virgins.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“All Bible exponents of the Protestant kind recognize + there are two Women especially mentioned in Revelation; the one the + true Woman, the Bride class, the other the false Woman; and + Protestants in general understand that false Woman to represent the + papacy. Then again other Protestants understand that the Scriptures + which refer to the mother and daughters refer to the papacy, and + these denominational daughters, or systems, which sprang from her, + and have more or less of her nature, disposition and + characteristics. The Bible proposition is that the Church is a + Virgin Church; viz.: not united to the world at all, and that this + is the error that was made by the early Church in leaving Christ + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page219">[pg 219]</span><a name= + "Pg219" id="Pg219" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> as the prospective + Bridegroom and becoming united with the nation of Rome. This + constituted an illicit union; for as the Bride of Christ she had no + right whatever to be associated with any earthly dominion; + therefore in becoming associated with the Roman Emperor she lost + her standing. We are to remember that this word <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘harlotry’</span> as used in Revelation is merely a + symbolical term; there is nothing more than that to be understood. + God speaks of some of His children as being in Babylon. Babylon is + the name for the mother, the papal system, and the daughters also + have the same name. It means confusion, mixture and improper + relationship. Now then some are in Babylon and not of Babylon, just + the same as the children of Israel were carried captive into + Babylon, but they were not Babylonians. And in due time God sent + forth the Message to all Natural Israel that if those who had been + carried in captivity into Babylon desired to return to the Lord + their God, and to the Land of Promise, they might do so. Cyrus gave + that decree, you remember, and many of them did return.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“No one is called out of Babylon until he hears the + Lord's voice. So you and I may have been in Babylon for years and + not have had any responsibility or any impurity; we were not + defiled, because we did not know any better. But He says, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Come out of her, My people, that ye be not + partakers of her sins.’</span> That implies that you are not yet + partakers of her sins; you are My people, in her, but not yet + partakers. I was not responsible for what was in my head from + childhood; and God did not hold me responsible; nor you, nor anyone + else; but after we come to see the great errors which are taught by + Babylon's system then we are responsible. We have said things about + our Heavenly Father that we would be ashamed to say about ourselves + or of our earthly parents.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“We have said He created our world of mankind and knew + what He was doing, had full power and full wisdom, and intended + from the beginning to damn nine hundred and ninety-nine out of + every thousand, and to have them roast through all eternity; and + that He made fireproof devils to handle them; that He created a + great place called hell in which all of this diabolical work was + going on. No honorable man would treat a poor rat that + way—predestinate the rat before it was born, foreordain it to + eternal torture. And now then after we once see that this doctrine + is blasphemy against God, after we once see that it was evidently + instigated by our great Adversary, the Devil—after we once see what + an awful thing it is—if then we wish to uphold earthly systems and + give our lives, <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page220">[pg + 220]</span><a name="Pg220" id="Pg220" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + strength, talents and means, to upholding these diabolical + teachings, then we are worse than any others there; we are the + worst of them all. What right has any man to stay inside of a + denomination and deny the teachings of that denomination? He is + branding himself as a fraud, professing to believe what he knows he + does not believe, claiming to teach what he knows he should not + teach; or, on the other hand, teaching that which he knows is + wrong, and professing that which he does not believe at all. The + whole matter is wrong; such are defiled by the Women.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“But those who come out when they see the right and + wrong on the question, who take their stand for right, they are + delivering their souls from Babylon. <span class="tei tei-q">‘Flee + out of Babylon, saith the Lord; deliver every man his soul.’</span> + Now no one is responsible to flee out unless he sees that it is + Babylon, but the very suggestion that it is Babylon to every honest + person means that he should make an investigation, and a thorough + one, to know whether or not he is in Babylon. If he says, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Well, God's voice says <span class= + "tei tei-q">“flee out of Babylon,”</span> and I believe that the + system is Babylon, but I do not wish to look into it for fear I + find it true,’</span> that means he is dishonest with himself; he + is defiling himself. There is only one way of being thoroughly + honest, and that is to be honest.”</span> (Pastor Russell.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“That the words can only be understood + spiritually seems to follow from the whole tone of Apocalyptic + symbolism:—see the mention of the Bridegroom and the Bride, of the + Harlot and her fornications. Elsewhere we have the language of Ps. + 45, of the Canticles, of the Book of Hosea, above all of 2 Cor. + 11:2:—<span class="tei tei-q">‘I have espoused you to one Husband, + that I may present you as a chaste virgin to + Christ.’</span> ”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[These are they + which] THOSE WHO follow The Lamb.</span></span>—On this side of the + veil.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Whithersoever He + goeth.</span></span>—Those who fail to <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Walk in the light as He is in the light”</span> find + sooner or later that they <span class="tei tei-q">“walk in + darkness”</span> for the light goes on and leaves them.—John 1:6, + 7; Prov. 4:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">These were + redeemed from among men.</span></span>—They are a separate class, + <span class="tei tei-q">“from among”</span> men. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The thought is that of public purchase; and all the + other uses of this word <span lang="el" class="tei tei-foreign" + xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">agorazo</span></span>, throughout the New + Testament, emphatically support a most commercial signification. We + call especial attention to the signification of this word, because + the tendency to deny that there was a purchase of our race effected + by a <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">price</span></em> given for man's release from + the <span class="tei tei-q">‘curse’</span> is prevalent and a + growing one—very subversive of the true faith, once delivered to + the saints.”</span>—E. <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">443</span></span>, 430.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page221">[pg 221]</span><a name="Pg221" id="Pg221" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Being the + first-fruits] FROM THE BEGINNING unto God and [to] IN the + Lamb.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Separated from the + entire mass as the best absolutely.—Num. 18:12.”</span> (Cook) + Deut. 26:2; Jas. 1:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + in their mouth.</span></span>—By contrast to the lies of the False + Prophet.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was found no + [guile] FALSEHOOD.</span></span>—They fully and thoroughly believe + the doctrines they teach.—Psa. 15:1, 2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For they are + without fault [before the Throne of + God].</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Faultless before the + presence of His glory with exceeding Joy.”</span>—Jude 24; Eph. + 5:27; Psa. 15:1-5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw [another] AN angel.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">The Divine Plan of + the Ages</span></span>, Volume I of the <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Fly in the midst + of heaven.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“From one end of + heaven to the other”</span> amongst Christian people of all + denominations.—Matt. 24:31.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having the + everlasting Gospel.</span></span>—The same Gospel preached by our + Heavenly Father (Gal. 3:8), the Lord Jesus Christ (John 10:16), the + holy Apostles (Acts 15:13-18), the holy Prophets (Acts 3:19-24) and + the holy Angels (Luke 2:10, 13, 14); but entirely overlooked by the + clergy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To preach unto + them that dwell on the earth.</span></span>—To independent + Christians.—Rev. 13:13, 14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [to] UNTO + every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and + people.</span></span>—All mankind, living and dead.—1 Tim. + 2:4-7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">[Saying] with a loud + voice.</span></span>—By millions of copies circulated + earth-wide.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Fear God, and + give glory to Him.</span></span>—Rather than to creeds, sects and + clergy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For the hour of + His judgment is come.</span></span>—The <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">MILLENNIAL + DAWN</span></span>, the dawn of the thousand-year Judgment Day of + Christ, is at hand.—Rev. 15:4; 11:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And worship Him + that made Heaven, and earth, and the sea.</span></span>—God, our + Heavenly Father, the Creator of all things.—Neh. 9:6; Psa. 33:6, + 124:8; Acts 14:15; 17:24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + fountains of waters.</span></span>—His Heaven-sent Word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there followed another [angel] A SECOND.</span></span>—Volume II of + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, [Babylon + is fallen,] is fallen, [that] BABYLON, THE great + [city].</span></span>—Chapters 7 and 9 of Volume II are + particularly devoted to this theme. <span class="tei tei-q">“The + name Babylon originally signified God's gate-way; but afterward, in + derision, it came to mean <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">mixture</span></em> or <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">confusion</span></em>. In the book of + Revelation this name is applied specifically to the church nominal, + which, from being the gate-way to glory, became a gate-way to error + and confusion, a miserable mixture composed chiefly of tares, + hypocrites,—a confused mass of worldly profession in which the + Lord's jewels are <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page222">[pg + 222]</span><a name="Pg222" id="Pg222" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + buried, and their true beauty and luster hidden.”</span> (C. 153.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“The name Babylon was applied, not only to + the capital city of the Babylonian empire, but also to the empire + itself. Babylon, the capital, was the most magnificent, and + probably the largest, city of the ancient world. It was built in + the <span class="tei tei-q">‘form of a square on both sides of the + Euphrates river; and, for protection against invaders, it was + surrounded by a deep moat filled with water and inclosed within a + vast system of double walls, from thirty-two to eighty-five feet + thick, and from seventy-five to three hundred feet high. On the + summit were low towers, said to have been two hundred and fifty in + number, placed along the outer and inner edges of the wall, tower + facing tower; and in these walls were a hundred brazen gates, + twenty-five on each side, corresponding to the number of streets + which intersected each other at right angles. The city was adorned + with splendid palaces and temples and the spoils of + conquest.’</span> ”</span> (D. 23; Jer. 51:8; Rev. 18:2.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“This use of the aorist—in the sense of the + <span class="tei tei-q">‘prophetic preterite’</span>—expresses the + certainty of the fall: see chapters 10:7; 11:18; 18:2; and see on + chapter 15:1. The language is taken from Isa. 21:9, the verb + denoting the violent fall and overthrow of kingdoms—see Ezek. 30:6; + and see on chapter 17:10. With the fall of Babylon, the capital of + the ungodly world-kingdom, the Old Testament connects the + redemption of the people of God.—Isa. 13:19; 47:1; Jer. + 51:1-10.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Because [she + made all nations drink of] ALL NATIONS HAVE FALLEN THROUGH the wine + of the wrath of her fornication.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The ruin of all the nations of earth is here + attributed directly to the fact that <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Babylon made all the peoples drunk with the wine + [spirit, influence] of her fornication’</span>—worldly + affiliation.”</span>—C. 164, 104; Jer. 51:7; Rev. 2:20; 17:2, 5; + 18:3; 19:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [the] ANOTHER, A third angel followed them.</span></span>—Volume + III of the <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Scripture Studies</span></span> followed I and + II.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying with a + loud voice.</span></span>—Proclaiming clearly, in chapters 2, 4 and + 6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">If any man + worship the beast.</span></span>—The Papacy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And his + image.</span></span>—The Evangelical-Alliance-Spiritism + combination.—Rev. 13:11, 13, 14, 15; 14:11; 15:2; 16:2, 13; 19:20; + 20:10; Matt. 24:24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And receive his + mark In his forehead, or in his hand.</span></span>—See Rev. 13:16, + 17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God.</span></span>—The + Message of Present Truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which is poured + out without mixture.</span></span>—Different from Babylon's + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">mixed</span></em> wine.—Isa. + 5:20-22.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page223">[pg + 223]</span><a name="Pg223" id="Pg223" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Into the cup of + His indignation.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Lord + our God hath put us to silence and given us water of gall to drink, + because we have sinned against the Lord.”</span>—Jer. 8:14; Isa. + 51:17-20; Jer. 25:26-28; Rev. 18:6; 16:19; Psa. 60:3; 75:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And he shall be + tormented with fire and brimstone.</span></span>—Whoever worships, + reverences, human institutions and doctrines more than the Word of + the Lord has experienced the torment here specified. Doctrines of + hell fire and brimstone have been his portion.—Rev. 9:17-19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In the presence + of the holy angels.</span></span>—The Harvest workers on this side + of the veil.—Matt. 13:39.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And in the + presence of the Lamb.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In the + days of the Son of Man;”</span> after the Second Advent has taken + place.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the smoke of their torment.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“A noun, unlike a verb (or <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘time-word,’</span> as the Germans call it), does not + indicate time. So <span class="tei tei-q">‘the smoke of their + torment’</span> may mean that of pain endured once for all, and + then at an end. There is nothing in this verse that necessarily + implies an eternity of suffering. In a similar way the word + <span class="tei tei-q">‘punishment’</span> or <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘correction’</span> in Matt. 25:46 gives in itself no + indication of time. Cp. Gen. 19:28; Jude 7.”</span> (Weym.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“About <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">endless torment</span></em>:</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“(a) The doctrine is found nowhere in the Old + Testament, nor any hint of it. The expression, in the end of + Isaiah, about the fire unquenched and the worms not dying, is + plainly of the corpses of men upon the physical earth.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“(b) The doctrine of endless torment was, as a + historical fact, brought back from Babylon by the + Rabbis.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“(c) St Paul accepts nothing of it as far as we can + tell, never making the least allusion to the doctrine.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“(d) The Apocalypse asserts that not only <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">death</span></em>, + but <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">hell</span></em> shall be cast into the Lake + of Fire.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“(e) The Christian Church has never really held it + exclusively till now.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“(f) Since the Reformation it has been an open question + in the English Church.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“(g) The Church of England, by the deliberate expunging + of the 42nd Article, which affirmed endless punishment, has + declared it, authoritatively, to be open.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“(h) It is so, in fact. Neither I nor any others who + have denied it can be dispossessed or proceeded against legally, in + any way whatsoever.—Rev. Chas. Kingsley, May 9, 1857.”</span>—Z. + '11-363.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Ascendeth up for + ever and ever.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + remembrance of the destruction of these systems of deception and + error will be lasting, the lesson will never be forgotten—as smoke, + which continues to ascend after a destructive fire, <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page224">[pg 224]</span><a name="Pg224" id="Pg224" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> is testimony that the fire has done its + work.—See also Isa. 34:8-10.”</span>—H. 64; Rev. 19:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they have no + rest day or night.</span></span>—A literal fulfillment of this is + expected. (Rev. 7:3.) A few days of it will be enough to satisfy + the most ardent lover of the torment system of religion. And it + will be a just recompense of reward.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Who worship the + beast and his Image.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“All + will at once concede that if a literal worshipping of a beast and + image were meant in verse 9, then few, if any, in civilized lands + are liable to the penalty of verse 11; and if the beast and his + image and worship and wine and cup are symbols, so also are the + torments and smoke and fire and brimstone.”</span>—H. 64; Rev. + 14:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And whosoever + receiveth the mark of his name.</span></span>—Of fear, sympathy or + worship.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Here + is the patience of the saints.</span></span>—Their crowning + trial.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Here are they] + that keep the commandments of God.</span></span>—The commandments + of God during the Harvest time are to proclaim, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Gather My saints together unto Me;”</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">“Flee out of the midst of Babylon, and + deliver every man his soul: be not cut off in her + iniquity.”</span>—Psa. 50:5; Jer. 51:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the faith of + Jesus.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“He laid down His life + for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the + brethren.”</span> (1 John 3:16.) The Great Company class are our + brethren and we ought to show as much interest in them as we do in + the Little Flock. The gathering of the full number of the Very + Elect would give us no reason to discontinue Harvest work.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I heard a voice from Heaven.</span></span>—The Heavenly Father's + Word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying [unto + me], Write.</span></span>—The message found in chapter 9 of Volume + III.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Blessed are the + dead which die in the Lord.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Each member of the Body of Christ must finish his + sacrifice in actual death. They are reckoned of God as being + already dead, and they are exhorted so also to reckon themselves: + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Reckon ye yourselves dead indeed unto + sin.’</span> No other dead men can be said to die but this class of + dead ones, who must finish their course of sacrifice in actual + death.”</span>—C. 241; 1 Thes. 4:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">From + henceforth.</span></span>—From the spring of 1878.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Yea,] saith the + Spirit.</span></span>—The Word of God, in Rev. 6:11. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Nowhere in the Scriptures is death represented as in + any sense a blessing, except in this one instance; and here it is + particularly limited and made applicable to a certain specific + time.”</span>—C. 240.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page225">[pg + 225]</span><a name="Pg225" id="Pg225" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That they may + rest from their labors.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Poor, bruised <span class="tei tei-q">‘feet,’</span> + now despised of men, none but yourselves fully appreciate your + privileges. None others can appreciate the joy you have in + proclaiming Present Truth.”</span> (C. 236.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“One by one the <span class="tei tei-q">‘feet’</span> + class will pass from the present condition, in which, though often + weary and wounded, they are always rejoicing, to the other side the + veil;—<span class="tei tei-q">‘changed’</span> in a moment, in the + twinkling of an eye, from mortality to immortality, from weakness + to power, from dishonor to glory, from human to Heavenly + conditions, from animal to spirit bodies.”</span> (C. 237.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“Instead of the Kingdom waiting for the + living members to finish their course, the Kingdom work began at + once; and the living ones on this side the veil are privileged to + know <span class="tei tei-q">‘the mysteries of the Kingdom’</span> + and to engage in Kingdom work before their <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘change;’</span> and as they die (will not fall + <span class="tei tei-q">‘asleep,’</span> but) will be <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘changed’</span> in the moment of death, resurrected as + part of the blessed and holy First Resurrection.”</span>—D. + 622.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] FOR their + works do follow them.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Their + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">work</span></em> will not cease with this + change; for all those who will be counted worthy of that change to + glory will be already enlisted in the service of the Kingdom on + this side the veil: only the weariness, the labor feature, will + cease with the change.”</span> (C. 238.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“We may not be able to judge accurately as to what + features of the great work are now being carried on by the Lord and + His glorified saints beyond the veil; but we may be sure that they + are active participants in the work assigned the members of the + same Kingdom class, whose course and service are not yet ended on + this side the veil—the Harvest work.”</span>—D. 624; 1 Cor. + 15:58.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And + I looked], and behold a white cloud.</span></span>—See Rev. 10:1. + As the cloud indicates the Time of Trouble, so the white indicates + the pure motive back of it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And upon the + cloud [one sat] I SAW ONE SITTING like unto the Son of + Man.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“To the Jewish House + Jesus presented Himself in three characters—as Bridegroom (John + 3:29), Reaper (John 4:35, 38) and King (Matt. 21:5, 9, 4). To the + Christian House He presents Himself in the same characters. (2 Cor. + 11:2; Rev. 14:14, 15; 17:14.)”</span>—B. 238.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having on His + head a golden crown.</span></span>—The Divine nature, Immortality, + the highest form of life.—2 Tim. 4:8; Jas. 1:12; 1 Pet. 5:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And in His hand + a sharp sickle.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“This + Harvest, like the Jewish one, is to be first a time of trial and + sifting upon the Church, and afterward a time of wrath upon the + world, including the nominal Church. That which tried fleshly + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page226">[pg 226]</span><a name= + "Pg226" id="Pg226" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> Israel in the + Harvest of their Age was the truth then presented to them. The + truth then due was the sickle, and it separated the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Israelites indeed’</span> from the nominal Jewish + Church; and of the true wheat there was but a fragment compared to + the professors. So also is the Harvest of this Age. The Harvest of + the Gospel Age, like that of the Jewish Age, is under the + supervision of the Chief Reaper, our Lord Jesus, who must then be + present.”</span>—A. 238.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + another angel.</span></span>—The Witness to the Lord in the Land of + Egypt. (Isa. 19:20.) See pages 309, 311, Vol. III, and observe that + Chapter 10, Vol. III, <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Scripture Studies</span></span>, is in reality + a separate book.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Came out of + [the] HIS temple, crying with a loud + voice.</span></span>—Throughout the 66 pages of his testimony.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To Him that sat + on the cloud.</span></span>—To our Present Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thrust in Thy + sickle, and reap: for the time is come [for thee] to + reap.</span></span>—The Great Pyramid confirms the Bible's teaching + that the time of Harvest has come.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For the Harvest + of the earth is ripe.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + use of a sickle is to gather wheat, not to ripen it.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He that sat on the cloud.</span></span>—The Lord Jesus, during His + Parousia, overruling and withholding the Time of Trouble.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thrust in His + sickle on the earth; and the earth was + reaped.</span></span>—Reading verses 13-16 connectedly, we note + that the resurrection of the sleeping saints is recorded, and is + immediately followed by the Harvest. This suggests that the Harvest + proper began in 1878; and that the three and a half years prior to + the spring of 1878 was devoted to preliminary work, but not to + Harvest work in the full sense. It was not proper to say + <span class="tei tei-q">“Come out of her, My people,”</span> until + Babylon was cast off, in the Spring of 1878.—Rev. 3:14; Matt. + 13:30; 24:31.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + another angel.</span></span>—Pastor Russell himself, after the + harvesting of the saints was finished. (Volumes IV, V, VI are not + shown in this strictly Harvest chapter, as they are more used for + the upbuilding of the saints than as Harvest instruments. They are, + however, shown in Rev. 10:4; 15:8; 16:1-18.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Came out of the + Temple which is in Heaven.</span></span>—The Church in glory, on + the other side of the veil.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He also having a + sharp sickle.</span></span>—The privilege of guiding the work of + bringing forth out of the Divine Storehouse all the Master's store + of provisions, as needed, and of directing the execution upon the + nominal church of the chastisements promised in the Holy Word. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Blessed is that servant, whom his Lord + when He cometh shall find <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page227">[pg + 227]</span><a name="Pg227" id="Pg227" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + so doing. Of a truth I say unto you, that He will make him ruler + over <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">all + that He hath</span></em>.”</span>—Luke 12:44; Psa. 49:5-9; Isa. + 21:1-10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + another angel.</span></span>—The corporate body which Pastor + Russell organized to finish his work. See Rev. 8:3-5, which + describes the same matter as here narrated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Came out from + the altar.</span></span>—The place of sacrifice. The <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">Society</span></span> is maintained by + the sacrifices of the saints.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which had power + over fire.</span></span>—Authority over the publication and + distribution of expositions of Ezekiel and John the Revelator, + symbolical <span class="tei tei-q">“coals of fire.”</span>—Isa. + 6:6; Ezek. 10:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And cried with a + loud [cry] VOICE to Him that had the sharp + sickle.</span></span>—What a disappointed cry went up from the + whole Church that dear Brother Russell went beyond the veil without + writing the Seventh Volume of <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Scripture Studies</span></span>, for which we + all have looked so long!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, Thrust + In Thy sharp sickle.</span></span>—Oh, that the Lord would wind up + the present order of things, in whatever way He might elect!—Joel + 3:9-14, 13; Matt. 13:39-43.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And gather the + clusters of the vine of the earth.</span></span>—In the Adventist + cluster there are 6 bunches of smaller sects; in the Baptist 15; + Brethren (Dunkard) 4; Plymouth Brethren 4; River Brethren 3; + Catholic Apostolic 2; Churches of the Living God 3; Churches of the + New Jerusalem 2; Disciples of Christ 2; Evangelical Bodies 2; Faith + Associations 9; Friends 4; Latter-Day Saints 2; Lutheran 21; + Scandinavian Evangelical Bodies 3; Mennonite 13; Methodist 16; + Moravian 2; Pentecostal bodies 2; Presbyterian 12; Protestant + Episcopal 2; Reformed 4; United Brethren 2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For her grapes + are fully ripe.</span></span>—All these sects have long ago taken + their stand against the Truth and therefore against the Lord. O + Lord, judge them with Thy Truth! Thou hast called them the + <span class="tei tei-q">“abominations of the earth”</span> and so + they are. Bring their man-made clergy-ridden systems to an end and + make their memory to perish from the earth! Amen.—Isa. 65:17; Rev. + 17:5; Jer. 6:9-30.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the angel thrust in his sickle [into] UPON the + earth.</span></span>—Distributed far and wide among order-loving + people the good news that nominal Zion's travail is at hand, and + the new and better order of things near.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And gathered the + vine of the earth.</span></span>—Brought together all the sects in + virulent opposition to the Message of the Truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And cast it into + the great winepress of the wrath of God.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The fruitage of the True Vine is Love, and is precious + to the Father; but the fruitage of the Vine of <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page228">[pg 228]</span><a name="Pg228" id="Pg228" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> the Earth is selfishness in various + forms, and will be ultimately gathered into the great winepress of + the wrath of God in the great Time of Trouble with which this Age + will close.”</span> (F. 207; Rev. 19:15.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“While the taking of different names was wrong, it was + an evidence of a deeper wrong—of a selfish, party spirit. It was an + evidence that those Corinthians who took the party names had never + appreciated the oneness of the Body of Christ; that they did not + really appreciate that Christ is the only Head, Leader and + Standard; and that His is the only name by which His followers + should recognize themselves and each other.”</span> (Z. + '08-116.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Many of the + clergy are today followers of Darwin and Socrates instead of Moses + and Christ And both Darwin and Socrates were mentally unsound. The + following is from Dr. Dorland's <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">The Age of Mental + Virility</span></span>: <span class="tei tei-q">“It is likewise + exceptional to find an unusually short nose, such as that possessed + by Darwin and Socrates, among men of intellect. Nasal abbreviation + is one of the well-known signs of degeneracy, as is also the + sessile or otherwise misshapen ear, the sugar-loaf skull, the + close-set eyes, and other physiognomic irregularities, including + the cretinoid face. The latter, strange to relate, has been noted + in certain men of remarkable genius, including Darwin and Carlyle, + Rembrandt, Pope and Socrates. I wish to emphasize at this point the + assertion that not every individual who chances to possess one of + the above mentioned physical peculiarities is to be immediately + stamped as a degenerate. It is only when there is a combination of + two or more of these traits, especially if this combination has + been noted as a family peculiarity, that the suspicion will be + awakened; and this may then be confirmed and the condition + established by close and careful investigation.”</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">“Socrates,”</span> writes Pedigo, + <span class="tei tei-q">“presented one of the most interesting + studies in dual personality and subconscious conditions in all + history in his memorable daemon, which he said guided him and + inspired him with wisdom.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“Herbert + Spencer was the victim of a fixed delusion.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The clergy are + the ones directly responsible for the war in Europe. It was not + their province to convince the rulers of those countries that their + kingdoms are parts of God's Kingdom of peace, holiness, justice, + love and truth—monstrous! They are an entirely unauthorized + class—except by themselves; a self-perpetuating fraud. They have + brought upon their heads the blood of all the nations of the earth + in this world war; and God will require it at their hands. In the + spring of 1918, and from that time onward forever, it will be as + unsafe to tell the lies that <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page229">[pg 229]</span><a name="Pg229" id="Pg229" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> have filled Babylon's exchequers as it will + to be a king.—Zech. 13:2-6. <span class="tei tei-q">“Though + controversy and words of passion and arguments will be and are + among the weapons used in this battle, especially in the beginning + of it, yet it will not end with these. Every prophetic detail + indicates that before it ends it will be most sanguinary, a fierce + and terrible storm.”</span>—D. 529; Jer. 25:26-38; Isa. 63:1-6; + Lam. 1:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the winepress.</span></span>—The Seventh Volume of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>, the work that will squeeze the juice out of + the <span class="tei tei-q">“Abominations of the earth.”</span> + Cook's <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Revelation</span></span>, page 709, calls + attention to the peculiar fact that this word is <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">both masculine and + feminine</span></em>. This seemingly indicates the Lord's + recognition of the co-operation of the <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">sisters</span></em>, particularly in the + closing feature of the Harvest work. Priscilla was such a valuable + helper that she was named before her husband in Acts 18:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was trodden + without the city.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In + symbolic prophecy a <span class="tei tei-q">‘city’</span> signifies + a religious government backed by power and influence. Thus, for + instance, the <span class="tei tei-q">‘holy city, the new + Jerusalem,’</span> is the symbol used to represent the established + Kingdom of God, the overcomers of the Gospel Church exalted and + reigning in glory.”</span> (D. 25.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The + treading of the winepress is the last feature of Harvest work. The + reaping and gathering is all done first.”</span> (D. 18.) Worldly + editors have applied this verse to the great war now raging in + Europe; but this expression makes it impossible to so apply it. If + the war is the winepress and Christendom the city, it is not being + trodden <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">without</span></em> the city, but right in its + midst. This suggests that the Revelator referred to another city; + and with propriety; for this chapter is devoted to Harvest work + only. What city more appropriate to refer to then than the Bethel, + the Divinely appointed center for the Harvest work, the embryo + Kingdom of God on earth? See Rev. 19:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + blood.</span></span>—Teachings which though truthful will be + death-dealing and seem <span class="tei tei-q">“bloody”</span> to + sectarianism. (<span class="tei tei-q">“And blood came out of the + winepress even unto the horse bridles”</span> is a parenthetical + clause. Without this parenthesis the verse reads: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“And the winepress was trodden without the city by the + distance of a thousand and two hundred furlongs.”</span>)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Came out of the + winepress.</span></span>—The exposition of the prophecies of + Ezekiel and the Revelator.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Even unto the + horse bridles.</span></span>—So deep as to strangle and drown the + old false doctrinal hobbies so long ridden. Sectarianism will be + the universal laughing-stock. See Rev., chapters 8 and 9. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Because I have called, and ye refused; I + have stretched out My hand, and no man regarded; but ye have set at + nought all My counsel, and would none of My reproof; I will mock + when your fear <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page230">[pg + 230]</span><a name="Pg230" id="Pg230" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + cometh; when your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction + cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you. + Then shall they call upon Me, but I will not answer; they shall + seek Me early, but they shall not find Me; for that they hated + knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the Lord. They would none + of my counsel: they despised all my reproof. Therefore shall they + eat of the fruit of their own way.”</span>—Prov. 1:24-31.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By the space of + a thousand and [six] TWO hundred furlongs.</span></span>—This can + not be interpreted to refer to the 2100 mile battle line of the + world war. A furlong or stadium is not a mile and this is without + the city whereas the battle line is within the city. See + Rotherham's translation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">A stadium is + 606-¾ English ft.; 1200 stadii are, mi., 137.9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The work on this + volume was done in Scranton, Pa. As fast as it was completed it was + sent to the Bethel. Half of the work was done at an average + distance of 5 blocks from the Lackawanna station, and the other + half at a distance of 25 blocks. Blocks in Scranton are 10 to the + mile. Hence the average distance to the station is 15 blocks, or, + 1.5 mi.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The mileage from + Scranton to Hoboken Terminal is shown in time tables as 143.8 and + this is the mileage charged to passengers, but in 1911, at an + expense of $12,000,000, the Lackawanna Railroad completed its + famous cut-off, saving 11 miles of the distance. From the day the + cut-off was completed the trainmen have been allowed 11 miles less + than the time table shows, or a net distance of 132.8 mi.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Hoboken Ferry to + Barclay Street Ferry, New York, is 2.0 mi.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Barclay Street + Ferry to Fulton Ferry, New York, is 4,800 feet or 0.9 mi.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Fulton Ferry, + New York, to Fulton Ferry, Brooklyn, is 2,000 feet or 0.4 mi.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Fulton Ferry, + Brooklyn, to Bethel, is 1,485 feet or 0.3 mi.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Shortest + distance from place where the winepress was trodden by the Feet + Members of the Lord, Whose guidance and help alone made this volume + possible. (John 6:60, 61; Matt. 20:11.), mi., 137.9</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page231">[pg 231]</span><a name= + "Pg231" id="Pg231" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc35" id="toc35"></a> <a name="pdf36" id="pdf36"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 15—The Song Of The + Saints</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">15:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw another sign.</span></span>—<span lang="el" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Seemion</span></span>, the same word used by + our Lord when He said, <span class="tei tei-q">“Then shall appear + the <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">sign</span></em> of the Son of Man.”</span> + The proofs of the Lord's Second Advent are here referred to.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + heaven.</span></span>—Among God's professed people.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Great and + marvelous.</span></span>—Very different in tone and contents from + other Bible <span class="tei tei-q">“helps.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Seven + angels.</span></span>—The seven volumes of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Studies in the + Scriptures</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having the seven + last plagues.</span></span>—The seven volumes of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Studies in the + Scriptures</span></span> together constitute the third and last woe + poured out upon papacy.—Rev. 16:1-21; 22:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For in them is + filled up the wrath of God.</span></span>—Their united testimony is + that the Times of the Gentiles have expired, the Reign of Christ + has begun, all earthly potentates—Civil, Social, Ecclesiastical and + Financial—must give way to the New Order of things, and will not + give way peaceably, but must be ejected.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">15:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw as it were a sea of glass.</span></span>—The Time of Trouble + made transparent. We can see why the Lord permits it, and see the + Golden Age of glory, peace and Divine blessing that lies just + beyond.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Mingled with + fire.</span></span>—The coming anarchy. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“They are the waves of the Red Sea, which appears on + fire as the Sun of righteousness arises upon them, on the margin of + which the true Israelites sing the song of Moses and the saving + Lamb. Standing on its shore are seen those who are delivered from + the beasts' sway as the Israelites were in their exodus from the + land of Pharaoh. The song of Moses is sung by delivered Israel + after the Egyptian plagues: here the hymn of praise is sung by the + redeemed before the plagues are renewed and the Church gains its + last victory over the antichristian world.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And them that + had gotten the victory over the beast, and [over] his + image.</span></span>—Who understand and live in harmony with the + knowledge that both Papacy and Protestantism, and the governments + under their influence, are of Satanic spirit.—Rev. 13:11, 13, 14, + 15; 14:11; 16:2, 13; 19:20; 20:10; Matt. 24:24.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page232">[pg 232]</span><a name="Pg232" id="Pg232" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And over his + mark,] And over the number of his name.</span></span>—Who refuse to + let any stand for them in the place of Christ.—Rev. 13:14-18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Stand on the sea + of glass.</span></span>—Not in among the restless and discontented, + but on a higher plane.—Heb. 13:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having the harps + of THE LORD God.</span></span>—See Rev. 5:8; 14:2.</p> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">God's + Word is that harp, which has long been + unstrung,</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And men heard but discordant its + notes;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Now as tuned are its chords from + Moses to John,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">How grandly sweet melody + floats.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">15:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [they sing] SINGING the song of Moses.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Hebrew scholars have remarked on the evidence of the + antiquity of the song of Moses, recorded in Exodus 15:1-20, some + even noting the fact that a few of the words showed an + intermingling of the Egyptian language. It is further authenticated + by the reference made to it in the book of Psalms, where the entire + matter of the deliverance of the people and the overthrow of their + enemies in the sea is graphically described by the sweet singer of + Israel. (Psa. 106:7-12.) If it was appropriate, as we all admit + that it was, that the Israelites should give glory to God for their + deliverance from the bondage of Egypt, much more is it appropriate + that spiritual Israel should recognize the still greater + deliverance from the power of Satan and the thralldom of sin, + accomplished for us through the blood of the Lamb of God who died + for our sins.”</span>—Z. '07-158; Rev. 14:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The Servant of + God.</span></span>—See Ex. 14:31.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the song of + the Lamb.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“They sing in the + sense of declaring in harmonious and beautiful cadences the + relationship of the types and figures of the Law and the Prophets + of the Mosaic Dispensation with the antitypes of these of the + Gospel Dispensation; showing that all things written in the Law and + in the Prophets are finding glorious fulfilments in the Lamb of God + and in the great Plan which the Father is working out through + Him.”</span>—Z. '00-310.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, Great + and marvelous are Thy works, Lord God + Almighty.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“First amongst the + great and marvelous works of the Almighty was the sentence of death + upon father Adam and his posterity. As we look at this marvelous + work, we must concede that it was just (in that it was merited), + that it is true (in the sense of not being an unreasonable + penalty), true in the sense that it was exactly what God forewarned + father Adam the penalty of disobedience would be. <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Just and true are thy ways, thou King of + Saints.’</span> But Jehovah's first great and marvelous work of + condemnation was, after four thousand years, followed by another + great and marvelous work; <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">viz.</span></span>, the <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page233">[pg 233]</span><a name="Pg233" id="Pg233" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> work of redemption. How stupendous this + work of the ransoming of all Adam's race of hundreds of millions by + the sacrifice of one Man! How great and wonderful indeed this act, + and how just and true, and how fully in Harmony with every feature + of Divine Justice and Love!—1 Tim. 2:5, 6; Rom. 5:12, 18, + 19.”</span>—Z. '00-310.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Just and true + are Thy ways.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“As we have + viewed the failure of Christendom to adopt the spirit of Christ's + teaching, and seen how the knowledge and liberty gained from His + teachings were blended with the spirit of evil, selfishness, and as + from present foreshadowings we mark the sure approach of anarchy + and every evil work, yet realizing its necessity and justice, and + having learned also the ends of mercy to be attained eventually by + this very means, our hearts exclaim, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Great + and marvelous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are + Thy ways.’</span> ”</span> (D. 526; Deut. 32:4; Psa. 145:17.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“As Aaron and the two remaining sons were + forbidden to make lamentation for their brethren who were cut off, + this signifies that all the faithful of the priests will recognize + the justice of the Divine decisions, and will bow to them in humble + submission, saying, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Just and true are Thy + ways.’</span> ”</span>—Lev. 10:1-7; Psa. 89:14; Job 36:17; 37:23; + Isa. 56:1; T. 40.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou King of + [saints] THE WORLDS.</span></span>—The margin renders this + <span class="tei tei-q">“King of nations or ages.”</span> He will + be King of all nations by and by. He is King of all ages (worlds) + in the sense that the ages are working out His sovereign will.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">15:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Who + shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy + name.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Here is still another + feature to this song, and it is glorious also. It looks forward to + the glorious Millennial Age, to the time when, under Divine + providence, the knowledge of the Lord, essential to faith, and to + any acceptance of His favor and mercy through Christ, shall be + extended to every creature. <span class="tei tei-q">‘Every knee + shall bow and every tongue confess.’</span> (Rom. 14:11.) And while + this bowing and confessing may at first be compulsory, yet the + Scriptures assure us that ultimately all who will not come into + heart harmony with the Lord and with all His gracious arrangements + and provisions, shall be cut off from amongst the people,—in the + Second Death. (Acts 3:23.) So that ultimately, instead of the + Universe being filled with hundreds of millions who to all eternity + will wail and gnash their teeth and blaspheme God's holy name in + agony—instead of this the time shall come when every tongue in + Heaven and in earth shall be heard praising God, and giving honor + to Him that sitteth on the Throne and to the Lamb, forever, for by + that time all evildoers shall be cut off. (Rev. 5:13.)”</span>—Z. + '00-311; Jer. 10:7.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page234">[pg + 234]</span><a name="Pg234" id="Pg234" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For Thou only + art holy.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“This song + continues, and has yet another strain. It declares, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Thou only art holy’</span>. All holiness, all + perfection, wherever it is found, must proceed from God, the great + Fountain of holiness. How strange, then, that any of God's dear + people (and we ourselves were once amongst this number) should so + misunderstand the Divine Character and Plan as to misrepresent the + same as being the very essence of unholiness, injustice, + unkindness, inequity, lovelessness, toward the great mass of God's + creatures!”</span>—Z. '00-311.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For all nations + shall come and worship before Thee.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“There is still another strain in this song; and it is + a grand one also, like all the others,—reaching down into the + Millennial Age. It declares, <span class="tei tei-q">‘All nations + shall come and worship before Thee; for Thy judgments are made + manifest.’</span> <span class="tei tei-q">‘All nations’</span> will + include, not only all the nations then living, but all the nations + of the dead, just as does the promise which God made to Abraham, + saying, <span class="tei tei-q">‘In thy Seed [The Christ, Head and + Body] shall all the nations of the earth be blessed.’</span> (Gen. + 22:18.)”</span>—Z. '00-311.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For [Thy] + judgments are made manifest BEFORE THEE.</span></span>—There was a + time when we could not sing this song (Psa. 137). We looked forward + with dread to the time when the Lord's judgments would be made + manifest. We did not see that the Judgment Day is a day of + <span class="tei tei-q">“assurance to all men.”</span> (Acts + 17:31.) We did not see that the first judgment day was against our + race (Rom. 5:18), and that no culprit can be on trial twice for the + same offence. We did not see that another Judgment Day, favorable + to our race, came at the time of our Lord's great victory over + death (John 12:31); nor did we see that our own, the Judgment Day + of the saints, is here and now. (1 Tim. 5:24; 1 Cor. 11:31; 1 Pet. + 4:17.) We did perhaps note, our duty of judging wolves by their + greed, dogs by their quarrelsomeness, swine by their interest in + earthly things, thorns by their disposition to wound and tear, and + thistles by their disposition to scatter seeds that cause trouble + (Matt. 7:6, 16, 15); and some of us went beyond and began judging + one another (Rom. 14:13; Matt. 7:1). We never wanted the Lord to do + it, even though we do know that He will bring every secret thing + into judgment. (Prov. 15:3; Ecc. 12:14.) Now we see that the + world's Judgment Day is a thousand years long (Psa. 90:4; 2 Pet. + 3:7, 8); we have learned that a day is not always merely a 24-hour + period. (Gen. 2:4; Heb. 3:8; 2 Cor. 6:2.) We see now that our Lord + Jesus at the first Advent judged nobody (John 12:47; Luke 12:14), + but that God has exalted Him to be the world's Judge (Acts 5:31) a + Deliverer (Judges 3:9; Isa. <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page235">[pg 235]</span><a name="Pg235" id="Pg235" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> 1:26); that He will have associate judges (1 + Cor. 6:2; Rev. 20:6); that His judgments will end war, promote + righteousness and aid the poor and needy (Isa. 2:4; 11:4; 26:9), + destroy unrighteousness and bring in everlasting peace and joy.—2 + Thes. 1:7; Isa. 65:18; 1 Cor. 15:25; 1 Chron. 16:31; Psa. 96:13; + Psa. 98:1-9; Psa. 72:1-14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">15:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + after that I looked, and, [behold].</span></span>—Another vision of + the same thing.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The Temple of + the Tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was + opened.</span></span>—Pastor Russell was given a clear, beautiful, + complete comprehension of the Plan of God as revealed in the + Tabernacle arrangements and sacrifices. (Acts 7:44). This is the + foundation of all his works.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">15:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the seven angels came out of the Temple.</span></span>—The seven + volumes of <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Scripture Studies</span></span>, emerged, all + in harmony with the teachings of the Tabernacle, from which they + proceeded.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having the seven + last plagues.</span></span>—Though counted as plagues by + ecclesiasticism they are in reality blessings, destined to rid the + earth of every obnoxious thing, not the least of which are the + great whore and harlots, large and small, that have defiled the + earth with their unclean doctrines. (Rev. 17:5.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Suppose that the salaries and <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘livings’</span> of all ministers, bishops, priests, + etc., were cut off, all churches, chapels and cathedrals destroyed, + all theological seminaries broken up, and their professors turned + to other pursuits, all religious guilds and societies disbanded, + including all sectarian organizations—what would be the effect? Who + can doubt that it would be a real blessing under the disguise of a + great and terrible catastrophe? The effect would be to bring + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">true</span></em> Christians together as the + family of God, and not as sectarian bands; to study God's Word, and + not human traditions and creeds formulated in the Dark Ages. The + Scriptures seem to indicate that very much of this sort of + destruction of present systems must take place before all the + <span class="tei tei-q">‘wheat,’</span> the true Church, will be + separated from the <span class="tei tei-q">‘tares,’</span> the mere + professors.”</span> (Z. '08-119.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The + Church, or company of believers, probationers for coming glory, in + its <span class="tei tei-q">‘voluntary association,’</span> was + indeed to <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">recognize</span></em> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘teachers,’</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘helps,’</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Apostles,’</span> etc., but not to <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">make</span></em> + them. If they recognize a man <span class="tei tei-q">‘mighty in + the Scriptures,’</span> <span class="tei tei-q">‘apt to + teach,’</span> they should be careful always, even while rejoicing + in and thanking God for such a servant, to require a <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘thus saith the Lord’</span> for every point of + doctrine, and to search the Scriptures daily to see whether these + things be so.”</span>—Z. '08-120.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Clothed in pure + [and white] BRIGHT linen.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The <span class="tei tei-q">‘Linen Girdle’</span> + indicated a righteous servant: linen—righteousness, <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page236">[pg 236]</span><a name="Pg236" id="Pg236" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> girdle—servitude.”</span> (T. 30.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“A different word than in Rev. 19:8. The + word here used is suitable as describing priestly attire and refers + to ministrations on this side of the veil.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And having their + breasts girded with golden girdles.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The under-priests were robed in linen garments and + wore girdles. Their robes represented the righteousness of Jesus, + imputed to us, and their girdles represent us as servants of + righteousness.”</span> (T. 36.) The <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span> are servants of the Church—righteous + servants, clad in the Lord's robe.—Rev. 1:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">15:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + one of the four beasts.</span></span>—Heavenly Wisdom.—Rev. 4:7; + Matt. 24:45; Jas. 1:5; 3:17; Ezek. 10:2, 7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Gave unto the + seven angels [seven] golden vials.</span></span>—The message of + Present Truth. <span class="tei tei-q">“The vial was the shallow + bowl in which they drew from the larger goblet.”</span>—Cook; Psa. + 79:6; Jer. 10:25; Zeph. 3:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Full of the + wrath of God.</span></span>—Against all untruth, injustice and + selfishness in organizations, Civil, Social, Ecclesiastical and + Financial.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Who liveth for + ever and ever, Amen.</span></span>—Whereas all of those are to pass + away.—Rev. 4:9, 10; 10:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">15:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the temple was filled with smoke.</span></span>—The nominal Church + is filled with confusion as the deformities of her errors are made + manifest.—Isa. 6:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">From the glory + of God, and from His power.</span></span>—As revealed in His Word + in this Harvest time.—2 Chron. 5:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And no man was + able to enter into the temple.</span></span>—No person of mature + thought. The large proportion of new members now received in the + various denominations is from the Sunday School.—Rev. 9:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Till the seven + plagues of the seven angels were fulfilled.</span></span>—Until the + seven volumes of <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Scripture Studies</span></span> were written, + published and circulated. Shortly afterward the true Temple will be + in readiness, wherein men, women and children of all races and ages + will find their hearts' hunger satisfied.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Yet once it is a little while, and I will shake the + heavens, and the earth, and the sea, and the dry land; and I will + shake all nations, and the desire of all nations shall come: and I + will fill this House with glory, saith the Lord of hosts. The + silver [the Great Company class that will be used in connection + with its ministrations] is Mine, and the gold [the Little Flock, of + which it will be composed] is Mine, saith the Lord of Hosts. The + glory of this latter House shall be greater than the former, [the + nominal church], saith the Lord of Hosts; and in this place will I + give peace, saith the Lord of Hosts.”</span>—Hag. 2:6-9.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page237">[pg 237]</span><a name= + "Pg237" id="Pg237" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc37" id="toc37"></a> <a name="pdf38" id="pdf38"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 16—Ecclesiasticism's Seven + Plagues</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I heard a great voice out of the Temple.</span></span>—Pastor + Russell was the voice of the Lord thus used. (Rev. 7:2; 10:3.) He + was of the true Temple, and <span class="tei tei-q">“out of”</span> + the nominal temple at the time these plagues were poured out.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying to the + seven angels.</span></span>—The seven volumes of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>. See Rev. 8:2-5 and 14:17-20. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The plagues upon Egypt were intended in some measure + to foreshadow, to illustrate, the plagues with which this Gospel + Age will end.”</span> (F. 175.) Pastor Russell walked in the light. + When the plagues actually appeared, he no longer held to the + explanation published in 1883, before they appeared, and so stated + on many occasions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Go your ways, + and pour out the SEVEN vials of the wrath of God upon the + earth.</span></span>—In the prefaces to the several volumes of + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span> such expressions abound as <span class= + "tei tei-q">“I send forth this volume with prayers,”</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">“and now it is sent forth in the + faith,”</span> etc., etc.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the first went, and poured out his vial [upon] INTO the + earth.</span></span>—Volume I was distributed among those already + under religious restraint.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there fell a + [noisome and] grievous AND NOISOME sore.</span></span>—The book + seemed to ecclesiastics like an evil and malignant ulcer, a + painful, running sore, which eats, corrupts and destroys.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Upon the men + which had the mark of the beast.</span></span>—Roman Catholics.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And upon them + which worshipped his image.</span></span>—Protestants affiliated + with the Federal Council of Churches. Rev. 13:11; 13, 14, 15; 14:9, + 11; 15:2; 16:13; 19:20; 20:10; Matt. 24:24. Another view of the + book, from the standpoint of the clergy, is afforded by the plague + of flies (Ex. 8:20-32.) It seemed to them like an old-time Egyptian + curse, with which they were quite familiar, namely, one more of the + Evangelistic firms already cursing society, and interfering with + the regular clergy business. <span class="tei tei-q">“The + Scriptural details are as follows: The <span class= + "tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">arab</span></span> filled the houses of the + Egyptians, they covered the ground, they lighted on the people, the + land was laid waste on their account. A biting, insidious creature, + which comes like a dart, with great noise, and, rushing with great + impetuosity <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page238">[pg + 238]</span><a name="Pg238" id="Pg238" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + on the skin, sticks to it most tenaciously. They boldly beset + cattle, and not only obtain ichor, as other flies, but also suck + out blood from beneath, and occasion great pain.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“They have no proboscis, but, instead, have double sets + of teeth, like wasps, which they infix deeply in the skin; they + greatly infest the ears of dogs. This genus is most impudently + pertinacious in its assaults, spares neither man nor beast, gorges + itself to bursting with blood, infusing an irritating venom at the + same time. No idea can be formed of their obstinate rapacity. It is + in vain to drive them away; they return again in the self-same + moment, and their perseverance wearies out the most patient + spirit.”</span> (McC.) These flies, flying a short distance into + the heavens, do their work around the dunghill of human tradition, + but the collections of one of them recently amounted to $400,000 in + eight American cities, so the business can be made a money maker by + those willing to cater to the demand for sensationalism, and who + have no hesitancy in repeating ancient blasphemies against God's + holy name.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">These flies are + called dog-flies, because they infest the ears of dogs; and when it + is remembered that the Scriptures refer to the clergy as + <span class="tei tei-q">“dumb dogs”</span> (Isa. 56:10, 11; Phil. + 3:2) we can readily see the application. The clergy of an entire + city will sit on a platform, facing virtually the whole population, + and hear themselves called liars, hypocrites, false-alarms and + other villainous names. But because they hope to get a few + <span class="tei tei-q">“converts,”</span> and therefore a few + shekels for the <span class="tei tei-q">“sanctuary,”</span> they + will take it all meekly, and prefer to take it rather than humbly + admit one item of truth in all Pastor Russell's beautiful writings. + After the firm has left town, they frequently bemoan the treatment + received and think longingly of the wherewithal taken by the fly + that was not satisfied with mere ichor, but wanted the real + blood.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">At this point it + may be well to explain the plagues of frogs and lice. The former + seems to represent the <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Old Theology Quarterly</span></span> which + Pharaoh found everywhere contaminating his kingdom, but which, at + the hand of the Lord, suddenly died out completely. The latter + seems to represent <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">The Bible Students Monthly</span></span>. + There is no record that the plague of lice was discontinued, and + even yet the Egyptians (people of the world) and Pharaoh (the + Devil) and his magicians (the clergy) scratch their heads many a + time, wondering how to deal with a plague which they cannot + duplicate.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the second [angel] poured out his vial upon the + sea.</span></span>—Volume II, <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Scripture Studies</span></span> seemed to the + beast and his image to reach and affect only the discontented, + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page239">[pg 239]</span><a name= + "Pg239" id="Pg239" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> those who never were + very subservient to the ruler of this present evil world, or any of + his systems.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And it became as + the blood of a dead man.</span></span>—After death the blood + separates into a watery liquid, called serum, and a solid substance + termed clot. As soon as this separation takes place the clot begins + to putrefy or corrupt. Thus it seemed to worshipers of the beast + and his image that anybody that would accept the teachings of + Volume II would be in a hopeless condition.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And every living + soul died in the sea.</span></span>—To the worshipers of the beast + and his image it seemed as though such would be lost and would + surely go to hell to be tormented forever. An <span class= + "tei tei-q">“evangelist”</span> who held these views called at the + home of a lady in Scranton. Entering the hall he saw an elegant + picture of Pastor Russell. Instantly he lost control of what mind + he had and vehemently said, <span class="tei tei-q">“I called here + as a Christian minister, but I see you have old Russell's picture + here. Are you a follower of his?”</span> The lady replied that she + was. He then said, <span class="tei tei-q">“He is in hell, and you + will be there too, if you follow him.”</span> Quick as thought the + lady reopened the door through which he had just entered, invited + him to the porch overlooking the valley; and as he stood there + gazing into space she said, <span class="tei tei-q">“Tell it to the + atmosphere,”</span> and left him while she attended to more + important duties.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Another picture + of the effect of Volume II on the anti-typical Egyptians may be + seen from the plague of the murrain (Ex. 9:1-7.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“This consisted in some distemper that resulted in a + sudden and dreadful mortality among the cattle in the field, + including horses, asses, camels, oxen and sheep. It was, however, + confined to the Egyptian cattle, and to those that were in the + field; for though the cattle of the Hebrews breathed the same air, + drank the same water, and fed in the same pastures, not a creature + of theirs died. The Egyptian cattle that survived in the sheds, and + were afterwards sent into the fields, were destroyed by the + succeeding storm of fire and hail.”</span> (McC.) These creatures + were valuable to the Egyptians. They used them for bearing their + burdens, for sacrifices and for food. They represent the classes + that go to make up the nominal church and support it. Thus it + seemed to the worshippers of the Beast and his Image that the only + way to prevent the loss of all their live stock would be to keep + them securely impounded, allowing them no liberty whatever.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the third [angel] poured out his vial upon the rivers and fountains + of waters.</span></span>—It seemed to the worshippers of the beast + and his image that the teachings of <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page240">[pg 240]</span><a name="Pg240" id="Pg240" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> Volume III of the <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span> had contaminated the Scriptures, the Waters + of Life, at their very source, by extending the call to people to + come out of Babylon while they were busy trying to get people + in.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they became + blood.</span></span>—Seemed repulsive, undesirable, bloody.—Z. + '07-279; Ex. 7:20; Rev. 14:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Another view of + how Volume III appears to the worshipers of the beast and his image + is shown by the plague of boils described in Ex. 9:8-12. + <span class="tei tei-q">“The boil was a scab or pustule, which + might or might not break out into an ulcerous sore (Lev. 13:18). + With this, in one of its worst forms, Job was afflicted (2:7), and + by this Hezekiah was brought to the verge of the grave. (2 Kings + 20:7; Isa. 38:21.) It was an eruption of a very painful kind + accompanied with a burning itch, tending to produce a permanent + state of foul and wasteful disease. One form of this disease which + seized upon the legs and knees, and was regarded as incurable, was + peculiar to Egypt, and was hence called <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘the botch of Egypt.’</span> (Deut. 28:27, 35.) In the + case before us, this eruption had a tendency to break out into + larger swellings and became probably the disease called + elephantiasis, a disease said to be peculiar to Egypt, or the black + leprosy, a disease which also affects cattle.”</span> (McC.) It was + <span class="tei tei-q">“ashes of the furnace,”</span> loyalty to + the memory of the bullock, the one perfect Sacrifice for all, + Christ Jesus, that caused the boils; and it is particularly noted + that the magicians (clergy) could not withstand this plague, the + message, <span class="tei tei-q">“Come out of her, My + People.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I heard the angel of the waters.</span></span>—Volume III, + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Say, thou art + righteous, [O Lord] which art, and wast.</span></span>—See Rev. + 1:4; 15:3; 19:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And shalt be], + THE HOLY.</span></span>—The Lord, the Holy One, was present, at the + time Volume III was written.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Because Thou + hast judged thus.</span></span>—Made the beautiful Harvest truths + appear <span class="tei tei-q">“bloody”</span> to those not + consecrated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + they have shed the blood of saints and + prophets.</span></span>—Literally and figuratively.—Matt. 23:34, + 35; Rev. 13:15; 18:24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And thou hast + given them blood to drink; [for] THAT WHEREOF they are + worthy.</span></span>—See Rev. 14:20; Isa. 49:26.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I heard [another out of] the altar.</span></span>—The <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Altar to the Lord in the midst of the land of + Egypt”</span> (Isa. 19:19) at the time these plagues are being + poured out upon the antitypical Egyptians, is the Great Pyramid, + discussed in a separate section of Volume III.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Say] Saying + Even so, Lord God Almighty.</span></span>—The Lord Jesus.—Rev. 1:8; + John 5:22; Matt. 28:18.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page241">[pg 241]</span><a name="Pg241" id="Pg241" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">True and + righteous are Thy judgments.</span></span>—The teaching of the + Great Pyramid is in full accord with the rest of the book. See Rev. + 14:15. <span class="tei tei-q">“It is by no means an addition to + the written revelation: that revelation is complete and perfect, + and needs no addition. But it is a strong <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">corroborative + witness</span></em> to God's Plan. Isaiah testifies of an altar and + pillar in the land of Egypt, which <span class="tei tei-q">‘shall + be for a <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">sign</span></em> and for a <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">witness</span></em> + unto the Lord of hosts in the land of Egypt.’</span> And the + context shows that it shall be a witness <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">in the + day</span></em> when the great Savior and Deliverer shall come to + set at liberty Sin's captives.”</span>—C. 315.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the fourth angel poured out his vial upon the + sun.</span></span>—Volume IV of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>, as soon as published, was sent free to all + clergy whose names could be obtained. They are taught, and teach + others, that they are important luminaries in the heavens, suns, + rivalling in brilliancy and wisdom the Lord Himself, whose place + they take in the minds of the people, by setting forth their own + views on every subject, rather than the Lord's Word. Volume IV, + then, sent to this class, and calling attention to Babylon's fall, + seemed to them as the height of all presumption in wickedness.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And power was + given unto him to scorch men.</span></span>—Greek <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Men,”</span> i. e., the worshipers of the beast + and his image.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With + fire.</span></span>—Perhaps some of the clergy became a trifle warm + as they read Volume IV, as their later conduct seems to suggest. + Why they should have disliked Pastor Russell when he told the + truth, and proved it, is remarkable.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + men.</span></span>—Greek <span class="tei tei-q">“The Men;”</span> + the clergy. In Rev. 8:9 the clergy are not so honored.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Were scorched + with great heat.</span></span>—Became warm, indignant at the + Pastor's kindly explanation of the whore and the harlots, and the + plainly evident application to the Papacy and the Protestant + sects.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And blasphemed + the name of God, which hath power over these + plagues.</span></span>—Misrepresented the name and character of the + mighty one, Pastor Russell, to whom the Lord committed the task of + presenting to His Church this meat in due season. This + misrepresentation burst like a storm after the publication of + Volume IV, <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Studies</span></span>, and continued until the + Pastor's death, yea, and shame to say it, even afterwards, in the + columns of such sheets as the New York World and the Brooklyn + Eagle. What monuments of infamy these people have reared for + themselves! They richly deserve all they will get when the tide + turns.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they + repented not to give Him glory.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“One great obstacle to many is the contracted idea + generally entertained of the meaning of the word god. They fail to + note <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page242">[pg 242]</span><a name= + "Pg242" id="Pg242" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> that the Greek theos + (god) does not invariably refer to Jehovah, but signifies + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">a mighty + one</span></span>. In the following texts the word god (theos) is + used to refer to others than the one supreme being, + Jehovah—viz.:—John 10:34, 35; Acts 7:40, 43; 17:23; 1 Cor. + 8:5.”</span>—B. 274.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Another view of + how the publication of Volume IV looks to the worshipers of the + beast and his image is shown in the plague of hail, described in + Ex. 9:13-26. <span class="tei tei-q">“The character of this and the + following plagues must be carefully examined, as the warning seems + to indicate an important turning-point. The ruin caused by the hail + was evidently far greater than that effected by any of the earlier + plagues; for it destroyed men, which those others seem not to have + done, and not only men, but beasts and the produce of the earth. In + this case Moses, while addressing Pharaoh, openly warns his + servants how to save something from the calamity. Pharaoh for the + first time acknowledges his wickedness.”</span> (McC.) The + appropriateness of these comments to the subject matter of + <span class="tei tei-q">“The Day of Vengeance,”</span> or + <span class="tei tei-q">“The Battle of Armageddon”</span>, (as it + is now called) as the latter would appear to the mind of the + clergy, is self-evident. Your true clergyman has the greatest + abhorrence for any truth that would tend to lessen men's reverence + for himself or the systems which he aims to perpetuate.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the fifth [angel].</span></span>—Volume V, of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Studies</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Poured out his + vial upon the seat of the beast.</span></span>—Thoroughly and + scripturally analyzing the subjects of trinity, human immortality + and eternal torment, the foundation of all Papal doctrine, as well + as constituting a large part of the stock in trade of the + Protestant aggregation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And his kingdom + was full of darkness.</span></span>—Complete ignorance of the + truths on these subjects as taught in the Bible.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they gnawed + their tongues for pain.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Note + the expression of Rev. Samuel T. Carter in a Presbyterian + journal—<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">The Evangelist</span></span>. He says: + <span class="tei tei-q">‘It must be admitted that if a Church is + honest, that which stands in its Confession to its faith. It must + be acknowledged that what is contained in its Confession is the + faith of any honest church. The Westminster Confession of Faith is + still the unquestioned Confession of the Presbyterian Church. Is + the Presbyterian Church honest in its zeal for purity first and + peace afterward? Be it known, then, to all the world that the + Presbyterian Church by its Confession declares that all the heathen + perish, that many men are hopelessly lost from all eternity by the + decree of God, and that there are infants in hell.... In reality + the church does not believe these dreadful doctrines. Then it + stands before God and man with a lie in its right + hand.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '00-148.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page243">[pg 243]</span><a name="Pg243" id="Pg243" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:11 + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + blasphemed the God of Heaven.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“In token of entire allegiance to the + beast.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Because of their + pains [and their sores], and repented not [of their + deeds].</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The commotion + amongst Presbyterians continues—some standing firm for their church + creed, others repudiating it and begging to be released from it. + Many thus indirectly confess that they have despised it for years, + and have realized it to be a lie and a blasphemy against God, and + after confessing to this acting and confessing a lie for years they + beg to be released without cost or loss either of human or Divine + favor, and especially without loss of bread and butter.”</span> (Z. + '00-148.) The way in which Volume V, <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>, appeared to the worshipers of the beast and + his image is further illustrated in the plague of locusts, + described in Ex. 10:1-11. <span class="tei tei-q">“This plague has + not the unusual nature of the one that preceded it; but it even + exceeds it in severity, and so occupies its place in the gradation + of the more terrible judgments that form the latter part of the + series. Its severity can be well understood by those who have been + in Egypt in a part of the country where a plague of locusts has + alighted. In this case the plague was greater than any ordinary + visitation, since it extended over a far wider space, rather than + because it was more intense; for it is impossible to imagine any + more complete destruction than that always caused by + locusts.”</span> (McC.) With what dismay must the clergy have read + the kind words for volume V, which appeared in the columns of the + secular press.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the sixth [angel].</span></span>—Volume VI of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Studies in the + Scriptures</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Poured out his + vial upon the great River Euphrates.</span></span>—Seemed to the + worshipers of the beast and his image to be instituting a new and + horrible thing, a people's church, in which there is no place for + clergy, collections, church edifices, reverence for one day above + another, or in fact any of the customs cherished in the nominal + church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the water + thereof was dried up.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Literal Babylon was built upon the literal river + Euphrates, while in the Gospel age mystic or figurative Babylon, + which carried away captive Spiritual Israel, is portrayed as + sitting upon the mystic Euphrates. In the type, the golden vessels + of the Temple were carried away and profaned by literal Babylon: in + the antitype, the precious, Divine (golden) truths, pertaining to + the service of the true Temple, the Church (1 Cor. 3:16, 17; Rev. + 3:12), were far removed from their proper places, perverted and + misapplied by mystic Babylon. Literal Babylon being built upon the + river Euphrates, which materially contributed to its wealth + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page244">[pg 244]</span><a name= + "Pg244" id="Pg244" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> and resources, its + overthrow was accomplished by the turning aside of those waters. So + mystic Babylon sits upon, is supported by, many waters (peoples, + nations), and its fall is predicted, through the turning aside of + its supporters and sustainers, the people.”</span> (B. 209; Jer. + 50:38, 51:36.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Ecclesiastical circles in + Germany are much exercised at the rapidly increasing desertions + from the State Church. Although the process of official separation + from the Church is one of the greatest difficulty, delay and + expense, it is computed that in Berlin alone considerably over + 10,000 persons have severed their connection with the Church during + the past year. So great is the number of those who are notifying + their intention to terminate their membership that special offices + have been opened in Berlin to receive their applications, which now + number between 300 and 400 daily. Among the working classes, + especially those attached to the Social Democratic party, there + exists a bitter hostility to the clergy.”</span>—Z. '09-83.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“A program for a general strike against the Church is + the latest plan of action. The <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘No-Creeders’</span> (Monists) in league with the + Socialists, convened mass meetings in Berlin, Brunswick and Saxony, + in which every means of incitation was employed in an appeal toward + a secession from the State Church. At these meetings over 1,300 + persons signed a declaration announcing their intention to secede + from the Church. Four thousand more followed, and according to + judicial court-records received towards the end of December, 17,000 + secessions took place in December up to the 23d, and the day after + Christmas 8,000 more announced their intention. The following press + reports may serve as a typical illustration of the mode of + procedure in such meetings. <span class="tei tei-q">‘Without + exception, every one who even by vague allusion, ventured to take a + stand for his Church was howled down, hissed from the rostrum and + subjected to filthy invectives. To illustrate: When a minister + ascended the platform, the following was heard, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“He looks it!”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“Old + Sky-pilot!”</span> And from another part of the hall the same + evening we heard the following words aimed at the ministers: + <span class="tei tei-q">“Damned Rags!”</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Pig-priests!”</span> A gentleman who interrupted was + yelled at, <span class="tei tei-q">“Rous mit the + Parson-face!”</span> ’</span> ”</span>—Z. '14-133.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Reports in Great Britain show that Baptists, + Congregationalists and the various Methodist denominations there + are declining in numbers and prestige. The cause of this is not far + to see. Christianity has become merely another name for decency and + civilization. All doctrines are abandoned as merely speculations. + Churches are becoming merely social clubs in which form and + ceremony mark the <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page245">[pg + 245]</span><a name="Pg245" id="Pg245" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + quality. This accounts for the growing unpopularity of those sects + which once stood for the highest standards of earnestness and + Christian zeal and liberty, non-conformity and simplicity.”</span> + (Z. '10-324.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The pastor of the Fifth + Avenue Baptist Church, New York City, Rev. Dr. Charles F. Aked, who + came to its direction from a London pulpit, in his sermon Sunday + said: <span class="tei tei-q">‘When I interview my parishioners, + and they are among the most representative in the city, I find the + spirit of religious depression very unlike the spirit of abounding + enterprise in business, in manufacturing, in engineering and + construction. There are about 16,000,000 Catholics in continental + United States. Now, in our immigration for ninety years back, no + less than 15,000,000 were Catholics. If all remained loyal to its + tenets they would number 45,000,000 now instead of 16,000,000. The + Protestants have lost ground, too, when the filling up of the + country is counted. Our own denomination, the Baptists, reflects + the general trend. The increase among the Baptists of America has + been equal to only one-fourth of the birth rate among us, proving + that three out of four of our Baptist population have fallen away + from us. The decline of Christianity is + universal.’</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“In England, in France, in Spain, Italy and Germany we + hear the same cry. Only lately I was talking to an English + clergyman. He told me that not merely is there a great falling off + in church-goers in England, but that the class of people who + frequent churches is becoming inferior.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The church is out of touch with the masses. Everything + has progressed except Christianity. The pulpit has too many bigots, + too many bores, too many <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">hell-fire screechers</span></span> for the + enlightened thought of the day. The church is obliged to accept any + applicant for the ministry who is respectable. Even with this + latitude, Baptist, Presbyterian and Methodist vocations show a + remarkable falling off in twenty-five years.”</span> (Z. '08-324.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“Rev. Charles A. Eaton at the Euclid Avenue + Baptist Church, Cleveland, spoke as follows: <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘In Italy one-third of the people at the very outside, + are more or less nominal followers of the Church of Rome; another + third, possibly, are more or less sympathetic toward the Church; + while another third are out and out continually and completely + antagonistic, apparently, not only to the Church of Rome, but to + all forms of Christianity. You enter France—the same story is true, + only aggravated and multiplied a thousand fold. You enter Great + Britain, which I consider to be the last citadel of Christianity in + the world, with a people more robust and sane in their religious + interests and sympathies than any other people. And what is the + condition there? The non-conformist <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page246">[pg 246]</span><a name="Pg246" id="Pg246" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> churches of Great Britain last year not only + made no progress, but met, according to their statistics, with an + absolute loss of 18,000; the Baptist Church of Great Britain last + year lost 5,000 people. In the year 1905 there were nearly 7,000 + Presbyterian, Congregationalist and Methodist churches that had not + one single member unite with them in twelve months. In a recent + year in New York city, according to the statement of Dr. Aked, of + the Fifth Avenue Baptist Church, 335 Protestant churches reported a + net gain that year of 386 members. That is to say 335 churches + gained one member apiece and fifty of them gained two in twelve + months. Brethren, I say to you this morning, that the American + Church is dying—it is dying! <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">It is dying!</span></em> Don't forget + it.’</span> ”</span> (Z. '08-211.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“A declaration by the Rev. Dr. Charles E. McClellan, + pastor of the Fairhill Baptist Church, that <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Protestantism in the United States is fast decaying + and will soon be a thing of the past,’</span> aroused a storm at + the fifty-third session of the North Philadelphia Baptist + Association. Doctor McClellan spoke on what he called the decline + of Protestantism while making his report as chairman of the + missionary committee. <span class="tei tei-q">‘The spirit of + Protestantism is dying in the United States, and it will soon be a + thing of the past,’</span> he said. <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Philadelphia, both denominationally and religiously, + is going to perdition at a rapid rate. Recently I attended the + services in one of our churches, at which I had been invited to + speak. I found in attendance nineteen adults and one child. The + same condition exists all over the city. We have large, magnificent + churches, but small congregations, showing that it is easy to get + money, but hard to get men.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '10-373.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That the way of + the kings of the east might be prepared.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“He must be comparatively blind who cannot see that the + wonderful prophecies which speak of the fall of Babylon (Isa. + 14:22; Jer. 50 and 51) were not wholly fulfilled by Cyrus the + Persian. Much of the prophecy still waits for fulfillment in mystic + or symbolic Babylon today. The Kings of the East, or kings from the + sunrising, are, we understand, the kings of Christ's Kingdom, who + are also priests—the Body of Christ, the Royal Priesthood. + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Thou hast made us unto our God kings and + priests, and we shall reign on the earth.’</span> From this + standpoint, Cyrus, who with his army overthrew literal Babylon, was + a figure or illustration of Messiah, King of kings and Lord of + lords. (Isa. 41:25; 44:28; 45:1-14.)”</span>—Z. '99-174; Rev. + 7:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw three unclean spirits.</span></span>—Denoting demoniacal + origin. (Matt. 10:1; Mark 1:26; Luke 4:33.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Lord's people must discriminate between doctrines + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page247">[pg 247]</span><a name= + "Pg247" id="Pg247" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> presented to them as + truth—they must <span class="tei tei-q">‘try the spirits,’</span> + whether they be holy or evil, of God or of the Evil One—the Spirit + of Truth or the spirit of error. These both are introduced by + prophets, or teachers.”</span>—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">320</span></span>, + 295.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Like] AS IT + WERE frogs.</span></span>—Frogs are garrulous, have a very wise + look, large mouths, are much puffed up and utter only croakings. In + the <span class="tei tei-q">“distress of nations with + perplexity”</span> which has come upon Christendom as a result of + her sins, the croakings of the wise now fill the air everywhere. + Actually all knees are <span class="tei tei-q">“weak as + water.”</span>—Ezek. 7:17; 21:7. See especially D. i-xvi.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Come out of the + mouth of the dragon.</span></span>—The three fundamental truths of + history are man's Fall, Redemption and Restoration. Stated in other + language these three truths are the mortal nature of man, the + Christ of God and His Millennial Kingdom. Standing opposite to + these Satan has placed three great untruths, human immortality, the + Antichrist and a certain delusion which is best described as race + hatred—in reality murder, the spirit of the very Devil. (1 John + 3:15.) It is this last and crowning feature of Satan's work that is + mentioned first. The other two errors are the direct cause of this + one. The wars of the Old Testament were all intended to illustrate + the battlings of the New Creature against the weaknesses of the + flesh, and are not in any sense of the word justification for the + human butchery practiced during the Christian era in the name of + religion, exemplified by the events of St. Bartholomew's Day and by + the wicked Inquisition. Nowhere in the New Testament is hatred of + other peoples encouraged. Everywhere and always it is forbidden; + and yet, under one guise or another it has been encouraged for + centuries by the clergy class who should have been teaching the + people the message given them by the Prince of Peace.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And out of the + mouth of the beast.</span></span>—The Antichrist doctrine of the + Divine right of the clergy was the direct cause of the great war. + This frog has been coming out of the mouth of the Papal beast for + sixteen centuries. <span class="tei tei-q">“These false doctrines + of the Dark Ages are bearing a terrible fruitage at the present + time. Similarly the teaching of eternal torment, misrepresenting + and blaspheming God's character, is bearing an evil fruitage. + Millions of people are being turned away from faith in a God of + Love and from faith in the Bible as His Message by the most + monstrous blasphemies of the Dark Ages. I charge the responsibility + of all this against the sects and creeds of Christendom. I charge + that the ministers, whose eyes are now open to a saner + comprehension, have neglected the Bible, have neglected the people, + and, instead of helping them out of the darkness, are now leading + them into darkness in an <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page248">[pg + 248]</span><a name="Pg248" id="Pg248" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + opposite direction—into Evolution and Higher Criticism and + everything contrary to the Word of God. God is still misrepresented + in the world. The creeds of the Dark Ages are still hugged to the + bosom in outward pretense, while inwardly they are loathed. A great + fraud, a great hypocrisy, you say? I answer, Yes; the most + astounding the world has ever known. Two hundred thousand professed + ministers of God and of Christ are standing before the world today + telling the legends of the Dark Ages and seeking to hinder the + people from coming to a knowledge of the Truth, meanwhile receiving + the people's money and reverence. Does not such hypocrisy, such + blasphemy against God, such deception of the people, such keeping + of them in darkness, deserve a great punishment, and is it not + nigh?”</span>—B. S. M.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img256.png"><img src="images/img256.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: center">“Pollute Ye + My Holy Name No More”</span> + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And out of the + mouth of the false prophet.</span></span>—The one cardinal error + upon which all protestant (false prophet) sects agree is the + doctrine of human immortality, the original lie told in Eden (Gen. + 2:17, 3:4). In speaking <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page249">[pg + 249]</span><a name="Pg249" id="Pg249" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + of it our Lord says, <span class="tei tei-q">“When he speaketh + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">the</span></em> lie, he speaketh of his + own.”</span> (John 8:44, Diaglott.) Speaking of it again, the + Apostle Paul says, of the worshipers of the beast and his image, + <span class="tei tei-q">“They admitted not the love of the Truth + that they might be saved. And on this account God will send to them + an energy of delusion, to their believing the falsehood.”</span> (2 + Thes. 2:10, 11.) In each case the Greek gives the definite article. + The frog issuing from the false prophet (the image of the beast) is + the doctrine of human immortality. These deluded souls actually + believe this error, and will be able to prove it to the + satisfaction of the dragon, without a doubt. This error lies at the + bottom of the doctrines of eternal torment and of the trinity. + There is a hint in 1 John 4:1-3 that the cardinal error on which + the false prophet will insist is that when Jesus came from the + Father He was more than flesh, i. e., had at least an immortal + soul.—Rev. 13:11, 13, 14, 15; 14:9, 11; 15:2; 16:2; 19:20; 20:10; + Matt. 24:24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“All Christian people credit the book of Revelation to + our Lord, as St. John does. (Rev. 1:1.) Therefore we are not + responsible for the symbolism used in that book. There are so many + ways in which one might be misunderstood, even by good Christian + people, that we naturally feel a delicacy about expressing our + views. As we proceed to set forth our understanding of the symbols + of the Revelation, we wish to state most emphatically that we are + saying nothing whatever against godly Christians anywhere, at any + time, whether in any church or out of any church. We have nothing + to say respecting people. We discuss PRINCIPLES, DOCTRINES, ALWAYS; + individuals, NEVER! God has not commissioned us to discuss + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">people</span></em>; it is ours to discuss + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">His + Word</span></em>.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Throughout the Bible, a Beast is the symbol used to + represent a government. In Daniel's prophecy the great universal + empires of the earth are thus symbolized. Babylon was the Lion, + Medo-Persia the Bear, Greece the Leopard, and <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">Rome</span></em> + the <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Dragon</span></em>. (Dan. 7:1-8.) The Roman + Empire still persists. The Dragon, then, symbolizes the Roman + power, represented by the civil power in the world. The Beast is + the Papal system of government. The third symbol, the False + Prophet, remains to be interpreted. This, we believe, is another + name for the system elsewhere called <span class="tei tei-q">‘the + Image of the Beast.’</span> (Rev. 13:14.) According to the + Scriptures, this Image is a very exact representation of the Beast. + The False Prophet, or Image of the Beast, we understand to mean the + Protestant Federation of Churches.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘Three unclean spirits like + frogs came out of the mouth of the Dragon, and out of the mouth of + the Beast, and out of the mouth of the False Prophet.’</span> In + this passage, <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page250">[pg + 250]</span><a name="Pg250" id="Pg250" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + the spirit is a doctrine—an unclean doctrine—a false doctrine. Each + of these systems will utter the same things, and these utterances + will have the effect of gathering the kingdoms of earth together to + the Battle of Armageddon.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The symbolism of Scripture, rightly understood, is + very forceful, and there is always a close resemblance between the + symbol itself and the thing symbolized. When the Holy Spirit uses a + frog to represent certain doctrines or teachings, we may be sure + that the application will fit well. While a frog is a small + creature, yet it puffs itself up until it almost bursts with the + effort to be somebody. A frog has a very wise look, even though it + does not know very much. Then a frog <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">croaks</span></em> + whenever it utters a sound.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The three most prominent characteristics of a frog, + then, are pomposity, an air of superior wisdom and knowledge, and a + continual croaking. Applying these characteristics to the picture + given in the Divine Word, we learn that from kingly power, from the + Catholic Church and from the Federation of Protestant Churches, + will go forth the same teachings. The spirit of all will be + boastful; an air of superior knowledge and wisdom will be assumed; + all will foretell dire results to follow any failure to obey their + counsels. However conflicting the creeds, the differences will be + ignored in the general proposition that nothing ancient must be + disturbed, or investigated, or repudiated.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The boasted Divine authority of the Church, and the + Divine right of kings aside from the Church, will not be allowed to + conflict; for both will be indorsed. Any persons or teachings in + conflict with these boastful, unscriptural claims will be branded + as everything vile, at the mouths of the frogs, croaking from + pulpits and platforms, and through the religious and secular press. + The nobler sentiments of some will be strangled by the philosophy + of the same evil spirit which spoke through Caiaphas, the high + priest, respecting our Lord Jesus. As Caiaphas declared it + expedient to commit a crime in violation of justice, both human and + Divine, to be rid of Jesus and His teachings, so this frog-like + spirit will approve of any and every violation of principle + necessary to self-protection.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Every true Christian is ashamed to look back upon the + pages of history and see what terrible deeds were done in the name + of God and justice, and in the name of our Lord Jesus. We are not + to think for a moment that these frog spirits, or doctrines, are + all bad, but rather that they are doctrines of bombast and + pomposity, representing themselves to be very wise and great, and + having the backing of centuries. Out of the mouth of the Dragon + comes the doctrine of the Divine right of Kings: <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Do not look back of the curtain of history to see + where the kings got that <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page251">[pg + 251]</span><a name="Pg251" id="Pg251" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + right. Accept the doctrine; for if you do not, and if men look into + the matter, there will be a terrible revolution and everything will + go down!’</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Beast and the False Prophet have similar + croakings. The Catholic Church says, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Do + not look behind! Do not question anything about the Church!’</span> + Protestantism says, also, <span class="tei tei-q">‘We are great, we + are wise, we know a great deal. Keep quiet! No one will then know + that you know nothing.’</span> All say (croaking), <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘We tell you that if you say anything against present + arrangements, terrible things will come to pass.’</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Political parties are figuring in this. All declare, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘If any change should come, it will mean + terrible disaster!’</span> Some have the backbone and some have the + civil power behind them, but unitedly they croak to the people that + if any change is made, it will mean ruin to the present order. In + the language of our day, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Stand + pat!’</span> is the order in Church and in State; but the people + are being moved by fear. It is this croaking of the Beast, the + Dragon and the False Prophet that will arouse the kings of earth + and gather them together to the Armageddon Battle.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The ecclesiastical kings and princes, with their + retinue of clergy and faithful adherents, will be gathered in solid + phalanx—Protestant and Catholic. The political kings and kaisers, + princes, and all in high places, with their henchmen and retainers, + will follow in line on the same side. The financial kings and + merchant princes, and all whom they can influence by the most + gigantic power ever yet exercised in the world, will join the same + side, according to this prophecy. They do not realize, however, + that they are coming to Armageddon; yet strange to say, this is a + part of their very cry, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Come together to + Armageddon!’</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Speaking of our day, our Lord declared, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Men's hearts failing them for fear and for looking + after those things which are coming on the earth; for the powers of + heaven shall be shaken.’</span> (Luke 21:26.) The kings of Europe + know not what to do. All sectarianism is being shaken.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The croaking of the frog spirits, or doctrines, will + gather the kings and princes, financial, political, religious and + industrial, into one great army. The spirit of fear, inspired by + the croaking, will scourge the passions of otherwise good and + reasonable men to fury—desperation. In their blind following of + these evil spirits, evil doctrines, they will be ready to sacrifice + life and everything on what they mistakenly suppose is the altar of + Justice, Truth and Righteousness under a Divine + arrangement.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Many noble people in this great army will assume an + attitude quite contrary to their preference. For a time the wheels + of liberty and progress will be turned backward, <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page252">[pg 252]</span><a name="Pg252" id="Pg252" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> and mediæval restraints will be + considered necessary for self-preservation—for the maintenance of + the present order of things and for the prevention of the new order + which God has decreed, the due time for which is at hand. Even + those who may be God's people do not stop to consider whether it is + His will that things should continue as they have been for the past + six thousand years. The Bible says that such is not God's will, but + that there is to be a great overturning, that a new order is coming + in.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“For a brief time, as we understand the Scriptures, + these combined forces of Armageddon will triumph. Free speech, free + mails, and other liberties which have come to be the very breath of + the masses in our day, will be ruthlessly shut off on the plea of + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">necessity</span></em>, the glory of God, the + commands of the Church, etc. The safety-valve will be sat upon, and + thus will cease to annoy earth's kings with the sound of escaping + steam; and all will seem to be serene—until the great social + explosion described in the Revelation as an <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">earthquake</span></em> will take place. In + symbolic language an earthquake signifies social revolution, and + the Scriptural declaration is that none like it ever before + occurred. (Rev. 16:18, 19.) Our Lord refers to it in Matt. + 24:21.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“At this juncture, the Scriptures show, Divine Power + will step forward, and God will gather the marshaled hosts to + Armageddon—to the Mount of Destruction. (Rev. 16:16.) The very + thing which they sought to avert by their union, federation, etc., + will be the very thing that they will hasten. Other Scriptures tell + us that God will be represented by Messiah, and that He will be on + the side of the masses. <span class="tei tei-q">‘At that time shall + Michael [the Godlike One—Messiah] stand up.’</span> (Dan. 12:1.) He + will assume authority. He will take possession of His Kingdom in a + manner little looked for by many of those who erroneously have been + claiming to be His Kingdom, and authorized by Him to reign in His + name and in His stead.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Our Lord Jesus declared, <span class="tei tei-q">‘His + servants ye are unto whom ye render service.’</span> Some may be + rendering service to Satan and to error, who claim to be rendering + service to God and to righteousness; and some may serve ignorantly, + as did Saul of Tarsus, who <span class="tei tei-q">‘verily thought + that he did God service,’</span> in persecuting the Church. The + same principle holds true reversely. As an earthly king does not + hold himself responsible for the moral character of each soldier + who fights his battles, so the Lord does not vouch for the moral + character of all who enlist and fight on His side of any question. + His servants they are to whom they render service, whatever the + motive prompting them.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The same principle will apply in the coming Battle of + Armageddon. God's side of that battle will be the people's + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page253">[pg 253]</span><a name= + "Pg253" id="Pg253" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> side; and that very + nondescript host, the people, will be pitted at the beginning of + the battle. Anarchists, Socialists, and hot-headed radicals of + every school of reason and unreason, will be in the forefront of + that battle. He who has any knowledge of army life knows that a + great army is composed of all classes.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The masses will be restless under their restraints, + but will be conscious of their weakness as compared with the kings + and princes, financial, social, religious and political, who will + then hold sway. The masses have no sympathy with anarchy. They + realize truly that the worst form of government is better than + none. The masses will seek relief through the ballot and the + peaceful readjustment of earth's affairs for the elimination of + evil, for the placing of monopolies and utilities and the supplies + of nature in the hands of people for the public good. The crisis + will be reached when the hitherto upholders of the law shall become + violators of the law and resisters of the will of the majority as + expressed by the ballot. Fear for the future will goad the + well-meaning masses to desperation, and anarchy will result when + Socialism fails.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Lord's saints are not to be in this battle at all. + God's consecrated people, longing at heart for Messiah's Kingdom + and the glorious Year of Jubilee and Restitution which it will + inaugurate, will patiently abide the Lord's time, and wait + unmurmuringly for it. Their lamps trimmed and burning, they will + not be in darkness respecting the momentous events of the impending + battle; but they will be of good courage, knowing the outcome + portrayed in the <span class="tei tei-q">‘more sure word of + prophecy,’</span> to which they have done well to <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark + place, until the Day dawn.’</span>—2 Pet. 1:19.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The question now arises, Why did not God send His + Kingdom sooner? Why is Armageddon necessary? We answer that God has + His own times and seasons, and that He has appointed the Great + Seventh Thousand-Year Day for the reign of Christ. Divine Wisdom + has withheld until our day the great knowledge and skill which is + breeding at the same time millionaires and discontents. Had God + lifted the veil of ignorance a thousand years sooner, the world + would have lined up for Armageddon a thousand years sooner. God did + not bring these things before the present time because His Plan has + various parts, all of which are converging at the same time. In + kindness God veiled the eyes of mankind until the gathering to + Armageddon would immediately precede Messiah's taking to Himself + His great power and beginning His reign.”</span> (Rev. 11:17, + 18.)—D. v-xvi.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page254">[pg + 254]</span><a name="Pg254" id="Pg254" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + they are the spirits of devils.</span></span>—See Eph. 6:12. + <span class="tei tei-q">“We are naturally led by the analogy of the + influence of evil spirits as described in the Gospels to compare + the <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">effect</span></em> produced by the demons + referred to in this verse, with the instances of <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">possession</span></em> of which we read + elsewhere in the New Testament.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Working + miracles.</span></span>—It is very possible that the strongest + <span class="tei tei-q">“proof”</span> of the immortality of man + will yet be obtained by the false prophet through materializations + of evil spirits, perhaps first at preachers' meetings, and + afterwards in public. We will wait and see. Meantime: the mental + invasions indicated in Rev. 7:3 and 2 Thes. 2:11 will <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">surely</span></em> + come, whether the physical materializations come or not.—Rev. + 13:13, 14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The newspapers far and near are publishing the + following item: <span class="tei tei-q">‘Fred E. Foskett, a young + machinist of Orange, Mass., has attracted the attention of Prof. + James, of Harvard, and other leading members of the Boston branch + of the American Society of Psychical Research, who gave him tests + recently. Foskett poured a quart of alcohol into the basin, lighted + it and then washed his hands, bathing them for nearly ten minutes + in the burning fluid, washing it up over his arms and to his + face—literally bathing himself in blazing alcohol. As soon as they + were finished the physicians present examined Foskett, and they + could not find the slightest trace of a burn or blister. Foskett + then told them that the flames did not give him the slightest + sensation of burning, that he felt comfortably warm and pleasant, + and nothing more. The second tests were made at the home of Prof. + James in Cambridge. A scientist who was there said that Foskett + performed all of his experiments of the day before, and then + <span class="tei tei-q">“absolutely and positively + dematerialized”</span>. He seemed to dissolve into thin air as we + watched, was gone forty-one seconds and then + materialized.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '09-83; Matt. 24:24; 2 Thes. + 2:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which go forth + unto the kings of the [earth and of the] whole world, to gather + them to the battle of [that] THE great Day of God + Almighty.</span></span>—Of which the present horrible European war + is only the preliminary skirmish.—Rev. 17:14; 19:19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“This battle, which will end with the complete + overthrow of earth's present rulership, is already commenced. The + gathering of the armies is plainly visible from the standpoint of + God's Word. The Sword of Truth, already sharpened, is to smite + every evil system and custom—civil, social and ecclesiastical. The + internal conflict is already fomenting. It will ere long break + forth as a consuming fire; and human systems, and errors, which for + centuries <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page255">[pg + 255]</span><a name="Pg255" id="Pg255" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + have fettered truth and oppressed the groaning creation, must melt + before it. Yes, truth—and widespread and increasing knowledge of + it—is the Sword which is perplexing and wounding the heads over + many countries.”</span> (Psa. 110:6; B. 101.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Not until great Babylon is utterly overthrown and her + influence over the world broken—will the great mass of mankind come + to realize the true state of the case. Then they will see that the + great trouble through which they will have passed was that + symbolically termed <span class="tei tei-q">‘The battle of the + great Day of God Almighty;’</span> that in proportion as they have + aided error and wrong, they have been battling against the law and + forces of the new Empire and the new Ruler of earth; and that in + proportion as their tongues, and pens, and hands, and influence, + and means, were used to support <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">the + right</span></em> and the truth on any subject, they had been to + that extent fighting on the Lord's side. And during all the trouble + there will be in the world those who will bear witness to its + cause, declaring the Lord's presence and the setting up of His + Kingdom which is in opposition to the powers of darkness to be the + real cause of the trouble and shaking and overturning of + society.”</span>—B. 141.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, I come as a + thief.</span></span>—A thief comes unexpectedly, for the purpose of + securing jewels only.—Mal. 3:17; 2 Pet. 3:10; Rev. 3:3; Matt. + 24:42-44; 1 Thes. 5:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Blessed is he + that watcheth.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Because not + heedless, careless, indifferent servants of the King, but faithful + and earnest ones, the Watchers discern that there are three words + of distinctly different signification, used in respect to the + Lord's Second Advent; namely, parousia and epiphania and + apokalupsis. Parousia is used in respect to the earliest stage of + the Second Advent, while apokalupsis relates to the same Advent + later.”</span> (Z. '02-86.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The Greek + words apokalupsis and apokalupto signify revealment, uncovering, + unveiling (as of a thing previously present but hidden). The name + of the last book of the Bible is from the same root—Apocalypse or + Revelation.”</span>—Z. '02-92; 1 Cor. 1:7; 1 Pet. 1:7; Lu. 17:29, + 30.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And keepeth his + garments.</span></span>—Holds fast to his pledge of consecration + even unto death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Lest he walk + naked.</span></span>—As the nominal churches are doing even since + the war council at Washington, May 6, 1917.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they see his + shame.</span></span>—During the apokalupsis epoch now at hand. + (Rev. 3:18.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The exposure to the world + that they lack what constitutes the Christian + state.”</span>—Cook.—Matt. 5:43, 44.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [he] THEY gathered them together.</span></span>—The three unclean + spirits do the gathering.—Rev. 19:19.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page256">[pg 256]</span><a name="Pg256" id="Pg256" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Unto a place + called in the Hebrew tongue [Armageddon] + ARMAGEDON.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The fact that St. + John has employed a word (Har-Magedon), <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The destruction of their troop,’</span> not found in + connection with any locality or historical event of itself points + to a figurative interpretation. (Zech. 12:11.) Nor indeed are we to + think of literal warfare.”</span> (Cook.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The word <span class="tei tei-q">‘mountain’</span> in + the term Armageddon—<span class="tei tei-q">‘Mountain of + Megiddo’</span>—seems to have been used because Megiddo was in a + mountainous region, though the battles were fought in a valley + adjacent. The meaning here is, that there would be, as it were, a + decisive battle which would determine the question of the + prevalence of true religion on the earth. What we are to expect as + the fulfillment of this would seem to be, that there will be some + mustering of strength—some rallying of forces—some opposition made + to the Kingdom of God in the gospel by the powers here referred to + which would be <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">decisive</span></em> in its character.”</span> + (Barnes.) Another view of Volume VI, <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>, as it appeared to the worshipers of the + beast and his image, may be had in the plague of darkness upon the + Egyptians described in Ex. 10:21-29. The 3-½ days of terrible + darkness over the land of Egypt represent the 3-½ years of the + great war and indicate its close shortly after the publication of + this final witness of the church. While this plague was still in + progress, Moses said to Pharaoh, <span class="tei tei-q">“I will + see thy face again no more.”</span> It is even so; Pastor Russell + passed forever out of reach of the antitypical Pharaoh, Satan, in + the fall of 1916. But in steadfast belief that <span class= + "tei tei-q">“his works do follow him,”</span> we hold that he + supervises, by the Lord's arrangement, the work yet to be done. See + Rev. 16:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the seventh [angel].</span></span>—Volume VII, <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Poured out his + vial [into] UPON the air.</span></span>—Seemed to the clergy to be + directed against the ruling powers. <span class="tei tei-q">“The + terrors of the revelation of Christ will thus appear spread out + over the Universe.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there came a + great voice.</span></span>—An earnest and vigorous setting forth of + this prophecy and that of Ezekiel.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Out of the + Temple of [Heaven, from the Throne,] GOD.</span></span>—The true + Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, it is + done.</span></span>—See title of this book.—<span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Ezek. + 9:11.</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there were [voices, and] thunders.</span></span>—Seven of + them—indicating wide-spread interest in the <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>. There will probably also be some thundering + by the esteemed clergy. If in the past they had thundered less and + lightened more, the world would not be in its present + predicament.—Rev. 8:5.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page257">[pg + 257]</span><a name="Pg257" id="Pg257" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + lightnings.</span></span>—A good lighting up of the dark places of + the ecclesiastical firmament.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">AND + VOICES.</span></span>—The <span class="tei tei-q">“voices”</span> + of the Great Company, who, after the Little Flock have gone beyond, + will display unparalleled energy and faithfulness amid unparalleled + difficulty.—Rev. 11:15; 8:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there was a + great earthquake.</span></span>—Social revolution. The same + mentioned in Rev. 8:5; 11:19 and 1 Kings 19:11, 12, following the + War.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Such as was not + since men were upon the earth.</span></span>—World-wide socialism, + an unprecedented and sure-to-fail experiment in government.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So mighty an + earthquake, and so great.</span></span>—The following is from an + address given to the Chicago Bankers Club in December, 1916, by + Frank A. Vanderlip, president of the National City Bank of New + York. <span class="tei tei-q">“State socialism in Europe may + develop problems, the like of which never concerned our minds. We + may have to meet collective buying, State aided industries, forms + of governmental control of ocean borne commerce and novel factors + in international finance. There may come out of the war changes in + forms of government that will have profound and world-wide + influence.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the great city was divided into three + parts.</span></span>—Christendom is now divided into three parts: + Socialistic Russia, Imperial Teutonia, and the Representative + Governments of the West; but we think a religious division is + coming: The Greek church, the Papacy and the False Prophet + Protestant aggregation, all under papal control. Or the city of + Rev. 14:20, may be meant.—2 Ki. 2:10, 12, 15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the [cities] + CITY of the nations fell.</span></span>—The reference is to Rome, + the <span class="tei tei-q">“city”</span> mentioned in Rev. 17:18. + By Rome is meant the Papacy. All other kings have already drunk + deeply of the wrath of God and Sheshach's turn has come.—Jer. + 25:26; Rev. 14:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And great + Babylon came in remembrance before God.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The fall of Babylon will astonish the entire world, so + complete is the illusion that Christendom represents the Throne and + Government of Messiah among men. And, be it remembered, the vast + majority in all the various sects and denominations of Christendom + are worldly people who have no conception whatever of the true + Church and her cause. Their ambition is to approximate + righteousness and a form of godliness, but no more than this seems + to them necessary, since they have not been begotten of the Holy + Spirit and therefore cannot appreciate things from the divine + standpoint.”</span>—Pastor Russell. See Rev. 18:5.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page258">[pg 258]</span><a name="Pg258" id="Pg258" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To give unto her + the cup of the wine of the fierceness of [His] THE + wrath.</span></span>—The wine of the vine of the earth.—Rev. + 14:17-20; Jer. 8:14; Isa. 51:17-20; Jer. 25:26-28; Rev. 18:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + every island fled away.</span></span>—Even the republics will + disappear in the fall of 1920.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + mountains were not found.</span></span>—Every kingdom of earth will + pass away, be swallowed up in anarchy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there fell upon men.</span></span>—Greek <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Men,”</span> the worshipers of the beast and his + image, i. e., the clergy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A great hail out + of heaven.</span></span>—Truth, compacted, coming with crushing + force. A concluding statement of how the seventh volume of + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span> appears to the worshipers of the beast and + his image.—Rev. 11:19; Isa. 28:17; 30:30; Ezek. 13:11; Joshua + 10:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Every stone + about the weight of a talent.</span></span>—113 lbs. (Mal. 3:10.) + Another view of the seventh volume of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>, as it appears to the worshipers of the beast + and his image, is found in the last of the Egyptian plagues, the + death of the first-born, Exodus 11th. and 12th. chapters. As soon + as this plague came the Egyptians, from Pharaoh down, were anxious + to speed the parting guest, and willing to give up all the jewels + of silver (the Great Company) and the jewels of gold (the Little + Flock). In connection with the statement that <span class= + "tei tei-q">“there was not a house where there was not one + dead,”</span> it is admitted that if any sects were overlooked in + the lists cited in comments on Rev. 8th and 9th chapters the + omission was unintentional and will be corrected in later editions. + The three days in which Pharaoh's host pursued the Israelites into + the wilderness represent the three years from 1917 to 1920 at which + time all of Pharaoh's messengers will be swallowed up in the sea of + anarchy. The wheels will come off their chariots—organizations.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And men + blasphemed God because of the plague of the + hail.</span></span>—Apparently, the book will be unpopular for a + time. <span class="tei tei-q">“As soon as Divine restraints upon + Satan were released, he moved the Sabeans to steal Job's cattle and + to kill his servants; he caused fire to come down from heaven, + which not only killed but burned up Job's flocks of sheep; he sent + the Chaldeans who stole Job's camels, and finally produced a + cyclone which smote the house in which Job's children were feasting + together, and destroyed the house and killed its occupants; and he + attacked Job's person with disease as soon as granted permission. + (Job. 1:9-2:7.)”</span>—S. 80.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For the plague + thereof was exceeding great.</span></span>—Quite a shower.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page259">[pg 259]</span><a name= + "Pg259" id="Pg259" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc39" id="toc39"></a> <a name="pdf40" id="pdf40"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 17—The Papacy's Last + Stand</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there came one of the seven angels.</span></span>—Volume VII, + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Studies + in the Scriptures</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which had the + seven vials.</span></span>—An explanation of the plagues upon + symbolic Babylon.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And talked with + me.</span></span>—The John class, the Church in the flesh.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying [unto me] + Come hither; I will shew unto thee.</span></span>—In the 8th, 9th, + 16th and 18th chapters of Revelation, and throughout the Book of + Ezekiel.—Nahum 3:3, 4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The judgment of + the great whore.</span></span>—Papacy, the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“beast.”</span>—Rev. 19:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That sitteth + upon many waters.</span></span>—The peoples of the earth.—Jer. + 51:13; Rev. 17:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With + whom the kings of the earth have committed + fornication.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The kingdoms of + Europe today claim to be Christian kingdoms, and announce that + their sovereigns reign <span class="tei tei-q">‘by the grace of + God,’</span> i. e., through appointment of either Papacy or some of + the Protestant sects.”</span>—A. 268; Rev. 18:3; Isa. 1:21; Jer. + 2:20-24; 3:6; Ezek. 16:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + inhabitants of the earth have been made + drunk.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“So great an + institution as made all nations drunk with her false doctrine must + be very prominent, indeed, to those who were made so under the + influence of the stupefying draft from her cup.”</span>—Pastor + Russell.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With the wine of + her fornication.</span></span>—The mixed doctrines, part truth and + part error, that originally led to the union of church and + state,—the spiritual harlotry.—Jer. 51:7; Rev. 2:20; 17:5; 18:3; + 19:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So + he carried me away in the spirit into the + wilderness.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“All who would + get a true view of Babylon must, in spirit, take their position + with the true people of God 'in the wilderness'—in the condition of + separation from the world and worldly ideas and mere forms of + godliness, and in the condition of entire consecration and + faithfulness to and dependence upon God alone.”</span>—D. 27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I saw a + woman.</span></span>—The Roman Catholic Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Sit upon a + scarlet colored beast.</span></span>—Pagan Rome, and its + successors.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Full of names of + blasphemy.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“From Ferraris' + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Ecclesiastical Dictionary</span></span>, a + standard Roman Catholic authority, we <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page260">[pg 260]</span><a name="Pg260" id="Pg260" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> quote the following condensed outline of + papal power as given under the word <span class= + "tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">papa</span></span>, article 2nd: <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The pope is of such dignity and highness that he is + not simply a man but, as it were, God, and the vicar + [representative] of God.... Hence the pope is crowned with a triple + crown, as king of heaven, of earth and of hell. Nay, the pope's + excellence and power are not only about heavenly, terrestrial and + infernal things, but he is also above angels, and is their + superior; so that if it were possible that angels could err from + the faith, or entertain sentiments contrary thereto, they could be + judged and excommunicated by the pope.... He is of such great + dignity and power that he occupies one and the same tribunal with + Christ; so that whatsoever the pope does seem to proceed from the + mouth of God.... The pope is, as it were, God on earth, the only + prince of the faithful of Christ, the greatest king of all kings, + possessing the plenitude of power; to whom the government of the + earthly and heavenly kingdom is entrusted.’</span> He further adds: + <span class="tei tei-q">‘The pope is of so great authority and + power that he can modify, declare or interpret the Divine + Law.’</span> <span class="tei tei-q">‘The pope can sometimes + counteract the Divine Law by limiting, explaining, + etc.’</span> ”</span>—B. 310.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having seven + heads and ten horns.</span></span>—See Rev. 12:3; 13:1: 17:9-12; + Dan. 7:7, 20; Rev. 5:6; 1 Sam. 2:10; Deut. 33:17; 1 Ki. 22:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the woman was arrayed in purple.</span></span>—Symbolizing the + apostate church's claim to royalty. <span class="tei tei-q">“I sit + a queen and am no widow.”</span>—Rev. 18:7, 12, 16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And scarlet + color.</span></span>—Symbolizing her claims to share in Christ's + work of sacrifice, in the doctrine of the mass.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And decked with + gold.</span></span>—Symbolizing her claim that she includes in her + membership all the true Church of God, those who shall ultimately + attain the Divine nature.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And precious + stones.</span></span>—Symbolizing her claim that she is the sole + custodian of the Lord's precious jewels of truth and character.—1 + Cor. 3:12; Mal. 3:17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + pearls.</span></span>—Symbolizing her claim that she has sole power + over all that the Lord bought by His death.—Matt. 13:45, 46.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having a golden + cup in her hand.</span></span>—Symbolizing her claim that she is + the repository of all Truth Divine.—Jer. 51:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Full of + abominations and [filthiness] FILTHINESSES of [her] THE fornication + OF HER AND OF THE EARTH.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Babylon hath been a golden cup in the Lord's hand, + that made all the earth drunken; the nations have drunken of her + wine; therefore the nations are mad [intoxicated with her errors]. + (Jer. 51:7-9.)”</span>—C. 156; Rev. 18:6; Isa. + 65:4.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page261">[pg + 261]</span><a name="Pg261" id="Pg261" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + upon her forehead [was a name written].</span></span>—In plain + sight of all the spiritually minded. (And how strange it is that + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">everybody</span></em> does not see it!)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Mystery.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“We have already called attention to the fact that the + Church of Christ is called in the Scriptures the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Mystery of God,’</span> because, contrary to + expectation, the Church was to be the Messianic <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">Body</span></em> + which, under its Anointed Head, Jesus, shall rule and bless the + world. We have also drawn attention to the fact that the Scriptures + refer to Babylon as a counterfeit system (mother and daughters—some + more and some less corrupt, some better and some poorer + counterfeits), and there designated the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Mystery of Iniquity.’</span> We are to remember that + it is Satan who in the Scriptures is credited with having + <span class="tei tei-q">‘deceived the whole world’</span> on this + subject; putting evil for good and good for evil; light for + darkness and darkness for light. Satan <span class="tei tei-q">‘now + worketh in the children of disobedience’</span> (Isa. 5:20; Eph. + 2:2) even as he proffered his cooperation to our Lord + Jesus.”</span>—F. 199; 2 Thes. 2:7; Prov. 5:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Babylon the + Great, the mother of harlots and abominations of the + earth.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Since Papacy, the + mother, is not a single individual, but a great religious system, + in keeping with the symbol we should expect to see other religious + systems answering to the illustration of daughters of similar + character. To this description the various Protestant organizations + fully correspond. The daughter systems parted from the mother under + circumstances of travail, and were born virgins.”</span> (D. 29.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“But some sincere Christians may still be + anxiously inquiring,—<span class="tei tei-q">‘If all Christendom is + to be involved in the doom of Babylon, what will become of + Protestantism, the result of the Great Reformation?’</span> This is + an important question; but let the reader consider that + Protestantism, as it exists today, is not the result of the Great + Reformation, but of its decline.”</span>—D. 28; Ezek. 16:44; Hos. + 2:2-5; Isa. 1:21; Rev. 18:9; 19:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The claims of apostolic succession and clerical + authority are almost as presumptuously set forth by some of the + Protestant clergy as by the Papal priesthood. And the right of + individual private judgment,—the very fundamental principle of the + protest against Papacy, which led to the Great Reformation,—is now + almost as strenuously opposed by Protestants as by Papists. + Protestants seem to have forgotten,—for they truly ignore,—the very + grounds of the original protest, and, as systems, they are fast + drifting back toward the open arms of the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Holy (?) Mother Church.’</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Let us hold out to you our hand affectionately’</span> + (says Pope Leo to Protestants in his famous Encyclical addressed + <span class="tei tei-q">‘To the Princes and Peoples of the + Earth’</span>), <span class="tei tei-q">‘and <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page262">[pg 262]</span><a name="Pg262" id="Pg262" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> invite you to the unity which never + failed the Catholic church, and which never can fail. Long has our + common mother called you to her breast.’</span> The doctrine of + <span class="tei tei-q">‘the Divine right of kings,’</span> taught + or supported by almost every sect, is the foundation of the old + civil system, and has long given authority, dignity and stability + to the kingdoms of Europe; and the doctrine of the Divine + appointment and authority of the clergy has hindered God's children + from progressing in Divine things and bound them by the chains of + superstition and ignorance to the veneration and adoration of + fallible fellow-beings, and to their doctrines, traditions and + interpretations of God's Word. It is this entire order of things + that is to fall and pass away in the battle of this great day—the + order of things which for centuries has held the people docile + under the ruling powers, civil, social and religious. All this has + been by God's <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">permission</span></em> (not by his appointment + and approval, as they claim). But though an evil in itself, it has + served a good, <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">temporary</span></em> purpose in preventing + anarchy, which is immeasurably worse, because men were not prepared + to do better for themselves, and because the time for Christ's + Millennial Kingdom had not yet come. Hence God permitted the + various delusions to gain credence in order to hold men in check + until <span class="tei tei-q">‘The Time of the End’</span>—the end + of <span class="tei tei-q">‘The Times of the Gentiles’</span> + (which expired October 1, 1914).”</span>—D. 33.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the + saints.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“ <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘But the blood of Protestants is not called the blood + of saints, no more than the blood of thieves, man-killers, and + other malefactors, for the shedding of which, by the order of + justice, no commonwealth shall answer.’</span>—<span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Rhemish (Catholic) + translation, footnote.</span></span>”</span> (B. 320.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘She wore out the saints of + the most high God.’</span> and <span class="tei tei-q">‘was drunken + with the blood of the saints.’</span>—Rev. 18:24.”</span>—Z. + '04-236; Rev. 16:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And with the + blood of the martyrs of Jesus.</span></span>—Most of these martyrs + will doubtless be honored by a place in the Great Company. (See + Rev. 7:9.) This Scripture was fulfilled in the Dark Ages, but we + are still <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">in</span></em> the Dark Ages, and will be + until this system is destroyed. It takes more than a mere + profession of faith to make a Christian. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Jezebel today has daughters—systems termed + Protestant—which, nevertheless, copy largely the mother's spirit. + It is through the influence of the daughters that the anti-typical + Elijah may expect future persecutions, instigated by the mother, + accomplished through the daughters, as typically represented in the + case of John the Baptist, beheaded by Herod at the instance of + Salome, but at the instigation of Herodias—Jezebel.”</span>—Z. + '04-237.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page263">[pg + 263]</span><a name="Pg263" id="Pg263" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And when I saw + her.</span></span>—Discerned her true character.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I wondered with + great admiration.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“With great + wonder”</span> (Diaglott), that the Lord would permit such an + institution to exist.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the angel.</span></span>—Volume VII, <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Said unto + me.</span></span>—See Revelation, Chapters 4, 5 and 6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Wherefore dost + thou marvel.</span></span>—This is all quite right and necessary. + The Papacy was foreseen and permitted as a part of God's wonderful + plan for developing and testing His Church, proving who are worthy + to be of the First Resurrection, joint-heirs with Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I will tell thee + the mystery of the woman.</span></span>—The apostate Church of + Rome.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And of the beast + that carrieth her.</span></span>—Pagan Rome, now represented in + earth's warring governments.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which hath seven + heads and ten horns.</span></span>—See Rev. 12:3; 13:1. The + exposition of the remainder of this chapter was greatly assisted by + the following letter: <span class="tei tei-q">“Your request for my + version of what I understood Bro. Russell's expectations to be + respecting the fulfillment of the 17th Chapter of Revelation + received and after considerable meditation upon the matter I have + decided to submit the following: Brother Russell stated that there + were three possible fulfillments of this Chapter, and that he did + not or would not go on record as to which would be the correct + interpretation, for the reason that this Chapter could not be + interpreted in a positive way until after its fulfillment. He + stated that this Chapter was the key to all of the pictures, or + prophecies, of Revelation, which are as yet wrapped in mystery. On + various occasions I requested Bro. Russell to give me his idea + respecting the three possible fulfillments; but he remained + absolutely mum respecting two of the ways, but freely expressed his + opinion respecting the third way, which he believed would be the + way in which the prophecy would be fulfilled. <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The beast that thou sawest was, and is not and shall + ascend out of the bottomless pit and go into perdition,’</span> we + understand to be the Holy Roman Empire—Church and State, united in + power from 799 to 1799. The term <span class="tei tei-q">‘Thou + sawest’</span> refers to the thousand-year reign of the Pope, and + the term <span class="tei tei-q">‘And is not’</span> refers to the + present non-existence of the Empire in power, and the term + <span class="tei tei-q">‘And shall ascend from the bottomless pit + and again go into perdition’</span> refers to the re-establishment + of the Holy Roman Empire in power and its subsequent destruction. + The statement <span class="tei tei-q">‘When he cometh, he must + continue a short space,’</span> was understood by Bro. Russell to + mean that the beast would rule only for a very short time. In + answer to a direct question on this point <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page264">[pg 264]</span><a name="Pg264" id="Pg264" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> Bro. Russell stated that he did not believe + this short space could be interpreted in days, months, or years, + but that it simply meant a short time. In the 12th verse, we read + that <span class="tei tei-q">‘The ten horns which thou sawest are + ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet, but receive power + as kings one hour with the beast.’</span> This seems to set forth + the Papal view respecting the various kings of Europe which at the + present time have not received the official anointing by the Pope, + and consequently have not as yet received their kingdom. If this is + correct, it would then also mean that if the Pope should anoint + these kings and declare them to be ruling by Divine right, they + thereby would officially receive power as kings, and would rule + with the Pope and together with the Pope would constitute the beast + again in power.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Bro. Russell was anxiously awaiting the settlement of + the present world war for the reason that it seemed very probable + that the Pope would be the leading figure in bringing about its + settlement, and possibly the very basis of the settlement will be + the recognition of the Pope as the Holy See. If the Pope receives + such recognition, he could in return immediately grant an official + anointing of the rulers of the various governments included in the + settlement, and they then as stated in Verse 13, will be + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Of one mind and shall give their power and + strength unto the beast.’</span> If this is to be the fulfillment + of this picture, then it will only be a question of time until + these same governments will turn upon the Roman Church and + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Shall make her desolate and naked, and + shall eat her flesh and burn her with fire.’</span> (Rev. 17:16.) + The foregoing briefly outlines what Bro. Russell seemed to think + would be the outcome of the present war. He had certain articles in + prospect which, if backed up by fulfilled prophecies, were to be + the absolute and irrevocable proof to the world of all of the + leading pictures given in the entire book of Revelation. + Personally, I think everything seems to be shaping itself towards + the fulfillment of the Chapter on the line above specified. If you + are making any use of this letter, kindly specify or emphasize the + fact that Bro. Russell considered the matter largely as a + speculation, and that he positively stated that he would not go on + record in the matter for the reason that when he treated the matter + he would do so in the light of fulfilled prophecy <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">as the last word and + as the unsealing of the entire book</span></span>, and that he + would not attempt to do this until such a time as the + interpretation could not be refuted.”</span> That time has + evidently now come.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + beast that thou sawest.</span></span>—The Antichrist.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Was.</span></span>—Exercised actual + dominion until 1799 A. D.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page265">[pg 265]</span><a name="Pg265" id="Pg265" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And is + not.</span></span>—Has not had even a vestige of temporal power + since 1870. Since then it has been in oblivion, the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“bottomless pit.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And shall ascend + out of the [bottomless pit], ABYSS.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Private letters from the Vatican, received by Dr. A. + Palmieri of the Library of Congress, a recognized writer on + ecclesiastical subjects, announce that Pope Benedict XV is about to + appoint a commission of four cardinals to renew a movement begun by + Pope Leo XIII, and abandoned by Pope Pius X, looking to a reunion + of Christianity and the cultivation of friendly relations with the + Anglican Church. A public announcement on the subject from Rome is + expected soon. Dr. Palmieri said that the new movement, as outlined + in his advices, will be directed particularly toward an + establishment of the reunion of the Russian church and the Papacy + and to a thorough re-examination into the validity of Anglican or + Episcopal ordinations, which was settled in the negative in a papal + bull <span class="tei tei-q">‘Apostolica Sedis,’</span> by Pope Leo + X. The interest of the Pope in the problem of Christian unity is + said to have been intensified by the recent progress of the world + congress, initiated by the American Episcopal Church.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘The new Pope,’</span> said + Dr. Palmieri, summarizing the information received from Rome, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘has taken a considerable part in the + efforts of neutral nations to establish peace among nations. The + Vatican's efforts have been suggested not only by a humanitarian + spirit, but by a longing for Christian unity and to end the + conflict which long since has divided Christian churches. Efforts + of Leo XIII for carrying out the reunion of Christianity were + abruptly stopped by Piux X, who aimed at an inner reform of the + Catholic clergy and turned all his energies to the crushing of + modernism [Higher Criticism and Evolution]. Benedict XV thinks it + is time to renew the policy of Leo XIII, also that a + re-establishment of a political peace would be the first step + toward renewed attempts to stop the splitting of Christianity into + a greater number of sects. It seems to the Vatican that the + Orthodox Slavs will be very soon called to take a more active part + in the life of western nations, either Protestant or Catholic, and + that it is necessary to come to an understanding with them to avoid + evils produced by religious intolerance. The newly planned + commission of cardinals will pay attention to yearnings for unity, + which from time to time manifest themselves in the Orthodox church, + and to cultivate friendly relations with the Anglican church. One + of the most important tasks of the new commission will be a + thorough re-examination of the arguments pro and con on the + validity of Anglican <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page266">[pg + 266]</span><a name="Pg266" id="Pg266" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + ordinations. The bull Apostolica Sedis by Leo X has settled in the + negative the problem of that validity, but generally theological + schools assume a more favorable attitude toward acknowledgment the + validity of Anglican orders, and the new commission of cardinals + will carefully ponder the reasons set forth by Russian and Anglican + divines against the decision of Pope Leo X. The friendship of the + Anglican church is appreciated by Rome, for she may be as a link of + union between Roman Catholicism and Russian + Orthodoxy.’</span> ”</span> (Z. '17-52.) We assume that the + foregoing plan of the pope will succeed. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“This is the supreme chance for Christianity + <span class="tei tei-q">‘to assert her authority and guide the + world out of the darkness enshrouding it,’</span> observes + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">The + Northwestern Christian Advocate</span></span> (Methodist, Chicago), + and it wonders whether the organized Christianity that <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘failed—ingloriously failed’</span>—in 1914 will again + <span class="tei tei-q">‘miss her golden + opportunity.’</span> ”</span> (Literary Digest.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“An old writer has observed that the Beast reappears + from the Abyss (see on ch. 11, 7) without his diadems, as though, + in this last stage, he would symbolize rather the violence of + popular rage than the prescriptive sanctity of monarchical + supremacy.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And go into + perdition.</span></span>—Be utterly destroyed at the hands of the + masses it has so persistently and outrageously deceived.—Rev. + 17:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they that + dwell on the earth.</span></span>—All independent Christians, not + entangled in the systems of either the beast or the image. See Rev. + 13:13, 14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shall + wonder.</span></span>—Be astounded, perplexed and dismayed, + <span class="tei tei-q">“At the reappearance of the + beast.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Whose + names.</span></span>—As a class, not as individuals.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Were not written + in the Book of Life.</span></span>—But not necessarily in so-called + Church books, kept here on earth, for collection purposes.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">From the + foundation of the world.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + book or scroll covenanting life to an elect number was prepared + from the foundation of the world. The names in it have been written + as the individuals have made consecration of themselves, coming + under the terms of the Divine call. In this view of the matter the + book or scroll would represent the original Divine purpose—God's + intention to have a Church, of which our Lord Jesus would be the + Head.—(Rev. 3:5.)”</span>—Z. '99-265.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When they behold + the beast that was, and is not, and [yet is] SHALL AGAIN BE + PRESENT.</span></span>—The Papal Empire restored.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + here is the mind which hath wisdom.</span></span>—A problem + requiring the aid of the Lord.—Rev. 13:18.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page267">[pg 267]</span><a name="Pg267" id="Pg267" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The seven heads + are seven mountains.</span></span>—The kingdoms enumerated in Rev. + 12:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">On which the + woman sitteth.</span></span>—Over which she once reigned in + plentitude of power. Much of Revelation is written in such a way + that both a literal and a symbolical explanation can be made, + designed by the Lord to make the understanding of the book + impossible to any except the fully consecrated. The following shows + the physical explanation of this text which would most appeal to + the unconsecrated. But it shows that the Mother of Harlots has her + headquarters at Rome. And when we know who the mother is, it is + impossible not to recognize the daughters. Rome is called in + history the <span class="tei tei-q">“seven-hilled city.”</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">“The original settlement of Romulus is said + to have been limited to the Palatine mount. With this were united + before the end of his reign the Capitoline and the Quirinal; Tullus + Hostilius added the Caelian, Ancus Martius the Aventine; and + finally Servius Tullius included the Esquiline and Viminal, and + enclosed the whole seven hills with a stone wall. The growth of the + state closely followed that of the city.”</span> (Brit.) It would + not be possible to limit this explanation to seven forms of + government which have exercised sway over the city of Rome. There + have been many such governments. There were seven of them during + the nineteenth century alone—the Roman Republic of 1798, the + Kingdom of 1805, the Annexation of 1810, the restoration of the + temporal power in 1814, the Revolution of 1848, the restoration of + the temporal power in 1849, and the Italian occupation in 1870.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there are seven kings.</span></span>—Seven forms of government of + the HOLY ROMAN EMPIRE, the devil's own particular pattern of + government.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Five are + fallen.</span></span>—(1) The Regal period, from 753 B. C. to 510 + B. C. The <span class="tei tei-q">“Kings”</span> of this period + were <span class="tei tei-q">“not simply either the hereditary and + patriarchal chief of a clan, the priestly head of a community bound + together by a common <span lang="la" class="tei tei-foreign" + xml:lang="la"><span style="font-style: italic">sacra</span></span>, + or the elected magistrate of a state, but a mixture of all + three.”</span>—Brit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(2) The + Republic, from 509 to 451 B. C. and from 448 to 60 B. C. + <span class="tei tei-q">“It is characteristic of Rome that the + change from monarchy to republic should have been made with the + least possible disturbance of existing forms. The title of king was + retained, though only as that of a priestly officer (<span lang= + "la" class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="la"><span style= + "font-style: italic">rex sacrorum</span></span>) to whom some of + the religious functions of the former kings were transferred. The + two annually elected consuls or prætores were regarded as joint + heirs of the full kingly authority, and as holding the imperium and + the correlative right of taking the auspices, <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page268">[pg 268]</span><a name="Pg268" id="Pg268" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> by direct transmission from the founder + of the city.”</span> (Brit.) (3) The Decemvirate, a rule of ten + men, from 451 to 449 B. C. (4) The Triumvirate, a rule of three + men, from 59 to 49 B. C. and from 43 to 28 B. C. (5) The + Dictatorship of Cæsar, 48 to 44 B. C. All of these forms of the old + Holy Roman Empire have completely passed away.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] one + is.</span></span>—The Dragon, still represented in the powers of + Europe. (See comments on Rev. 12:3, 4, 7, 9, 13, 16, 17; 13:2, 4, + 11; 16:13.) The rulership of Papacy during the Dark Ages, both + directly in its temporal power, and through the governments which + it controlled or influenced, and still influences, was—as has been + shown—merely another aspect of the government of Pagan Rome, + generally styled the Empire, but in Revelation called the Dragon, + and the Devil, and Satan.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + other.</span></span>—The final form, of Arbitrator (whatever be the + official title).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is not yet + come.</span></span>—But is due to make its appearance with the + close of the war, probably early in the year 1938. (See comments on + Rev. 16:17-21; Ex. 10:23.) Pastor Russell foretold the <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">darkness</span></em> would commence in + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">1914</span></span>, and it did!! Egypt's + plague of darkness lasted three days (years).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And when he + cometh, he must continue a short space.</span></span>—Probably from + the fall of 1917 to the spring or summer of 1918. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The language is indefinite, the words <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘must continue’</span> alone being emphatic. It is a + duration such that by means of it the Church should be exercised in + patience.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the beast that was.</span></span>—That once exercised temporal + dominion and, through influence of the European governments, once + actually ruled the world.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And is + not.</span></span>—Does not now have any temporal dominion.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Even] he is the + eighth.</span></span>—The eighth horn which took the place of the + three plucked up (Rev. 12:3); also the final form of the + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">HOLY + ROMAN EMPIRE</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And is of the + seven.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Cometh of the + seven,”</span> Greek.—Grew up by the plucking of the three. The + Papacy is either the seventh or the eighth form, depending upon how + the matter is viewed. If it be viewed as having reigned separately + from the Dragon during the Dark Ages (as it did, when it exercised + temporal power), in its new guise it will be the eighth form, its + separate rulership during the Dark Ages being counted as the + seventh. But if it be viewed as having been a co-partner of the + Dragon during the Dark Ages, then its forthcoming manifestation + will be the seventh form. In any event the eighth form is one of + the seven forms; and the regaining of the temporal power this time + will be the cause of the Papacy's destruction. <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page269">[pg 269]</span><a name="Pg269" id="Pg269" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> See Z. '03-325 for a hint that Benedict + XV will never have a successor. (He is personally the eighth pope + reigning since 1799. Five of these popes had died prior to 1878. + Here is a good secondary fulfilment.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And goeth into + perdition.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Daniel, + representing the saints, says (Dan. 7:11), <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘I watched it then [after its dominion was gone and it + was powerless longer to crush the Truth, the power of the holy + people], <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">because</span></em> of the voice of the great + words which that horn spoke, and I saw that [it obtained no power + over the holy saints and the Truth, but it did have another effect] + the beast was slain, the body thereof destroyed and given to the + burning flame’</span>—general anarchy. The destruction of the + remnant of governments in the old Roman Empire, caused by the + misleading influence of Papacy's continued bombastic utterances, + even after its dominion is gone, is thus shown.”</span>—C. 68; 2 + Thes. 2:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the ten horns which thou sawest.</span></span>—Three of which were + originally plucked up to make room for the growth of the Papacy. + See Rev. 12:3; 13:1; 17:3; Dan. 7:7, 8, 20; Rev. 5:6; 1 Sam. 2:10; + Deut. 33:17; 1 Ki. 22:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are ten + kings.</span></span>—The rulers, whether kings, kaisers, presidents + or others who have dragged into the slaughter house the descendants + of the ten powers originally composing the Roman Empire.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which have + received no kingdom [as yet].</span></span>—No official sanction as + rulers from the counterfeit <span class="tei tei-q">“king of kings + and lord of lords”</span>—the Pope.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But receive + power as kings.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The absence + of the diadem indicates that their kingdom is not full, regal + power, but as being transient, is represented as if it were royal + power.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">One hour with + the beast.</span></span>—The <span class="tei tei-q">“one + hour”</span> in this verse (17:12) may signify one year, or + thereabouts. The word in the Greek is <span lang="el" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">hora</span></span>. This is the same word + which our Lord used when, in speaking of John the Baptist He said, + <span class="tei tei-q">“He was a burning and a shining light; and + you were willing, for a time (<span lang="el" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">hora</span></span>—one year—the length of + John's ministry before his imprisonment) to rejoice in his + light.”</span> (John 5:35; Z. '04-60.) In matters that are still + future we can only use our best judgment as to the significance to + be attached to expressions like this. <span class="tei tei-q">“Let + every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.”</span>—Rom. + 14:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">These have one mind.</span></span>—All + are desperately anxious to stop the terrible waste of human life, + now that they see what their father, the Devil, has accomplished + through their worship and service of himself and his + institutions.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page270">[pg + 270]</span><a name="Pg270" id="Pg270" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [shall] give + their power and strength unto the beast.</span></span>—Support it + in its apparently laudable but actually selfish efforts in trying + to stop the European war. <span class="tei tei-q">“Deposit in his + hands all the available means which they possess.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">These shall make war with the + Lamb.</span></span>—Endeavor to suppress the message of Present + Truth.—Rev. 16:14; 19:19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the Lamb + shall overcome them.</span></span>—Zion need not fear; for God is + in the midst of her, and will help her. Her consecration is unto + death, and her privilege is to prove her faithfulness: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The disciple is not above his Master, nor the servant + above his Lord. It is enough for the disciple that he be as his + Master, and the servant as his Lord.”</span>—Matt. 10:24, 25.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“It will probably be in an effort at self-preservation + on the part of <span class="tei tei-q">‘Great + Babylon’</span>—<span class="tei tei-q">‘Christendom’</span>—when + she sees her power in politics, priestcraft and superstition + waning, that the work of truth-spreading will be stopped as + detrimental to her system. And probably at this juncture the Elijah + class, persisting in declaring the Truth to the last, will suffer + violence, pass into glory and escape from the severest features of + the great Time of Trouble coming—just in the crisis of affairs when + men begin to feel that desperate measures must be resorted to, to + sustain the tottering structure of Christendom. Although the exact + time of the deliverance or <span class="tei tei-q">‘change’</span> + of the last members of the Body of Christ is not stated, the + approximate time is nevertheless clearly manifest, as shortly after + the <span class="tei tei-q">‘door’</span> is shut (Matt. + 25:10).”</span>—C. 231.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For He is Lord + of lords, and King of kings.</span></span>—Has the entire situation + under perfect control—is the <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">real</span></em> Pope.—1 Tim. 6:15; Rev. + 19:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they that + are with Him are called.</span></span>—When they hear, understand + and heed the message of complete consecration even unto death (Rev. + 19:9). This clause, in the Greek, indicates that these also, as + well as the Lamb, shall overcome them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + chosen.</span></span>—Elected as soon as they comply with the + conditions, provided there are any vacancies.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + faithful.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The door of + opportunity to engage, with Christ our Lord, in the work of the + Gospel Age, will be closed when <span class="tei tei-q">‘the night + cometh wherein no man can work.’</span> And all who have not + previously, by faithful service, developed the necessary character + and proved their sympathy, devotion, love and zeal for the Lord and + His Truth (Matt. 10:37; Mark 8:38), will then be too late to do so. + The closing in of this night will evidently put a stop <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page271">[pg 271]</span><a name="Pg271" id="Pg271" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> to any farther labor to disseminate the + Truth, which, misunderstood by the public generally, will probably + be accused of being the cause of much of the anarchy and confusion + then prevailing, instead of being seen in its true light as a + foreshadowing of the Divine mind and revelation concerning coming + troubles on the world and their true causes.”</span>—C. 210; Rev. + 2:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he saith unto me, [The] THESE waters which thou sawest where the + whore sitteth.</span></span>—See Rev. 17:1, 9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are BOTH + peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and + tongues.</span></span>—And not, therefore, literal water or literal + hills, or forms of government which have ruled the city of + Rome.—Isa. 8:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the ten horns which thou sawest.</span></span>—The rulers of Europe + and America, and their subjects, descendants of the ten powers + which originally composed the old Roman Empire.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Upon] AND the + beast.</span></span>—The re-established temporal dominion of the + pope in Rome and elsewhere. <span class="tei tei-q">“Of her + boastings and threats the following from a Catholic journal of + recent date is a fair sample: <span class="tei tei-q">‘The Papacy + will regain its temporal sovereignty, because it is useful and + convenient to the Church. It gives the head executive of the church + a fuller liberty and a fuller sway. The Pope can be no king's + subject long. It is not in keeping with the divine office to be so. + It cramps him and narrows his influence for good. Europe has + acknowledged this influence, and will be forced to bow to it in + greater times of need than this. Social upheavals, and the red hand + of anarchy, will yet crown Leo or his successor with the reality of + power which the third circle symbolizes, and which was once + recognized universally.’</span> Yes, as the day of trouble draws + on, ecclesiasticism will endeavor to use its power and influence + more and more to secure its own political welfare, by its control + of the turbulent elements of society; but in the crisis of the near + future the lawless element will spurn all conservative influence + and break over all restraints, the red hand of Anarchy will do its + dreadful work, and Babylon, political and ecclesiastical, shall + fall.”</span>—D. 38.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">These shall hate + the whore, and shall make her desolate and + naked.</span></span>—People and governments will have a common + hatred for their mutual enemy when the motives which actuate her + are clearly revealed.—Ezek. 16:35-44; 23:22, 29; Zech. 1:19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And shall eat + her flesh and burn her with fire.</span></span>—Unite to complete + her utter destruction.—Rev. 18:8, 18; Dan. 7:11; C. 68; Gen. 38:24; + Ezek. 16:41; Lev. 20:14; 21:9.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page272">[pg 272]</span><a name="Pg272" id="Pg272" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + God hath put in their hearts to fulfill His will.</span></span>—As + expressed in His Word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And to + agree.</span></span>—The European war would stop tomorrow if it + were not for the officers holding the men to the task of + butchery.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And to give + their kingdom unto the beast.</span></span>—Put their liberties + into the hands of the Papacy, as Arbitrator.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Until the words + of God shall be fulfilled.</span></span>—And the travail of nominal + Zion shall disclose her true character.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the woman which thou sawest.</span></span>—The Apostate Church, the + antitypical Jezebel.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is that great + city.</span></span>—The <span class="tei tei-q">“<span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">HOLY ROMAN + EMPIRE</span></span>.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which reigneth + over the [kings] KINGDOMS of the earth.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Expositors of every school generally agree that Rome + Pagan, or Rome Papal, or Rome under both aspects, is intended here. + In order to repel the application to the Papacy, many Roman + expositors also apply what is said of the destruction of Rome, to + the future—to Rome again become Pagan: This is the hypothesis, + observes Bishop Wordsworth, of Suarez, Viegas, Ribera, Lessius, + Menochius, C. à Lapide, and others, particularly Dr. Manning in our + own day. Thus Stern writes:—Babylon is really the City of Rome, not + only, however, according to the old-heathenish, but also according + to the new-heathenish signification of the World's + history.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Could there ever + come a time when men, the world over, could be more heathenish at + heart than now; and does not, therefore, even Papal comment show + that this Scripture is ready to be fulfilled?</p> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Whene'er the storms come down on + thee,</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And days of peace all seem to + flee;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">This thought thy peace again + shall bring,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Why should I fear?—the Lord is + King.</span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">E'en when the tempest rages + high,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And darkest clouds are drawing + nigh,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">With hands of faith to this, O! + cling,—</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Why should I fear?—the Lord is + King;</span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Amid the stormy waves of + life,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Above the tumult and the + strife,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">The chimes of hope still sweetly + ring,—</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Be not afraid—the Lord is + King.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page273">[pg 273]</span><a name= + "Pg273" id="Pg273" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc41" id="toc41"></a> <a name="pdf42" id="pdf42"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 18—The Fall Of + Ecclesiasticism</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">[And] after these + things.</span></span>—As another view of the Harvest epoch.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I saw another + angel.</span></span>—Messenger, the Messenger of the Covenant, the + Lord Jesus.—Mal. 3:1; Rev. 10:1; 14:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Come down from + Heaven.</span></span>—In 1874. See Rev. 3:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having great + power.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“All power in Heaven + and in earth.”</span>—Matt. 28:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the earth + was lightened.</span></span>—See Mal. 4:2; Rev. 7:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With His + glory.</span></span>—Some of the glories of the New Day, all + discovered since 1874, are adding machines, aeroplanes, aluminum, + antiseptic surgery, artificial dyes, automatic couplers, + automobiles, barbed wire, bicycles, carborundum, cash registers, + celluloid, correspondence schools, cream separators, Darkest + Africa, disk ploughs, Divine Plan of the Ages, dynamite, electric + railways, electric welding, escalators, fireless cookers, gas + engines, harvesting machines, illuminating gas, induction motors, + linotypes, match machines, monotypes, motion pictures, North Pole, + Panama Canal, Pasteurization, railway signals, Roentgen rays, shoe + sewing machines, smokeless powder, South Pole, submarines, radium, + sky scrapers, subways, talking machines, telephones, typewriters, + vacuum cleaners and wireless telegraphy.—Ezek. 43:2; John 1:9; + Matt. 25:31; Titus 2:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he cried [mightily] with a [strong] MIGHTY voice.</span></span>—How + apt are these Scriptures that refer to Pastor Russell as a + <span class="tei tei-q">“voice”</span>! (Rev. 7:2; 10:3; 16:1.) So + modestly are his works written that the author is nowhere manifest, + but attention is always and everywhere drawn to the <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Lord</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, [Babylon + the great is] fallen, is BABYLON THE GREAT + [fallen].</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The expression, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Babylon is fallen,’</span> indicates that + at some time a sudden and utter rejection is to come upon Babylon, + when all favor will forever cease, and when judgments will + follow—just such a rejection as we have shown was due in + 1878.”</span>—C. 155; Isa. 13:19-22; 21:9; Jer. 51:8-13; Rev. 14:8; + 16:19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“In spite of all our wealth, the blight of poverty, + with its accompanying sickness, suffering, crime, insanity and + vice, continues. The social disease manifested in <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘atrophy and hypertrophy,’</span> in <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘extremities bleeding at the bottom, bloating + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page274">[pg 274]</span><a name= + "Pg274" id="Pg274" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> at the top, decay in + both,’</span> is a portent of the modern world. The net result of + our wonderful civilization is that men have less time now than they + have ever had since the world began.”</span>—<span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Current + Literature</span></span>; Z. '11-420.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Alienists the country over are sounding a solemn note + of warning to the American people over the alarming rush in which + we live. According to Dr. Harvey W. Wiley, federal pure food and + drugs expert, nearly every man and woman at some time in their + lives border on insanity. That view is also indorsed by the famous + Dr. William A. White, head of the United States government hospital + for the insane, who backs up the stand taken recently by Dr. Owen + Copp, new head of the Pennsylvania Hospital for the Insane. Because + of the terrible ravages of drink and drugs, particularly in the + United States, thousands of people are rendered so extremely + nervous that they are always on the verge of going crazy. The rush + and worry of modern life he gives as the causes.”</span>—Z. + '11-228.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And is become + the habitation of devils.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">New York World</span></span> publishes an + interview with Bishop Fallows, of the Reformed Episcopal Church, as + follows: <span class="tei tei-q">‘Telepathy is an established fact. + In recent years great strides have been made in the explanation of + psychic phenomena and in the years to come the science of + communication with the dead will be made a part of the curriculum + of great educational institutions. I have called the new science + <span class="tei tei-q">“Immortalism”</span> because it depends for + its existence upon the immortality of the soul, in which we all + believe, and the preservation of identity beyond the grave.’</span> + Bishop Fallows will be recognized by many as one of the ministers + who have recently been taking a great interest in Faith Healing + clinics. We have already pointed out that to our understanding + these cures are effected by hypnotic influences and that hypnotism + is but another form of Spiritism. We believe that through this + channel the fallen angels (<span class="tei tei-q">‘wicked + spirits,’</span> Eph. 6:12) are seeking to break down the human + will; and that the results, shortly, will be direful in the + extreme, leading to spirit control and every evil work.”</span>—Z. + '09-355; Ecc. 9:5; 1 Pet. 3:19; Jude 6; Jer. 51:37-41; Rev. 16:14; + Isa. 13:19-22; 34:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the hold of + every foul spirit.</span></span>—Rev. Wm. Sunday has exceptional + opportunity for learning, and in his public discourses repeatedly + <span class="tei tei-q">“scores the ministers because they have no + faith. He condemns their neglect of Bible study. He says the + theological seminaries are turning out infidels. He refers to the + large amount of saloon property that belongs to church members. He + enumerates all kinds of worldly doings which go on in these + denominations. He <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page275">[pg + 275]</span><a name="Pg275" id="Pg275" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + would have us believe that the moral standard of thousands high in + the churches is so low as to almost stagger reason. Now if what Mr. + Sunday says about the denominations is true they are not fit places + for good, respectable people, to say nothing of true Christians. In + fact, if they are only half as bad as he says, then every faithful + child of God ought to get out of them as quickly as he can. If they + are but one-quarter as bad as Mr. Sunday tells, then the only + safety on the part of one who wishes to retain his faith is to get + out of such spiritual pest-holes.”</span>—Z. '15-207.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And a cage of + every unclean and hateful bird.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“How true it is, that the most execrable of society + seek and wear the garb of Christian profession and ceremonialism, + in some of the various quarters (sects) of Babylon. Of all the + defaulters, and deceivers of men and of women, how many are + professedly members of Christ's Church! and how many even use their + profession as a cloak under which to forward evil schemes! It is + well known that a majority of even the most brutal criminals + executed die in the Roman Catholic communion. Babylon has contained + both the best and the worst, both the cream and the dregs, of the + population of the civilized world.”</span> (C. 162.) A + parliamentary report of the status of society in England and Wales + in 1873 showed that there were then no Jewish criminals, 1 of every + 20,000 infidels was a criminal, 1 of every 666 Dissenters was a + criminal, 1 of every 72 Church of England, and 1 of every 40 Roman + Catholics. (C. 163.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The great system in + which the <span class="tei tei-q">‘fowl of heaven’</span> delight + to roost, and which they have grievously befouled (Luke 13:18, 19), + and which has in fact become <span class="tei tei-q">‘a cage of + every unclean and hateful bird,’</span> is to be hewn down, and + shall deceive the world no longer.”</span>—C. 187; Isa. 34:11; Jer. + 50:39; Zeph. 2:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her + fornication.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The stimulating + power is not the spirit of a sound mind, but the delusion of a + false doctrine; as the Prophet declares, they are <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘drunken,’</span> but not with wine. (Isa. 29:9-13.) + The people in general have lost their taste and appreciation for + the water of life, the <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Truth</span></span>; and false teachers warn + them against it as poison. The wine of false doctrines now being + manufactured at all the Theological Seminaries is the wine of + evolution and higher criticism, which does not satisfy the thirst, + but increases the confusion of mind. Even Babylon's notables are + dissatisfied, famished.—See Amos 8:11.”</span>—Z. + '01-349.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page276">[pg + 276]</span><a name="Pg276" id="Pg276" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the kings of + the earth.</span></span>—The governments of Austria, Denmark, + France, Germany, England, Russia, Spain, Portugal, etc.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Have committed + fornication with her.</span></span>—Joined themselves to the Roman + Catholic, Lutheran, Anglican and Greek Catholic Churches.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + merchants of the earth.</span></span>—Popes, Cardinals, + Archbishops, Bishops, Presiding Elders, Reverends, etc.—Rev. 18:11, + 15; Isa. 47:15; 23:8; Ezek. 27:36.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are waxed rich + through the abundance of her delicacies.</span></span>—Supplied + partly in cash and partly in left-overs from church fairs, suppers, + etc.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I heard another voice from heaven.</span></span>—The <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-variant: small-caps">Watch Tower + Bible and Tract Society</span></span>, the corporate body which + Pastor Russell personally organized to conduct the Harvest work + (Rev. 8:3; 14:18). This voice has been exerted continuously since + 1884. <span class="tei tei-q">“Our thought is that it is the Lord + who calls His people out of Babylon; the call to to be recognized + especially as a Voice from Heaven. Apparently, the Voice is Present + Truth.”</span>—Z. '14-180.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, Come out + of her.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“This call applies + not only to those in Babylon the Great, but to those in other + denominations—mother and daughters. Be not of those who cannot see + the errors of Babylon and who, consequently, are not of the called + ones. The object of the call to come out is not for people merely + to withdraw from a nominal church. No one is called out of Babylon + until he sees her true condition. This call to associate with + Christ, with Messiah, is given by the Lord through the Prophet when + He says, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Gather My saints together unto + Me; those that have made a Covenant with Me by sacrifice.’</span> + (Psa. 50:5.) They were to be gathered, not to the Roman or other + systems, but to the Lord, to become one with Him.”</span> (Z. + '12-277.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The Lord's call out of Babylon + is not in audible one—He merely calls us by the principles of + righteousness. He lifts the curtain before the eyes of + understanding of His consecrated ones and thus lets them see some + of the errors, some of the falsities in which they and others of + Babylon are involved—dishonoring the holy name—blaspheming the holy + name by misrepresentation of the Divine character and Plan. This is + and should be call enough for those who are of the Lord's Spirit, + for those who love the Lord and the honor of His name more than + they love houses or lands or parents or children or any other + creature or thing—yea, more than they love their own lives. Such + are sure to respond and to come out of Babylon; others who remain, + in spite of seeing the <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page277">[pg + 277]</span><a name="Pg277" id="Pg277" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + light, fail to be overcomers of the highest class—fail therefore to + be in the elect Bride class, and must be counted in with the Great + Company, which will come through great tribulation, and will get + out of Babylon only when she has been cast as a great millstone + into the midst of the sea—in the time of anarchous trouble with + which this Age will close.”</span> (Z. '06-343.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Baptists think their preachers have no authority. But + the Baptists cannot do anything without the consent of the + preachers. The preachers hold a power that God did not repose + there. God never authorized any men to go and ordain another man to + preach the Gospel. God does the ordaining; and it is for the church + to decide, according to its best judgment, whom the Lord ordains or + calls as a pastor. The people in the Methodist church have almost + no liberty, except the privilege of giving money. The bishops + control the presiding elders, and under them the presiding elders + control the preachers; and so it is all the way down to the class + leaders. They have their head or chief amongst them. They have a + human head. The General Conference is the highest authority. So the + Presbyterian church has a head in the way of a General Assembly + which has the deciding of matters.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“On one occasion I was called upon by a minister of the + Reformed church. He wanted to know how I managed my church. I said + to him, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Brother ——, I have no + church.’</span> He said, <span class="tei tei-q">‘You know what I + mean.’</span> I answered, <span class="tei tei-q">‘I want you to + know what I mean, too. We claim that there is only one Church. If + you belong to that Church, you belong to our Church.’</span> He + looked at me in surprise. Then he said, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘You have an organization; how many members are + there?’</span> I replied, <span class="tei tei-q">‘I cannot tell; + we do not keep any membership rolls.’</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘You do not keep any list of the membership?’</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">‘No. We do not keep any list; their names + are written in Heaven.’</span> He asked, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘How do you have your election?’</span> I said, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘We announce an election; and any or all of + God's people, who are consecrated and are accustomed to meet with + this company, or congregation, may have the privilege of expressing + their judgment of who would be the Lord's preference for elders and + deacons of the congregation.’</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Well,’</span> he said, <span class="tei tei-q">‘that + is simplicity itself.’</span> I then added, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘We pay no salaries; there is nothing to make people + quarrel. We never take up a collection.’</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘How do you get the money?’</span> he asked. I replied, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Now, Dr. ——, if I tell you what is the + simplest truth you will hardly be able to believe it. When people + get interested in this way, they find no basket placed under their + nose. But they see there are expenses. They <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page278">[pg 278]</span><a name="Pg278" id="Pg278" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> say to themselves, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“This hall costs something, and I see that free lunch + is served between meetings, for those living at some distance. How + can I get a little money into this thing?”</span> ’</span> He + looked at me as if he thought, <span class="tei tei-q">‘What do you + take me for—a greenhorn?’</span> I said, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Now, Dr. ——, I am telling you the plain truth. They do + ask me this very question, <span class="tei tei-q">“How can I get a + little money into this cause?”</span> ’</span> ”</span> (Pastor + Russell <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Question Meeting</span></span>. Gen. 19:15, + 22; Isa. 48:20; 52:11; Jer. 50:8; 51:6, 45; Matt. 24:16.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The present work of gathering the Lord's saints out of + Babylon is represented under various symbolic descriptions,—it is + the gathering of the wheat from the tares into the barn (Matt. + 13:30): it is the gathering of the good fish into baskets and the + casting of the unsuitable fish caught in the Gospel net back into + the sea (Matt. 13:47-49); it is the gathering of His jewels (Mal. + 3:17); it is the midnight cry to the virgins, which separates the + wise from the foolish (Matt. 25:6); and it is the gathering of the + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Elect’</span> from all the non-elect of + Christendom, from the four winds—from every quarter.”</span> (Matt. + 24:31.) (D. 600.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Lot's wife, after + starting to flee as directed, <span class="tei tei-q">‘looked + back;’</span> coveting the things behind: and so with some now + fleeing from Babylon to the mountain (Kingdom) of the Lord; they + are more in sympathy with the things behind than with the things + before. Only those will run the race to the finish who set their + affections on the things above, and not on the things + beneath.”</span> (D. 608.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Those who thus flee to the Lord will neither be + consumed by fear and dread, nor swallowed up by the projects and + false theories—science falsely so called—with which this day + abounds. And, withal, they may be in the devouring fire [trouble], + witnesses for God and His Plan, and teachers of the people—pointers + to the glorious outcome of Jehovah's Plan, lifting up a standard + for the people.—Isa. 62:10.”</span> (B. 31.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The tables of the various sects of Christendom were + started as tables of the Lord, and adorned to some extent with food + from His storehouse, the Word. But the great Adversary placed upon + these tables errors, delusions, doctrines of devils, which have + blemished them as a whole; wherefore it is appropriate now to apply + to them the words of the Scriptures, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Come + out from amongst them and be ye separate; touch not the unclean + thing.’</span> ”</span> (Z. '07-91.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Our + friends, like Abraham's friends, would persuade us of the folly of + leaving Babylon, its comforts and associations: they assure us that + our opportunities for greatness, etc., will be distinctly lessened + by the course of obedience which we take. Nevertheless we, like + Abram, go forth taking all of our <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page279">[pg 279]</span><a name="Pg279" id="Pg279" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> possessions with us, great or small—nothing + must be left behind to be a treasure in Babylon and to attract our + hearts thither again. All things must be brought with us so that + not our own lives and talents only, but our influence upon others, + must all be made to count.”</span> (Z. '01-231) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“As to missionary activities (Matt. 23:15), what + advantage can accrue to the heathen from giving them the false + doctrines of the Adversary? The few who may be reached will have + the more to unlearn when the Times of Restitution begin.”</span>—F. + 641.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + people.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“We would not be + understood as including all Christians as <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Babylonians.’</span> Quite to the contrary. As the + Lord recognizes some in Babylon as true to Him and addresses them + now, saying, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Come out of her, <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">My + people</span></em>’</span> (Rev. 18:4), so do we; and we rejoice to + believe that there are today thousands who have not bowed the knee + to the Baal of our day—Mammon, Pride and Ambition. Those who will + not come out until Babylon falls and they come through the + <span class="tei tei-q">‘great tribulation’</span> (Rev. 7:9-14) + shall not be accounted worthy to share the Kingdom. Compare Rev. + 2:26; 3:21; Matt. 10:37; Mark 8:34, 35; Luke 14:26, 27.”</span> + (See Micah 2:10; Jer. 12:7-11; 23:33-40; Jer. 11:14, 15; Prov. + 19:27; Matt. 14:28, 29; Hos. 4:6; Isa. 27:12.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The begetting of spiritual children of God, through + the Word of His grace, and their being to some extent cherished, + nourished and brought forward by these human sectarian tare + systems, is well illustrated by certain insects, the young of which + are injected into the backs of their enemies, and there warmed, + nourished and developed, up to the time of their complete birth and + deliverance, which means, usually, the death of the insect which + temporarily carried them about.”</span> (F. 656.) Now the point of + deliverance has been reached.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That ye be not + partakers of her sins.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“If + you fail to obey the Lord through fear of earthly loss, it will + prove that these things are more precious to you than His favor, + and He will treat you as He treats the hypocrites; you will have a + share in their experiences.”</span> (Z. '14-180.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“We do not know but that they may go to the extreme in + our day—to kill socially, to kill ecclesiastically, perhaps to kill + physically. Nearly all the persecutions that have come to God's + people have come from professed Christians, fellow-believers. + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Your brethren that hated you, that cast + you out for My Name's sake, said, Let the Lord be glorified; but He + shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed.’</span> + (Isaiah 66:5.)”</span>—Z. '14-181; Num. 16:26.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And that ye + receive not of her plagues.</span></span>—See Rev. + 16:1-21.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page280">[pg + 280]</span><a name="Pg280" id="Pg280" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + her sins [have reached] CLEAVED TOGETHER unto + Heaven.</span></span>—Ezekiel has touched on this!—Jer. 51:9; Gen. + 11:3, 4; Luke 10:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And God hath + remembered her iniquities.</span></span>—By seven plagues; the + seven volumes of <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Studies in the Scriptures</span></span>.—Rev. + 16:1-21. See also bottom of this page.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Reward her even as she rewarded + [you].</span></span>—A diligent attempt has been made in this + direction. Anything overlooked will be inserted in the next + edition.—Psa. 137:8; Jer. 50:15, 29; 51:24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] double + unto her double according to her works.</span></span>—Make a double + exposition (explaining Revelation and Ezekiel) that will show her + up just as she is.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In [the] HER cup + which she hath filled.</span></span>—The Scriptures which she has + twisted, distorted and misapplied. <span class="tei tei-q">“The cup + which she has used as a means of seduction shall now be changed + into the instrument of her punishment.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Fill to her + double.</span></span>—Greek, <span class="tei tei-q">“the + double.”</span> (Isa. 61:7.) Give her enough light on Ezekiel and + Revelation to show her the exit.—Isa. 21:7-10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">How + much she hath glorified herself, and lived + deliciously.</span></span>—And to what lengths has not Papacy gone + in this direction, with the Protestant sects doing their best to + keep the pace!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So much torment + and sorrow.</span></span>—Mourning for the dead, Greek.—Amos. + 8:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Give + her.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“I have laid a snare for + thee, and thou art also taken, O Babylon, and thou wast not aware; + thou art found, and also caught, because thou hast striven against + the Lord. The Lord hath opened His armoury [Ezekiel and Revelation] + and hath brought forth the weapons of His indignation: for this is + the work of the Lord God of Hosts in the land of the Chaldeans ... + the vengeance of the Lord our God, the vengeance of His Temple.... + Recompense her according to her work; according to all that she + hath done, do unto her.”</span>—Jer. 50:24-29.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For she saith in + her heart.</span></span>—Babylon really believes her prosperity + will continue forever. They <span class="tei tei-q">“shall + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">believe</span></em> the lie.”</span>—2 Thes. + 2:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I sit a queen, + and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow.</span></span>—See Isa. + 47:8, 9; D. 43; Zeph. 2:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Because she will violently struggle for life and + power.”</span>—D. 39.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shall her + plagues.</span></span>—Death, mourning, famine and fire.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Come in one + day.</span></span>—The year of 1918. See Rev. 3:14; 11:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Death.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“By the hand of her enemies.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + mourning.</span></span>—For the loss of her people.—Rev. + 18:7.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page281">[pg + 281]</span><a name="Pg281" id="Pg281" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + famine.</span></span>—Literal and symbolic. (Amos. 8:11). + <span class="tei tei-q">“As we call to mind the long train of evils + by which Babylon has oppressed and worn out the saints of the most + High (the true Zion), and how it is written that God will avenge + His own Elect, and that speedily; that, according to their deeds, + He will repay recompense to His enemies; that He will render unto + Babylon a recompense (Luke 18:7, 8; Isa. 59:18; Jer. 51:6), we + begin to realize that some fearful calamity awaits her. The + horrible decrees of Papacy,—the reproach and reward of which + Protestantism also is incurring by her present compromising + association with her,—for the burning, butchering, banishing, + imprisoning and torturing of the saints in every conceivable way, + executed with such fiendish cruelty in the days of her power by the + arm of the State, whose power she demanded and received, await full + measure of just retribution.”</span>—D. 39.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And she shall be + utterly burned with fire.</span></span>—Completely destroyed in the + anarchy to follow.—Rev. 17:16; Gen. 38:24; Ezek. 16:41; Lev. 20:14; + 21:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For strong + is</span> <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">GOD</span></span> <span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">the Lord [God] who [judgeth] JUDGED + her.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Compare Rev. 17:17, + where the event is expressly declared to have been overruled by + God.”</span> (Cook.) <span class="tei tei-q">“And I will punish Bel + in Babylon [the God of Babylon,—the Pope]; and I will bring forth + out of his mouth that which he hath swallowed up [he shall + repudiate in his extremity the <span class="tei tei-q">‘great + swelling words’</span> and blasphemous titles which he has long + appropriated to himself—that he is the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘infallible vicar,’</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘vice-gerent of Christ,’</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘another God on earth,’</span> etc.], and the nations + shall not flow together any more unto him. Yea, the wall of Babylon + [the civil power that once defended it, and that in a measure does + so still] shall fall.... Thus saith the Lord of Hosts: the broad + walls of Babylon shall be utterly broken, and her high gates shall + be burned with fire [shall be destroyed]; and the people shall + labor in vain, and the folk in the fire [to prop and save the walls + of Babylon], and they shall be weary.—Jer. 51:44, 58.”</span>—D. + 40. The people are already getting weary of supporting murderous + governments.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the kings of the earth, who have committed fornication [and lived + deliciously] with her.</span></span>—In the illicit unions of + Church and State the advantage, from a worldly viewpoint, has been + on the side of the Church. She has compelled the State to cleanse + her filthy linen while she proceeded to pollute another lot. Far + from living deliciously, the horns have really hated the harlot for + her impudent, shameless conduct.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shall [bewail + her], WAIL and lament for her.</span></span>—Not because they loved + her, but because she was useful to them <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page282">[pg 282]</span><a name="Pg282" id="Pg282" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> in keeping the people in ignorance and + subjection.—Jer. 50:46; Ezek. 26:15 to 27:36.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When they shall + see the smoke of her burning.</span></span>—When they witness her + confusion and signs of imminent destruction as portrayed in the + seventh plague—<span class="tei tei-q">“the handwriting on the + wall.”</span>—Dan. 5:1-9; Rev. 18:18; 19:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Standing afar off for fear of her + torment.</span></span>—Realizing that this is a question of + interpretation of the Scriptures and not wishing to get entangled + in it any more than absolutely necessary.—Jer. 51:30-33.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, Alas, + alas, that great city Babylon, that mighty + city.</span></span>—Alas, that great religious system that was + always eager to affiliate with us and give a religious coloring to + even wholesale murder by enticing its young men to enlist under our + banners!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For in one hour + is thy judgment come.</span></span>—In the one year 1917-1918.—Rev. + 17:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the merchants of the earth.</span></span>—Salesmen of religious + goods—Popes, Cardinals, Archbishops, Bishops and smaller fry.—Ezek. + 27:36; Isa. 23:8; 47:15; Rev. 18:3, 15, 23.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shall weep and + mourn over her.</span></span>—Saying, in substance, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“What shall I do? for my lord taketh away from me the + stewardship: I cannot dig; to beg I am ashamed.”</span>—Luke + 16:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For no man + buyeth their merchandise any more.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the Lord + of Hosts, that I will cut off the names of the idols [all sectarian + denominations] out of the land, and they shall no more be + remembered: and also I will cause the prophets [the clergy] and the + unclean spirit [their false doctrines] to pass out of the land. And + it shall come to pass that when any [former clergyman] shall yet + prophesy [try to still further mislead the people into giving him + reverence and coin], then his father and his mother that begat him + shall say unto him, Thou shalt not live; for thou speakest lies in + the name of the Lord: and his father and his mother that begat him + shall thrust him through when he prophesieth [so enraged will they + be when they realize how they have been deceived respecting fears + of hell or assurances of Heaven for themselves and other + descendants of monkeys, which the preachers have taught them they + are]. And it shall come to pass in that day that the prophets + [clergy] shall be ashamed every one of his vision [of the creeds], + when he hath prophesied [preached]; neither shall they wear a rough + garment [distinctive clothing—collars fastened on backwards, in + harmony with their conceptions of religious things, and ties and + clothing in <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page283">[pg + 283]</span><a name="Pg283" id="Pg283" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + mourning to suit] to deceive: But he shall say I am no prophet [no + preacher of the gospel at all], I am an husbandman [a farmer]; for + man taught me to keep cattle from my youth. [Ezekiel 34:1-31 shows + how poorly they kept the cattle]. And one shall say unto him, What + are these wounds [marks of rough usage] in thine hands? Then he + shall answer, Those with which I was wounded in the house of my + friends [by my parishioners].”</span>—Zech. 13:2-6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + merchandise of gold.</span></span>—Truths respecting the Divine + nature. There was a time when the nominal church had the custody of + these truths, but that privilege passed in 1878.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And of + silver.</span></span>—Truths respecting the Great Company.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And precious + stones.</span></span>—Truths respecting the Lord's jewels.—Mal. + 3:17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And of + pearls.</span></span>—Truths respecting the things purchased by the + Lord's death.—Matt. 13:45, 46.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And fine + linen.</span></span>—Truths respecting the righteousness of the + Lord's saints.—Rev. 19:8; Rom. 8:4; 2 Pet. 1:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + purple.</span></span>—Truths respecting the Church's expectation of + coming royalty.—Rev. 5:10; 20:4; Luke 12:32; 22:29, 30; James 2:5; + Mark 10:23; 1 Cor. 4:8; Rev. 3:21; 2 Tim. 2:12; Rev. 2:26, 27; Psa. + 2:8-12; 49:14; Rom. 8:19; 16:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + silk.</span></span>—Truths respecting the most beautiful of all the + fabrics of the loom—grand, beautiful characters made so by the + wisdom and mercy of God out of men and women that to start with + were only poor worms of earth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + scarlet.</span></span>—Truths respecting the Ransom-sacrifice of + our Lord. (1 Tim. 2:6; Rom. 14:9; Rom. 5:18, 19; John 1:29; 1 John + 2:2.) All these truths have passed away from Babylon, but the + errors must go, too.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And all thyine + wood.</span></span>—Errors respecting man's inherent immortality. + Thyine wood is a sweet-smelling wood; wood is a symbol of human + traditions. The sweetest of all human theories is the declaration + that when a man dies he is not dead at all. (1 Cor. 3:12.) Very + shortly men will begin to come back from the dead, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the last first”</span> (Matt. 19:30; 20:16); and + stories that they have been in some fabulous hell or in Heaven will + be at a considerable discount.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And all manner + vessels of ivory.</span></span>—Stories of death-bed repentance and + dreams, used to decorate unscriptural doctrines. Ivory was and is + used in the harness of horses. It was also used to decorate beds. + (Amos 6:4.) Horses symbolize teachings, and beds symbolize + creed-beds. The application fits, whichever way the symbol is + applied.—Jer. 23:28.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page284">[pg + 284]</span><a name="Pg284" id="Pg284" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And all manner + vessels of most precious wood.</span></span>—Errors that appeal to + the heart of the natural man.—1 Cor. 3:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And of + brass.</span></span>—Copper; errors respecting the nature of man, + created perfect and to be re-created in the same likeness.—Gen. + 1:31; Rev. 21:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And Iron, [And + marble].</span></span>—Errors respecting the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“iron rule”</span> and when it is to be exercised.—Dan. + 2:40; Rev. 2:27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + cinnamon, and spice, and odours, and + ointments.</span></span>—Errors respecting the nature and work of + the Holy Spirit. These principal spices represent things which go + to make up the anointing which we receive to become priests and + kings with Christ.</p> + + <table summary="This is a table" cellspacing="0" class= + "tei tei-table" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"> + <colgroup span="3"></colgroup> + + <tbody> + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">EXODUS 30:23</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">EXODUS 31:3</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">ISAIAH 11:2</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Holy Anointing Oil</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Bezaleel</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Christ</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Olive oil, <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">an + hin</span></span></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Filled with the Spirit of God.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Spirit of Lord resting upon + Him.</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Myrrh, 500</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Wisdom</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Wisdom</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Cinnamon, 250</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Understanding</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Understanding</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Calamus, 250</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Knowledge</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Knowledge</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Cassia, 500</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Workmanship</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Counsel and might</td> + </tr> + </tbody> + </table> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“In the above parallel we find knowledge parallel with + calamus and understanding with cinnamon, and of each a like + quantity is prescribed. We have the understanding of all the + knowledge received of God.”</span>—Z. '07-349.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + frankincense.</span></span>—Errors respecting the kind of praise + proper to offer. Much of the hymn-book theology is bad.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + wine.</span></span>—Errors respecting our privilege of draining the + Lord's cup of sorrow now, that we may drink the cup of joy with Him + hereafter.—Matt. 20:22; 26:27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + oil.</span></span>—Errors with reference to the anointing of the + Royal Priesthood.—Psa. 133:1-3; 1 Pet. 2:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And fine + flour.</span></span>—Errors as to why the true wheat are so + repeatedly crushed, broken and sifted—until <span class= + "tei tei-q">“nothing of earth is seen.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + wheat.</span></span>—Errors as to who are the true wheat. A sister + on her first service of Truth literature at a church door was asked + by the pastor, <span class="tei tei-q">“What are you doing around + here?”</span> Startled, the Sister replied, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“I am looking for the wheat.”</span> The pastor + replied, with some anger, <span class="tei tei-q">“Go away! There + is no wheat here.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + beasts.</span></span>—Cattle; errors as to the nature of sacrifices + with which the Lord is pleased.—Psa. 66:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + sheep.</span></span>—Errors as to how to care for the true + sheep.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + horses.</span></span>—Errors as to the kind of doctrines to + employ.—Rev. 9:17-19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + chariots.</span></span>—Errors in multiplying organizations not + authorized in the Scriptures and not in harmony + therewith.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page285">[pg + 285]</span><a name="Pg285" id="Pg285" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + slaves.</span></span>—Errors respecting what it means to be a + servant of the Lord.—Luke 16:13; 2 Tim. 2:24; Matt. 10:24, 25; + 23:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And souls of + men.</span></span>—Errors respecting what is the soul.—Ezek. 18:4; + Isa. 53:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the fruits that thy soul lusted after.</span></span>—Love of ease, + money and praise of men.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are departed + from thee.</span></span>—Replaced by the conditions affecting the + common people. <span class="tei tei-q">“Every valley [lowly and + depressed one] shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill + [highly exalted one] shall be made low: and the crooked [doctrines] + shall be made straight, and the rough places [where the iron heel + of oppression has made a hard path for the weary multitudes to + follow] shall be made plain.”</span>—Isa. 40:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And all things + which were dainty and goodly.</span></span>—Stained glass windows, + soft carpets and upholstery, church suppers, etc.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Are departed] + PERISHED from thee, and [thou shalt] THEY SHALL find them no more + at all.</span></span>—The future of the clergy is that in the + Millennial Age they will have to work for a living, like everybody + else! Isn't it awful to contemplate? It means an expense of 65c for + an alarm clock in every preacher's house in Christendom!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + merchants of these things.</span></span>—The salesmen of these + goods, the clergy.—Rev. 18:3, 11; Ezek. 27:36; Isa. 23:8; + 47:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which were made + rich by her.</span></span>—Who have hitherto made a good living in + the profession of the ministry.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shall stand afar + off for the fear of her torment, weeping and + wailing.</span></span>—Over their lost jobs.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">[And] saying, Alas, alas, that great + city.</span></span>—Babylon, mother and daughters.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That was clothed + in fine linen.</span></span>—Seemed to the worshipers of the beast + and his image very righteous.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + purple.</span></span>—Seemed to be already reigning on the + earth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + scarlet.</span></span>—Seemed to have been faithful to the blood + shed on Calvary.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And decked with + gold.</span></span>—Seemed to have been the repository of Truth + Divine.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And precious + stones.</span></span>—Seemed to have included in her membership all + the Lord's jewels.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + pearls.</span></span>—Seemed to be the sure heir of all that the + Lord purchased by His death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + in one hour so great riches is come to nought.</span></span>—In one + short year, 1917-1918, the vast and complicated system of + sectarianism reaches its zenith of power, only to be suddenly + dashed into oblivion.—Rev. 18:10.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page286">[pg 286]</span><a name="Pg286" id="Pg286" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And every + shipmaster.</span></span>—Pilot (sky pilot), Greek.—Ezek. + 27:27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [all the + company in ships] EVERY ONE WHO SAILETH BY THE + PLACE.</span></span>—All the passengers.—Ezek. 27:29.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + sailors.</span></span>—Mission workers.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And as many as + trade by sea.</span></span>—As many as work the sea, Greek. + Salvation Army, Volunteers of America, and others who work solely + among the masses not under religious restraint.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Stood afar + off.</span></span>—Realized that the old doctrines and the schemes + for raising money would never work again.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + cried when they saw the smoke of her burning.</span></span>—Her + confusion and destruction by the Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, What + city is like unto this great city.</span></span>—With its millions + of adherents, all professedly interested in mission work.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they cast dust on their [heads] HEAD.</span></span>—Did a certain + amount of mud-slinging.—Ezek. 27:30; Lam. 2:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And cried, + weeping and wailing.</span></span>—And gnashing their teeth, too, + no doubt.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, Alas, + [alas] that great city.</span></span>—That wonderful + religio-political combination.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Wherein were + made rich all that had ships in the sea.</span></span>—All + preachers who were strong enough and clever enough to manage + people's churches, independent of the sects. Many such <span class= + "tei tei-q">“independent”</span> churches have large + memberships.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By reason of her + costliness.</span></span>—By reason of the amount of money that can + be raised in and for such institutions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For in one hour + is she made desolate.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“To + them the fall of Babylon at first is astounding, a perplexity, but + will work no real injury, because the reign of Babylon over the + earth will be superseded by the reign of the New Jerusalem—the + Kingdom of God's dear Son.”</span>—Pastor Russell; Rev. 18:8; 3:14; + 11:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Rejoice over her, thou + Heaven.</span></span>—New powers of spiritual control, Christ and + His Bride, appointed to take her place.—Jer. 51:48; Phil. 3:20; + Rev. 11:19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And ye [holy] + SAINTS AND Apostles.</span></span>—You who have suffered at her + hands.—Matt. 23:34, 35; Rev. 13:15; 18:24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + Prophets.</span></span>—The faithful teachers of the Christian + church, and also the Prophets of old, who foresaw Mystic Babylon's + rise and fall, and knew that it stood between them and the + fulfilment of their hopes. <span class="tei tei-q">“Daniel, who was + thinking specially of Israel, and of the fulfilment of God's + promises to the fathers, perceived that all that he had heard could + not occur in 2300 literal days, especially when Gabriel said to + him, <span class="tei tei-q">‘But shut thou up the vision, + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page287">[pg 287]</span><a name= + "Pg287" id="Pg287" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> for it will be + fulfilled after many days.’</span> And though he knew not how long + each symbolic day would be, he was made sick at heart by the + thought of so many evils as were coming upon God's people—though he + saw not the change of that name from fleshly to spiritual Israel. + We read, <span class="tei tei-q">‘And I, Daniel, languished and was + sick for some days.’</span> ”</span>—C. 105.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For God hath + avenged you on her.</span></span>—This vengeance of God for the + wrongs done to His saints in all ages began in 1878 (Rev. 6:10, + 11), and closes with the full end of the Harvest. When the last + member of the Great Company class is delivered the system will + utterly perish.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + a mighty angel.</span></span>—The common people.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Took up a stone + like a great millstone.</span></span>—Temporarily lifted + ecclesiasticism to great heights.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">And.</span></span>—Experiencing a sudden + conviction of their error in so doing, and of the truly devilish + character of the system.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Cast it into the + sea.</span></span>—Overwhelmed it in a flood of anarchy. When this + occurs there will be a <span class="tei tei-q">“great hissing + noise”</span> (2 Pet. 3:10, Diaglott), indicating that the + millstone will be warm, wrathy, at the moment of disappearance. The + effect of throwing a hot stone into water is to disintegrate it + completely.—Jer. 51:61-64; Ex. 15:5; Neh. 9:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, Thus + with violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down, [And + shall be found no more at all.]</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The masses of the people, no longer ignorantly stupid + as during the Dark Ages, will awaken to the true situation, and + will execute upon Babylon the Great—already repudiated by the + Lord—the judgment foretold. She shall be cast like a great + millstone into the sea, never to rise again. The sea represents the + masses of the people, especially a restless opposition + class.”</span> (Z. '13-343.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The fact is + the world has outgrown the redhot and peppery dishes that suited + the last generation, and it is quite beyond the power of a very few + solemn gentlemen to produce a reaction.”</span>—D. 110; Jer. + 51:64.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there shall be no more found in her the voice of harpers, and + musicians, and of pipers, and trumpeters.</span></span>—Those able + to make melody and harmony out of the Scriptures.—Isa. 24:8; Ezek. + 26:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">IT shall be + heard no more at all in thee.</span></span>—Even now + Ecclesiasticism is entirely unable to supply any explanation of + either Ezekiel or Revelation, or to understand the one that is + supplied.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And no + craftsman, [of whatsoever craft he be,] shall be found any more in + thee; [And the sound of a millstone shall be heard no more at all + in thee].</span></span>—God is the great craftsman. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“We are laborers together with God: ye are <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page288">[pg 288]</span><a name="Pg288" id="Pg288" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> God's husbandry, ye are God's building. + According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise + master-builder, I have laid the foundation and another buildeth + thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth + thereupon.”</span>—1 Cor. 3:9, 10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And + the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee;] And the + voice of the Bridegroom and of the Bride.</span></span>—Christ and + His true Church.—Jer. 7:34; 16:9; 25:10; 33:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shall be heard + no more at all in thee.</span></span>—Neither Christ nor His + saintly ones have had anything to say in the affairs of the nominal + church since 1878; nor have they wished to have. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The rejection of Babylon (<span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Christendom’</span>), in 1878, was the rejection of + the mass of professors—the <span class="tei tei-q">‘host,’</span> + as it is termed by Daniel, to distinguish it from the Sanctuary or + Temple class.”</span>—C. 180.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For thy + merchants were the great men of the earth.</span></span>—They said + so, themselves. They have attempted to direct everything from prize + fights up. Rev. Rainsford even tried to run a beer saloon, but was + not able to make it a coin-producer for the church and gave it + up.—Isa. 23:8; 47:15; Rev. 18:3, 11, 15; Ezek. 27:21, 36.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For by thy + sorceries were all nations deceived.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Consider, again, why Babylon is so named. Evidently, + because of her many errors of doctrine, which, mixed with a few + elements of Divine Truth, make great confusion, and because of the + mixed company brought together by the mixed truths and errors. This + sin of holding and teaching error at the sacrifice of truth is one + of which every sect of the church nominal is guilty, without + exception. Where is the sect in which you can obey the Master's + words and let your light shine? We know of none.”</span>—C. 181; + Rev. 17:2; 2 Ki. 9:22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + in her was found the blood of Prophets.</span></span>—They are + accounted as having slain the Prophets because they refuse to heed + them, and to that extent caused them to lay down their lives + needlessly!—Rev. 16:6; 17:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And of + saints.</span></span>—They are accounted as having slain the saints + because they have given no heed to their warnings, and to that + extent caused them to die in vain.—Jer. 51:49.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And of all that + were slain upon the earth.</span></span>—The great European war, + and other wars, are justly laid at the door of the system that has + perpetuated the doctrines of Divine right of clergy and kings; and + it is for this reason that God has decreed her sins must be wiped + out first with symbolical blood (Rev. 14:20), and afterwards with + literal blood in the red sea of anarchy.—Ex. 14:21-28; Isa. + 63:1-6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img297.png"><img src="images/img297.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + The Traveler Inquires The Way To Heaven + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img298.png"><img src="images/img298.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Whom Should We Believe—God Or The Clergy? + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page289">[pg 289]</span><a name= + "Pg289" id="Pg289" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc43" id="toc43"></a> <a name="pdf44" id="pdf44"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 19—The Overthrow Of + Satan's Empire</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">[And] after these + things.</span></span>—After the saints are glorified and present + ecclesiastical systems are destroyed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I heard AS IT + WERE a great voice of much people.</span></span>—The Great + Company.—Rev. 7:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + heaven.</span></span>—The only heavenly-minded ones remaining on + earth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, + Alleluia; Salvation.</span></span>—Deliverance from the Papacy and + other sects has come at last.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And glory, and + honor,] and power [unto the Lord] OF our God.</span></span>—It has + been accomplished not by human power, but by the Wisdom and Power + of God.—Rev. 7:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + true and righteous are Thy judgments.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“God is light, and in Him is no darkness at + all.”</span>—1 John 1:5; Rev. 15:3; 16:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For He hath + judged the great whore.</span></span>—Has executed the judgments + long foretold.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which did + corrupt the earth with her fornication.</span></span>—Her illicit + union with worldly governments.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And hath avenged + the blood of [His] HER servants at her hand.</span></span>—The + millions who have perished in the Great War have been the servants + of Babylon. The direct cause of their slaughter is the doctrine of + the Divine right of the clergy. These have maintained the kings of + Europe on their thrones, falsely telling them they are ruling as + part of Christ's Kingdom. This position has led to the death of all + these millions, and their blood will be required at Babylon's + hand.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + again they said, Alleluia.</span></span>—The more they think it + over, the happier they will become.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And her + smoke.</span></span>—The evidences of her destruction; the + remembrance.—Isa. 34:10; Rev. 14:11; 18:9, 18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Rose up for ever + and ever.</span></span>—Will be recorded in secular history, even + as it is recorded in <span class="tei tei-q">“the Word of God, + which liveth and abideth for ever.”</span>—1 Pet. 1:23.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the [four and] twenty FOUR elders.</span></span>—The + prophecies.—Rev. 4:4, 10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the four + beasts.</span></span>—Infinite Power, Justice, Wisdom and + Love.—Rev. 4:7.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page290">[pg + 290]</span><a name="Pg290" id="Pg290" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Fell down and + worshipped God that sat on the Throne, saying Amen; + Alleluia.</span></span>—The God, the mighty One, here referred to + is the Lord Jesus.—Rev. 5:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [a voice] VOICES.</span></span>—The Little Flock, beyond the + veil.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Came out of the + Throne.</span></span>—They will be <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">in</span></em> the + Throne at that time.—Rev. 3:21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, Praise + our God, all ye His servants.</span></span>—Of the Great Company + class.—Rev. 7:15; Psa. 134:1-3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] ye that + fear Him, [both] small and great.</span></span>—Your deliverance + was wholly due to the Lord. We did what we could to help you, but + it was as nothing. To the Lord belongs all the glory for your + deliverance and ours.—Rev. 11:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I heard as it were the voice of a great + multitude.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“In the Age to + come, when God shall <span class="tei tei-q">‘pour out His Spirit + upon all flesh,’</span> as during the present Age He pours it upon + His <span class="tei tei-q">‘servants and handmaids,’</span> then + indeed all will understand and appreciate the promises now being + grasped by the <span class="tei tei-q">‘little flock’</span>; and + they will rejoice in the obedience and exaltation of the Church, + saying, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Let us be glad and rejoice, and + give honor to God, for the Marriage of the Lamb is come, and His + Wife hath made herself ready.’</span> They will rejoice in the + glorification of the Church, through which blessings will then be + flowing to them; and while they will realize that the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘exceeding great and precious promises’</span> + inherited by the Anointed (Head and Body) are not for them, but + have been fulfilled upon us, they will be blessed by the lesson + illustrated in the Church; and while they run for the blessings + then held out to them, they will profit by the example of the + Church and glorify God on her behalf. But this knowledge will not + bring covetousness; for under the new order of things their calling + to perfect human nature will fully satisfy them, and will seem more + desirable to them than a change of nature.”</span>—A. 86.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And as the voice + of many waters.</span></span>—All mankind.—Rev. 17:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And as the voice + of mighty thunderings.</span></span>—An overwhelming and complete + reaction in favor of the Truth. The <span class="tei tei-q">“seven + thunders”</span> will then be thundering as never before.—Rev. + 10:4; 8:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying, + Alleluia: for [the Lord] God OUR LORD THE Omnipotent + reigneth.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Shows Himself to + be king by subduing His enemies.”</span> (Cook.) Thoroughly + convinced of the greatness of the Lord's power, as all men will be + by the end of the Time of Trouble, they will be glad to entrust all + their interests to His care.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page291">[pg 291]</span><a name="Pg291" id="Pg291" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Let + us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to + Him.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Thy people shall be + willing in the day of Thy power.”</span>—Psa. 110:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For the Marriage + of the Lamb is come.</span></span>—The marriage of men and women is + declared in the Scriptures to be a type of the marriage of Christ + and His Church. (Eph. 5:22-23.) It is a recognized principle that + the antitype is greater than the sum of all the types. The death of + Christ was greater than all the sacrifices throughout the Jewish + Age. Now call to mind that the wedding day is the happiest of every + human being. Think of all the happiness caused by all the weddings + that have ever occurred, and know that the sum total is as nothing + compared to the joy that will pervade the Universe when the festal + day of eternity takes place, and Christ and His Bride are made + one.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And His + Wife.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Bride represents + <span class="tei tei-q">‘all who have believed up to the + commencement of the Millennium. These alone are the mystical Body + of Christ. But after they are completed, at the Second Advent the + earth will be peopled by the <span class="tei tei-q">“nations of + the saved”</span> in flesh and blood,—a totally different party + from the then glorified Bride.’</span> ”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Hath made + herself ready.</span></span>—The witnessing to the world during the + present Age is quite secondary and incidental to the Church's more + important work of making herself ready.—F. 608; T. 115; Matt. + 22:1-14; 25:1; 2 Cor. 11:2; Eph. 5:27; Rev. 21:2, 9; John 3:29; + Cant., all; Psa. 45:10-14; Matt. 9:15; Mark 2:19; Lu. 12:36.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, BRIGHT + AND clean and white.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘She shall be brought unto + the King in raiment of needle work’</span> (Psa. 45:14)—in the + simple white robe of her Lord's own furnishing, the robe of His + righteousness, upon which she will have wrought, with much + carefulness, the beautiful adornments of the Christian graces. And + great will be the rejoicing in Heaven and in earth at her abundant + entrance into the King's palace.—2 Pet. 1:5-8, 11.”</span>—C. + 193.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For the fine + linen is the righteousness of saints.</span></span>—Here and there + throughout the Scriptures are keys which unlock its mysteries. + (Rev. 3:18; Psa. 132:9.) This is the key to several otherwise + obscure passages.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he.</span></span>—The faithful and wise Servant to whom the custody + of all the things in His Storehouse was especially promised by the + Lord of the Harvest.—Luke 12:42-44; Rev. 3:14; 1:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saith unto me, + write.</span></span>—To representatives of the John class, + commissioned to write something of encouragement to the Church + after he himself had ceased to write.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page292">[pg 292]</span><a name="Pg292" id="Pg292" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Blessed are they + which are called unto the [marriage] supper of the + Lamb.</span></span>—The Marriage Supper (Lu. 14:15) will be like + all the other feasts the Church has had, not of physical food, but + of truths Divine. That will be the time when the Lord, the Head of + the family, will explain to us every part of every verse in all His + Holy Word. We shall have perfect memories then, in which to + treasure every word He utters, and perfect bodies, too, in which to + perform to the full all God's holy will. We have the will to do it + now. We have tried to understand His Word, and tried to help others + to understand it; but the best we could do was far from perfect. + The Lord, in His love and mercy, has accepted our best endeavors + here as evidence of our worthiness for the perfect opportunities + that await us. <span class="tei tei-q">“Ultimately the full number + purposed by the great Householder will have been called, accepted, + and found worthy through Christ to have a place at that table—to + share in that great Feast. (Matt. 22:1-10.) At that feast, we are + assured, will be a secondary company, not worthy to be of the Bride + class. These may be figuratively styled the bridesmaids, the Great + Company class; for after the account of the gathering of the Bride + we have the Lord's message to these subsequently delivered from + Babylon, saying, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Blessed are they that are + called to the marriage supper of the Lamb.’</span> You can imagine + the honors and joys of that great banquet!”</span>—Z. '14-74.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And he saith + unto me, These MY TRUE SAYINGS, are the [true] sayings of + God.</span></span>—</p> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">Ascend, + beloved, to His joy;</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Thy festal day has come;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">To-night the Lamb doth feast His + own,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">To-night He with His Bride sits + down,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">To-night puts on the spousal + crown,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">In the great Upper Room.</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I fell at his feet to worship him.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“If there come to any of us a thought of doing homage + to the Lord's messengers or servants it would be our duty to fully + recognize that God alone, however much He may use human + instrumentalities in conveying His blessings, is to be honored and + reverenced and appreciated as the Author and Giver of every good + and perfect gift.—James 1:17.”</span>—Z. '07-105; Rev. 22:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And he said unto + me, See thou do it not.</span></span>—But Satan said to the Lord, + <span class="tei tei-q">“All these things will I give thee, if Thou + wilt fall down and worship me.”</span> (Matt. 4:9.) When Papacy did + this, Satan was true to his promise. By resorting to worldly forms, + customs and entertainments all the daughters have followed the + example of the mother.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page293">[pg + 293]</span><a name="Pg293" id="Pg293" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I am thy + fellowservant.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“St. John in + his humility forgets his own share in imparting the revelation; and + the Angel in his humility brings this to light (Acts 10:25, + 26).”</span>—Cook; Acts 14:14, 15; Rev. 22:9; Rom. 1:1; Phil. 1:1; + Tit. 1:1; 2 Pet. 1:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And of [thy] THE + brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship + God.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Whose servants we both + are; of Whose prophetic Spirit we alike partake in this our common + ministry; and therefore one of us may not worship the + other.”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For the + testimony of Jesus is the spirit of + prophecy.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“All Christians, in + every age, who can receive and understand prophecy, have this + spirit.”</span> (Cook; 1 Cor. 12:13.) However, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The design of prophecy is to bear testimony to Jesus. + This is its great and ultimate end. The word prophecy here seems to + be used in the large sense in which it is often employed in the New + Testament—meaning to make known the divine will, and the primary + reference here would seem to be to the preachers and teachers of + the New Testament. The sense is, that their grand business is to + bear testimony to the Saviour. They are all appointed for this, and + therefore should regard themselves as <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘fellow-servants.’</span> Thus understood, this passage + has no direct reference to the prophecies of the Old Testament, and + teaches nothing in regard to their design, though it is in fact + undoubtedly true that their grand and leading object was to bear + testimony to the future Messiah.”</span>—Barnes; Rev. 12:17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw heaven opened.</span></span>—The hidden things of God as + recorded in the Seventh Volume of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Studies In The + Scriptures</span></span>.—Rev. 11:19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And behold a + white horse.</span></span>—Teachings which, however unpalatable to + Churchianity, are nevertheless the truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And He that sat + upon him was called Faithful.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The faithful and true Witness.”</span>—Rev. 3:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + True.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“He that is holy, He + that is true.”</span>—Rev. 3:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And in + righteousness He doth judge and make + war.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“While the Lord forbids + His people to fight with carnal weapons, and while He declares + Himself to be a God of peace, a God of order and of love, He also + declares Himself to be a God of justice, and shows that sin shall + not forever triumph in the world, but that it shall be punished. + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, saith the + Lord.’</span> (Rom. 12:19; Deut. 32:35.) And when He rises up to + judgment against the nations, taking vengeance upon all the wicked, + He declares Himself <span class="tei tei-q">‘a man of war’</span> + and <span class="tei tei-q">‘mighty in battle,’</span> and having a + <span class="tei tei-q">‘great army’</span> at His command.—Exod. + 15:3; Psa. 24:8; 45:3; Isa. 11:4; Joel 2:11.”</span>—D. + 549.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page294">[pg + 294]</span><a name="Pg294" id="Pg294" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">His + eyes were [as] a flame of fire.</span></span>—The Lord's Wisdom + sees that the time has come for the destruction of present + iniquitous systems.—Rev. 1:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And on His head + were many crowns.</span></span>—The right to rule all the kingdoms + of the earth.—Ezek. 21:27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And He had a + name written, that no man knew, but He Himself.</span></span>—This + new name is to be also the name of the Church, His Bride. Possibly + it has not yet been revealed.—Rev. 2:17; 3:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He was clothed with a vesture [dipped in] SPRINKLED WITH + blood.</span></span>—A reference to His faithfulness even unto + death, and a hint to His Body what to expect shortly.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And His name + [is] HATH BEEN called the Word of God.</span></span>—In this + picture He is represented as coming, not as the Messenger of the + Covenant, but in <span lang="el" class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang= + "el"><span style="font-style: italic">apokalupsis</span></span>, + revealment as earth's rightful King.—John 1:1; Rev. 1:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the armies which were in heaven.</span></span>—All the armies of + Rev. 7:5-8, the Little Flock, whether on this side of the veil or + on the other.—Rev. 17:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Followed + Him.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The sheep follow Him: + for they know His voice. And a stranger will they not + follow.”</span>—John 10:4, 5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Upon white + horses.</span></span>—Teachings clean and pure.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Clothed in fine + linen, white and clean.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + righteousness of saints.”</span>—Rev. 19:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + out of His mouth goeth a sharp sword.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Our examination, in a preceding volume, of the great + difference in character between the Kingdom of God and the beastly + kingdoms of earth, prepares us to see also a difference in modes of + warfare. The methods of conquest and breaking will be widely + different from any which have ever before overthrown nations. He + who now takes His great power to reign is shown in symbol as the + One whose sword went forth out of His mouth, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘that with it He should smite the nations; and He shall + rule them with a rod of iron.’</span> That sword is the Truth (Eph. + 6:17).”</span>—B. 100; Isa. 11:4; 49:2; 2 Thes. 2:8; Rev. 1:16; + 2:12, 16; 19:21; Hos. 6:5; Heb. 4:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That with it He + should smite the nations.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘He shall smite the earth + with the rod of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips [the + force and spirit of His Truth] shall He slay the wicked.’</span> + (Isa. 11:4; Psa. 98:1.) To no human generalship can the honors of + the coming victory for truth and righteousness be ascribed. Wild + will be the conflict of the angry nations, and world-wide will be + the battlefield and the distress of nations; and no human + Alexander, Cæsar or Napoleon will be found to bring order out of + the <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page295">[pg 295]</span><a name= + "Pg295" id="Pg295" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> dreadful confusion. + But in the end it will be known that the grand victory of justice + and truth, and the punishment of iniquity with its just deserts, + was brought about by the power of the King of kings and Lord of + lords.”</span>—D. 19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And He shall + rule them with a rod of iron.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“In this <span class="tei tei-q">‘Day of + Jehovah,’</span> the <span class="tei tei-q">‘Day of + Trouble,’</span> our Lord takes His great power (hitherto dormant) + and reigns, and this it is that will cause the trouble, though the + world will not so recognize it for some time. That the saints shall + share in this work of breaking to pieces present kingdoms, there + can be no doubt. It is written, <span class="tei tei-q">‘This honor + have all His saints—to execute the judgments written, to bind their + kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron’</span>—of + strength. (Psa. 149:8, 9.) <span class="tei tei-q">‘He that + overcometh, and keepeth My works unto the end, to him will I give + power over the nations, and he shall rule them with a rod of iron; + as the vessels of a potter shall they [the empires] be broken to + shivers.’</span> ”</span>—Rev. 2:26, 27; Psa. 2:8, 9; B. 100.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And He treadeth + the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of THE ANGER OF Almighty + God.</span></span>—The Lord assumes an interest in and + responsibility for the complete series of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Studies In The + Scriptures</span></span>, the last one of which especially + represents the winepress feature (Rev. 14:18-20), but it would be + unreasonable to expect that the Lord would miraculously use + imperfect tools to do an absolutely perfect work and each must use + his judgment as to the value of the interpretations in this book. + Additionally, it should be remarked that the language here is more + intense than in Rev. 14, indicating the extension of the winepress + feature to other than ecclesiastical matters.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He hath on His vesture and on His thigh a name + written.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The thigh is + introduced as the place where the sword (which is not mentioned + here, see ver. 15) is usually found, in accordance with Psa. 45:3: + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Gird Thee with Thy sword upon Thy thigh, O + Most Mighty.’</span> ”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">King of kings + and Lord of lords.</span></span>—Before the controversy aroused by + this book is finished, every person in the world will be convinced + that it marks a distinct step by the Lord in His seizure of Satan's + Empire.—1 Tim. 6:15; Rev. 17:14; Dan. 8:25.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw [an] ANOTHER angel.</span></span>—The Elijah class after the + publication of Volume Seven, <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Studies in the Scriptures</span></span>. See + Rev. 8:3-5; 14:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Standing in the + sun.</span></span>—Resplendent in the light of the Gospel.—Rev. + 12:1; Matt. 13:43.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And he cried + with a loud voice.</span></span>—Fearlessly and plainly declaring + the Truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying to all + the fowls.</span></span>—Birds, Greek.—Matt. 24:28.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page296">[pg 296]</span><a name="Pg296" id="Pg296" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That fly in the + midst of heaven.</span></span>—First to the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“eagles,”</span> the far-sighted ones, the Little + Flock, and then, by extension, to all who live, mentally, on any + plane above the grossly material.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Come [and gather + yourselves] BE GATHERED together unto the GREAT supper of [the + great] God.</span></span>—We should look for applications + appropriate to the symbolical book we are studying, even though it + develop later, as it will, that these passages will have a literal + and terrible fulfilment in a deluge of actual bloodshed, of which + the European War is but a preliminary.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That + ye may eat the flesh of kings.</span></span>—Five of these kings or + rulers are enumerated in Rev. 6:4. Doubtless the reader has eaten + them, in the symbolical sense. They are there to be eaten.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the flesh of + captains.</span></span>—Lesser commanders, enumerated in Rev. + 8:7-12. No doubt the reader has eaten these also.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the flesh of + mighty men.</span></span>—Warriors. These warriors are referred to + in Rev. 9:7, 9, although there mentioned under the name of locusts. + If the reader has not eaten (appropriated, absorbed, digested) the + account, the task should be undertaken at once, or something will + be missed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">That the Lord + made no mistake in selecting the Locust as a symbol of the + Methodist system of blindly following leaders is clear from the + following extract from the works of a traveller: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“While sojourning in Syria I was told that the whole + country round Mt. Lebanon was dismayed one year by the news that a + vast army of marching locusts was coming from the eastern desert. + The governor of the district ordered a regiment of soldiers to aid + the people to construct a great rampart of heath bushes to be set + on fire as the locusts came up to it, hoping thus to save the + gardens of Beyrout. These locusts always hopped straight ahead, + deviating neither to the right nor left, and on coming to a house + went up its stone walls, over it and down it, as if it were a level + place, and in such inconceivable numbers that an American resident + described the noise of the great host passing over the roof as like + to that of a tremendous hailstorm. At every green leaf on the way + each took a bite, and then went on for the next one to take his + bite, until in an incredibly short time not a green thing could be + seen. When they reached the prepared heaps of heath, and these were + set on fire, the locusts marched on without pausing, until in a + brief time they put the bonfires completely out. As the sea was not + far off everybody hoped that they would take to <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page297">[pg 297]</span><a name="Pg297" id="Pg297" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> surf bathing. And so they did. Just as + certain injurious political crowds among us can always be always + depended upon to march up to the polls and vote the straight + ticket, when the vanguard reached the waves, like all good true + locusts, in they hopped, followed by all the rest, till the billows + seemed to roll only grasshoppers; nor did the scene end until the + last of the rear guard had skipped over the heaps of his dead + comrades to make his last jump into the blue waters of the + Mediterranean.”</span>—Jer. 51:64.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the flesh of + horses.</span></span>—Did you not see the horses in Rev. 9:17, 18, + and did you not eat them, fire, jacinth, brimstone and all?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And of them that + sit on them.</span></span>—Did we not find two hundred millions of + these horsemen, and did you not eat them?—See Rev. 9:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the flesh of + all men, both free and bond, both small and + great.</span></span>—And did we not find all the rest of the men + included in Rev. 9:20, 21, and did we not eat them in the same + manner? We did, indeed. We ate or appropriated the truth concerning + them. It is our eating of these truths that lead to the events next + narrated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw the beast.</span></span>—The Papacy restored to power. + Weymouth's New Testament in Modern Speech translates this verse as + follows, and adds a footnote that the <span class="tei tei-q">“once + for all,”</span> though not expressed in the Greek, is implied in + the aorist tense of the verb: <span class="tei tei-q">“And I saw + the Wild Beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, all + assembled to make war, once for all, against the Rider upon the + horse and against His army.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the kings of + the earth.</span></span>—Called to the war by demons. (Rev. + 16:13-16.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The kings of the earth set + themselves [in opposition], and the rulers [not knowing that they + are fighting against the establishment of the Lord's Kingdom], take + counsel together against the Lord and against His Anointed, [but] + He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh; the Lord shall have + them in derision.”</span>—Psa. 2:2, 4; D. 52.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And their + armies.</span></span>—Their following, Civil, Social, + Ecclesiastical and Financial.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Gathered + together to make war.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + war,”</span> Greek.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Against Him that + sat on the horse, and against His army.</span></span>—Although + composed of the twelve symbolical tribes (Rev. 19:14; 7:4-8) they + are, after all, but one army, all <span class="tei tei-q">“One in + Christ Jesus.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“Let it be seen that + the best and the worst of earth's nations are but <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘kingdoms of this world,’</span> whose lease of power + from God is now expired, that they may give place to their ordained + successor, the Kingdom of Messiah, the Fifth Universal Empire of + earth (Dan. <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page298">[pg + 298]</span><a name="Pg298" id="Pg298" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + 2:44; 7:14, 17, 27)—and it will do much to establish truth and to + overthrow error. But as it is, the actions of Papacy in this + regard, sanctioned by the Protestant Reformers, go unquestioned + among Christian people. And since they should uphold the Kingdom of + Christ, they feel themselves called to the aid of the present + falling kingdoms of so-called Christendom—to the side of the + kingdoms of this world, and the prince of this world, rather than + to the side of the coming true Kingdom of Christ.”</span>—A. 270; + Rev. 16:16; 17:13, 14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the beast was taken.</span></span>—The Papacy was caught. (Jer. + 50:43-46.) No doubt the publication of this book has come at a time + unfavorable to the schemes of Papacy and will interfere greatly + with its efforts at re-establishment—Rev. 17:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And with him the + false prophet that wrought miracles before him.</span></span>—The + Image of the Beast.—Rev. 13:11, 13, 14 15; 14:9, 11; 15:2; 16:2, + 13; 19:20; 20:10; Matt. 24:24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With which he + deceived them that had received the mark of the + beast.</span></span>—Catholics.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And them that + worshipped his image.</span></span>—Protestants.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">These + both.</span></span>—Both of these <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">systems</span></em>, not the people.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Were cast + alive.</span></span>—While they are still organized and + operative.—H. 59.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Into a lake of + fire burning with brimstone.</span></span>—Into the complete and + everlasting destruction, of the anarchy (symbolized by fire) of the + Time of Trouble. This utter destruction of these systems is the + beginning of the annihilation of everything out of harmony with + God's righteous arrangements. It was typified by the valley of + Gehenna, just outside of Jerusalem. By the aid of brimstone the + bodies of specially detestable criminals were there burned with the + other refuse of Jerusalem. Standing upon the edge of this valley at + night it had the appearance of a lake burning with fire and + brimstone. Burning brimstone is the most deadly agent known, and + symbolizes utter destructiveness.—Dan. 7:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the remnant.</span></span>—The <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">people</span></em> + who are left after their <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">systems</span></em> are destroyed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Were slain with + the sword of Him that sat upon the horse.</span></span>—Will, in + due time, come into loving and cheerful submission to the + truth.—Rev. 19:15; 2 Cor. 10:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which sword + proceeded out of His mouth.</span></span>—All should be able to see + that it is not a literal sword that is here referred to.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And all the + fowls were filled with their flesh.</span></span>—See Rev. + 19:18.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page299">[pg 299]</span><a name= + "Pg299" id="Pg299" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc45" id="toc45"></a> <a name="pdf46" id="pdf46"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 20—The Thousand Years' + Reign</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw an Angel come down [from Heaven].</span></span>—The Messenger + of the Covenant at His Second Advent.—Mal. 3:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Having the key + of the [bottomless pit] ABYSS.</span></span>—Only Infinite Wisdom + could provide the key to the solution of present difficulties in + the earth. Here is a system of superstition and crime two thousand + years old, and the praise and service of it ingrained into nearly + every human being. All literature is poisoned with it. Public + opinion is for it. The educated, the refined, the wealthy, the + powerful are all for it and all against any change that would give + the lower strata of society a fair chance. To overcome conditions + like this is a task for Divinity itself.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And a great + chain in His hand.</span></span>—The TRUTH, as contained in the + Seven Volumes of <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Scripture Studies</span></span>. This chain of + Truth has been forged, link by link, over a period of forty years. + Each volume has made it more certain that old systems can never + hope to stand against it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He laid hold on the dragon.</span></span>—The iniquitous system of + civil government which has associated with it the principle of + holding the masses in subjection by preying upon their fears beyond + this life. The subject of special condemnation in this regard, the + masterpiece of Satan, is the old Roman Empire, still living in the + Papacy and the Church-State governments of Europe. This system is + about contemporaneous with the (seven) Times of the Gentiles (2520 + years ending in Oct., 1914), which began in the Fall of 607 B. C., + or, as we would say, at the beginning of 606, Jewish Time. Rome was + already well started on its upward path at that time. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Lucius Tarquinius Priscus, fifth legendary king of + Rome, 616-578 B. C., appointed guardian to the sons of Ancus + Marcius, he succeeded in supplanting them on the throne on their + father's death. He laid out the Circus Maximus, instituted the + great games, built the great sewers, and began the construction of + the temple of Jupiter on the Capitol. He removed from Tarquinii in + Etruria to Rome by the advice of his wife, the prophetess Tanaquil. + Tanaquil was famous for her shrewdness and prophetic gifts, which + enabled her to foretell the future greatness of her + husband.”</span> (Brit.)</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page300">[pg 300]</span><a name="Pg300" id="Pg300" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That old + serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“While the name Old Serpent includes Satan, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘the prince of devils,’</span> it is here + evidently used as a synonym for all the sinful agencies and powers + which had their rise in him.”</span> (S. 32.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Our Lord's declaration that Satan is the great + Adversary, not only of God, but of humanity, is by no means a fancy + sketch, but the plain truth. Satan alone is the wilful, intelligent + plotter and schemer who uses a superhuman intelligence and, so far + as permitted, superhuman powers, in opposing righteousness and + truth and those who are of the Truth. The inspired record asserts, + persistently and consistently, that Satan began the rebellion + against the divine law, and seduced our first parents into + disobedience, through his own ambition for power; and that since + man's fall this same Adversary has been the implacable opponent of + God, of righteousness and of truth; and not only the ensnarer of + mankind, but the opposer of the great Plan of Atonement which God + devised and is prosecuting through Christ. From the Scriptural + account it does not appear that Satan had any sympathizers or + associate conspirators amongst the angels at the time of his + secession and attempt to establish a lordship or dominion of his + own in the earth.”</span>—F. 611.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And bound + him.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“ <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The god of this world has blinded the minds of them + which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, + who is the image of God, should shine unto them.’</span> (2 Cor. + 4:4.) God wills that all should be so saved from all the train of + evils following Adam's sin and curse, that they may come to a + knowledge of the Truth. Why does He will this? To the intent that + having a clear knowledge of the Truth they may make the very best + possible use of the new trial for life secured for them by their + Redeemer's Ransom-sacrifice. It is for the carrying out of this, + God's will, that the Redeemer will inaugurate His Millennial + Kingdom, which will first bind Satan (restrain all outside evil + influences) and then release man from his blindness;—as it is + written, <span class="tei tei-q">‘the eyes of the blind shall be + opened.’</span> (Isa. 35:5.) For the same reason, <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">viz.</span></span>, + that the new trial shall be most favorable for man, it is the + Divine arrangement that its work shall be done gradually and + require a thousand years.”</span> (E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">480</span></span>, + 470.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The Millennial Day is dawning, with + its change of earth's rulership from the control of the + <span class="tei tei-q">‘prince of this world’</span> and his + faithful, to the control of Him <span class="tei tei-q">‘whose + right it is’</span> (by purchase) and His faithful saints. We have + seen that though the result of this change will be a great + blessing; yet the time of the transfer, while the present prince, + the <span class="tei tei-q">‘strong man,’</span> is being bound and + his household driven out of power <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page301">[pg 301]</span><a name="Pg301" id="Pg301" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> (Matt. 12:29), will be a time of intense + trouble.”</span> (C. 341.) <span class="tei tei-q">“In reference to + it Jesus said, <span class="tei tei-q">‘No man can enter into a + strong man's house and spoil his goods, except he will first bind + the strong man, and then he will spoil his house.’</span> (Mark + 3:22-27; Luke 11:22.) This effective binding of Satan is + accordingly shown to be the first work of the New + Dispensation.”</span> (A. 68.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The + Adversary's every deceptive and misleading influence will be + restrained—so that evil shall no longer appear to men to be good, + nor good appear undesirable, evil. Truth shall no longer appear to + men untrue, nor falsehoods be caused to appear true.”</span> (D. + 519.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The words of inspiration give us to + understand that Satan's struggles to retain control of mankind will + be especially desperate at its close.”</span>—S. 78.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A thousand + years.</span></span>—The Millennial Day, the Day of the Lord's + rest, following the six thousand years of evil which ended in 1874. + <span class="tei tei-q">“One Day is with the Lord as a thousand + years.”</span> (2 Pet. 3:8; Psa. 90:4.) <span class="tei tei-q">“It + was the claim of the Papacy that the thousand years of Christ's + Reign, the Millennium, promised in Scripture to follow Christ's + Second Advent, began in the year 800 A. D., under Pope Leo III., + who claimed to be the representative of Christ, His vice-gerent, to + begin Christ's Reign in His stead. In that year the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Papal states’</span> were ceded to the Church by + Emperor Charlemagne. Their <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Millennium’</span> ended, it was claimed, in the year + 1799, when Napoleon confiscated the territories granted to the + Church and took the Pope, Pius VI., a captive to France, where he + died. The succeeding freedom from Papal persecution, and the + widespread circulation of the Bible in the languages of the people, + was declared by the Papal leaders to be the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘little season’</span> (Rev. 20:3) to follow the + thousand-year Reign of Christ on earth; and they are hoping that + soon they will regain their former power and prestige and once more + reign supreme, and that their rule will be permanent. This Papal + Millennium is known in history as the <span class="tei tei-q">‘Dark + Ages.’</span> During those dark centuries millions were tortured, + exiled and murdered for refusing to bow to the mandates of the + apostate Church, under the leadership of Popes, Bishops and + priests. Agents and spies were employed to apprehend and bring to + punishment any who were found to express sentiments contrary to the + Papal hierarchy, or who failed to bow in abject submission to their + authority. Thus were the nations of Europe paganized, and steeped + in error and superstition and in reverence for men who falsely + claimed to be the special and authorized representatives of God on + earth. They presumed to have authority to alter the Laws of God + when it seemed advisable to them to do so, and <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page302">[pg 302]</span><a name="Pg302" id="Pg302" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> thought to change the time for the + Reign of Christ as we have shown.”</span> (Dan. 7:25; Z. '16-181; + B. 354.) <span class="tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘Those + who lived next to the Apostles, and the whole Church for 300 years, + understood them [the <span class="tei tei-q">“Thousand + Years”</span>] in the plain literal sense.’</span> According to + Jewish theology, as collected from the Talmud, Messiah is to gather + in from the Dispersion all the scattered descendants of the Tribes, + to discomfit their foreign oppressors, and from Jerusalem as a + centre to rule over the whole earth which is to be a scene of + temporal enjoyment and prosperity. Thus R. Salomon writes: + <span class="tei tei-q">‘It is fixed that the world shall stand for + 6000 years, according to the number of the days of the week; but on + the <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">seventh</span></em> Day is the Sabbath, and + during the <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">seventh</span></em> Millennium the world has + rest.’</span> ”</span>—Cook.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + cast him into the [bottomless pit] ABYSS.</span></span>—Oblivion. + In this instance it signifies Satan's enforced idleness, which will + surely be oblivion for him after the busy time he has had during + the past six thousand years. How small he will feel when he sees + the Lord Jesus undo in one thousand years all that he accomplished + in six thousand!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And shut him up, + and set a seal upon him.</span></span>—The Spirit of Truth in the + hearts of men; the desire to win the favor of earth's new King, + will deprive Satan of all his subjects. All his evil companions, + human and angelic, will be destroyed in the Time of Trouble. Alone, + idle and humiliated constantly for a thousand years, is a + punishment he richly deserves.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That he should + deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be + fulfilled.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Some have become + so deluded by the sophistries of Satan, by which he has deceived + all nations, that they do not believe that there is a God; others + believe in Him as a great and powerful adversary, without love or + sympathy, ready and anxious to torment them to all eternity; others + are confused by the Babel of conflicting reports that have reached + them, concerning the Divine character, and know not what to + believe; and, seeking to draw near unto God, are hindered by their + fears and by their ignorance.”</span> (E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">19</span></span>, + 18.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The trial, or judgment, of the + overcomers of the Christian Dispensation and of the Dispensation + that preceded it, has been much more severe than the trial of the + world will be in its judgment day; for these have had to withstand + Satan, the prince of this world, with all his wiles and + ensnarements, while in the world's judgment day Christ will be + reigning, and Satan will be bound, that he may not deceive the + nations. These have suffered persecution for righteousness' sake, + while then men will be rewarded for <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page303">[pg 303]</span><a name="Pg303" id="Pg303" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> righteousness, and punished only for + unrighteousness. These have had great stumbling blocks and snares + in the way, which will be removed when the world is placed on + trial. But though the trial of these two special companies has been + much more severe than the trial of the world will be, the rewards + are correspondingly greater.”</span>—A. 146.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] after that + he must be loosed a little season.</span></span>—To see who are in + heart harmony with the Lord's will, and who are governed by other + motives. As evil will be bound by the prompt infliction of + punishment upon the would-be evil-doer, so we may presume it will + be loosed by allowing evil deeds to go temporarily unpunished.—Rev. + 20:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw thrones, and they sat upon them.</span></span>—The thrones of + present earthly kingdoms.—Z. '82-3-6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And judgment was + given unto them.</span></span>—Judicial sentence was passed upon + them as unfit to longer continue. (Z. '82-3-6.) This word is + rendered condemnation in Luke 23:40; Jas. 3:1; Jude 4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I saw the + souls.</span></span>—Persons, beings.—Z. '82-3-6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of them that + were beheaded for the witness of Jesus.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“All constituting the Kingdom class are here referred + to as beheaded. The Apostle gives us the key, saying. <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘The Head of every man is Christ; the head of the woman + is the man; and the Head of Christ is God.’</span> (1 Cor. 11:3.) + As a woman who becomes a wife accepts her husband as the head of + the family (loses her name, her individuality, to become his + bride), so the Church accepts Christ as her Head, and each member + of the Church thus comes into relationship with the Lord as a + member of His Body. It is required of every one who would be + counted in as a member of the true Church, that he should be not + only beheaded (lose his self-will), but that he shall be united to + the true Head of the Church and recognize himself as a member of + the true Body of Christ—<span class="tei tei-q">‘the Church of the + living God, whose names are written in Heaven.’</span> ”</span>—Z. + '01-227; Rev. 1:9; 19:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And for the word + of God.</span></span>—On account of the Word of God and by means of + it. We are <span class="tei tei-q">“Begotten by the Word of + Truth,”</span> and to live in fullest harmony with its every + precept, at any cost to the flesh, is the distinguishing + peculiarity of the overcoming Church of God. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Only now are Bible students beginning to emerge from + under the great cloud of false doctrine which for fifteen hundred + years has misrepresented God and the Bible, putting darkness for + light. Only now can Bible study be prosecuted in its true spirit, + without the fear of man, which brings a snare. Only now is there + general education, which permits of Bible study in this true sense. + Only now have we the convenient <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page304">[pg 304]</span><a name="Pg304" id="Pg304" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> Bible, cheap and in every home. Only now have + we more leisure and opportunity for Bible study. Only now have we + good light by which to study.”</span>—Z. '13-366.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And which] IF + ANY THEREFORE had not worshipped the beast, neither his + image.</span></span>—See Rev. 13:13-18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Neither had + received his mark upon their [foreheads, or in their hands] + FOREHEAD AND ON THEIR HAND.</span></span>—In years to come millions + will be surprised to know that they had these marks of assent and + service to Satan's empire. <span class="tei tei-q">“The gospel of + Satan is not a system of revolutionary principles, nor yet a + programme of anarchy. It does not inspire wars and strife, but + peace and security. It does not set the mother against her daughter + and the father against his son, but promotes the fraternal spirit + whereby the race is regarded as one great Brotherhood. It does not + seek to drag down and degrade the natural man, but to improve and + uplift him. To use a popular phrase, it appeals to <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘the best, all that is good within us.’</span> It aims + to make this world such a comfortable and congenial habitat that + the absence of Christ will not be felt and God will not be needed. + It endeavors to make men so satisfied with this life that they + shall be totally indifferent to the life hereafter. It propagates + the principles of self-sacrifice, mercy, charity and benevolence, + teaching men to live for the good of others and to be kind to all. + For those who observe its conditions and obey its commands, it + promises the development of certain inherent occult powers, the + solution of the more recondite problems of man's constitution and + the accumulation of esoteric knowledge which is withheld from the + multitude. In short, it declares that all who will eat of the + forbidden fruit shall <span class="tei tei-q">‘be as gods.’</span> + The gospel of Satan is one of works. The Devil's Delusion is that + we can be saved by our own works, and justified by our own deeds. + Whereas God tells us, <span class="tei tei-q">‘By grace are ye + saved through faith, ... not of works, lest any man should + boast.’</span> And again, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Not by works of + righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He + saved us.’</span>—Eph. 2:8, 9; Tit. 3:5.”</span>—Z. '16-42.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] they BOTH + lived and reigned with Christ.</span></span>—See Rom. 8:17; 2 Tim. + 2:12; Rev. 5:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A thousand + years.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The loss of this hope + by our forefathers led on to all the grievous errors from which we + are now seeking to escape. Do we not still pray, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is + done in Heaven?’</span> The Messiah's coming Kingdom is the key to + the world's blessing by Restitution back to human perfection in a + world-wide Eden.”</span>—Pastor Russell. Observe how many times + this period is mentioned in Rev. 20:2-7.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page305">[pg 305]</span><a name="Pg305" id="Pg305" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[But + the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were + finished.]</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“These words are + not found in the oldest and most reliable Greek MSS., the Sinaitic, + Vatican Nos. 1209 and 1160, nor the Syriac MS. However, the + repudiation of this clause is not essential to the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Plan’</span> as herein set forth; for the rest of the + dead—the world at large—will not live again in the full sense, in + the perfect sense that Adam lived before he sinned and came under + the sentence <span class="tei tei-q">‘dying thou shalt die.’</span> + Perfect life without weakness or dying is the only sense in which + God recognizes the word life. From His standpoint all the world has + already lost life, is dying, and might now be more properly + described as dead than as alive.”</span>—2 Cor. 5:14; Matt. + 8:22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The word resurrection (Greek, <span lang="el" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">anastasis</span></span>) signifies + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">raising + up</span></span>. As related to man, it signifies raising up man to + that condition from which he fell, to full perfection of + manhood—the thing lost through Adam. The process of resurrection + will be a gradual one, requiring the entire Age for its full + accomplishment; though the mere awakening to a measure of life and + consciousness, as at present enjoyed, will of course be a momentary + work. And since anything short of perfect life is a condition of + partial death, it follows that, although the above words are no + part of the inspired record, it would be strictly true to say that + the rest of the dead will not live again (will not regain the + fulness of life lost) until the thousand years of restitution and + blessing are complete.”</span>—A. 288.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">This is the + First Resurrection.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It is + impossible for the tongue to describe this great honor and + dignity.”</span>—1 Cor. 2:9; Pastor Russell.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Blessed and holy is he that hath part in + the First Resurrection.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘We shall be like Him [the + glorified <span class="tei tei-q">“changed”</span> Jesus], for we + shall see Him <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">as He is</span></em>.’</span> He is a Spirit + Being, <span class="tei tei-q">‘the <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">express image of + the Father's person</span></em>,’</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘far above angels, principalities and powers, and every + name that is named,’</span> and hence, far above perfect manhood. + If we shall be like Him and share His glory and His nature, it + means that we too shall be images of the Father's person, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘whom no <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">man</span></em> + hath seen nor can see, dwelling in light which no <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">man</span></em> can + approach unto;’</span> but to whom we can approach and whom we can + see as He is, because we have been <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘changed.’</span> (1 John 3:2; 1 Tim. 6:16, 1:17; Exod. + 33:20.) Lest any should misunderstand him, the Apostle guards the + above language by adding, <span class="tei tei-q">‘As <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">we</span></em> [the + Church] have borne the image of the earthly [one], <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">we</span></em> + shall also bear the image of the Heavenly [One].’</span> It is not + the Apostle's thought that all shall bear the image of the Heavenly + One, in this sense, ever. Such <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page306">[pg 306]</span><a name="Pg306" id="Pg306" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> was not the design of our Creator. When He + made man He designed to have a <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">fleshly</span></em>, + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">human + earthly</span></em> being, in His own likeness [mentally, morally], + to be the lord and ruler of the earth, as the representative of His + Heavenly Creator.”</span> (Gen. 1:26-28; Psa. 8:4-7; F. 722.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“If we know how to reproduce the human + voice, it gives us a little illustration of how God, with His + unlimited Power, can preserve everything recorded by the + convolutions of our brain, and of how these could be preserved in + the future absolutely—everything by which we could know ourselves + in the future.”</span>—Z. '14-315.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">On such the + Second Death hath no power.</span></span>—Aside from the Father and + the Son, these are the only ones in the Universe that will forever + be beyond the possibility of death.—Rev. 2:11; Rom. 2:7; 1 Tim. + 6:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But they shall + be priests.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The antitypical + consecrating of the antitypical priests is confined to the present + Gospel Age. It has progressed steadily since our Lord and + Forerunner <span class="tei tei-q">‘offered up Himself’</span>—and + will be complete before this Age has fully ended. And if we fail to + be among the priests now, during the time of consecration, we + cannot be of them when they begin their service for the people in + the Kingdom, when these same priests (now despised of men, but a + <span class="tei tei-q">‘sweet savor to God’</span>) will have the + title of King added, and will, with their Head, Jesus, rule and + bless all nations.”</span>—T. 47; 1 Pet. 2:9; Rev. 1:6; 5:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of God and of + Christ.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“No mention is made + here of being priests of the Holy Ghost as it would undoubtedly + have been mentioned if it had been the third person of the + <span class="tei tei-q">‘trinity.’</span> ”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And shall reign + with Him a thousand years.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The <span class="tei tei-q">‘kingdoms of this + world,’</span> even while being crushed by the Kingdom of God, will + be quite ignorant of the real cause of their downfall,—until, in + the close of this <span class="tei tei-q">‘day of wrath,’</span> + the eyes of their understanding shall open, so that they will see + that a New Dispensation has dawned, and learn that Immanuel has + taken to Himself His great power, and has begun His glorious and + righteous Reign.”</span>—C. 129; Rev. 20:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And when the + thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his + prison.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It will be for only + a little season; for, his heart remaining unchanged, he will soon + see a new avenue to the success of his long-cherished ambition. He + will see not merely a perfect human pair with power to produce a + mighty race destined to live forever, but a race restored to life + and vigor. His thought will be, <span class="tei tei-q">‘If I can + win this mighty race to my standard, my triumph and exaltation will + be speedily accomplished.’</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page307">[pg 307]</span><a name="Pg307" id="Pg307" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> Again, therefore, he will figure as a leader, + though, as now, unrecognized by men. Doubtless the temptation will + again rest upon his old doctrine—that they shall not surely die, + even if they do disregard the will of God.”</span>—Z. '94-251.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + shall go out to deceive all the nations.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“At the close of the Millennial Age there will be a + 'harvest' time, for sifting and separating amongst the billions of + human beings then living, each of whom will have enjoyed a full + opportunity of attaining perfection. The Harvest of the Millennial + Age will witness the complete separation of the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘goats’</span> from the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘sheep.’</span> ”</span> (D. 644.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“While the blessing of the Lord will provide an + abundance for all, nevertheless we may safely assume that the + provision will be in the hands of their fellows. It will be the + 'sheep' that will be especially interested in, praying for and + preparing for, those who are in the great prison-house of death. + And by so engaging their time and energy these <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘sheep’</span> will be manifesting a purpose, a will, + in harmony with that of the Creator. (John 5:28, 29.) Any one not + interested in that work will be lacking in God's Spirit; and this + is what is charged against the goat-class.”</span>—Z. '14-268.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Which are] in + the four [quarters of the earth] CORNERS, Gog.</span></span>—Proud + (Gog means high), Natural Israelites. (1 Chr. 5:3, 4.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘Ye [proud and unfaithful + Jews] shall see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the Prophets in + the Kingdom of God [the earthly phase], and ye yourselves thrust + out,’</span> (Luke 13:28).”</span>—Z. '07-302.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + Magog.</span></span>—Those who, during the Gospel Age, were nominal + Spiritual Israelites, but at heart were never anything but + <span class="tei tei-q">“tares”</span> and always remain such. + Magog was the descendant of Japheth. (Gen. 10:2.) Europe was + peopled by his descendants, and it was to them that the Gospel call + of the Age now ending was by Divine appointment sent. (Acts 16:6, + 9.) The Gospel was sent into Europe that it might be demonstrated + that God could call and make into Christlike characters + representatives of even the most cruel, bloodthirsty, quarrelsome, + rapacious people on earth. Such they are. Japan is proof that + contact with Europeans will in a generation transform a contented, + peace-loving people into a people of unbounded ambition, imbued + with the spirit of the very Devil.—Ezek. 38:2; 39:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">AND to gather + them together to battle.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“When at the close of the Millennial Age all the + obedient of mankind shall have attained all that was lost in Adam + and redeemed by Christ—then all, armed with complete knowledge and + experience, and hence fully able to stand the test, will be tested + severely (as was Adam), but individually, and only <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page308">[pg 308]</span><a name="Pg308" id="Pg308" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> those found in fullest heart-sympathy, + as well as in outward harmony, with God and His righteous + arrangements, will be permitted to go beyond the Millennium into + the everlasting future or <span class="tei tei-q">‘world [age] + without end.’</span> All others will be destroyed in the Second + Death.”</span> (E. <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">418</span></span>, 402.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“We read, regarding that testing, that Satan will + endeavor to lead astray all mankind, whose numbers will then be as + the sand of the sea for multitude; but that many of them will + choose evil and disobedience, with past experience before them, and + unhampered by present weaknesses and blinding influences, we do not + suppose.”</span>—H. 62.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they went up on the breadth of the + earth.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Building upon a + supposed weakness in the Divine character, these may be led to try + to take advantage of the grace (favor) of God, and to use it as a + license for wilful sin.”</span>—H. 62.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And compassed + the camp of the saints about.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Just as in Great Britain, the people have gone to + Parliament to protest, so the rebellious faction of mankind will + protest against their faithful princes. The separation of the + Ancient Worthies from the rest of the world seems to imply that God + has some special purpose in respect to them. The term camp itself + implies that theirs is only a temporary condition or arrangement, + and that God has some better thing in store for them.”</span> (Z. + '13-53.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The noble work of elevating the + race by sure and steady steps (under the direction of the unseen + spiritual members of the Kingdom) is the high honor to which the + Ancient Worthies are appointed, and for which they will come forth + prepared soon after the final wreck of the kingdoms of this + world.”</span> (A. 291.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Israel as a + nation will be the first among the nations to come into harmony + with the new order of things; the earthly Jerusalem will be rebuilt + upon her old heaps; and their polity will be restored as in the + beginning under princes or judges. (Isa. 1:26; Psa. 45:16; Jer. + 30:18.)”</span> (A. 294.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Abraham, Isaac + and Jacob and all the Prophets”</span> and Ancient Worthies + referred to by our Lord and by the Apostles (Matt. 8:11; Heb. + 11:4-40), having passed their trial, will be awakened from death + perfect.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Just as Adam, while perfect, before transgression, + could commune direct with the Heavenly powers, so will these + Worthies commune, when restored to the same state of + perfection.”</span> (D. 619.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The veil + which Moses wore before the people, but laid off when with the Lord + in the Mount would seem to typify the earthly phase of his Kingdom, + the <span class="tei tei-q">‘princes in all the + earth,’</span> ”</span> (D. 630.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The + friendship of David and Jonathan seems to be suggestive of that + beautiful accord which shall exist between the glorified + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page309">[pg 309]</span><a name= + "Pg309" id="Pg309" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> Church and the + earthly princes who shall be next to them in the Kingdom of God. + Each will be delighted to fill his honored place in the wonderful + Plan of God, and will love the other as his own soul.”</span> (Z. + '95-291.) <span class="tei tei-q">“As we consider the heavens, the + work of God's hands, and the innumerable worlds therein under + preparation for inhabitants, we may reasonably suppose that these + Ancient Worthies, who were faithful during the reign of evil, even + unto death, will have some further honorable service, not only + during the Millennial Age, but subsequently. For various reasons, + therefore, we rank them higher in honor than the Great + Company.”</span> (Z. '04-313.) <span class="tei tei-q">“These + Ancient Worthies will be unlike the remainder of mankind, not alone + in the fact that their trial is past while the trial of the world + in general will just be beginning; but they will be unlike them + also in the fact that they will have attained the reward of their + faithfulness—they will be perfect men. When Abraham, Isaac, Jacob + and all the Ancient Worthies have been resurrected, and shall + appear amongst the regathered Israelites, their perfect minds will + quickly grasp present-day knowledge and inventions. (John 7:15.) + And as Jesus taught the people positively, definitely, clearly, and + not doubtfully and in a confused way, as did the scribes, so it + will be with the perfected Ancient Worthies, when they appear + amongst men.”</span>—D. 625.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Isa. 11:10 points us to the Millennial Day, and + another root of Jesse, as connected with the blessing of the + Gentiles. This latter seed seems to be referred to also in Heb. + 11:39, 40. The Ancient Worthies shall not only be the princes, the + representatives of the spiritual, invisible Kingdom, but also grand + ensigns or standards set up before mankind, as illustrations of + what all mankind may attain unto.”</span> (Z. '98-312.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“The painful experiences of the Ancient + Worthies during the Jewish age will be a store of blessings, + instruction and help, by which they, when made subordinate + <span class="tei tei-q">‘princes’</span> in the Kingdom, will + assist in the restitution work.”</span> (T. 111.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“While the Worthies are not in any sense part of the + Sin-Offering, they are nevertheless connected with the cleansing + from sin: their ashes (the knowledge and remembrance of their + faithfulness unto death), mingled with the water of Truth, and + applied with the purgative, cleansing hyssop, is valuable, + purifying, sanctifying.”</span> (T. 108.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The service which the Ancient Worthies will be given + will be more than God would ordinarily entrust to a perfect human + being. It will be a part of this service to deal with the + imperfect, fallen creatures and to help them up out of sin and + imperfection. While in one sense of the word this work is + desirable, <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page310">[pg + 310]</span><a name="Pg310" id="Pg310" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + yet it is not what a perfect human being would prefer. These + Ancient Worthies will come forth from the tomb perfect; but during + the entire Millennium they will be amidst imperfect + surroundings.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“A part of the evidence that the Ancient Worthies will + be made sharers of the spirit nature and become members of the + Great Company class is built upon the fact that they seem to be + represented typically by the tribe of Levi. The fact that this + tribe had no inheritance in the land seems to imply that the + Ancient Worthies will have no earthly inheritance. Since the + Heavenly Father has been pleased to arrange for the Great Company a + place on the spirit plane, and since He is operating according to + some general principles of righteousness, we are inclined to think + that He may have something more for the Ancient Worthies than will + come to the remainder of mankind. When Abraham was called upon to + offer up his son Isaac, he exhibited a degree of loyalty greater + than the Great Company will be called upon to manifest. + Furthermore, in Gen. 17:8, God said unto Abraham, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘And I will give unto thee and to thy seed after thee, + the land wherein thou art a stranger, all the land of Canaan, for + an everlasting possession; and I will be their God.’</span> Two + thousand years later, St. Stephen said that God never gave Abraham + so much as a foot of the promised land (Acts 7:6); but he implied + that Abraham will yet receive that land and afterward leave it to + his posterity. If the land is to be given to Abraham and his + coadjutors, and then to be left to his seed and mankind in general, + the thought would seem to be implied that the Ancient Worthies will + pass to the spirit nature.”</span>—Z. '13-52.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘O Jerusalem, lift up thy + voice with strength! [After the Church, the Bride, has been + glorified with the Lord, the faithful ones of the fleshly seed of + Abraham will begin to come into prominence before the world by + reason of the leaders whom God will then raise up for them.] Lift + it up, be not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah [all who shall + then be in covenant relationship with God], Behold! Your God is + here!’</span> [Thus the message now given by <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘the feet’</span> of Christ—that the Millennial Kingdom + is already beginning its rule (Isa. 52:7)—will be taken up by the + earthly class when the <span class="tei tei-q">‘feet of Him’</span> + have passed beyond the veil.]—Isa. 40:9.”</span>—Z. '92-78.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the beloved + city.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘beloved city’</span> is the New Jerusalem, the Church + in glory, not the Church in the flesh. The rebellion incited by + Satan will be not only against the earthly princes, but also + against The Christ.”</span>—Z. '13-53.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page311">[pg 311]</span><a name="Pg311" id="Pg311" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And fire came + down from God out of Heaven, and devoured them.</span></span>—They + will be instantaneously and mercifully electrocuted, not + tormented.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the devil that deceived them was cast into the Lake of Fire and + Brimstone.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“He is to be + destroyed, together with all his angels—his messengers, all who + follow his leading and his course.—Matt. 25:41; Heb. + 2:14.”</span>—F. 619.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Where the beast + and WHERE the false prophet are.</span></span>—Papacy and the + Protestant Church Federation will have been in destruction a + thousand years at the time this Scripture is fulfilled.—Rev. 13:11, + 13, 14, 15; 14:9, 11; 15:2; 16:2, 13; 19:20; 20:10; Matt. + 24:24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And shall be + tormented day and night for ever and ever.</span></span>—The Seven + Volumes of <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Scripture Studies</span></span> are the + instruments the Lord is using to bring these iniquitous systems to + their end; and so long as these books remain, the torment of these + systems will be in evidence. The systems will cease, but the + <span class="tei tei-q">“Seven Plagues”</span> will continue + forever.—Rev. 14:11; 19:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw a great white Throne.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The whiteness of the Throne indicates the purity of + the justice and judgment which will be meted out.”</span>—B. S. + M.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And Him that sat + on it.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Throne is + Messiah's; it represents His Mediatorial Dominion of earth for a + thousand years.”</span>—B. S. M.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">From whose face + the earth and the heaven fled away, and there was found no place + for them.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The heavens and + earth which will flee from the presence of the great Immanuel will + not be the Heavens of God's Throne, nor the earth which he has + given to the children of men. The heavens and earth which will flee + away, and for which no place will be found, are, of course, the + symbolical ones. The symbolic heavens represent spiritual + influences—Ecclesiasticism, Churchianity. Thus interpreted, our + text declares that when Messiah assumes control of the world, the + result will be that the social system of to-day, as well as + present-day ecclesiasticism, will pass out of existence—no place + will be found for them.”</span> (B. S. M.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘Heaven and earth’</span>: To + our Lord's contemporaries the religious and social system under + which they lived seemed almost as fixed and as eternal as the earth + and sky. Indeed, <span class="tei tei-q">‘heaven and earth’</span> + appears to have been a name which they gave to the then-existing + order of things in recognition of what they deemed its permanence + and fixity.”</span>—Weym.; Rev. 21:1; Dan. 2:35.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw the dead, [small and] BOTH great AND SMALL stand before [God] + THE THRONE.</span></span>—What a grand <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page312">[pg 312]</span><a name="Pg312" id="Pg312" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> privilege is that which awaits <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Him whom man despiseth, Him whom the nation abhorreth, + a servant of rulers,”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“That thou + mayest say to the prisoners [the twenty billions in the + prison-house of death], Go forth; to them that are in [the] + darkness [of the tomb], Show yourselves.”</span> (Isa. 49:7, 9; + Rev. 11:18; 19:5). (The dead are standing while they are dead. See + Rev. 20:5 comments.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the books + were opened.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The books of + the Bible will then all be opened—understood. All will then see + that the Golden Rules laid down by inspiration through Moses and + the Prophets, Jesus and His Apostles, are the very ones which God + will require of men in the future and which Messiah will then + enable the willing and obedient to comply with by assisting them up + out of their sin and degradation.”</span> (B. S. M.) The entire + Word of God will not be opened until after the Church is beyond the + veil. Much of it (perhaps nearly all) will be opened by the Great + Company class during the Time of Trouble, but some of it may wait + for the Prophets themselves. Meantime, all that is necessary for + salvation and service has been provided.—Dan. 7:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And another book + was opened, which is the Book of Life.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“In the great Day of the world's trial or Judgment + another Book of Life will be opened. A record will be made of all + who, by obedience, show themselves worthy of everlasting life on + the human plane.”</span> (B. S. M.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The + First Book of life is called the Lamb's Book of Life, containing + the names of the elect Church, His Bride. This other Book of Life + will be the book, or record, of those who shall pass the + restitutional trial or judgment satisfactorily.”</span>—Z. + '00-239.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the dead + were judged.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“This judgment, + or rulership, cannot begin until Christ, whom Jehovah hath + appointed to be the Judge or Ruler of the world, has come again—not + again in humiliation, but in power and great glory: not again to + redeem the world, but to judge [rule] the world in righteousness. A + trial can in no case proceed until the judge is on the bench and + the court in session at the appointed time.—Matt. 25:31.”</span>—A. + 345.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Out of those + things which were written in the books.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“It is by the Word of the Lord that men are judged + (John 12:48-50); and not by the opinions or precedents of + fellow-men in any capacity. Therefore all should imitate the noble + Bereans who <span class="tei tei-q">‘searched the Scriptures + daily’</span> to see if the things taught them were true. (Acts + 17:11.) <span class="tei tei-q">‘To the Law and to the Testimony; + if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no + light in them.’</span>—See 1 Thes. 5:21; Isa. 8:20.”</span>—D. + 66.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page313">[pg + 313]</span><a name="Pg313" id="Pg313" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">According to + their works.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The judgment of + that time, the test, will not be of faith; for knowledge will be + universal, and all the darkness and obscurity created by ignorance + and superstition will have passed away. The test at that time will + be of works, whereas the tests of the Church at the present time + are of faith.”</span>—B. S. M.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the sea.</span></span>—The masses of mankind, not under religious + restraint—the condition of the whole world in the time of anarchy + due in its full severity in the fall of 1920. See page <a href= + "#Pg178" class="tei tei-ref">178</a>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Gave up the dead + which were in it.</span></span>—Earth's new Ruler will deal first + with those who survive the Time of Trouble, reckoned dead, even + though actually having a small measure of life. When the Lord said, + <span class="tei tei-q">“Let the dead bury their dead”</span> + (Matt. 8:22), He used the same word to describe both classes. Those + under the death sentence are counted by the Lord in the same class + with those upon whom the sentence has been already executed. None + but God's people have <span class="tei tei-q">“passed from death + unto life.”</span> (1 John 3:14.) All the rest of the world, in + God's sight, are dead.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + death.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“From the first, or + Adamic death, a resurrection has been provided. All that are in + their graves shall come forth. It was in view of God's plan for + redeeming the race from that first death that in both the Old and + New Testaments it is called a <span class="tei tei-q">‘<em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">sleep</span></em>.’</span> ”</span>—H. 58.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + hell.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The dark, secret + condition, the grave, which in the present time speaks to us of a + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">hope</span></em> of future life by God's + resurrection power in Christ.”</span>—Z. '10-41.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Delivered up the + dead which were in them.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Thus God tells us through the Prophet, <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘I will ransom them from the power of the grave + [<span class="tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Sheol</span></span>]. I will redeem them from + death.... O grave [<span class="tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Sheol</span></span>] I will be thy + destruction.’</span> (Hos. 13:14.) The first or Adamic death shall + no longer have liberty or power over men, as it has had for the + past six thousand years; no longer shall any die for Adam's sin. + (Rom. 5:12; Jer. 31:29, 30; Ezek. 18:2.)”</span>—Z. '10-41.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they were + judged every man according to their + works.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Since all mankind + will not be raised at once, but gradually, during the thousand + years, each new group will find an army of helpers in those who + will have preceded it. The love and benevolence which men will then + show to each other (the brethren of Christ) the King will count as + shown to Him. (Rom. 13:10.)”</span>—Z. '10-39.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + death and hell were cast into the lake of + fire.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The destruction of the + first death and Hades commences with the beginning of the + Millennial Reign and continues to its close. Hades (the grave) will + be destroyed <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page314">[pg + 314]</span><a name="Pg314" id="Pg314" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + when all the dead in it have heard the Lord's voice and come forth. + (John 5:25.) But <span class="tei tei-q">‘death’</span> will still + have hold upon these, since every ache and pain and every mental + and moral imperfection is a part of the inherited Adamic penalty. + The millions awakened will be still under condemnation, still in + death; but in proportion as they render obedience to the terms of + the New Covenant, progress will be made toward health, perfection + and life. On the other hand, those who, after full knowledge, + refuse to accept and personally apply the merit of the sacrifice of + Christ, will remain under condemnation; because their wills consent + to evil, they will progress toward the Second Death. In the case of + the obedient, death will be swallowed up of life. In the case of + the disobedient, death will be swallowed up of the Second Death. (1 + Cor. 15:26, 54, 55; Isa. 25:6-8.)”</span>—H. 66.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">AND this is the + Second Death; THE LAKE OF FIRE.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“This destruction or death is called the Second Death + in contradistinction to the First or Adamic death, and not to + signify that everything which goes into it dies a second time. For + instance, death (the first or Adamic death), and Hades, the grave, + are to be cast into it, which work will require the entire + Millennium to accomplish it; and in no sense will they ever have + been destroyed before. So also the devil, the beast, and the false + prophet, will never have been destroyed before.”</span>—H. 58; Rev. + 21:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + whosoever [was] SHALL not BE found written in the Book of + Life.</span></span>—The writing, the judging, is still future.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was cast into + the Lake of Fire.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Second + Death, during the Millennial Age, is a part of the utter + destruction which will include every improper, injurious and + useless thing. (Isa. 11:9; Psa. 101:5-8.) But the Second Death, the + sentence of that individual trial, will be final: it will never be + destroyed. We rejoice that there is no danger of this, but that + Divine Justice unites with Divine Wisdom, Love and Power, to bring + in everlasting righteousness on a permanent basis.”</span>—H. 67; + Rev. 19:20; Psa. 50:22.</p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">A + thousand years, earth's coming glory,</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">'Tis the glad Day so long + foretold;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">'Tis the bright Morn of Zion's + glory</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Prophets foresaw in times of + old.</span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">What if + the clouds do for a moment</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Hide the blue sky where Morn + appears?</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Soon the glad Sun of Promise + given</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Rises to shine a thousand + years!</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page315">[pg 315]</span><a name= + "Pg315" id="Pg315" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc47" id="toc47"></a> <a name="pdf48" id="pdf48"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 21—The Descending + Kingdom</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw a new heaven and a new earth.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“It may be that this, rather than <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘the Millennium,’</span> is the name which we ought to + give to the Golden Age, of purity and bliss which next awaits the + world. The words seem to include a transformation and glorification + of our material globe.”</span>—Weym.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Paradise, the Garden of God, applicable as a name to + Eden, where our first parents resided, is Scripturally applied to + the new earth when Restitution blessings shall, during the + Millennium, have brought it to perfection. This Paradise of the + future is referred to by the Apostles as <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘the third heaven,’</span> and as <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘a new heavens and a new earth.’</span> (2 Corinthians + 12:2; 2 Peter 3:13.) They are not referring to new planets, nor to + heavens ranged one above another, as many have supposed, but to the + third of three great periods of time, beginning with man's creation + and extending into the illimitable future. The first of these + periods, termed the first heavens and earth—the old order of + things—passed away with the Deluge of Noah's day. The second + period, <span class="tei tei-q">‘the heavens and the earth which + are now,’</span> the present order of things, are reserved of God + to pass away with a great symbolic fire of trouble—revolution, + etc.—which will utterly destroy the present spiritual powers and + the present social arrangements. (2 Peter 3:6, 7; Galatians 1:4; + Zephaniah 3:8, 9.) The third great period is to be a <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘world without end,’</span> under Divine + administration. This will be the third heavens and the third earth, + or the new heavens and the new earth, which will differ from the + present condition of things in that they will be righteous! whereas + the present arrangement is imperfect, unrighteous. The <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘new heavens’</span> will consist of the new spiritual + ruling powers of the future—Christ the Head, and the Church His + Body.”</span>—Z. '16-392.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For the first + heaven and the first earth were passed + away.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Scriptures show us + that in this general rupture the nominal church (including all + denominations) will be gradually drawn more and more to the side of + the governments and the wealthy, will lose much of its influence + over the people, and will finally fall with the governments. Thus + the heavens [ecclesiastical rule] being on fire, will <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page316">[pg 316]</span><a name="Pg316" id="Pg316" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> pass away with a great hissing.”</span> + (A. 333.) Two of the causes that operate to <span class= + "tei tei-q">“burn”</span> the present <span class= + "tei tei-q">“earth”</span> are declared to be hunger, and the + misrule of beastly governments. (Deut. 32:24) In the end all will + be glad to see the unclean heavens pass away (Job 15:15) rent in + twain (Isa. 64:1) and the new heavens planted (Isa. 51:16) which + will be heard in their lightest petition to the God of all grace + (Hos. 2:21). <span class="tei tei-q">“Drop down, ye Heavens from + above.”</span>—Isa. 45:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there was no + more sea.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Under the control + of the new Heaven—spiritual powers—the reconstructed social order + will be so satisfactory, so complete, so thorough, that there will + be no more dissatisfied masses. Everything will be reduced to law + and order, obliterating the differences of wealth and power as they + now exist.”</span>—Z. '16-392.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I, [John] saw the Holy City, New + Jerusalem.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The New Jerusalem + is not <span class="tei tei-q">‘that great city [government] which + ruleth over the kings of the earth’</span> (Revelation 17:18) but + is the new Spiritual Government of the Millennial Age. It is not + reared by men; but, descends from God out of Heaven. It is for this + Kingdom, this Government, that our Lord taught His disciples to + pray, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Thy Kingdom come; Thy will be done + on earth, as it is done in Heaven.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '16-392; + Isa. 52:1; Matt. 5:35; Heb. 11:10, 16; 13:14; Rev. 3:12; 21:10; + 11:2; 22:19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Coming down + [from God] out of Heaven, FROM GOD.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“We are not to think of this Holy City as being + composed of literal stones, but of <span class="tei tei-q">‘living + stones’</span> (1 Peter 2:4-7; Ephesians 2:19-22.) Neither Christ + nor the saints in glory can be seen of men. But the whole world + will quickly be made aware of the fact that a new Government has + been instituted—a government of righteousness and all + power.”</span>—Z. '16-392; Heb. 11:10; 12:22; Rev. 3:12; 21:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Prepared as a + bride adorned for her husband.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“This declaration implies its beauty, grandeur and + perfection, as a bride's adornment on such an occasion is + particular and elaborate to the last degree. Additionally, the + statement reminds us that in the government of the future the + world's judges are to be the saints selected throughout the Gospel + Age and frequently called <span class="tei tei-q">‘the Bride, the + Lamb's Wife.’</span> ”</span>—Z. '16-392; 2 Cor. 11:2; John 3:29; + Eph. 5:31, 32.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [I heard] a great voice.</span></span>—The Lord Jesus, the Father's + Word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Out of heaven] + WAS saying, OUT OF THE THRONE, Behold the Tabernacle of God is with + men.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“This verse associates + this City with the other figure of a symbolic Temple, which the + Lord is now preparing, of which the <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page317">[pg 317]</span><a name="Pg317" id="Pg317" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> saints will constitute the <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘pillars.’</span> God will dwell in this Temple, and + the world of mankind will approach God in it to receive the Divine + blessings, as Israel approached the typical Tabernacle and the + Temple in their typical religious services.”</span> (Z. '01-199.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“When we think of the Church as the Temple + under construction, it impresses upon us the thought that there is + a future work to be accomplished. Why construct a Temple, and then + not use it? St. Paul says, the Church is God's workmanship. + (Ephesians 2:10.) And His work will be so perfectly accomplished + that there will be no need of rectification or alteration beyond + the veil,—beautifully illustrated in the erection of Solomon's + Temple, of which we read that its stones were prepared at the + quarry and then finally assembled for the construction of the + Temple, and that they were so perfectly shaped and marked for their + various places that they came together without the sound of a + hammer.”</span>—Z. '15-189; 2 Cor. 6:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And He [will + dwell] DWELLETH with them and they shall be His + people.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“All mankind will be + treated from the standpoint of reconciliation, the Propitiation + (price) for the sins of the whole world (1 John 2:2) having been + provided at Calvary, and the due time having then come for the + manifestation of Divine favor.”</span>—Z. '01-200; Psa. 68:18; + Ezek. 37:27; Zech. 8:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] God + Himself shall be with them, [and be their + God].</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It will be the Kingdom + of God, because God's dear Son and His joint-heir, the Church, will + be in absolute accord with the Father, and all that shall be done + under their control will fully and completely represent the Divine + will respecting men. Nevertheless, it will be a separate Kingdom + from that of the remainder of the Universe, as the Apostle Paul + indicates. (1 Cor. 15:24, 25, 28.)”</span>—Z. '01-200; Jer. 30:22; + 31:33; Ezek. 11:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [God] HE shall wipe away all tears from their + eyes.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The wiping away of + tears implies a gradual work, such as we see will be the process of + that glorious time. Man will not be exempt from every weakness and + trial and difficulty at the beginning, but if he will conform to + the Laws of the Kingdom, all cause for distress will gradually pass + away, as restitution blessings will lift him out of death into + life.”</span>—Z. '01-200; Isa. 25:8; 65:19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there shall + be no more death; neither sorrow nor crying SHALL + BE.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“What a glorious + sun-burst of blessing is in these words! What a grand fulfilment + will be there of the Apostle's declaration respecting <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘Times of Restitution of all things which God hath + spoken by the mouth of all the holy Prophets since the world + began’</span>! The declaration, however, applies to the very end of + the Millennial Age, <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page318">[pg + 318]</span><a name="Pg318" id="Pg318" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + and not in full to any previous time in that Age. (John 5:28, + 29.)”</span>—Z. '01-200; 1 Cor. 15:26, 54; Rev. 20:14; Isa. 35:10; + 51:11; 65:19.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Neither shall + there be any more pain] For the former things are passed + away.</span></span>—The reign of Satan, sin and death will have + ended forever. <span class="tei tei-q">“To gain a place in the + earthly phase of the Kingdom of God will be to find the + gratification of every desire and ambition of the perfect human + heart.”</span>—A. 291.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He that sat upon the Throne said, Behold, I make all things + new.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“This expression does + not relate merely to rocks and trees, etc., but to the great work + which our Lord undertook; viz., the regeneration of humanity to the + complete perfection contemplated in the original Divine + Plan.”</span>—Z. '01-201; Rev. 20:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And He said unto + me, Write: for these words are [true and] faithful, AND + TRUE.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Present conditions + seem so contrary to all this grand Restitution outcome that it + cannot be fully believed and trusted by any except those who have + learned to walk with the Lord. To all others these things will + appear untrue, and God will appear unfaithful, and the matters + which we are here discussing will seem <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘idle tales,’</span> as fables and golden fancies: but + to us who believe, these promises are precious.”</span>—1 Pet. + 2:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He [said] SAITH unto me, [It is done.] I am Alpha and Omega, the + Beginning and the End.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It + was the Father's good pleasure that the Blessed One, the Only + Begotten of the Father, should accomplish the entire program of + redemption and restitution; and be forever the Associate and + Representative of the Father, through whom and by whom all things + should continue, as He was the one through whom all things were + made that were made.”</span>—Z. '01-201; Rev. 1:8; 22:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I will give unto + him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life + freely.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It is this one who, + during the Millennial Age, will extend to all the willing and + obedient the Water of Life, everlasting life—the privilege of + perpetual existence. But they must thirst for it, must desire it; + and this desire must be manifest in obedience to the terms, the + laws, upon which it will be supplied freely.”</span>—Z. '01-201; + Rev. 22:17; Isa. 55:1; John 7:37.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + that overcometh shall inherit [all] THESE + things.</span></span>—These earthly things.—Acts 3:21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I will be + his God, and he shall be My son.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Those addressed are not the Bride class, selected + during the Gospel Age, (1 John 3:2) but the sheep class of Matt. + 25—such of mankind as during the Millennial Age become the Lord's + sheep and obey His voice. They shall inherit the <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page319">[pg 319]</span><a name="Pg319" id="Pg319" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> earth, the purchased possession—which + Jesus will restore at the close of the Millennium to all the + children of Adam who shall have accepted His gracious favors and + been regenerated by Him, and thus become His sons, and He their + God—their Father. (Isa. 9:6)”</span>—Z. '01-201; Zech. 8:8; Heb. + 8:10; Rom. 8:21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + the fearful.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“If any, + enlightened by the Truth, and brought to a knowledge of the love of + God, and restored to human perfection, become <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘fearful,’</span> and <span class="tei tei-q">‘draw + back’</span> (Heb. 10:38, 39), they, with the unbelievers, will be + destroyed from among the people. (Acts 3:23.)”</span>—A. 107.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + unbelieving.</span></span>—Who will not trust God, after all the + marvels of His grace they will have seen and experienced.—Heb. + 11:6; Rom. 10:17; John 20:31; John 17:20; 1 Tim. 6:12; Luke 17:5; + James 2:17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + abominable.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Those abominable + characters among men, who, knowing the truth, yet love + unrighteousness.”</span>—H. 60.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + murderers.</span></span>—Slanderers.—Psa. 141:3; Deut. 5:17; Matt. + 5:21, 22; 15:18-20; 1 John 3:15; James 3:2-12; James 4:11; Prov. + 4:23, 24; Matt. 12:34-37; Eph. 4:31; Psa. 15:1-3; 19:14; 34:13; + 101:5; Prov. 12:19; 16:28; 17:4; 26:20-21; Jer. 20:10; 1 Cor. + 10:10; James 1:19; Deut. 32:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + whoremongers.</span></span>—Not at heart faithful to the Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + sorcerers.</span></span>—Dreamers, theorists, pseudo-philosophers, + endeavoring to accredit to themselves the great salvation + wrought.—Rev. 22:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + idolaters.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Such as + misappropriate and misuse Divine favors, who give to self or any + other creature or thing that service and honor which belong to + God.”</span>—H. 63.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And all + liars.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“All who do not love + the Truth and seek it, and at any cost defend and hold it.”</span> + (H. 63.) <span class="tei tei-q">“If something is six inches long, + let it be just six inches for six inches.”</span>—Z. '12-147.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shall have their + part in the Lake which burneth with fire and + brimstone.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The severest + punishment inflicted by the Jews upon any criminal. The corpse + (after the man had been stoned to death) was thrown out into the + Valley of Hinnom (Gay-Hinnom) and was devoured by the worm or the + flame.”</span>—Weym.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which is the + Second Death.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Such company + would be repulsive to any honest, upright being. It is hard to + tolerate them now, but in the close of the Millennial Judgment, + when the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall have given every + advantage and opportunity of knowledge and ability, the righteous + will be glad when the corrupters of the earth, and all their work + and influence, shall be destroyed.”</span>—H. 63.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page320">[pg 320]</span><a name="Pg320" id="Pg320" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there came [unto me].</span></span>—To the John class, the Church, + on this side of the veil.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">One of the seven + angels.</span></span>—The Seventh.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which had the + seven vials full.</span></span>—They are still full after they are + poured out on ecclesiasticism!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the seven + last plagues.</span></span>—The Seven volumes of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Studies in the + Scriptures</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And talked with + me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee.</span></span>—See Lu. + 4:21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The Bride, the + Lamb's Wife.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“As a grand + lesson of the Divine sovereignty, and as a sublime contradiction to + all evolution theories, God elected to call to this place of honor + (as <span class="tei tei-q">‘the Bride, the Lamb's Wife and + Joint-heir’</span>—Rom. 8:17), not angels and cherubs, but some + from among the sinners redeemed by the precious blood of the Lamb. + The continued permission of evil is for the purpose of developing + these <span class="tei tei-q">‘members of the Body of + Christ’</span> and to furnish them the opportunity of sacrificing + their little and redeemed all, in the service of Him who bought + them with His precious blood; and thus of developing in their + hearts His spiritual likeness, that when, at the end of the Age, + they are presented by their Lord and Redeemer before the Father, + God may see in them <span class="tei tei-q">‘the image of His + Son.’</span> ”</span>—Col. 1:22; Rom. 8:29; E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">412</span></span>, + 395; Rev. 19:7; 21:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he carried me away in the Spirit.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“God hath revealed them unto us by His + Spirit.”</span>—1 Cor. 2:10; Rev. 1:10; 17:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To a great and + high mountain.</span></span>—How similar is the language, recording + the experience of the first and greatest Member of the Church, at + the beginning of His ministry. Concerning the Lord's third + temptation we read: <span class="tei tei-q">“In this temptation the + Lord is taken, not physically, but in the spirit of His mind, up + into a high mountain—a very exalted kingdom. Physically He was all + this time in the desert near Jerusalem; and as a matter of fact + there is neither in that desert nor anywhere in the world a + mountain from which all the kingdoms of the world could be viewed + except with the mind's eye.”</span>—Z. '06-43.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img331.png"><img src="images/img331.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + St. John's Vision of the Descending Kingdom + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And shewed me + [that great] THE HOLY City, [The holy] Jerusalem, descending out of + Heaven from God.</span></span>—The city came down from Heaven to + earth. If we went up to Heaven, it would not be found there. If + Rev. 21 is to be literally interpreted, then the whole surface of + Palestine is far from sufficient to hold a city of this size. + Besides, its height, length and breadth were to be equal.—Rev. + 21:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Having the glory [of] FROM + God.</span></span>—The Church has a foretaste of this glory on this + side of the veil.—1 Pet. 4:14.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page321">[pg 321]</span><a name="Pg321" id="Pg321" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] her + light.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Lamb is the Light + thereof.”</span>—Rev. 21:23; 22:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was like unto a + stone most precious.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + brightness of His [the Father's] glory, and the express image of + His person.”</span>—Heb. 1:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Even like a + jasper stone, clear as crystal.</span></span>—A beautiful + green-tinted diamond.—Rev. 4:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:12 + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + [had] HAVING a wall great and high.</span></span>—The pictures here + are all pictures of the Bride. Nevertheless, the wall, the + protection of that Heavenly City, in a special sense represents our + Heavenly Father. No picture of the Bride would be complete that did + not include Him who dwells within us, who is the Author of the + Plan, and the Source of all our joys. Now as to the application of + the picture of the wall to the Bride herself, one of Pastor + Russell's coworkers has aptly said: <span class="tei tei-q">“We are + like living <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">stones</span></em>, in the plural—144,000 + stones in one, if you will. There was one perfect Stone to begin + with, and all the others had to be conformed to the image of that + Stone. Men have discovered a way of taking two glasses of different + density and fusing them together, so you cannot tell where the + point of fusion is. And so, with this Little Flock of 144,000, they + are going to be welded together in one—there will be but one mind + in that whole 144,000. There is only one thing they have in view, + and that is to perform Jehovah's will; and they rejoice in doing + His will absolutely.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [had] HAVING + twelve gates.</span></span>—The twelve mystical tribes of + Israel.—Rev. 7:5-8; Ezek. 48:31-34.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And at the gates + twelve angels, and THEIR names written thereon.</span></span>—The + entire Little Flock; twelve thousand of each tribe, each working + together, under God's direction, as one angel, or messenger. + Doubtless certain special work is reserved for each tribe. All who + gain membership in that tribe will be particularly suited to the + work to which they will be assigned.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which are the + names of the twelve tribes of the children of + Israel.</span></span>—Their names, and the characteristics they + signify, are given in Rev. 7:5-8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">On + the East.</span></span>—Toward the Sun-rising, toward the Dawn, + toward the Little Flock, specially honored and blessed in their + sacrifices on behalf of the Church. The side of the Amramites.—Num. + 3:19; F. 128.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Three + gates.</span></span>—The mystical tribe of Joseph, Benjamin and + Manasseh—Manasseh taking the place of Dan.—Ezek. 48:32; Rev. 7:5, + 7, 8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">AND on the + North.</span></span>—The side of the Merarites, the Great + Company.—Num. 3:33; F. 129.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page322">[pg 322]</span><a name="Pg322" id="Pg322" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Three + gates.</span></span>—The mystical tribes of Judah, Reuben and + Levi.—Ezek. 48:31; Rev. 7:5, 7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">AND on the + South.</span></span>—The side of the Kohathites, the Ancient + Worthies.—Num. 4:2; F. 129.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Three + gates.</span></span>—The mystical tribes of Simeon, Issachar and + Zebulun.—Ezek. 48:33; Rev. 7:7, 8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And on the + West.</span></span>—The side of the Gershonites, the Restitution + classes.—Num. 4:22; F. 129.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Three + gates.</span></span>—The mystical tribes of Gad, Asher and + Naphtali.—Ezek. 48:34; Rev. 7:5, 6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Although the + pictures here given are pictures of the Bride, and the gates apply + as above shown, nevertheless these gates also represent the Ancient + Worthies, who during the Millennial Age will be the earthly + representatives of the Church, and, perhaps, exactly 144,000 in + number. Additionally, the Ancient Worthies are <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">called</span></em> + <span class="tei tei-q">“gates”</span> in Isa. 26:2. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The gates or entrances of the City, which are twelve + in number, are inscribed with the names of the twelve tribes of + Israel. This is in harmony with what we have learned of the earthly + phase of the Kingdom of God that the Ancient Worthies from the + various tribes of Israel, selected during the Jewish Age, will be + the visible representatives of the Heavenly Kingdom in the earth + through whose instrumentality the nations may enter into the + blessings of the Kingdom.”</span>—Z. '92-16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The city lies open and accessible to all quarters, and + to all quarters alike.”</span>—Luke 13:29. Weym.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the wall of the City had twelve + foundations.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Lord + himself, is the foundation, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Other + foundations can no man lay than that is laid—Jesus Christ.’</span> + (1 Cor. 3:11.) He is the great Rock, and St. Peter's confession of + Him as such was, therefore, a rock testimonial—a declaration of the + foundation principles underlying the Divine Plan. St. Peter + disowned any pretension to being the foundation-stone himself and + properly classed himself to with all the other <span class= + "tei tei-q">‘living stones’</span> (Gr. <span lang="el" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">lithos</span></span>,) of the Church,—though + <span lang="el" class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">petros</span></span>, rock, signifies a larger + stone than <span lang="el" class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang= + "el"><span style="font-style: italic">lithos</span></span>, and all + the Apostles as <span class="tei tei-q">‘foundation’</span> stones + would in the Divine Plan and order have a larger importance than + their brethren.”</span>—F. 220; Matt. 16:18; Eph. 2:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [in] ON them + the TWELVE names of the Twelve Apostles of the + Lamb.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“We are entirely out of + accord with the views of Papacy, of the Protestant Episcopal + Church, of the Catholic-Apostolic Church, and of the Mormons, all + of whom claim that the number of the Apostles was not limited to + twelve, and that there have been successors since their day who + spoke and wrote with equal authority with the original Twelve. (2 + Cor. 11:13.)”</span> (F. 209.) <span class="tei tei-q">“We still + have <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page323">[pg 323]</span><a name= + "Pg323" id="Pg323" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> with us the gift of + Apostles, in that we have their teachings in the New Testament, so + full and complete as to require no addition; and hence the Twelve + Apostles have no successors, and need none, since there are but + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Twelve Apostles of the Lamb;’</span> they + are the twelve stars; the twelve foundations.'”</span>—John 6:70; + E. <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">229</span></span>, 207.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he that talked with me.</span></span>—Volume VII of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Studies in the + Scriptures</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Had a [golden] + MEASURING reed of gold.</span></span>—The Divine Word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To measure the + City, and the gates thereof, and the wall + thereof.</span></span>—Surely, if we can not find the measurement + in the Scriptures it is hopeless to look elsewhere.—Zech. 2:1, 2; + Rev. 11:1; Ezek. 40:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the City lieth foursquare, and the length is [as large] as the + breadth.</span></span>—A perfect cube, like the Most Holy of the + Tabernacle.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And he measured + the City with the reed, twelve thousand + furlongs.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The number of + <span class="tei tei-q">‘buildings’</span> in the City seems to be + indicated by the measures—12,000 times 12,000 furlongs equals + 144,000,000 square furlongs. This area contains 144,000 + building-lots of one thousand square furlongs each—which + circumstance may well signify that the 144,000, faithful ones will + reign with Jesus during a thousand years (one square furlong + representing a year.”</span>)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The length and + the breadth and the height of it are equal.</span></span>—Each view + of the City, from any side, presents to view, Justice, Power, Love + and Wisdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he measured the wall thereof.</span></span>—Its thickness.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">An hundred and + forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a + man.</span></span>—The measure of a man, the Man Christ Jesus, is + 1,000. His Day is to be 1,000 years in length. Adam's Day was a + thousand years long. The total measure is 144,000, the number of + the Elect. We should expect to find the number of those rescued + during the Millennium shown somewhere in these measurements; and + this we also find. The cubit, in symbolism, is flexible in length, + like the word <span class="tei tei-q">“day.”</span> If we multiply + the number of square furlongs in any wall by the <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">144 measures of a + man</span></span>, i. e., 144,000,000 X 144, the result is + 20,736,000,000, the estimated number of the sheep class at the end + of the Millennial Age.—Matt. 25:34-40; Z. '05-271.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That is, of the + angel.</span></span>—As interpreted by the angel.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the building of the wall of it was of + jasper.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The solid fabric of + the wall was jasper; and the city itself was made of gold, + resembling transparent glass.”</span>—Weym.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page324">[pg 324]</span><a name="Pg324" id="Pg324" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the City was + pure gold, like unto clear glass.</span></span>—Of Divine origin, + and made up of those who have the Divine nature.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the foundations of the wall of the City were garnished with all + manner of precious stones.</span></span>—Mosaic manufacturers make + 15,000 colors; and it is estimated the trained eye can detect a + million colors. In selecting and polishing the 144,000 gems and + putting them in place in the Temple God is preparing a beautiful + harmony of characters in infinite variety that will delight the + hearts of all His creatures to all eternity.—1 Chron. 29:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The first + foundation was jasper.</span></span>—Likeness to the Father. See + comments on Rev. 4:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">AND the second, + sapphire.</span></span>—Faithfulness. The sapphire of the ancients + is the modern lapiz lazuli, or azure stone, a mineral substance + valued for decorative purposes in consequence of the fine blue + color which it usually presents. It has the appearance of being + spotted with gold dust. <span class="tei tei-q">“The stones of it + are the place of sapphires: and it hath dust of gold.”</span> (Job. + 28:6.) The brilliant spots in the deep blue matrix invite + comparison with the stars in the firmament. The crystals form into + units having twelve equal sides. The blue is the color of + faithfulness; the gold shows the faithfulness towards God; the + star-like appearance shows the faithfulness towards all the + Heavenly beings—angels, archangels, and the Great Company; the + crystalline formation shows the faithfulness towards the symbolical + and actual twelve tribes of Israel which, in the last analysis, + include all who shall become heirs of salvation. Those who gain the + prize of the High Calling can be trusted.—1 Cor. 4:2; Luke + 16:10-12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">AND the third, a + chalcedony.</span></span>—Obedience; Submission. A green quartz, + found in the copper mines of Chalcedon. It crystallizes in the + twelve-sided and twenty-four-sided forms of cubic crystalline + formation. In the twelve sided crystals each side is a surface of + five equal sides and angles. The Church's obedience is perfect + towards God as indicated in the faces of the crystals, five being a + symbol of Divinity. It is operative towards the brethren as in the + twelve-faced crystals, and towards both phases of the Kingdom, as + in the twenty-four-sided crystals.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The fourth, an + emerald.</span></span>—Deathlessness. One of the most beautiful of + gems, of a bright green color, without any mixture, crystallizing + in long, hexagonal (six-sided) crystals. The stone loses color when + strongly heated. From those originally imperfect (as shown in the + six-sided crystals) God is creating a race of deathless ones. + Nevertheless, though begotten to the Divine nature, should + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page325">[pg 325]</span><a name= + "Pg325" id="Pg325" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> they cling to the + dross of their fleshly natures too determinedly, so great fires may + be applied to burn away the dross as will destroy the value of the + gem. This gem, too, represents the Church's power to bestow life + upon the dead world. The crystals may be broken or split crosswise. + The everlasting life for the world, which may be made continuous, + is nevertheless susceptible of being broken off at any time for + disobedience.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + fifth, sardonyx.</span></span>—Humility; Purity; Martyrdom. An + ornamental stone much used for seals and cameos. It was considered + by ancient oriental authorities that a fine oriental sardonyx + should have at least three strata, a black base, a white + intermediate center, and a superficial layer of red; these colors + typifying the three cardinal virtues—humility, black; chastity, + white; modesty or martyrdom, red.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The sixth, + sardius.</span></span>—Loyalty to Christ. A reddish stone much used + by the ancients as a gem stone; it has been in all ages the + commonest of the stones used by the gem engraver.—Rev. 4:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The seventh, + chrysolyte.</span></span>—Heavenly Wisdom. Greek <span lang="el" + class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Chrysos</span></span>, gold, and <span lang= + "el" class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">lithos</span></span>, stone. The meaning of + the term makes it the golden stone. It is a gem of a golden color, + lightly tinted with green. It is very transparent. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The wisdom that is from Above is first + pure.”</span>—Jas. 3:17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The eighth, + beryl.</span></span>—Love of the Father. A pellucid gem of a bluish + green color, much prized as a gem stone by the ancients. It + crystallizes in the hexagonal system, with sixty-six sides of + various sizes and shapes. On each of the six principal sides are + diamond-shaped marks, alternately five and eight marks to a side, + with four marks at the end. The sixty-six sides represent the + sixty-six books of the Bible; the two ends represent the Old and + New Testaments; the diamond shaped marks represent the Heavenly + Father; the three groups of eight each represent the twenty-four + prophecies of the kingdom; five is a symbol of Divinity, and four + represents Justice, Power, Wisdom and Love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The ninth, + topaz.</span></span>—Benevolence. It is generally held that the + mineral now called topaz was unknown to ancient writers, and that + their topaz is our peridot. This is the name applied by jewelers to + <span class="tei tei-q">“noble olivine.”</span> It is a dark, + decidedly green-colored mineral. Much mystery for a long time + surrounded the locality which yielded most of the peridot for + commerce; but it is now identified with the island of St. John in + the Red Sea, probably the <span class="tei tei-q">“Topaz + Isle”</span> of the ancients. It crystallizes in twenty-six-sided + figures. In some views—i. e., when the Great Company <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page326">[pg 326]</span><a name="Pg326" id="Pg326" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> or the classes that are to be destroyed + are taken into consideration—the tribes of Israel number thirteen; + and when Spiritual and Fleshly Israel are considered separately, + the total number is twenty-six. It is not the wish of the Heavenly + Father that any of these should perish, and it is the wish of the + Church to do all humanly and Divinely possible to save the unworthy + from the final consequences of their own willfulness. This spirit + will be exercised to the last limit of love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The tenth, + chrysoprasus.</span></span>—Constant, cheerful endurance. The + modern Chrysoberyl is a yellow or green gem stone, remarkable for + its hardness, being exceeded in this respect only by the diamond + and the jacinth. It is not infrequently cloudy, due to microscopic + cavities. The hardness signifies ability to <span class= + "tei tei-q">“endure hardness as good soldiers,”</span> and the + clouds signify difficulties, troubles, to be overcome.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The eleventh, + jacinth.</span></span>—Unchangeableness. The modern sapphire, next + to the diamond in hardness; a beautiful blue stone. Many of the + crystals are parti-colored, the blue being distributed in patches + in a colorless stone; but by skillful cutting the deep-colored + portion may be caused to impart color to the entire gem. This stone + crystallizes in the most beautiful and wonderful pattern + conceivable, consisting of a six-sided pyramid at either end, + separated by three different sets of surfaces of six each and two + different sets of surfaces of three each. We may think of the two + ends as representing the teachings of the Twelve Apostles, and the + twenty-four surfaces between as representing the twenty-four elders + (prophecies pertaining to the Kingdom of God). God is unchangeable; + although the different operations of His Plan, in different ages, + make Him seem changeable to mankind. But the perfected Plan will be + the adoration of all His creatures. This gem also shows how God can + take characters whose conduct may have been very irregular, and by + skillful cutting make them copies of Himself.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The twelfth, an + amethyst.</span></span>—Royalty. A stone of a violet color, + bordering on purple, composed of a strong blue and deep red. The + name is derived from the Greek <span lang="el" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">a</span></span>, not, and <span lang="el" + class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">methyskein</span></span>, to intoxicate, + expressing the old belief that the stone protected its owner from + strong drink. It was held that wine drank out of a cup of amethyst + would not intoxicate. It crystallizes in double pyramids (base to + base) of three sides on each pyramid. Amethyst was Pastor Russell's + birth-stone; and behold how perfect its application! He was true + blue in his faithfulness, and fully loyal to the blood of Christ, + as shown by the red. He has the royalty now, thank God! The cup + which he <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page327">[pg + 327]</span><a name="Pg327" id="Pg327" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + poured never intoxicated with error those who drank its live-giving + draughts from the Fountain of all Truth, our Father's Word. The + six-sided crystallization represents his Six Volumes of + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>, and this, the Seventh, a summary of all, + represents the stone as a whole. There are over ninety varieties of + crystals in nature. Surely, <span class="tei tei-q">“The fool hath + said in his heart, There is no God.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The following is + William Miller's dream, as given in <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">The Three + Worlds</span></span>, the first of Pastor Russell's books, long + since out of print, where it is told only as a dream. (Jer. 23:28.) + It calls to mind a dream of Pastor Russell's, often told in + private. In his early youth he dreamed of sleeping in an attic. + Suddenly he awoke to see the morning sun, just emerged over the + hill-top, blazing directly in his face. He jumped to his feet with + a start, thinking that it must be late. In doing so he stumbled + over several forms still asleep. He was about to reproach himself + for thus rudely awakening them, when he discovered that not one of + the sleepers had been disturbed. The application is evident. + <span class="tei tei-q">“The light shineth in darkness, and the + darkness comprehendeth it not.”</span> Pastor Russell was awakened + by the light of the Sun of the New Day. He tried to waken others, + and succeeded with <span class="tei tei-q">“just one here, one + there;”</span> but the great mass are still asleep. However, the + Dawn comes on apace. Now for William Miller's dream:</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“I dreamed that God, by an unseen hand, had sent me a + curiously wrought casket, about ten inches long by six square, made + of ebony and pearls curiously inlaid. To the casket there was a key + attached. I immediately took the key and opened the casket, when, + to my wonder and surprise, I found it filled with all sorts and + sizes of jewels—diamonds, precious stones—and gold and silver coin + of every dimension and value, beautifully arranged in their several + places in the casket; and thus arranged, they reflected a light and + glory equalled only by the sun. [These jewels are the beautiful + truths which the open casket unfolded to his sight.] I thought it + was my duty not to enjoy this wonderful sight alone, although my + heart was overjoyed at the brilliancy, beauty and value of its + contents. I therefore placed it on a center-table in my room, and + gave out the word that all who had a desire might come and see the + most glorious and brilliant sight ever seen by man in this life. + The people began to come in, at first few in number, but increasing + to a crowd. When they first looked into the casket, they would + wonder and shout for joy. But when the spectators increased, every + one would begin to trouble the jewels, taking them out of the + casket and scattering them on the table.</span></p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page328">[pg 328]</span><a name="Pg328" id="Pg328" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“I began to think that the owner would require the + casket and jewels again at my hand; and that if I suffered them to + be scattered, I could never place them in their places in the + casket again as before, and felt I should never be able to meet the + accountability; for it would be immense. I then began to plead with + the people not to handle them, nor take them out of the casket. But + the more I pleaded, the more they scattered; and now they seemed to + scatter them all over the room, on the floor, and every piece of + furniture in the room. I then saw that among the genuine jewels and + coin they had scattered an innumerable quantity of spurious jewels + and counterfeit coin. I was highly incensed at their base conduct + and ingratitude, and reproved and reproached them for it; but the + more I reproved, the more they scattered the spurious jewels and + false coin among the genuine. I then became vexed in my very soul, + and began to use physical force to push them out of the room; but + while I was pushing out one, three more would enter, and bring in + dirt, shavings, sand, and all manner of rubbish, until they had + covered every one of the true jewels, diamonds and coins from + sight. They also tore into pieces my casket and scattered it among + the rubbish. I thought that no man regarded my sorrow or my anger. + I became wholly discouraged and disheartened, and sat down and + wept. [When the 1844 time passed, how perfectly was this + fullfilled.] While I was thus weeping and mourning for my great + loss and accountability, I remembered God, and earnestly prayed + that He would send me help.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Immediately the door opened and a man entered the + room, when the other people all left it. Then he, having a dirt + brush in his hand, opened the windows and began to brush the dust + and rubbish from the room. I cried to him to forbear; that there + were some precious jewels scattered among the rubbish. But he told + me to fear not, for he would take care of them. Then while he + brushed the dust and rubbish, the false jewels and counterfeit + coin, all rose and went out of the window like a cloud and the wind + carried them away. In the bustle I closed my eyes for a moment. + When I opened them the rubbish was all gone, and the precious + jewels, the diamonds, the gold and the silver coins lay scattered + in profusion all over the room. He then placed on the table a + casket, much larger and more beautiful than the former, and + gathered up the jewels, the diamonds, the coins, by the handful, + and cast them into the casket, till not one was left, although some + of the diamonds were not bigger than the point of a pin. He then + called upon me to come and see. I looked into <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page329">[pg 329]</span><a name="Pg329" id="Pg329" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> the casket, but my eyes were dazzled + with the sight. The contents shone with ten times their former + glory. I thought that they had been scoured in the sand by the feet + of those wicked persons who had scattered and trod them in the + dust. They were arranged in beautiful order in the casket—every one + in its place—without any visible pains on the part of the man + [Pastor Russell] who cast them in. I shouted for joy; and that + shout awoke me.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the twelve gates were [twelve] pearls; every several gate was of + one pearl.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The peculiar + lustre of a pearl is dependent on the fact that the surface is not + perfectly smooth, but covered with the irregularly sinuous edges of + innumerable layers of inconceivable thinness, deposited one over + the other. The distance of these edges from each other varies + indefinitely, the pearls of the finest water having them closest. + They are always, however, too fine to be detected by the naked eye. + The edges make so many steps, so to speak; and the iridescence is + produced by the mutual interference of the rays of light reflected + from these thousands of angles. For their water, or lustre, as + distinguished from iridescence, pearls are indebted to their being + composed of thin layers, which allow light to pass through them, + while their numerous surfaces disperse and reflect the light in + such a manner that it returns and mingles with that which is + directly reflected from the exterior. The thinner and more + transparent the constituent layers, the more perfect is the lustre. + The immediate occasion of the production of a pearl appears to be + always the presence of some extraneous substance inside of the + shell of the mollusk.”</span> (McC.) The mollusk is the earthly + tabernacle; the extraneous substance is the New Mind. The + successive layers are the additions made to it, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon + line, line upon line; here a little and there a + little.”</span>—Isa. 28:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the street + of the City was pure gold, as it were transparent + glass.</span></span>—There will be but one street in that City, the + street which has been in process of construction throughout the + Age. The Prophets tell us of it.—Prov. 16:17; Isa. 40:3; 49:11; + 35:8; 62:10-12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw no temple therein.</span></span>—No special place of worship, + for the use and benefit of the Little Flock.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[For] BECAUSE + the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the Temple of + it.</span></span>—The Bride's whole life is completely wrapped up + in the Father and the Son. Her one consuming wish is to glorify the + Lord's dear name. Of what need is any special place of worship for + one who can say, <span class="tei tei-q">“For to me to live is + [for] Christ [to live]?”</span>—Phil. 1:21.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page330">[pg 330]</span><a name="Pg330" id="Pg330" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the City had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine [in] + ON it.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The sun signifies the + light of this Gospel Age; the moon signifies the typically + reflected light of the Gospel in the Law and the Prophets of the + previous Dispensation. The glorified Church will have no need of + the light which in the present time she so much enjoys through the + Word and the Spirit, and the Law and the Prophets. She will have, + instead of these, a much more excellent glory, being, herself, a + part of the Sun of Righteousness.”</span> (Z. '01-201.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“ <span class="tei tei-q">‘Then shall the + righteous shine forth as the Sun in the Kingdom of their + Father’</span>—our Lord Jesus, the Head of the Church, of course + being included. The Prophet mentions the same Sun of Righteousness, + saying, <span class="tei tei-q">‘The Sun of Righteousness shall + arise with healing in His beams.’</span>—Malachi 4:2.”</span>—Z. + '16-393.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For the glory of + God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light + thereof.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“We are not to lose + sight of the fact that Christ is the Head of the Church, even as + the Father is the head of Christ Jesus. (1 Cor. 11:3.) Hence the + Lord God Almighty and the Lamb will always be an inner Temple in + this great Temple which God has provided for the world's blessing + during Restitution Times.”</span>—Z. '16-393; Isa. 24:23; 60:19, + 20; Rev. 21:11; 22:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the nations [of them which are saved] shall walk [in] BY the light + [of it] THEREOF.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The word + <span class="tei tei-q">‘nations’</span> here signifies peoples, + and is intended to show that all peoples, not merely the + Israelites, will be thus favored under God's Kingdom. The world + will not be divided into nationalities as at present.”</span>—Z. + '16-394; Isa. 60:3, 5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the kings of + the earth do bring their glory [and honor] into + it.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“When mankind reaches + perfection at the close of the Millennial Age, as already shown, + they will be admitted into membership in the Kingdom of God and + given the entire control of earth as at first designed—each man a + sovereign, a king.”</span> (A. 296.) <span class="tei tei-q">“That + Kingdom, in which all will be kings, will be one grand, universal + Republic, whose stability and blessed influence will be assured by + the perfection of its every citizen, a result now much desired, but + an impossibility because of sin.”</span> (Z. '10-39.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“During the Millennial Age the kings will be the + Ancient Worthies; but subsequently a New Dispensation will open, + under new conditions, in which mankind (perfected) will be granted + the privilege of ruling themselves in harmony with the Divine + Law.”</span> (Z. '97-304.) In this verse the Ancient Worthies are + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">directly</span></em> referred to; while in + verse 26 the rest of mankind are referred to. Notice the tenses of + the verbs <span class="tei tei-q">“<em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">do</span></em> + bring”</span> and <span class="tei tei-q">“<em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">shall</span></em> + bring”</span>—present and future—in the Millennium and + after.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page331">[pg + 331]</span><a name="Pg331" id="Pg331" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the gates of it shall not be shut at all by + day.</span></span>—Throughout the long Millennial Day of a thousand + years all who will may seek and find salvation through the broad + gates of the City of God that will then be wide open. (Isa. 60:11.) + Now, <span class="tei tei-q">“Narrow is the way that leadeth unto + life, and few there be that find it.”</span>—Matt. 7:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For there shall + be no night there.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The + period in which sin is permitted has been a dark Night to humanity, + never to be forgotten; but the glorious Day of righteousness and + Divine favor, to be ushered in by Messiah, who, as the Sun of + Righteousness, shall arise and shine fully and clearly into and + upon all, bringing healing and blessing, will more than + counterbalance the dreadful night of weeping, sighing, pain, + sickness and death, in which the groaning creation has been so + long. <span class="tei tei-q">‘Weeping may endure for a night, but + joy cometh in the morning.’</span>—Psa. 30:5.”</span> (A. 9.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The Psalmist + explains how the smile of the Father was turned away from mankind. + He describes mankind as <span class="tei tei-q">“Such as sit in + darkness and in the shadow of death, being bound in affliction and + iron; because they rebelled against the words of God [by + disobedience of His express command] and contemned [set at naught] + the counsels of the Most High. Therefore He brought down their + heart with labor [each sex with its own peculiar kind]; they fell + down, and there was none to help.”</span> (Psa. 107:10-12.) This + disobedience brought our entire race into the Valley of the Shadow + of Death (Psa. 23:4); but the Prophets encouraged us to hope for a + watchman who would tell us of the coming of the Day. (Isa. 21:12.) + In the Apostle's time he declared the night was far spent, being + then more than two-thirds gone. (Rom. 13:12.) The event that is to + bring in the Day is the rising of the Sun of Righteousness. (Mal. + 4:2.) When here at the First Advent Christ was the light of the + world (John 8:12); and the people in His immediate neighborhood saw + a great Light, shadowing forth His coming glory. (Isa. 9:2.) He + declared that we, too, should be lights in the world. (Matt. + 5:14.)—<span class="tei tei-q">“You in your little corner, and I in + mine;”</span> and that in the resurrection all these 144,000 + brightly burning candles should be brought together and with Him + constitute the Sun of Righteousness that is to heal and bless the + world. <span class="tei tei-q">“Then shall the righteous shine + forth as the sun in the Kingdom of their Father.”</span>—Matt. + 13:43.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The sun rises + quietly, like a thief. (1 Thes. 5:1.) When the Morning comes, the + first work is banishing the works of the night. (Ezek. 7:7-12.) + Next comes the opening of the spiritually blind eyes of those that + have physical sight. (Amos 5:18.) Surely, the best time for a great + oculist to <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page332">[pg + 332]</span><a name="Pg332" id="Pg332" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + open the eyes of the blind is in the day time. (Isa. 35:5.) Now + matters are more or less obscured (1 Cor. 13:12); but the time is + coming when the blind shall be shown a way of life they have not + hitherto known. (Isa. 42:16.) Will the Lord show wonders in the + dark? (Psa. 88:10.) He will indeed; and when the nations come forth + from the tomb, they will seek Him that turneth the shadow of death + into the morning. (Amos 5:8; Isa. 42: 6, 7.) They will seek Him and + will find Him. No wonder, then, that the Psalmist, looking down the + stream of time to that happy Day, exultingly exclaims, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Then [after full experience with sin and death] they + cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and He saved them out of + their distresses. He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of + death, and brake their bands in sunder. Oh, that men would praise + the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the + children of men! For He hath broken the gates of brass [that stood + between them and perfection], and cut the bars of iron asunder + [that held them in death's prison house].”</span> (Psa. 107:13-16.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“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.”</span> (Rev. 21:4.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“For there shall be no night there.”</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy + cometh in the Morning.”</span>—Psa. 30:5; Zech. 14:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall bring the glory and honor of the nations into + it.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“This rendering of glory + to the Kingdom will continue throughout the entire Millennial Age; + for the princes throughout the earth will make known to the peoples + that not in their own name or authority do they rule and execute + judgment and establish righteousness, but in the name of the + glorified Christ, Head and Body, whose representatives they + are.”</span>—Z. '16-394.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there shall in no wise enter into it anything [that defileth] + COMMON.</span></span>—No one who could or would contaminate others + by speech or example, will ever find a place in that City.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Neither + whatsoever worketh abomination.</span></span>—Nor anything tending + in the direction of pride or sectarianism.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Or maketh a + lie.</span></span>—Nor anything countenancing the teaching of error + for pleasure or profit.—1 John 2:22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But they which + are written in the [Lamb's.] Book of THE Life OF + HEAVEN.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Lamb's Book of + Life we must understand to include only those who attain to the + position of joint-heirship with Christ, those whose names are + written in Heaven during this Gospel Age and who are faithful to + their Covenant. (Psa. 50:5.)”</span>—Z. '16-394; Phil. 4:3; Rev. + 3:5, 13:8.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page333">[pg 333]</span><a name= + "Pg333" id="Pg333" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc49" id="toc49"></a> <a name="pdf50" id="pdf50"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Revelation 22—The River Of Grace And + Truth</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img332.png"><img src="images/img332.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + The River Of Life + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he showed me a [pure] River of Water of Life, clear as + crystal.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“One would think + that, even with no knowledge of the symbols of Revelation, no + thinking Christian should have any difficulty in realizing that the + book portrays trouble for the Church throughout this Gospel Age and + the triumphant Millennial Reign at its close.”</span>—Z. '05-170; + Ezek. 47:1-12; Joel 3:18; Zech. 14:8; Psa. 46:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Proceeding out + of the Throne of God and of the Lamb.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Scriptures nowhere speak of the River of the Water + of Life now. There is none, and can be none until the Heavenly City + descends, for the river must flow from the midst of it, from the + Throne. Describing the condition of the Lord's saints at the + present time very differently, the Lord declares that those who are + His have in them a well of water springing up into life + eternal.”</span>—Z. '05-172; Ezek. 47:1; Zech. 14:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + the midst of the street of it.</span></span>—In the midst of the + Highway of Holiness.—Rev. 21:21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And on either + side of the River.</span></span>—Nourished and blessed by the + life-giving Waters of Truth.—Ezek. 47:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was there the + Tree of Life.</span></span>—The Christ, Head and Body.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which bare + twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her [fruit] FRUITS every + month.</span></span>—Twelve kinds of fruit, twelve times a year, + for a thousand years—a total fruitage of 144,000.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the leaves + of the [tree] TREES were for the healing of the + nations.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The symbolic + picture suggests nourishment and healing for the sin-sick, starving + world, which then may partake freely of all the blessings and + privileges thus symbolized.”</span>—Z. '05-171; Rev. 21:24; Ezek. + 47:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there shall be no [more] curse.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and + instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it [the + removal of the curse] shall be to the Lord for a name, for an + everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.”</span> (Isa. 55:13.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“Upon no subject is the testimony of the + Scriptures more positive, consistent and conclusive than on this + subject of the curse, its effects upon man, the redemption from it, + and its ultimate removal.”</span>—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">421</span></span>, + 405.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page334">[pg + 334]</span><a name="Pg334" id="Pg334" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But the Throne + of God and of the Lamb shall be in it.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“A spiritual police force will have humanity under + absolute control. Every misdeed will be punished as soon as it is + determined upon and before it shall have been put into effect. + Likewise, every good act, good word and good thought will bring a + blessing of restitution, health, strength—mental, moral, + physical.”</span>—Z. '15-267.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And His servants + shall serve Him.</span></span>—Beautiful inheritance of the Great + Company class.—Rev. 7:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall see His face.</span></span>—This will be worth all they + will be called upon to endure.—Matt. 5:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And His name + shall be [in] ON their foreheads.</span></span>—At present many of + this class do not have clear perceptions of the Father's character. + All misunderstandings will be cleared up shortly. They only await + the departure of the last of the Elijah class, in the spring of + 1918.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there shall be no MORE night [there].</span></span>—Doubtless, at + first, the Great Company's memories of her dark night will be very + keen.—Rev. 7:14; 21:23, 25.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they need + [no] NOT THE LIGHT OF A candle.</span></span>—Light from the Church + in the flesh.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Neither] AND + light of the sun.</span></span>—The Gospel, through the Word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For the Lord God + [giveth] WILL GIVE them light.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Blessed are they which are <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">called</span></em> + unto the Marriage Supper of the Lamb.”</span>—Rev. 19:9; 7:16-17; + Psa. 84:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they shall + reign for ever and ever.</span></span>—They—Christ and His Bride, + in whose blest Heavenly courts the Beloved Bridesmaids will always + find their happy station.—Dan. 7:27; 2 Tim. 2:12; Rev. 3:21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he.</span></span>—The same angel mentioned in Rev. 1:1; 19:9, 10; + representing Pastor Russell, beyond the veil.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Said unto + me.</span></span>—The John class, in the flesh.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">These sayings + are faithful and true.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“There + hath not failed one word of all His good promise.”</span>—1 Kings + 8:56.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the Lord God + of the [holy] SPIRITS OF THE Prophets.</span></span>—It is still + possible to have the same spirit as filled the Prophets of old, + even though the prophecies themselves have ceased to be + miraculously uttered or interpreted.—1 Cor. 13:8.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Sent ME His + angel to shew unto His servants the things which must shortly be + done.</span></span>—Especially the events of the immediate + future.—Rev. 1:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">AND + behold I come quickly.</span></span>—See Rev. 16:15; 22:10, 12, 20. + Jesus is the speaker.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Blessed is he + that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this + book.</span></span>—The Elijah class, who see its clear import and + accept the responsibilities implied.—Rev. 1:3; + 3:14.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page335">[pg + 335]</span><a name="Pg335" id="Pg335" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I John saw these things, and heard them.</span></span>—Understood + them.—Rev. 1:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And when I had + heard and seen, I fell down before the feet of the angel which + shewed me these things.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“This + may signify that in the end of this Gospel Age as the whole Church, + the John class, comes to see the unfolding of the Divine Plan, + there might be a spirit or disposition amongst them to do too much + honor to the one used of the Lord in communicating to them the + Divine light now due.”</span>—Z. '05-173; Judges 13:17, 18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + saith he unto me, see thou do it not: [for] I am thy + fellow-servant.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The angel's + refusal to accept homage should be a lesson to all ministers + (servants—messengers) of God.”</span>—Z. '96-305; Rev. 19:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And of thy + brethren the Prophets.</span></span>—Prophets, in the New Testament + use of the word, refer to Christian speakers.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And of them + which keep the sayings of this book: worship + God.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“God alone should be + worshiped: He is the Author of the great Plan and will be the + Finisher of it. It is brought to our attention now by Him because + it is now <span class="tei tei-q">‘due time’</span> for His people + to come to an appreciation of His plans.”</span>—Z. '05-173.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he saith unto me, Seal not [the] THESE sayings of the prophecy of + this book: for the time is at hand.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Make no secret,”</span> he added, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“of the meaning of the predictions contained in this + book; for the time for their fulfillment is now close at + hand.”</span>—Weym.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + that is unjust, let him be unjust still.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“At the time that the features of this symbolical + Revelation shall come to be understood and appreciated by the + Lord's people, they may know that the time of the completion is + near at hand. We are not to expect that the telling of this Message + will have the effect of converting the world. It was not intended + to do this and will not do it.”</span>—Z. '05-173; Dan. 12:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And he which is + filthy, let him be filthy still.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Present Truth, although full of comfort and + encouragement to the Church in respect to their dear friends who + are out of Christ, has no effect whatever upon those who love sin, + who are filthy, who are unrighteous. The unrighteous and the filthy + simply ignore this message and are not moved specially by + it.”</span>—Z. '05-173.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And he that is + righteous, let him [be righteous] WORK RIGHTEOUSNESS + still.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“To lovers of + righteousness, of truth, the revelations of the Divine Plan now + unfolding commend themselves, and intensify their love for + righteousness and appreciation of full consecration to the + Lord.”</span>—Z. '05-173.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page336">[pg 336]</span><a name="Pg336" id="Pg336" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And he that is + holy, let him be holy still.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The word seems to denote development and + crystallization of character, immediately preceding the coming of + the great Judge of all.”</span> (Weym.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Love is patient and kind. Love knows neither envy nor + jealousy. Love is not forward and self-assertive, nor boastful and + conceited. She does not behave unbecomingly, nor seek to aggrandize + herself, nor blaze out passionate anger, nor brood over wrongs. She + finds no pleasure in injustice done to others, but joyfully sides + with the truth. She knows how to be silent. She is full of trust, + full of hope, full of patient endurance.”</span>—1 Cor. + 13:4-7.—Weym.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">[And] behold, I come + quickly.</span></span>—See Rev. 16:15; 22:7, 10, 20. The Lord + Himself becomes the speaker.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And My reward is + with Me, to [give] BE GIVEN every man.</span></span>—Every man in + Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">According as his + work [shall be] IS.</span></span>—The Church's work is practically + finished. The reward is given on the basis of the work already + done, in character development and in the natural outgrowth of that + development—works.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I am + Alpha and Omega, THE FIRST AND THE LAST, the Beginning and the End, + [the First and the Last].</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Our Lord tells us over and over again (See Rev. 1:8, + 11, 17; 2:8; 3:14; 21:6), that He is the Beginning and the Ending, + the First and the Last, of the creation of God.”</span>—Z. + '93-115.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Blessed are they that [do His + commandments] WASH THEIR ROBES.</span></span>—The Great Company + class.—Rev. 7:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That they may + have right to the Tree of Life.</span></span>—Rev. 22:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And may enter + through the gates into the City.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Whose Builder and Maker is God.”</span> (Heb. 11:10.) + To these dear brethren we would say, The object of your trials is + to remove the dross (Ex. 30:7; Mal. 3:2) that you may be fit + companions of the Christ. (Ex. 12:8; Heb. 2:17; Rom. 5:3; Col. + 1:11.) Do not think it strange. (James 1:12; 1 Pet. 1:7; 4:12; + 5:10.) When you get the right viewpoint, you will rejoice in your + sufferings. (Deut. 13:3; Psa. 23:4; 119:67.) The trials will not + last forever (Psa. 39:1); and in them all you may hear the songs of + deliverance. (Psa. 32:6, 7.) There is nothing to turn back to (Heb. + 10:38); but there is joy untold to look forward to, and it is + nigh.—Rev. 19:9; Psa. 45:14, 15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">[For] without are + dogs.</span></span>—There will be no clergy class, as such, in the + Kingdom.—Isa. 56:10; Phil. 3:2; 2 Tim. 3:8, 9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And sorcerers, + and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolators.</span></span>—See + Rev. 21:8.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page337">[pg + 337]</span><a name="Pg337" id="Pg337" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And whosoever + [loveth and] maketh AND LOVETH a lie.</span></span>—The old lies + will die hard; and some may try to carry them far into the Time of + Trouble, on the well-known principle that if a pigeon's brains are + removed, and the wound allowed to heal, the bird will no longer + seek its food, though it can still swing on a perch and ruffle its + feathers and show fight. Ere long, however, the Truth will be so + manifest that all must give way before it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the + churches.</span></span>—All down the Age the Church has had this + Message; all down the Age holy men of God have sought to understand + its mysteries; all down the Age it has remained a closed book. But + now the Mystery of God is <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">finished</span></em>; and the object of + keeping the book closed is accomplished. God wished the world to + know when the time for the complete removal of error and for the + establishment of His Kingdom would come; and so He enables the last + members of His Church to give the Message.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I am the Root + and the Offspring of David.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“According to the flesh, our Lord Jesus was, through + His mother, the Son, the Branch, the Offshoot or Offspring of + David. It was by virtue of His sacrifice of His undefiled life that + He became the <span class="tei tei-q">‘Root,’</span> origin, source + of life, and development of David.”</span>—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">150</span></span>, + 136; Rev. 5:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the bright + and morning Star.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“And I will + give him the Morning Star.”</span> (Rev. 2:28.) Christ's gift of + Himself to the Bride is the greatest of all gifts.—Job. 38:7; Psa. + 118:22-25.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the Spirit and the Bride say, Come.</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Gospel Age makes ready the chaste Virgin, the + faithful Church, for the coming Bridegroom. And in the end of the + Age, when she is made <span class="tei tei-q">‘ready’</span> (Rev. + 19:7; 21:2, 9), the Bridegroom comes; and they that are ready go in + with Him to the Marriage. The Second Adam and the Second Eve become + one, and then the glorious work of Restitution begins. In the next + Dispensation, the New Heaven and the new earth, the Church will be + no longer the espoused Virgin, but the Bride.”</span>—A. 98.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And let him that + heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst + come.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Blessed are they that + do hunger and thirst after righteousness for they shall be + filled.”</span>—Matt. 5:6; Isa. 55:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[And] whosoever + will, let him take of the Water of Life + freely.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Now the prospective + members of the Bride class have the Lord's Spirit in them, + <span class="tei tei-q">‘a well of water springing up unto + everlasting life.’</span> (John 4:14.) By and by these well-springs + brought together in glory with the Lord shall <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page338">[pg 338]</span><a name="Pg338" id="Pg338" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> constitute the source of the great + River of Life which shall bless and heal all nations. By and by the + prophecy will be fulfilled: <span class="tei tei-q">‘He that + believeth in Me, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living + water.’</span> ”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">[For] I testify unto every man that + heareth the words of the prophecy of this book.</span></span>—To + all who ever understand it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">If any man shall + add unto these things.</span></span>—As was done in many instances + during the Dark Ages, even in this very verse.—Deut. 4:2; 12:32; + Prov. 30:5, 6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">God shall add + unto him the plagues that are written in this + book.</span></span>—His penalty will be, when he comes forth from + the tomb in the Times of Restitution, that he will have to read the + Seven Volumes of <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Scripture Studies</span></span>, and get the + matter straightened out in his own mind.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this + prophecy.</span></span>—Shall seek to nullify or minimize its + teachings, now that the time has come for it to be understood.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">God shall take + away his part [out of the Book] FROM THE TREE of + Life.</span></span>—He will not be a part of the life-giving Tree + described in Rev. 22:2; not a part of the Little Flock.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And [out of] the + Holy City, [and from the things] which are written in this + book.</span></span>—He will not be one of the Lord's jewels, + counted worthy of a place in the New Jerusalem.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + which testifieth these things TO BE saith, surely I come + quickly.</span></span>—The <span lang="el" class="tei tei-foreign" + xml:lang="el"><span style= + "font-style: italic">apokalupsis</span></span> is at hand! See Rev. + 16:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">[Amen. Even so] + come, Lord Jesus.</span></span>—The union with the Bridegroom + draweth nigh.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + grace of [our] THE Lord Jesus Christ be with [you all] THE SAINTS, + Amen.</span></span>—The first of the saints to whom will be + extended the unmerited favor of a raising up out of death to + perfection will be the Little Flock; the next class of saints to be + reached will be the Great Company; next in order will come forth + the Ancient Worthies; and finally the millions and billions of + mankind, until at last Adam, himself, shall come forth from the + prison-house in which he has lain so long, and may, if he will, + receive again by the will of God, as a favor or grace at the hands + of Christ, the unspeakable boon of eternal life.</p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">The + sweet persuasion of His voice</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Respects thy sanctity of + will,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">He giveth day; thou hast thy + choice</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">To walk in darkness + still.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span><span style="font-size: 90%">—Whittier.</span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page339">[pg 339]</span><a name= + "Pg339" id="Pg339" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 5.00em; margin-top: 5.00em"> + <a name="toc51" id="toc51"></a> <a name="pdf52" id="pdf52"></a> + + <h1 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 3.46em; margin-top: 3.46em"> + <span style="font-size: 173%">The Song Of Solomon</span></h1> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc53" id="toc53"></a> <a name="pdf54" id="pdf54"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">The Bridal Anthem</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + song of songs</span></span>—The harmony of harmonies—the assembling + in one beautiful picture of many of the most beautiful figures of + the Divine Word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which is + Solomon's</span></span>—Type of Christ in glory, as David was a + type of Christ in the flesh.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Let + him kiss me</span></span>—A form of salutation signifying closest + fellowship. <span class="tei tei-q">“Greet all the brethren with an + holy kiss.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“Betrayest thou the Son + of man with a kiss?”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With the + kisses</span></span>—The oft repeated endearments.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of His + Mouth</span></span>—Of His Word, the Scriptures.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For Thy + love</span></span>—Thy caresses, the repeated assurances of + guidance, protection, companionship, love and care.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is better than + wine</span></span>—Wine is a symbol of doctrine. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“They also have erred through wine.”</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">“They are drunken, but not with + wine.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“All nations have drunk of + the wine.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“I will not henceforth + drink of this fruit of the vine.”</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Be not drunk with wine.”</span> Although a sound faith + is essential, yet of faith, hope and love, the greatest is love; + therefore, love is better than wine. The Lord's assurances of love + are even more precious to the Bride than the precious doctrines so + vital to her happiness.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Because of the savour</span></span>—The + sweet perfume.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of Thy good + ointments</span></span>—The Holy Spirit, the holy anointing oil of + the priesthood.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + name</span></span>—Christ, which means <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Anointed.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is as + ointment</span></span>—The holy anointing oil, the Holy Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Poured + forth</span></span>—At His baptism upon the Head, at Pentecost on + the Body.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore</span></span>—Because of their + admiration and appreciation of Christ's Holy Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Do the + virgins</span></span>—The pure in heart.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Love + Thee</span></span>—Seek fellowship with Thee, aspire to learn of + Thee, to cultivate Thy graces, to be near Thee.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Draw + me</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“No man can come to Me + except the Father draw him.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“All + Thine are Mine.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">We will + run</span></span>—Not sit in the seat of the scornful, nor stand in + the way of sinners, nor walk in the counsel of the ungodly, but run + with patience the race set before us.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">After + Thee</span></span>—The Forerunner. The First-born from the dead. + The first to pass over the narrow way. The Head, <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page340">[pg 340]</span><a name="Pg340" id="Pg340" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> that in all things He might have the + preeminence. Not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + King</span></span>—The Lord Jesus, typified by Solomon. + <span class="tei tei-q">“So shall the King greatly desire thy + beauty.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Hath brought + me</span></span>—Even in the present life.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Into His + chambers</span></span>—Into the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Holy,”</span> the spirit-begotten condition, the first + heavenly condition; made us to sit down in heavenly places in + Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">We will be + glad</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Be glad in the Lord, + and rejoice, ye righteous.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And rejoice in + Thee</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“And again I say, + Rejoice.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">We will + remember</span></span>—Will meditate upon, think of.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + love</span></span>—Thy caresses, assurances of guidance, + protection, companionship, love and care.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">More than + wine.</span></span>—More even than the doctrines.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + upright</span></span>—Those without deceit, guileless, honest.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Love + Thee</span></span>—Seek fellowship with Thee, aspire to learn of + Thee, to cultivate Thy graces, to be near Thee.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I am + black</span></span>—The bride of Moses, Zipporah, type of the Bride + of Christ, was an Ethiopian woman—a Gentile.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + comely</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The King's Daughter + is all glorious within”</span>; her intentions are pure, spotless + in God's sight.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O ye + daughters</span></span>—Professed children.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + Jerusalem</span></span>—Of the Kingdom of God. The true Church + instinctively recognizes that her detractors are to be found among + God's professed people.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As the tents of + Kedar</span></span>—Kedar was one of the children of Ishmael, and + the name thus stands for the Ishmaelites, or Bedouins. Their tents + are their homes; and though made of black goat's hair and outwardly + stained they are often luxurious in the interior, being hung with + costly tapestries.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As the + curtains</span></span>—Between the Holy and the Most Holy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + Solomon</span></span>—Of Solomon's Temple. These curtains, or + rather a similar curtain which hung in Herod's temple, and which + was rent in twain on the day of our Lord's death, was most + wonderful, being some thirty feet long, fifteen feet wide and five + inches thick.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Look + not upon me</span></span>—Look not <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">so</span></em> upon + me (Leeser); the Bride kindly expostulates with her critics.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Because I am + black</span></span>—Because I am somewhat black (Leeser); the Bride + does not deny her imperfections, but is not disposed to admit that + she is altogether worthless.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Because the + Sun</span></span>—The searching light of the true Gospel which + exposes every defect.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Hath looked upon + me</span></span>—Judgment must begin at the House of God. The + Bride's sins are open beforehand, known to all men. God's Word + exposes the weaknesses of almost every noble character whose life + is there recorded.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page341">[pg + 341]</span><a name="Pg341" id="Pg341" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My mother's + children</span></span>—Sitting and speaking against their brother, + their own mother's son.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Were angry with + me</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Your brethren that hated + you, that cast you out for My name's sake,”</span> etc. + <span class="tei tei-q">“The brother shall betray the brother to + death.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They made + me</span></span>—Elected me, appointed me.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + keeper</span></span>—Class-leader, Sunday-school teacher, etc.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + vineyards</span></span>—Sunday-schools, Christian Endeavor + societies, Epworth Leagues, Young People's unions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But mine own + vineyard</span></span>—The cultivation of the fruits of the + Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Have I not + kept</span></span>—I have been too busy with <span class= + "tei tei-q">“church work,”</span> to look after my own best + spiritual interests.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Tell + me</span></span>—The Bride continues.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O + Thou</span></span>—Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Whom my soul + loveth</span></span>—Whom having not seen, we love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Where Thou + feedest</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Wheresoever the + carcase is there will the eagles be gathered together.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Where + thou</span></span>—The Good Shepherd.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Makest Thy + flock</span></span>—The Flock of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To + rest</span></span>—My people have forgotten their + resting-place.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">At + noon</span></span>—Where the grass is long and sweet, and where + there are opportunities to draw specially near to the Shepherd. + <span class="tei tei-q">“He maketh me to lie down in green + pastures.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For why should I + be</span></span>—Why should I longer appear to others to be.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As one that + turneth aside</span></span>—As one that goeth astray.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By the + flocks</span></span>—Not <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">in</span></em> them; for I never was in any + other intentionally. I thought these other flocks <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">were</span></em> + yours.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of Thy + companions</span></span>—Other great teachers; heads of other + churches; Antichrist systems.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">If + thou know not</span></span>—The Heavenly One replies.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O thou + fairest</span></span>—The Lord does not taunt her with her + self-confessed stains.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Among + women</span></span>—Churches, true and false.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Go thy way + forth</span></span>—There is something for you to do.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By the + footsteps</span></span>—He goeth before them, and the sheep follow + Him.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + flock</span></span>—Look about you; and when you see those whose + lives indicate that they are true sheep, and when they urge you + <span class="tei tei-q">“Come and see,”</span> follow Nathaniel's + example.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And feed thy + kids</span></span>—Inquiring ones, newly interested, especially if + they manifest any goat-like tendencies.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Beside the + shepherds' tents</span></span>—Take them to the elders' or deacons' + homes for further instruction in the right ways of the Lord; or, + apply the same principle by bringing the <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span> to their attention, thus introducing them to + the teacher who has answered all our hard + questions.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page342">[pg + 342]</span><a name="Pg342" id="Pg342" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + have compared thee</span></span>—The Lord continues.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O My + Love</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Love one another as I + have loved you.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To a + company</span></span>—144,000.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + horses</span></span>—Fond of their Master, quick to do His bidding, + easily guided, quiet, faithful, temperate, long-suffering.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In Pharaoh's + chariots</span></span>—The best in the world.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + cheeks are comely</span></span>—The Lord continues to shower + compliments upon His Espoused.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With rows of + jewels</span></span>—Jewels of Divine Truth; the ornaments of a + meek and quiet spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + neck</span></span>—The yoke-bearing member. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Take My yoke upon you”</span>; a yoke is built for + two—Jesus and one other.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With chains of + gold.</span></span>—The Divine nature. Each act of loyal + burden-bearing becomes a link in the golden chain.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">We</span></span>—My Father and I.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Will make thee + borders</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“A House not made + with hands eternal in the Heavens.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + gold</span></span>—The Divine nature.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With studs of + silver</span></span>—The House will be truly yours; that which is + your own.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">While the King</span></span>—The Bride + thus speaks of her Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Sitteth at His + table</span></span>—Breaking the Bread of Life to His + Household.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + spikenard</span></span>—Devotion, as Illustrated by Mary's + alabaster box.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Sendeth forth + the smell thereof</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Did not + our hearts burn within us while He talked with us by the way, and + while He opened to us the Scriptures?”</span> At such times the + fires of Heavenly love burn fiercest.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A + bundle of myrrh</span></span>—Wisdom. <span class="tei tei-q">“In + Him are hid all the treasures of wisdom and of + knowledge.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is my + well-beloved</span></span>—Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Unto + me</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Who of God is made unto + us Wisdom.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“We have the mind of + Christ.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He shall lie all + night</span></span>—During this dark time while evil is + permitted.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Betwixt my + breasts</span></span>—I will take the Lord into my bosom, + <span class="tei tei-q">“More dear, more intimately nigh than e'en + the sweetest earthly tie.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + Beloved</span></span>—Christ, on the other side of the veil.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is unto + me</span></span>—The Bride, still toiling on this side of the + veil.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As a cluster of + camphire</span></span>—A cooling, fragrant shade, a refuge from the + fierce heat; <span class="tei tei-q">“as the shadow of a great rock + in a weary land.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In the vineyards + of Engedi</span></span>—Located on the shore of the Dead Sea, in + one of the hottest of climates.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page343">[pg 343]</span><a name="Pg343" id="Pg343" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold thou art fair.</span></span>—The + Bridegroom speaks again.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + love</span></span>—My Bride to be.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Behold thou art + fair</span></span>—Beautiful of heart.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou hast dove's + eyes</span></span>—Heavenly wisdom—the wisdom of the Holy + Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold Thou art + fair</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Fairer than the + children of men.”</span> The Bride returns the compliment.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + Beloved</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Greater love hath no + man than this that a man lay down his life for his + friends.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yea + pleasant</span></span>—The disciplines are as nothing compared to + the joy of your fellowship.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Also, our + bed</span></span>—The place of our rest; <span class= + "tei tei-q">“let the saints be joyful in glory, let them sing aloud + upon their beds.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is + green</span></span>—Our rest will be everlasting. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“They rest from their labors.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + beams of our house</span></span>—The covering over us; <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the Head of Christ is God.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are + cedar</span></span>—Immortal.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And our + rafters</span></span>—Wainscoting; the environment on all + sides.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + fir</span></span>—Everlasting. Where changes never come.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I am + the rose</span></span>—Glorious, beautiful, without a peer.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + Sharon</span></span>—(The Plain). Not seeking exaltation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + lily</span></span>—Pure, fragrant, exquisite.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + valleys</span></span>—Meek and lowly of heart.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + the lily</span></span>—Pure, humble, defenseless; so the Heavenly + One responds.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Among + thorns</span></span>—Which scratch, tear and wound.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So is My + love</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Continue ye in my + love.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Among the + daughters</span></span>—Nominal church organizations.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + the apple tree</span></span>—The Bride thus refers to Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Among the + trees</span></span>—With a fruitage greater in variety, color, + flavor, quantity and lasting quality.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + wood</span></span>—Which run largely to leaves, professions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So is my + Beloved</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“We love Him because + He first loved us.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Among the + sons</span></span>—The other sons of God with whom we are + acquainted.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I sat + down</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Come ye yourselves + apart, and rest awhile.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Under His + shadow</span></span>—His protecting love and care.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And His + fruit</span></span>—His perfect fruitage of love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was sweet to my + taste.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Oh, taste and see + that the Lord is good!”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + brought me</span></span>—Guided me by His Word and providences.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To the + banqueting house</span></span>—To sup with Him and He with + me.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page344">[pg + 344]</span><a name="Pg344" id="Pg344" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And His + banner</span></span>—The banner under which He fought the good + fight of faith.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Over + me</span></span>—And under which I also am enlisted.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was + love</span></span>—Love of the highest order.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Stay + me</span></span>—Nerve me for the war.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With + flagons</span></span>—The pure doctrines of the Kingdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Comfort + me</span></span>—Strengthen me for the conflict.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With + apples</span></span>—Spiritual food; bread from Heaven.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For I am sick of + love</span></span>—Am lovesick, over-sentimental, dreamy, not + sufficiently awake to the fact that true love includes service and + sacrifice.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">His + left hand</span></span>—His power as illustrated in the guidance of + His people into all necessary Truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is under my + head</span></span>—Directing my mental faculties.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And His right + hand</span></span>—His power as illustrated in overruling all + things that would harm me.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Doth embrace + me</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Secure in His tender + embrace, I've nothing to doubt or to fear.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + charge you</span></span>—I must give you this message.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O ye + daughters</span></span>—Professed children; nominal Spiritual + Israel.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + Jerusalem</span></span>—The Kingdom of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By the + roes</span></span>—Which you regard as the loveliest things of + earth, as illustrated by the statuary on your estates.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And by the + hinds</span></span>—The things which you regard as most full of + grace; therefore typical of your churches, colleges, hospitals, + libraries and charitable institutions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + field</span></span>—The world, the present order of things.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That ye stir not + up</span></span>—Seek not to arouse.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Nor awake my + love</span></span>—To take charge of earth's affairs.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Till He + please.</span></span>—For when He does stand up to assume control, + <span class="tei tei-q">“there will be a Time of Trouble, such as + never was,”</span> in which all these beautiful things upon which + you have set your heart will be obliterated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + voice of my Beloved</span></span>—The Church suddenly recognizes + the joyful sound, betokening the Second Presence of her Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Behold He + cometh</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“At midnight there was + a cry raised. Behold, He cometh!”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Leaping + upon</span></span>—Dismembering or changing the form of.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + mountains</span></span>—The autocratic governments of Spain, + Portugal, Sweden, Russia, Turkey, Persia and China.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Skipping + upon</span></span>—Shattering old customs and old political + parties, and placing the people more in the ascendency.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + hills</span></span>—The less autocratic governments of the United + States, Mexico, Great Britain, France, etc. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The hills melt like wax at the presence of the + Lord.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + Beloved is like</span></span>—In swiftness of + movement.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page345">[pg + 345]</span><a name="Pg345" id="Pg345" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A roe or a young + hart</span></span>—Swiftly leaping from mountain to mountain; + preparing the world for His coming Reign.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Behold He + standeth</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“There standeth One + among you whom ye know not.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Behind our + wall.</span></span>—The wall of our earthly house, unseen by the + eye of flesh.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He looketh + forth</span></span>—He looketh in.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">At the + windows</span></span>—The windows of the soul, the eyes of the + understanding.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Showing + Himself</span></span>—Revealing the fact of His Second + Presence.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Through the + lattice</span></span>—Parallels and cross references of Holy + Writ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + Beloved spake</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Thine ears + shall hear a voice behind thee.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And said unto + me</span></span>—Through the words of the Prophets and the + Apostles.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Rise up, My + love</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Awake, awake! put on + thy strength.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My fair + one</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Put on thy beautiful + garments.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And come + away</span></span>—From earthly to Heavenly conditions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + lo, the winter</span></span>—The time of the burning of the tares; + <span class="tei tei-q">“pray ye that your flight be not in the + winter.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is + past</span></span>—Will shortly be past.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + rain</span></span>—The deluge of Truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is over and + gone.</span></span>—The Harvest work is all accomplished: will have + been finished at the time here indicated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + flowers</span></span>—Promise of a new fruitage.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Appear on the + earth</span></span>—Among the restitution class.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The time of the + singing</span></span>—The harmonious mating.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of birds is + come</span></span>—Of Heaven-sent prophecies and their fulfilments. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Search ye out and see; not one of these + shall want her mate”</span>; i. e., every word of every prophecy + will be fulfilled.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The voice of the + turtle</span></span>—The turtle-dove; <span class="tei tei-q">“the + congregation of Thy poor”</span> is thus described by the + Psalmist.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is heard in our + land</span></span>—The poor begin to take hope; the harbingers of + the New Era are about us on every hand.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + fig tree</span></span>—The Jewish nation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Putteth + forth</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Behold the fig tree, + and all the trees; when they now shoot forth ... know ye that the + Kingdom of God is nigh.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Her green + figs</span></span>—Plans for re-establishment in Palestine.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + vines</span></span>—Of the Father's right hand planting.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With the tender + grape</span></span>—Bearing the precious fruitage of love, joy, + peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, + self-control.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Give a good + smell</span></span>—Yield a sweet perfume to the husbandman. + <span class="tei tei-q">“My Father is the + Husbandman.”</span></p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page346">[pg + 346]</span><a name="Pg346" id="Pg346" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Arise My + Love</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Awake, thou that + sleepest, and arise from the dead.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My fair + one</span></span>—The queen in gold of Ophir, Daughter of the Great + King.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And come + away.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Forget also thine own + people and thy father's house.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O my + Dove</span></span>—The Bride addresses her unseen Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That art + in</span></span>—Directly <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">in</span></em>, fully <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">in</span></em>, + guiding, controlling.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + clefts</span></span>—The apparent fractures or injuries.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + rock</span></span>—The Kingdom; the Stone cut out without + hands.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In the secret + places</span></span>—The dark corners of life's experiences, where + we halt trembling and afraid.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + stairs</span></span>—The stepping stones by which we ascend to the + Heavenly City.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Let me see Thy + countenance</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“I shall be + satisfied when I awake in Thy likeness.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Let me hear Thy + voice</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The sheep follow Him; + for they know His voice.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For sweet is Thy + voice</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Grace is poured into + Thy lips.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And Thy + countenance is comely</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“I will + that they may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My + glory.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Take + us the foxes</span></span>—Take away from us the sly faults, + originating in the deceitful mind of the flesh.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The little + foxes</span></span>—Secret beginnings of sin in the mind.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That spoil the + vines</span></span>—That prevent us from yielding the fruitage of + love so precious in Thy sight.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For our + vines</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“I am the Vine; ye are + the branches.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Have tender + grapes</span></span>—Have begun a fruitage, which is ripening + beautifully in the Father's sight.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + Beloved is mine</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Head can + not say to the feet, I have no need of you.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And I am + His</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“If the foot shall say, + Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body, is it not of the + body?”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + feedeth</span></span>—Bestows His spiritual favors upon.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + lilies</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The meek will He + guide in judgment; the meek will He teach His way.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Until the day break</span></span>—Until + the Messianic Morning has fully dawned.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + shadows</span></span>—Of the reign of sin and death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Flee + away</span></span>—Depart forever.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Turn my + Beloved</span></span>—Continue to hide Thyself from earthly + eyes.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And be Thou + like</span></span>—In Thy swiftness of movement.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A roe or a young + hart</span></span>—Leaping from mountain to mountain—kingdom to + kingdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Upon the + mountains</span></span>—Gentile dominions.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page347">[pg 347]</span><a name="Pg347" id="Pg347" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + Bether</span></span>—Of divisions, which separate us from Thee and + separate Thee from Thy long-promised Reign.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By + night</span></span>—While I was still in the dark in regard to + God's great Plan.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">On my + bed</span></span>—My creed bed, the one from which I have now been + taken, but in which many others are still left.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I sought + Him</span></span>—Sought intimate fellowship with Him.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Whom my soul + loveth</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“He that loveth father + or mother ... son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of + Me.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I sought + Him</span></span>—Christ, the Heavenly Bridegroom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But I found Him + not</span></span>—Certainly not; how absurd of me to expect to + greet the Bridegroom when I was in bed, sound asleep!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + will rise now</span></span>—This creed bed is uncomfortable; it is + <span class="tei tei-q">“shorter than that a man can stretch + himself on it.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And go about the + city</span></span>—Interest myself in the activities of + Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In the + streets</span></span>—Enter into the affairs of its + governments.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And in the broad + ways</span></span>—Plunge into its pleasures—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“gay white ways,”</span> etc.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I will seek + Him</span></span>—Try to find the place of rest.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Whom my soul + loveth</span></span>—For which my soul longs. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“We who have believed do enter into rest.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I sought + Him</span></span>—Sought rest of heart in all these ways.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But I found Him + not</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“All that my soul has + tried left but an aching void.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + watchmen</span></span>—Of nominal Zion; the clergy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That go about + the city</span></span>—Christendom, Babylon.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Found + me</span></span>—Drew me under their influence.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To whom I + said</span></span>—Having become deeply interested in the subject + of the Lord's promised Return.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saw ye + Him</span></span>—Have you discerned the fact of the Bridegroom's + Presence?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Whom my soul + loveth</span></span>—There was no reply, for the reason that + <span class="tei tei-q">“His watchmen are blind; they are all + ignorant: they are all dumb dogs; they cannot bark.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">It + was but a little</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“He is not + far from us.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That I passed + from them</span></span>—Became unbound, unfettered.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But I found + Him</span></span>—Was made acquainted with the proofs of the + Parousia.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Whom my soul + loveth</span></span>—We ought to live for Him who died for us.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I held + Him</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Hold that fast which + thou hast, that no man take thy crown.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And would not + let Him go</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“I will not let + Thee go, except Thou bless me.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Till I had + brought Him</span></span>—Till I had accompanied Him.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Into my mother's + house</span></span>—The antitypical Sarah tent.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page348">[pg 348]</span><a name="Pg348" id="Pg348" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And into the + chamber</span></span>—Heaven itself.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of her that + conceived me</span></span>—The Sarah Covenant; the Oath-bound + Covenant.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + charge you</span></span>—I must give you this message.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O ye + daughters</span></span>—Professed children.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + Jerusalem</span></span>—The Kingdom of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By the + roes</span></span>—Which you regard as the loveliest things of + earth, as illustrated by the statuary on your estates.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And by the + hinds</span></span>—The things which you regard as most full of + grace; therefore typical of your churches, colleges, hospitals, + libraries and charitable institutions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + field</span></span>—The world, the present order of things.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That ye stir not + up</span></span>—Seek not to arouse.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Nor awake my + Love</span></span>—To take charge of earth's affairs.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Till He + please</span></span>—For when He does stand up to assume control, + <span class="tei tei-q">“there will be a Time of Trouble such as + never was,”</span> in which all these beautiful things upon which + you have set your heart will be obliterated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Who + is this that cometh</span></span>—The Lord's professed people thus + speak of the evidences of the Lord's Second Presence.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Out of the + wilderness</span></span>—The Time of Trouble having come, they + recognize that the long-promised Second Coming of the Lord is an + accomplished fact.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Like pillars of + smoke</span></span>—Terrible in majesty, definite, personal, + intangible. <span class="tei tei-q">“I will show wonders in the + heavens and in the earth, blood and fire and pillars of + smoke.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Perfumed with + myrrh</span></span>—Anointed with Wisdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + frankincense</span></span>—Praise to Jehovah.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With all + powders</span></span>—All ingredients of the holy anointing oil, + type of the Holy Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + merchant</span></span>—The apothecary; the Heavenly Father. + <span class="tei tei-q">“God gave not the Spirit by measure unto + Him.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold His bed</span></span>—The place of + His ultimate rest and ours.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which is + Solomon's</span></span>—Christ's, in glory.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Threescore + valiant men</span></span>—The sixty centuries during which evil has + been permitted.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are about + it</span></span>—Standing between the people of God and the rest + which He has promised.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + valiant</span></span>—Invincible, immovable.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + Israel</span></span>—Of the people of God. All the centuries belong + to God; they are His servants, working out His sovereign will.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They + all hold swords</span></span>—Since the slaughter of Abel, all the + centuries have been filled with bloodshed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Being expert in + war</span></span>—War has prevailed throughout the earth during all + that time.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page349">[pg + 349]</span><a name="Pg349" id="Pg349" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Every man hath + his sword</span></span>—Every century has its implements of + war.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Upon his + thigh</span></span>—Ready for use upon the slightest + provocation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Because of + fear</span></span>—The present world-war is due to mutual fear and + distrust.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In the + night</span></span>—The time of the permission of evil; the time + for dark motives and dark deeds.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">King + Solomon</span></span>—Christ, in glory.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Made Himself a + chariot</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Appiryon</span></span>, palanquin; a + magnificent vehicle provided for a queen's reception and her + entrance into the royal city, and in which the King goes forth to + meet her; typified by the chariot of fire which bore Elijah away + from earthly scenes: the magnificent spectacle with which this Age + will end.—See page <a href="#Pg063" class="tei tei-ref">63</a>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the wood of + Lebanon</span></span>—The saints. The typical temple was built, in + part, of cedar and fir timber cut from Mt. Lebanon.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + made the pillars thereof</span></span>—The corner posts, just + outside the place of greatest honor.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + silver</span></span>—The Great Company.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The bottom + thereof</span></span>—The canopy overhead; <span class= + "tei tei-q">“that in all things He might have the + preeminence.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + gold</span></span>—The Divine nature.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The covering + thereof</span></span>—The seat; the Throne of the Royal + Priesthood.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + purple</span></span>—Royalty.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The midst + thereof</span></span>—The heart of it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Being paved with + love</span></span>—Love of the highest order—love for enemies.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For the + daughters</span></span>—The professed children; nominal Spiritual + Israel.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + Jerusalem</span></span>—The Kingdom of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Go + forth</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Come out of + her,”</span> out of Babylon.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O ye daughters + of Zion</span></span>—My people; God's people.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And behold King + Solomon</span></span>—Get clear views of Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With the + crown</span></span>—The Crown of Life; the Divine nature.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Wherewith His + mother</span></span>—The Sarah Covenant.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Crowned + Him</span></span>—With glory and honor.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In the + day</span></span>—Pentecost.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of His + espousals</span></span>—When the antitypical Eliezer was received + by the antitypical Rebecca.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And in the + day</span></span>—Now at hand, praise the Lord!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the gladness + of His heart</span></span>—When the marriage of the Lamb takes + place. <span class="tei tei-q">“Blessed is he that is called to the + marriage supper of the Lamb.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold thou art fair</span></span>—The + Lord addresses His Bride anew.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page350">[pg 350]</span><a name="Pg350" id="Pg350" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + love</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Greater love hath no + man than this, that a man lay down his life for his + friend.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Behold thou art + fair</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“So shall the King + greatly desire thy beauty.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou hast dove's + eyes</span></span>—The Heavenly wisdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + hair</span></span>—Woman's hair was given her for a covering, and + it is her glory. The righteousness of Christ is the Bride's + covering, and it is her glory.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is as a flock of + goats</span></span>—Thick, luxuriant.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That appear from + Mt. Gilead</span></span>—The flocks of goats on Mt. Gilead are of + unusual size to this day.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + teeth</span></span>—Masticators, grinders, assimilators of + spiritual food.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are like a + flock</span></span>—In glistening array.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That are even + shorn</span></span>—When the lips are parted.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which come up + from the washing</span></span>—Cleansing by salivation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Whereof every + one bear twine</span></span>—Whereof they come forth in pairs.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And none is + barren</span></span>—None is without its mate.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Among + them</span></span>—The teeth are perfect in form and number, + illustrating the Bride's ability to feed upon the strong meat which + <span class="tei tei-q">“belongeth to them that are of full + age.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + lips</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“O Lord open Thou my + lips!”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“My mouth shall praise Thee + with joyful lips.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are like a + thread of scarlet</span></span>—As the scarlet thread of redemption + runs through the Divine Word, so it is with you, and on your + lips—the all-absorbing theme of life.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And thy speech + is comely</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“My speech shall + distil as the dew.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy temples are + like</span></span>—Thy mind, the mind of the New Creature, may be + properly compared to.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A piece of + pomegranate</span></span>—The pomegranate curiously combines the + flavors of all fruits. It thus well illustrates the New Mind, + which, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, brings to perfection + the fruitage of love, the sum of all the Christian graces.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Within thy + locks</span></span>—Behind thy veil; concealed by the veil of the + flesh.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + neck</span></span>—Willingness to bear burdens.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is like the + tower of David</span></span>—David was a type of the Church + militant.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Builded for an + armory</span></span>—Designed to accommodate a great number.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Whereon there + hang a thousand</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“One shall + chase a thousand.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Bucklers of + shields of mighty men</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“I can + do all things through Christ, which strengtheneth + me.”</span></p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page351">[pg + 351]</span><a name="Pg351" id="Pg351" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + two breasts</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The breasts of + her consolations, whereof ye may suck and be satisfied, milk out + and be delighted.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are like two + young roes</span></span>—The Scriptures, the Word of God, quick and + powerful.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That are + twins</span></span>—The Old and New Testament Scriptures are + identical in origin, spirit and purpose.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which feed among + the lilies</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The meek will He + guide in judgment; the meek will He teach His way.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Until the Day</span></span>—The + Millennial Day. The Bride is the speaker.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Break</span></span>—Has fully dawned.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + shadows</span></span>—Of the Valley of the Shadow of Death in which + I now walk.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Flee + away</span></span>—Are gone.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I will get + me</span></span>—In spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To the mountain + of myrrh</span></span>—The Kingdom of Wisdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And to the hill + of frankincense</span></span>—Praise, heart adoration.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + art all fair</span></span>—Blameless, faultless. The Lord + responds.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + love</span></span>—His love is commended to us in that <span class= + "tei tei-q">“while we were yet sinners Christ died for the + ungodly.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">There is no + spot</span></span>—You have kept your garments unspotted from the + world.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + thee</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“If we confess our sins, + He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse + us.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Come + with Me</span></span>—To our Heavenly inheritance.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">From + Lebanon</span></span>—From your present unfinished condition. The + typical temple was built, in part, of cedar and fir timbers from + Lebanon; but they had to be hewn and finished before they could be + used.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + spouse</span></span>—My espoused Bride.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With Me from + Lebanon</span></span>—You are but following in the path I trod.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Look from the + top of Amana</span></span>—The view from this peak is said to be + indescribably grand. Look away to Heaven.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">From the top of + Shenir</span></span>—(Peak or pointed.) Look beyond the sharp + experiences of the present.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + Hermon</span></span>—(Rugged or abrupt.) Look beyond the unkind + words and deeds you now encounter.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">From the lions' + dens</span></span>—You are now in the lions' dens, but look beyond + them. Satan goes about as a roaring lion; but no lion shall be + there.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">From the + mountains</span></span>—Kingdoms of this world. Look beyond + them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + leopards</span></span>—Papacy and those of her spirit. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“And the beast which I saw was like unto a + leopard.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + hast ravished My heart</span></span>—Taken it away.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page352">[pg 352]</span><a name="Pg352" id="Pg352" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My sister, My + spouse</span></span>—The Bride of Christ is His sister. His Father + is their Father. His mother, the Sarah covenant, is their mother. + <span class="tei tei-q">“We, brethren, as Isaac was, are the + children of the Promise.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With one of + thine eyes</span></span>—With thy singleness of vision. + <span class="tei tei-q">“If thine eye be single, thy whole body + shall be light.”</span>—Matt. 6:22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With one chain + of thy neck</span></span>—With thy one bond of servitude; + consecration to the service of the Great King.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">How + fair is thy love</span></span>—How various and beautiful are its + forms of expression.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My sister, My + spouse</span></span>—My Father's Daughter, My espoused Bride.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">How much better + is thy love</span></span>—The ways in which you show your devotion + to me.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Than + wine</span></span>—Than thy doctrines, some of which, in the past, + have been badly mixed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + smell</span></span>—The sweet fragrance.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of thine + ointments</span></span>—The anointing oil; the Holy Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Than all + spices</span></span>—Than all other virtues.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + lips, O My spouse</span></span>—My beloved Bride to be.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Drop as the + honeycomb</span></span>—Distil a dropping of pure honey; sweet and + helpful words.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + smell</span></span>—The sweet perfume.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of thy + garments</span></span>—The robe of Christ's righteousness.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is like the + smell</span></span>—The life-giving odors.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + Lebanon</span></span>—The cedar and fir trees of Lebanon.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A + garden enclosed</span></span>—A heart-garden, shut out of sight of + all but its owners.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is My sister, My + spouse</span></span>—My Father's daughter, My espoused Bride.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A spring shut + up</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It shall be in you a well + of water springing up unto everlasting life.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A fountain + sealed</span></span>—Sealed with the King's own signet, until the + time comes that all the well springs are brought together in the + first resurrection, to constitute the fountain from which will flow + the River of the Water of Life.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + plants are</span></span>—The plants in your heart-garden are + illustrated by.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">An orchard of + pomegranates</span></span>—The pomegranate curiously combines the + flavors of all fruits and thus well represents love, the sum of all + the Christian graces.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With pleasant + fruits</span></span>—Pleasing characteristics.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Camphire</span></span>—Rest, trust, + confidence.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With + spikenard</span></span>—Fragrant devotion, as illustrated by Mary's + alabaster box.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Spikenard and + saffron</span></span>—Fragrant devotion and + long-suffering.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page353">[pg + 353]</span><a name="Pg353" id="Pg353" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Calamus and + cinnamon</span></span>—Knowledge and understanding.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With all trees + of frankincense</span></span>—Praise, heart adoration.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Myrrh and + aloes</span></span>—Wisdom and patience.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With all chief + spices</span></span>—All the remaining elements of Christian + character.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A + fountain</span></span>—In the midst.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + gardens</span></span>—Beautiful, clear, sparkling, life-giving.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A well of living + waters</span></span>—Invigorating the whole world in the New Age. + <span class="tei tei-q">“The water that I shall give him shall be + in him a well of water springing up unto everlasting + life.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And streams from + Lebanon</span></span>—Pure, refreshing.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Awake O North wind</span></span>—Storms + of adversity. The Bride speaks.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And come thou + South</span></span>—Balmy breezes. <span class="tei tei-q">“Some + days are bright and sweet with praise, some with accepted + pain.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Blow upon my + garden</span></span>—My heart-garden, in which I seek to develop + the fruits most pleasing to my Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That the spices + thereof</span></span>—The aroma of good deeds, kind words and noble + thoughts.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">May flow + out</span></span>—Manifest itself to the Lord and to others.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Let my + Beloved</span></span>—Bridegroom, Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Come into His + garden</span></span>—Come into my heart.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + eat</span></span>—Appropriate to His use and pleasure.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">His pleasant + fruits</span></span>—The fruits of love, which He has cultivated + within me.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I am + come</span></span>—The Lord responds.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Into My + garden</span></span>—I have accepted your invitation to come in and + make My abode with you.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My sister, My + spouse</span></span>—My Father's Daughter, My espoused Bride.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I have gathered + My myrrh</span></span>—Wisdom; generally the result of bitter + experience. Myrrh means bitter.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With My + spice</span></span>—The fragrant and sweet ingredients of the Holy + Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I have + eaten</span></span>—Accepted, appropriated, consumed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + honeycomb</span></span>—The sacrificers themselves.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With My + honey</span></span>—With the sacrifices of praise which they + offered.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I have drunk My + wine</span></span>—Taken note of the doctrines you teach.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With My + milk</span></span>—Noticed also the manner and spirit with which + you present the milk of the Word to those not so far advanced.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Eat, O + friends</span></span>—The Lord addresses the needy world.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Drink, yea, + drink abundantly, O beloved</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“He, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, + and he that hath no money; come ye, buy and eat; yea, come, buy + wine and milk without money and without + price.”</span></p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page354">[pg + 354]</span><a name="Pg354" id="Pg354" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + sleep</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“While the Bridegroom + tarried, they all slumbered and slept.”</span> The Foolish Virgin + class is here represented as speaking.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But my heart + waketh</span></span>—At heart the Foolish Virgins are loyal to the + Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">It is the voice + of my Beloved</span></span>—She recognizes the evidences of the + Lord's Second Advent.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That + knocketh</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Behold, I stand at + the door and knock.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saying Open to + me</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“If any man hear My voice + and open the door, I will come in to him.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My sister, My + love</span></span>—The Foolish Virgins are children of the same + Father, and are also born of the Sarah Covenant, but the Lord does + not address them as His spouse.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My dove, My + undefiled</span></span>—The Great Company class are pure in their + hearts intentions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For My + head</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“As one who has vowed a + vow of a Nazarite to separate himself unto Jehovah.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is filled with + dew</span></span>—Freshness, vigor. <span class="tei tei-q">“Thou + hast the dew of Thy youth.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And My + locks</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“All the days of his + separation there shall no razor come upon his head. Till the days + be fulfilled in the which he separateth himself unto Jehovah, he + shall be holy, and shall let the locks of the hair of his head + grow.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With the + drops</span></span>—Experiences.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + night</span></span>—My consecration to Jehovah has been steadfast + throughout the world's dark night of sin.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + have put off</span></span>—Temporarily laid aside. The Foolish + Virgins reply.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + coat</span></span>—The wedding robe which You provided.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">How shall + I</span></span>—How can I see to.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Put it + on</span></span>—I am in the midst of the dark night of the Time of + Trouble.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I have washed my + feet</span></span>—I am a church member, in good and regular + standing.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">How shall I + defile them</span></span>—Why should I leave my creed bed and obey + Your call to come out of Babylon?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + Beloved</span></span>—In His great love and pity for me.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Put in His + hand</span></span>—Exerted His mighty power.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By the hole of + the door</span></span>—Rattled the time-lock.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And my + bowels</span></span>—My heart.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Were moved for + Him</span></span>—Was stirred to action, but too late to go in with + Him to the wedding.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + rose up</span></span>—Roused myself to activity.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To open to my + Beloved</span></span>—Just as the Harvest was past.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And my + hands</span></span>—Holding the keys to the Bible, the <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Studies</span></span>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Dropped with + myrrh</span></span>—Wisdom, gleaned from the <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>, till then neglected.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page355">[pg 355]</span><a name="Pg355" id="Pg355" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With sweet + smelling myrrh</span></span>—A knowledge of all the precious things + of Present Truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Upon the + handles</span></span>—The lines of prophetical evidence.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + lock</span></span>—The time features of the Lord's Plan.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + opened to my Beloved</span></span>—After the Harvest work was + finished.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But my + Beloved</span></span>—True to His word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Had withdrawn + Himself</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“And they that were + ready went in with Him to the marriage.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And was + gone</span></span>—And the door was shut.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My soul failed + when He spake</span></span>—I lacked the love, faith and hope to + obey promptly.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I sought + Him</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Many shall strive to + enter in but shall not be able when once the Master of the House + hath risen up and shut to the door.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But found Him + not</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“I am He that shutteth + and no man openeth.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I called + Him</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Not every one that saith + unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter in.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But He gave me + no answer</span></span>—No hope of being His Bride and + Joint-heir.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + watchmen</span></span>—Watchmen in nominal Zion, the clergy of the + nominal church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That went about + the city</span></span>—Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Found + me</span></span>—Observed my course in accepting Present Truth and + withdrawing from their systems.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They smote + me</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“With arrows, even bitter + words.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They wounded + me</span></span>—Wounded my reputation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + keepers</span></span>—Civil authorities.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the + walls</span></span>—The Governments, the bulwarks of + Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Took away my + veil from me</span></span>—Were instigated to destroy me, to cause + me to pass into death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + charge you</span></span>—The Foolish Virgin class continues.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O daughters of + Jerusalem</span></span>—O all who profess to love Him.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">If ye find my + Beloved</span></span>—If you yourself expect to be of the Bride + class.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That ye tell + Him</span></span>—In my behalf.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That I am sick + of love</span></span>—Hungering for His companionship, longing to + see His face, despite the fact that I did not open to Him + promptly.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">What + is thy Beloved</span></span>—The Lord's professed people, now in + nominal Zion, speak.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">More than + another beloved</span></span>—Why is Christ any more to you than He + is to me?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O thou fairest + among women</span></span>—The Lord's professed people in nominal + Zion begin to awake to the fact that the last of the + spiritually-minded ones are leaving them.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page356">[pg 356]</span><a name="Pg356" id="Pg356" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">What is thy + Beloved</span></span>—To you.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">More than + another beloved</span></span>—To another.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That thou dost + so charge us</span></span>—We would like to understand the reasons + why you are so deeply concerned, and why you persist in saying, + <span class="tei tei-q">“The Harvest is past, the summer is ended, + and we are not saved.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + Beloved is white</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Holy, + harmless, undefiled and separate from sinners.”</span> The Foolish + Virgin class responds to the Lord's professed people in nominal + Zion.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + ruddy</span></span>—A reference to His pierced side. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“He was clothed in a vesture dipped in + blood.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + chiefest</span></span>—The standard-bearer or chieftain.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Among ten + thousand</span></span>—Among ten thousand warriors.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">His + head</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“God gave Him to be the + Head over all things to the Church which is His Body, that in all + things He might have the preeminence.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is as the most + fine gold</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Who only hath + immortality.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">His locks are + bushy</span></span>—His consecration is perfect and complete.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And black as a + raven</span></span>—And He remained steadfast in it unto death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">His + eyes</span></span>—Wisdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are as the eyes + of doves</span></span>—Pure, peaceable, gentle.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By the rivers of + waters</span></span>—By the channels of truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Washed with + milk</span></span>—Primary elements of the Truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And fitly + set</span></span>—All in perfect harmony.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">His + cheeks</span></span>—His countenance towards me.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are as a bed of + spices</span></span>—The personification of every virtue and every + grace.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As sweet + flowers</span></span>—Towers of perfumes (margin), flowers trained + upon trellises; shedding a beauty and fragrance compelling the + attention of all.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">His lips like + lilies</span></span>—His speech modest, beautiful and sweet. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Never man spake like this Man.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Dropping sweet + smelling myrrh</span></span>—Distilling Heavenly wisdom. + <span class="tei tei-q">“My speech shall distil as the + dew.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">His + hands</span></span>—As in rolling or unrolling a scroll or + parchment.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are as gold + rings</span></span>—Conform to the shape of the roll. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Thou art worthy to take the roll and to open the seals + thereof.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Set with the + beryl</span></span>—Love of the Father. See page <a href="#Pg335" + class="tei tei-ref">335</a>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">His + belly</span></span>—The word signifies the whole body, from + shoulders to thighs.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is as bright + ivory</span></span>—A beautiful vision.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Overlaid with + sapphires</span></span>—Faithfulness. See page <a href="#Pg334" + class="tei tei-ref">334</a>. <span class="tei tei-q">“And they saw + the God of Israel, and there was under His feet as it were a paved + work of a sapphire stone.”</span></p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page357">[pg 357]</span><a name="Pg357" id="Pg357" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">His + legs</span></span>—The members that have been carrying on the work + of the Body.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are as pillars + of marble</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Him that + overcometh will I make a pillar in the Temple of My + God.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Set upon + sockets</span></span>—Feet, the foot members.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of fine + gold</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“How beautiful upon the + mountains are the feet of Him!”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">His + countenance</span></span>—Smile of favor.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is as + Lebanon</span></span>—Pure, invigorating, refreshing.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Excellent as the + cedars</span></span>—Everlasting life.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">His + mouth</span></span>—His Word. <span class="tei tei-q">“Man shall + not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of + the mouth of God.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is most + sweet</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“All bare Him witness + and wondered at the gracious words that proceeded out of His + mouth.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yea, He is + altogether lovely</span></span>—It is impossible to describe all + His excellencies; He is the sum of all that is to be desired.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">This is my + Beloved</span></span>—This is the One I love supremely.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And this is my + Friend</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“I've found a Friend, + O such a Friend!”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O daughters of + Jerusalem</span></span>—O you who are nominally His.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Whither is thy Beloved + gone</span></span>—After the door is shut, those who have been + nominally Christ's begin to give heed to the message of the Foolish + Virgins.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O thou fairest + among women</span></span>—O most spiritually-minded amongst us.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Whither is thy + Beloved turned aside</span></span>—We realize that He has entirely + withdrawn Himself from us.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That we may seek + Him with thee</span></span>—Show us in the Word how He is now to be + found. <span class="tei tei-q">“All that a man hath will he give + for his life.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + Beloved</span></span>—The Foolish Virgin class, now thoroughly + aroused to the facts, explain to the Lord's professed children in + nominal Zion.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is gone + down</span></span>—His Second Advent is accomplished.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Into His + garden</span></span>—He has taken His Bride to Himself.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To the beds of + spices</span></span>—To accept from her heart-garden the fragrant + and sweet ingredients of the Holy Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To feed in the + gardens</span></span>—To receive to Himself the precious fruits + love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, + meekness, self-control.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And to gather + lilies</span></span>—To take the humble sweet ones home; to gather + the wheat class into the Heavenly garner.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I am + my Beloved's</span></span>—The Great Company can not forget that + they are precious in the Lord's sight.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And my Beloved + is mine</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Fade, Fade, each + earthly joy, Jesus is mine.”</span></p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page358">[pg 358]</span><a name="Pg358" id="Pg358" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He feedeth among + the lilies</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The meek will He + guide in judgment; the meek will He teach His way.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + art beautiful</span></span>—At heart. The Lord again addresses His + Bride.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O My + love</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Love one another as I + have loved you.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + Tirzah</span></span>—A delight.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Comely as + Jerusalem</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The City of the + Great King.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Terrible</span></span>—In the conquest of + evil.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As an army with + banners</span></span>—To an opposing host.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Turn + away thine eyes from Me</span></span>—Observe the Lord's modesty + and humility.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For they have + overcome Me</span></span>—How the Lord delights to express His + appreciation of the virtues of His Bride, despite the fact that + they are all but feeble reflections of His own!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + hair</span></span>—Righteousness. Woman's hair was given her for a + covering, and it is her glory. The righteousness of Christ is the + Bride's covering, and it is her glory.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is as a flock of + goats</span></span>—Thick, luxuriant.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That appear from + Mt. Gilead</span></span>—The flocks of goats on Mt. Gilead are of + unusual size to this day.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + teeth</span></span>—Masticators, grinders, assimilators of + spiritual food.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are as a + flock</span></span>—In glistening array.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which go up from + the washing</span></span>—Cleansing by salivation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Whereof every + one bear twins</span></span>—They come forth in pairs.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And there is not + one barren</span></span>—None is without its mate.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Among + them</span></span>—The teeth are perfect in form and number, + illustrating the Bride's ability to feed upon the strong meat which + <span class="tei tei-q">“belongeth to them that are of full + age.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As a + piece of pomegranate</span></span>—The pomegranate curiously + combines the flavors of all fruits. It thus well illustrates the + New Mind, which, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, brings to + perfection the fruitage of love, the sum of all the Christian + graces.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are thy + temples</span></span>—Thy mind, the mind of the New Creature.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Within thy + locks</span></span>—Behind thy veil; concealed by the veil of the + flesh.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">There are threescore + queens</span></span>—Nominal church organizations openly joined to + earthly heads.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And fourscore + concubines</span></span>—Even more are secretly violating their + pledges of spiritual virginity. Altogether the census shows about + 150 sects. See page <a href="#Pg160" class="tei tei-ref">160</a>, + where all the principal sects are enumerated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And virgins + without number</span></span>—Foolish Virgins, really pure at + heart.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page359">[pg + 359]</span><a name="Pg359" id="Pg359" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + dove, My undefiled</span></span>—The Virgin Bride of Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is but + one</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“That they may be one, as + We are.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The only + one</span></span>—To share the glory, honor and immortality of + Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of her + mother</span></span>—The Oath-bound Covenant.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">She is the + choice one</span></span>—The specially favored one.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of her that bore + her</span></span>—The antitypical Sarah.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + daughters</span></span>—Professed children of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Saw + her</span></span>—Discerned her, at the time of the manifestation + of the Sons of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And blessed + her</span></span>—Called her blessed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yea the + queens</span></span>—Those openly affiliated with worldly churches + in union with worldly governments.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + concubines</span></span>—Those secretly thus affiliated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And they praised + her</span></span>—Acknowledged, in the end, that her course was + right and her exaltation merited.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Who + is she</span></span>—The Bride.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That looketh + forth</span></span>—Beams resplendent.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As the + morning</span></span>—The Millennial Morning.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Fair</span></span>—Pure, just, holy, + good.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As the + moon</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The law is fulfilled in + us who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Clear</span></span>—Glorious, + light-giving.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As the + Sun</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Then shall the righteous + shine forth as the Sun in the Kingdom of their Father.”</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">“Who hath ears to hear, let him + hear.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + terrible</span></span>—In the conquest of evil.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As an army with + banners</span></span>—To an opposing host.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + went down</span></span>—Following the exaltation of the Bride. + Christ speaks.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Into the garden + of nuts</span></span>—The heart-gardens of the Foolish Virgin + class. A garden of nuts does not as quickly yield its treasures as + a garden of spices, to which the Bride's heart garden is + likened.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To see the + fruits of the valley</span></span>—Of the class that had not risen + with the Bride to the Pisgah heights of faith and hope and + love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And to see + whether</span></span>—As a result of their experiences in the Time + of Trouble.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The vine + flourished</span></span>—Their characters had been properly + affected.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + pomegranates budded</span></span>—To see whether there is promise + of the fruits of the Spirit coming to perfection.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Or + ever I was aware</span></span>—I knew not how it was.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + soul</span></span>—Filled with love and pity for them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Made me like the + chariots</span></span>—Swiftly speeding to them to bless and help + them in their hour of extremity.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + Amminadib</span></span>—Of My willing people, the + Bride.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page360">[pg + 360]</span><a name="Pg360" id="Pg360" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Return, return</span></span>—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Return, ye backsliding children, and I will heal your + backslidings.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O + Shulamite</span></span>—(Uneven one), you who have been uneven in + your love, hope and faith.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Return, return, + that We</span></span>—My Father and I.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">May look upon + thee</span></span>—Smile upon thee; bestow blessings. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“With gladness and rejoicing shall they be brought: + they shall enter into the King's palace.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">What will ye + see</span></span>—You who study the matter.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In the + Shulamite</span></span>—The Foolish Virgin class. The answer is + that you will see.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As it were the + company</span></span>—The Great Company.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of two + armies</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“A great multitude + which no man can number.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">How + beautiful are thy feet</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“How + beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of them that preach the + Gospel of peace.”</span> The Lord again addresses His Bride.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With + shoes</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Feet shod with the + preparation of the Gospel of peace.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O Prince's + daughter</span></span>—Daughter of the King, Jehovah.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + joints</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The whole Body, fitly + joined together and compacted with that which every joint + supplieth.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of thy + thighs</span></span>—(Softness) gentleness, tenderness.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are like + jewels</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“They shall be Mine, + saith the Lord of Hosts, in that day when I make up My + jewels.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The work of the + hands</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“For we are His + workmanship.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of a cunning + workman</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“As for God, His work + is perfect.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + navel</span></span>—Umbilical cord; by which you are joined to the + Oath-bound Covenant, the Sarah Covenant; the cord of faith.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is like a round + goblet</span></span>—Generous in capacity.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which wanteth + not liquor</span></span>—Is full of the Divine promises.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + belly</span></span>—Spiritual digestive tract.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is like a heap + of wheat</span></span>—Solid spiritual food.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Set about with + lilies</span></span>—Flowers of humility.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + two breasts</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The breasts of + her consolations, whereof ye may suck and be satisfied, milk out + and be delighted.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are like two + young roes</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Scriptures, + the Word of God, quick and powerful.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That are + twins</span></span>—The Old and New Testament Scriptures are + identical in origin, spirit and purpose.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + neck</span></span>—Willingness to bear burdens.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is as a tower of + ivory</span></span>—Purity and strength.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thine + eyes</span></span>—Wisdom, Heaven-sent.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Like the + fishpools in Heshbon</span></span>—Pure, deep.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By the gate of + Bath-Rabbim</span></span>—Calm and strong.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page361">[pg 361]</span><a name="Pg361" id="Pg361" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + nose</span></span>—Scent for spiritual food.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is as the tower + of Lebanon</span></span>—Lofty, high, noble.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which looketh + toward Damascus</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Visions of + beauty rise before us.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“He that + lacketh these things is blind and can not see afar off.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Thine head upon thee</span></span>—Thy + reasoning faculties.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is like + Carmel</span></span>—(Crimson.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Come now + and let us reason together, saith the Lord; though your sins be as + scarlet they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like + crimson they shall be as wool.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the hair of + thine head</span></span>—Thy righteousness. Woman's hair was given + for a covering, and her glory. The righteousness of Christ is the + Bride's covering, and her glory.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Like + purple</span></span>—Royalty. The robe of Christ's righteousness, + which the Bride now wears, will ultimately become the robe of the + Queen.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The King is + held</span></span>—Bound, captive.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In the + galleries</span></span>—The happy prison-house of the charms of His + Bride.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">How + fair</span></span>—Beautiful at heart. <span class="tei tei-q">“The + King's daughter is all glorious within.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And how + pleasant</span></span>—When the New Creature is in full + control.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Art thou, O + beloved</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Who shall separate + us from the love of Christ?”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + delights</span></span>—For one with whom to enjoy the Father's + favors and blessings throughout eternity; heirs together of the + grace of life.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">This + thy stature</span></span>—The stature of the fulness of Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is like a palm + tree</span></span>—Tall, upright.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And thy + breasts</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The breasts of her + consolations.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To clusters of + grapes</span></span>—Suggestive of food and refreshment for the + hungry, when they shall suck and be satisfied, milk out and be + delighted.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + said</span></span>—The world, in the Messianic Age, is the + speaker.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I will go up to + the palm tree</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“And many + people shall come and say, Come and let us go up to the House of + the Lord.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I will take + hold</span></span>—Lay hold of eternal life.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the boughs + thereof</span></span>—The members bending over to lift me out of + the miry clay and the horrible pit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Now also thy + breasts</span></span>—Feeding and helping the famishing world in + the New Age.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Shall be as + clusters of the vine</span></span>—Giving life and health.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the smell of + thy nose</span></span>—Thy scent for spiritual things and the + blessed results that follow.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page362">[pg 362]</span><a name="Pg362" id="Pg362" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Like + apples</span></span>—Food for the hungry.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the roof of thy mouth</span></span>—Where the praises of Jehovah + reverberate.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Like the best + wine</span></span>—The new wine of the Kingdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For my + Beloved</span></span>—Christ will then be the world's Beloved, + also.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That goeth down + sweetly</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“I will not + henceforth drink this fruit of the vine till I drink it new with + you in the Kingdom.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Causing the + lips</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Awake and sing, ye that + dwell in the dust.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of those that + are asleep</span></span>—In death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To + speak</span></span>—Shall the dead arise and praise thee?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I am + my Beloved's</span></span>—The Bride speaks again.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And His desire + is towards me</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“So shall the + King greatly desire thy beauty.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Come + My beloved</span></span>—The Lord addresses His Bride after the + Time of Trouble.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Let us go + forth</span></span>—On our great mission of love and mercy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Into the + field</span></span>—Into the world, which needs us so much.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Let us + lodge</span></span>—Take up our temporary dwelling-place.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In the + villages</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Have thou authority + over ten cities!”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“The tabernacle of + God is with men.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Let + us get up early</span></span>—In the dawn of the New Age.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To the + vineyards</span></span>—The hearts of mankind in general.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Let us see if + the vine flourish</span></span>—If men are beginning to draw nigh + to God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The tender grape + appear</span></span>—If there is promise of an ultimate fruitage + pleasing to the Father.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And the + pomegranates appear</span></span>—If there are evidences that love, + joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, meekness, are + going to abound.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">There</span></span>—When you see with + what infinite patience and wisdom and love I cultivate the + heart-gardens of men.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Will I give + thee</span></span>—Cause thee to appreciate fully.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + loves</span></span>—The love with which I have loved thee.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + mandrakes give a smell</span></span>—The regeneration of the world + is nigh.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And at our + gates</span></span>—The Ancient Worthies are the gates by which the + restitution classes will come to the Mediator.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are all manner + of pleasant</span></span>—Agreeable, attractive, pleasing.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Fruits new and + old</span></span>—The virtues which the Bride cultivated and others + especially appropriate to the changed conditions of the New + Age.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which I have + laid up</span></span>—As a part of the much-diversified Plan of the + Ages.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page363">[pg + 363]</span><a name="Pg363" id="Pg363" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For thee, O My + beloved</span></span>—For thy enjoyment.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:1 <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O that + Thou</span></span>—My Lord and Head. The Bride addresses her + Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Wert as my + brother</span></span>—Not so immeasurably above me in character and + station.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That sucked the + breasts of my mother</span></span>—So that we would be on an + equality with each other.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When I should + find Thee without</span></span>—Beyond the house of flesh.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I would kiss + Thee</span></span>—Would feel free to express in Thy presence the + great love I feel.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yea I should + not</span></span>—Under such circumstances.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Be + despised</span></span>—By the critics who now blame me for + presuming to so high a station as to be Thy Bride.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + would lead thee and bring thee</span></span>—But now it is Thou + alone that are competent to lead.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Into my mother's + house</span></span>—The antitypical Sarah tent.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Who would + instruct me</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“They shall be + all taught of God.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I would cause + Thee to drink</span></span>—Accept, appropriate, enjoy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of spiced + wine</span></span>—Doctrines flavored with the Holy Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of the juice of + my pomegranate</span></span>—The pomegranate curiously combines the + flavors of all fruits. It thus well illustrates the fruitage of + love, the sum of all the Christian graces.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">His + left hand</span></span>—His power as illustrated in the guidance of + His people into all necessary truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Should be under + my head</span></span>—Directing my mental faculties.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And his right + hand</span></span>—His power as illustrated in overruling all + things that would harm me.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Should embrace + me</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Secure in His tender + embrace, I'd have nothing to doubt or to fear.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + charge you</span></span>—I must give you this message.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O daughters of + Jerusalem</span></span>—Professed children of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That ye stir not + up</span></span>—Seek not to arouse.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Nor awake my + Love</span></span>—To take charge of earth's affairs.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Until He + please</span></span>—For when He does stand up to assume control, + <span class="tei tei-q">“there will be a Time of Trouble such as + never was,”</span> in which all the earthly organizations upon + which you have set your heart will be obliterated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Who + is this</span></span>—The Heavenly Father thus speaks of the + Bride.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That cometh + up</span></span>—That cometh forward into prominence.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">From the + wilderness</span></span>—At the end of 1260 years of wilderness + hiding and papal supremacy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Leaning upon her + Beloved</span></span>—Upon her Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I raised thee + up</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“It is God that + justifieth. Who is he that condemneth?”</span></p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page364">[pg 364]</span><a name="Pg364" id="Pg364" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Under the apple + tree</span></span>—Under Christ, the Author and Finisher of your + salvation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">There thy + mother</span></span>—The antitypical Sarah.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Brought thee + forth</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Shall I bring to the + birth and not cause to bring forth?”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">There she + brought thee forth</span></span>—The Oath-bound Covenant + accomplished its end.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That bare + thee</span></span>—From earthly to Heavenly conditions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Set + me as a seal</span></span>—Indelibly impressed. The Bride beseeches + her Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Upon Thy + heart</span></span>—Thine infinite love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As a seal upon + Thine arm</span></span>—Thine infinite power.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + love</span></span>—Such love as I have for Thee.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is strong as + death</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Neither death nor life + shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in + Christ Jesus our Lord.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Jealousy</span></span>—The fear that I + may not, after all, prove acceptable to You, as Your Bride.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is cruel as the + grave</span></span>—Sheol, oblivion.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The coals + thereof</span></span>—The weaknesses of my fallen flesh.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Are coals of + fire</span></span>—Burned into my very soul.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which hath a + most vehement flame</span></span>—These burning thoughts of my + imperfections will be with me as long as I am in this + tabernacle.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Many + waters</span></span>—Nor angels nor principalities.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Cannot quench + love</span></span>—The Father reassures the anxious Bride.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Neither can the + floods</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Nor things present + nor things to come.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Drown + It</span></span>—Extinguish it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">If a + man</span></span>—The Man whom I have ordained.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Would give all + the substance of his House</span></span>—All His own glorious + station with me on the Throne of the Universe.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + love</span></span>—In exchange for the love you have manifested for + Him throughout the dark night of your earthly career.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">It would utterly + be condemned</span></span>—Despised by the courts of Heaven.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">We</span></span>—The Lord and His Bride + together speak.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Have a little + sister</span></span>—The Foolish Virgin class, born of the same + Father and the same antitypical Sarah, the Oath-bound Covenant.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And she hath no + breasts</span></span>—Is not fully developed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">What shall we + do</span></span>—What will be the Divine arrangement?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For our + sister</span></span>—The Great Company class.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In the + day</span></span>—The close of the Time of Trouble.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When she shall + be spoken for</span></span>—Called to render up her + account.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page365">[pg + 365]</span><a name="Pg365" id="Pg365" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">If + she be a wall</span></span>—Bulwark of truth, on the One + Foundation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">We will build + upon her</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Other foundation + can no man lay.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A palace of + silver</span></span>—Give her a place with the Great Company + class.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And if she be a + door</span></span>—By which men and women have found the Lord and + the Truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">We will inclose + her</span></span>—Give her an environment.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With boards of + cedar</span></span>—Everlasting life.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I am + a wall</span></span>—The Bride thus refers to herself as having + been a staunch defender of the Truth. <span class="tei tei-q">“Lo, + we have left all and followed Thee.”</span> What then shall we + have?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And my + breasts</span></span>—Unlike the Foolish Virgins.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Like + towers</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Whereof ye may suck + and be satisfied milk out and be delighted.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Then</span></span>—Because I reached the + development of character He desired.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was I in His + eyes</span></span>—The eyes of the Bridegroom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As one that + found favor</span></span>—Peace (margin).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Solomon</span></span>—Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Had a + Vineyard</span></span>—For growing the fruitage of love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">At + Baalhamon</span></span>—(Lord of the multitude.) A reference to the + Messianic Reign, in which Christ will be Lord of all.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He let out the + vineyards</span></span>—Gave the immediate care.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Unto + keepers</span></span>—The Ancient Worthies, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“whom Thou mayest make princes in all the + earth.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Every + one</span></span>—Of the keepers.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For the fruit + thereof</span></span>—The kind of fruitage expected.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Was to + bring</span></span>—Present, offer.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A thousand + pieces of silver</span></span>—Yield a rich return of truth and + praise from the hearts cultivated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + vineyard</span></span>—The same vineyard.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Which is + mine</span></span>—We are made joint-heirs with Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Is before + me</span></span>—Will take a thousand years to till.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou, O + Solomon</span></span>—Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Must have a + thousand</span></span>—Tributes of praise.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And those that + kept the fruit thereof</span></span>—The Ancient Worthies.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Two + hundred</span></span>—A fifth as much, as their portion.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Thou</span></span>—The restitution + classes, address their Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That dwellest in + the gardens</span></span>—The heart-gardens of the redeemed + race.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + companions</span></span>—The Great Company; the companions that + followed the Bride.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Hearken to thy + voice</span></span>—Have entered with joy into the King's + palace.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page366">[pg + 366]</span><a name="Pg366" id="Pg366" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Cause me to hear + it</span></span>—O Lord, I see there is hope to <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">me</span></em>. I + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">also</span></em> would be Thine. Show + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">me</span></em> Thy will.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Make + haste, my Beloved</span></span>—The restitution classes + continue.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And be Thou + like</span></span>—In thy swiftness of movement.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To a roe or to a + young hart</span></span>—Leaping from mountain to mountain, kingdom + to kingdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Upon the + mountains</span></span>—The various divisions of the Kingdom of God + during the Messianic Reign.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + spices</span></span>—Good deeds, kind words and noble thoughts. + <span class="tei tei-q">“And I will make all my mountains a way, + and my highways shall be exalted.”</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The kingdoms of this world are become the Kingdom of + our Lord, and of His Christ, and He shall reign for ever and + ever.”</span> Amen.</p> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc55" id="toc55"></a> <a name="pdf56" id="pdf56"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">The Heavenly Bridegroom</span></h2> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">That He is mine and I am His, + Oh! wondrous thought.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">I am so poor, so weak, so lowly, + can there aught</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Of worthiness in me be found, + that He should love</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And seek me for His Bride? I + hear His voice,</span> <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">My + Dove,</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Thou art all fair, My Spouse, + there is no spot in thee;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Thy speech is comely, better is + thy love to Me</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Than wine! Thine eyes as + Heshbon's fish-pools, and like flocks</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Upon Mount Gilead are thy spiced + and flower-decked locks.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">The winter's past, My Dove, + come, come with Me away,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Far spent the night, make ready for thy + nuptial day!</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">My heart responds,</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Throughout the many-centuried + night</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">I've longed for Thee. I've + waited for the dawning light;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And I have laid Thee like sweet + myrrh upon my breast,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Thine arm beneath my weary head + hath brought me rest.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Thou whom my soul doth love, Thy + countenance is fair</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">To see within the secret places + of the stair;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Thy head is like fine gold, how + beautiful Thy feet!</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Thine eyes as doves' eyes, and + Thy lips with honey sweet.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">I rise, my Lord, I leave my + father's house, behold</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">My Robe of Righteousness, my + raiment of wrought gold!</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Oh! wealth of love divine, that + claims me for Thine own.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Oh! miracle of grace, to seat me + on Thy Throne.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Oh! glorious future hopes, Oh! + bliss beyond compare,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Through all eternity Thy love and work to + share!</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">—G.W.S.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">June 25, 1917.</span></p> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page367">[pg 367]</span><a name= + "Pg367" id="Pg367" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 5.00em; margin-top: 5.00em"> + <a name="toc57" id="toc57"></a> <a name="pdf58" id="pdf58"></a> + + <h1 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 3.46em; margin-top: 3.46em"> + <span style="font-size: 173%">The Book Of The Prophet + Ezekiel</span></h1> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc59" id="toc59"></a> <a name="pdf60" id="pdf60"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 1—God's Character And + Plan</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Now + it came to pass in the thirtieth year, in the fourth month, in the + fifth day of the month, at I was among the captives by the river of + Chebar, that the heavens were opened, and I saw visions of + God.</span></span>—Christ promised that at His Second Advent He + would raise up a <span class="tei tei-q">“faithful and wise + servant,”</span> or <span class="tei tei-q">“steward,”</span> who + should watch and give forth in due season meat for the Household of + Faith. This one should be given charge of all the Storehouse, the + Word of God, to bring out of it things new and old. (Matt. + 24:44-47; Luke 12:42-44.) The Prophet Ezekiel types this servant. + As Ezekiel was among the Lord's people, the Hebrews, in captivity + in literal Babylon, this servant was among those in captivity in + Mystic Babylon, beside the great river Chebar (<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Joining”</span>), the stream of commerce which joins + the nations, on which Christendom is founded, and from which she + draws her support, as did in a literal sense Babylon from her great + river, Euphrates. In the early seventies Charles Taze Russell found + himself engaged in commerce, but earnestly studying the Word of + God, and striving to teach what he found therein. In fulfilment of + the Divine promise the Heavenly things were opened to him (Matt. + 3:16), and he saw the significance of the visions, prophecies, + given in olden times by the Almighty. He was given a crystal-clear + understanding of the character of Jehovah.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img382.png"><img src="images/img382.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Ezekiel's Vision By The River Of Chebar + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:2, 3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + the fifth day of the month, which was the fifth year of king + Jehoiachin's captivity, the Word of the Lord came expressly unto + Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, in the land of the Chaldeans + by the river Chebar; and the hand of the Lord was there upon + him.</span></span>—Men do not raise themselves up to become great + and honored agents in God's outworking of the Divine Plan of the + Ages (Luke 18:14; Eph. 3:11); but now and then throughout the + centuries Jehovah Himself (1 Cor. 12:18) has raised up Christian + men to carry forward one step or another of His purposes. God made + special use of St Paul, St John, Arius, Peter Waldo, John Wycliffe, + Martin Luther and Charles T. Russell. The significance of the word + Ezekiel is <span class="tei tei-q">“God is <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page368">[pg 368]</span><a name="Pg368" id="Pg368" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> strong,”</span> and epitomizes the faith and + the message of Pastor Russell. He shows the power of Jehovah to + save His people now (Acts 15:14), and later to save all the willing + and obedient of mankind. (Acts 15:17.) As Ezekiel was the son of + Buzi, <span class="tei tei-q">“Contemned of God,”</span> Pastor + Russell was born the child of a nominal religious system which is + unfaithful to Jehovah. Pastor Russell, by the faithful carrying out + of his vow of consecration to Divine service, was accepted as a + true priest of the Almighty. He sacrificed himself and all that he + had until, in October, 1916, he died penniless, but rich in the + things of God. Chosen expressly by God to declare the message of + Present Truth to the last, or Laodicean age, of the Church, the + hand, power, of Jehovah was upon him.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I looked and behold, a whirlwind came out of the north, a great + cloud, and a fire infolding itself, and a brightness was about it; + and out of the midst thereof as the colour of amber, out of the + midst of the fire.</span></span>—As a young man Charles T. Russell + was looking intently to see what might be discerned in the Word of + God. <span class="tei tei-q">“Watch,”</span> said the Master. + Pastor Russell took for his motto, <span class="tei tei-q">“I will + stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower, and will watch to + see what He will say unto me.”</span> (Hab. 2:1) He called his + semi-monthly publication, <span class="tei tei-q">“<span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-variant: small-caps">The Watch + Tower</span></span>”</span>; and, firm in the belief that the + Second Advent took place in 1874, he included as a sub-title, + <span class="tei tei-q">“And Herald of Christ's Presence.”</span> + The north symbolizes the spiritual phase of the Kingdom of God. + (Isa. 14:13; D. 653.) Pastor Russell beheld coming, permitted by + God, a great Time of Trouble, a whirlwind of warfare, revolution + and anarchy. (Jer. 25:32; Psa. 58:9, 10; D. 528.) It was the cloud + accompanying the approach to human affairs of Him for whose Kingdom + many have so long prayed. <span class="tei tei-q">“Clouds and + darkness are round about Him: righteousness and judgment are the + habitation of His Throne, a fire goeth before Him and burneth up + His enemies round about.”</span> (Psa. 97:2) A conflagration, + beginning with world war, is upon the earth, developing into + revolution and anarchy. Fire symbolises the last of these + misfortunes. (Dan. 7:11) The situation is complicated, infolding, + perplexing. None of the national leaders understand the situation. + To the poor world, in gross darkness, and lying <span class= + "tei tei-q">“in the wicked one,”</span> the cloud is full of + darkness (Isa. 60:2), of gloominess (Joel 2:2; Zeph. 1:15); but to + those who are taken out of the world and into Christ, it is full of + brightness and hope—a white cloud, with a silver lining. In the + bright light of the dawning Day of Christ the faces of the Lord's + people light up with joy as they see these things coming to pass; + for <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page369">[pg 369]</span><a name= + "Pg369" id="Pg369" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> their <span class= + "tei tei-q">“deliverance draweth nigh”</span> (Luke 21:28)—the + deliverance, too, of the whole world from the kingdom of Satan, the + god of this world (2 Cor. 4:4), into the glorious Kingdom of God, + the other side of the trouble. With the understanding of God, His + work, plan and purpose, there shone forth the amber, golden glow of + the Divine presence, and of the true character, nature and glory of + the Almighty God of Love. The Father Himself is supervising the + troublous commotion, bruising to heal (Hos. 6:1), and <span class= + "tei tei-q">“shortening the days.”</span>—Matt. 24:22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img383a.png"><img src="images/img383a.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + One Of The Living Creatures + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Also + out of the midst thereof came the likeness of four living + creatures. And this was their appearance; they had the likeness of + a man.</span></span>—Out of the contemplation of the cloud of + trouble, the worldwide commotion, the destructive anarchy, and of + the golden amber glow of God's presence, came a wonderful + understanding of something long misunderstood and + misrepresented—the character of God. As the vision showed + <span class="tei tei-q">“four living creatures,”</span> so the + Divine character was seen by the Laodicean steward to consist of + four active principles (Rev. 3:14); Justice, Power, Love and + Wisdom. The four have the likeness of a perfect man.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + every one had four faces, and every one had four + wings.</span></span>—Each of the four attributes has four + characteristics or attributes; and each has the Word of God + (wings—Rev. 12:14), in the Old and New Testament, in two different + ways of operation (two pairs).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + their feet were straight feet; and the sole of their feet was like + the sole of a calf's foot: and they sparkled like the colour of + burnished brass.</span></span>—The feet members of Christ, + embodying the Divine attributes on earth, are righteous (straight) + in Christ's righteousness, pure, unblemished in God's sight, holy, + acceptable, living sacrifices (the calf is a type of unblemished + sacrifice); and they shine with the imputed perfection of the Man + Christ Jesus.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they had the hands of a man under their wings on their four sides: + and they four had their faces and their wings.</span></span>—The + hand is symbolic of power and of execution of purpose. Overshadowed + by the Word of God is the Divine power (hand) to execute the thing + purposed, operating through human channels, through the power of + men. He shows the qualities of the Divine mind through man. + Shielded, protected, sustained by the Word (wings)—(Psa. 61:4), the + work of the Almighty goes on through <span class="tei tei-q">“the + foolishness of preaching.”</span> (1 Cor. 1:21.) Men and women are + <span class="tei tei-q">“coworkers with God.”</span> (2 Cor. 6:1.) + The hands (powers) of man are instruments for the operation of + infinite Justice, Power, Love and Wisdom.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page372">[pg 372]</span><a name="Pg372" id="Pg372" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Their wings were joined one to another; + they turned not when they went; they went everyone straight + forward.</span></span>—The wings (Psa. 91:4; Rev. 12:14) are + perfectly joined together in unity of purpose and action. Straight + on to the end ordained of God goes His Word, upholding and + strengthening.—Isa. 46:10, 11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + for the likeness of their faces, they four had the face of a man, + and the face of a lion, on the right side: and they four had the + face of an ox on the left side; they four also had the face of an + eagle.</span></span>—The character of Jehovah possesses four + fundamental attributes, each composed of all the others. The four + faces or features of the living creatures represent the four + attributes of God, each inseparable from the others, and in each + operate each and all of the four. Divine Justice operates in the + fulness of Power, Love and Wisdom. In the fall of man into sin, + unbending Justice enforced death for disobedience. Love delayed the + execution of the sentence upon Adam 930 years (Gen. 5:5), that + Wisdom might impress upon the erring human son an indelible lesson + of the exceeding sinfulness of sin (Rom. 7:13) and the extent of + the penalty, death, that man, by said experience, might + <span class="tei tei-q">“know evil.”</span> (Gen. 3:5.) Divine + power will raise man from the dead, that he may learn to + <span class="tei tei-q">“know good”</span> and experience the + fulness of the Father's Love and Wisdom. All who are willing and + obedient, who consecrate fully to God's will, shall enjoy + <span class="tei tei-q">“pleasures forevermore”</span> (Psa. 16:11) + in the sunshine of Divine favor. The unwilling and disobedient + shall suffer the full penalty of Justice in the Second Death (Rev. + 21:8), <span class="tei tei-q">“utter destruction”</span> (2 Thes. + 1:9), final and eternal obliteration. (Psa. 37:10.) The face of a + man symbolizes the quality of Love, in the character image and + likeness of God (Gen. 1:27), the God of love. (1 John 4:8.) The ox + represents Power (Rev. 4:7); for no animal is stronger, or more + patient in the exercise of strength. The majestic lion is God's + Justice, roaring its message of death, and executing all that + oppose its voice. (Psa. 89:14.) No other creature is so + far-sighted, or soars so high as the eagle. The eagle symbolizes + Wisdom, far-seeing, ordering all the affairs of the Almighty along + the lines of Justice, Power and Love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + were their faces: and their wings were stretched upward; two wings + of every one were joined one to another, and two covered their + bodies.</span></span>—Each pair of wings (Rev. 12:14) symbolizes a + separate function of God's Word; one pair to fly with, to carry + forward the Plan in the spirit realm, the powers of the air (Eph. + 2:2), the other to uphold <span class="tei tei-q">“all things by + the Word”</span> (Heb. 1:3) and to cover and protect.—Psa. + 91:4.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page373">[pg + 373]</span><a name="Pg373" id="Pg373" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they went every one straight forward: whither the spirit was to go, + they went; and they turned not when they went.</span></span>—Not + with wavering, as darkened minds imagine, proceeds the Divine Word, + but <span class="tei tei-q">“without variableness or shadow of + turning.”</span> (Jas. 1:17.) Wheresoever the mind, or Spirit, of + Jehovah sends forth His Word, thither straight onward go perfect + Justice, Power, Love and Wisdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + for the likeness of the living creatures, their appearance was like + burning coals of fire, and like the appearance of lamps: it went up + and down among the living creatures; and the fire was bright, and + out of the fire went forth lightning.</span></span>—God's Justice, + Power, Love and Wisdom glow with the light of wisdom. The + understanding of God's attributes makes every quality of the + Almighty to glow with a wondrous illumination to anyone given to + see the <span class="tei tei-q">“visions of God”</span> first + perceived clearly by the Laodicean Servant. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Thy Word is a lamp”</span> (Psa. 119:105), shedding + light in the darkness, effecting a personal local illumination. The + Word is a lamp to the <span class="tei tei-q">“feet”</span> members + of Christ. (Eph. 1:23.) Up and down, everywhere, throughout all the + Divine qualities, wherever manifested, spreads the illumination now + shining through the Lamp, the Word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the living creatures ran and returned as the appearance of a flash + of lightning.</span></span>—In the operation of Divine Justice, + Power, Love and Wisdom are sudden gleams of Heavenly wisdom upon + great problems, such as now light up the dark clouds of the Time of + Trouble.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Now + as I beheld the living creatures, behold one wheel upon the earth + by the living creatures, with his four faces.</span></span>—The + word <span class="tei tei-q">“cycle,”</span> or <span class= + "tei tei-q">“wheel,”</span> is familiar in bicycle, motorcycle, and + in cycle as applied to epochs. The Divine attributes operate upon + human society, the symbolic earth, in cycles, or ages (Eph. 3:11), + and in the mechanisms of ages by which God's Plan is carried + forward, His character, or face, is seen.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + appearance of the wheels and their work was like unto the colour of + a beryl: and they four had one likeness; and their appearance and + their work was as it were a wheel in the middle of a + wheel.</span></span>—Pliny says of the beryl or chrysolithos, + <span class="tei tei-q">“It is a transparent stone with a + refulgence like that of gold.”</span> Says Smith's Bible + Dictionary, <span class="tei tei-q">“The ancient chrysolithos, or + modern topaz, appears to have a better claim than any other stone + to represent the <span class="tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">tarshish</span></span> of the Hebrew + Bible.”</span> Gold is symbolic of things Divine. These golden + cycles are the Divinely appointed ages in connection with the four + attributes of <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page374">[pg + 374]</span><a name="Pg374" id="Pg374" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + Deity. The Divine operations are not in one simple age, cycle, or + manner of operation, but cycle within cycle, age within age, many + operations working together <span class= + "tei tei-q">“manifold”</span> (Eph. 3:10), like a vast and + complicated machine.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When + they went, they went upon their four sides; and they turned not + when they went.</span></span>—Divine Justice conflicts not with + Divine Love, nor with Wisdom nor Power, but all qualities are in + simultaneous operation. They proceed along lines planned ages + ago.—Jas. 1:17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + for their rings, they were so high that they were dreadful; and + their rings were full of eyes round about them + four.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“As the heavens are + higher than the earth, so are My ways (plans) higher than your + ways.”</span> (Isa. 55:9.) The Plan of the Ages reveals the + lengths, breadths, heights and depths of the purposes of God, and + fills the reverent soul with awe. The Plan of God is full of the + infinite Wisdom (eyes—Psa. 32:8) of its Author.—B. 305.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when the living creatures went, the wheels went by them: and when + the living creatures were lifted up from the earth, the wheels were + lifted up.</span></span>—Whenever God's attributes operate they are + in accordance with the Divine Plan; sometimes the Divine qualities + are exercised towards celestial things and sometimes towards things + terrestrial.—1 Cor. 15:40.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Whithersoever the spirit was to go, they + went, thither was their spirit to go; and the wheels were lifted up + over against them: for the spirit of the living creature was in the + wheels.</span></span>—The Spirit, or Power of God, is in all His + attributes and in all their operations.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When + those went, these went; and when those stood, these stood; and when + those were lifted up from the earth, the wheels were lifted up over + against them; for the spirit of the living creature was in the + wheels.</span></span>—In whatever direction the Divine Spirit is to + act, whether in earthly things or among spirit beings, thither the + operations of the Spirit go in the cooperative action of all God's + attributes. When an age is finished and one attribute ceases its + action, they all cease.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the likeness of the firmament upon the heads of the living creature + was as the colour of the terrible crystal, stretched forth over + their heads above.</span></span>—The firmament in the air or + atmosphere (Gen. 1:20), and symbolizes the powers of spiritual + control. Above the attributes of God and controlling their + operations is the Divine will. The expression of God's will during + the time indicated by the vision is the Christ, Head and Body. + <span class="tei tei-q">“All power in Heaven and in earth”</span> + (Matt. 28:18) is given unto Christ, and will <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page375">[pg 375]</span><a name="Pg375" id="Pg375" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> be shared by His Bride and Joint-heir. + (Rev. 20:4.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The terrible + crystal”</span>—literally <span class="tei tei-q">“the reverential + ice”</span>—suggests the reverence due to the ruling Christ Head + and Body, and their own reverential attitude towards the Father. + The color is that of ice, clear as crystal, pure, unmixed + <span class="tei tei-q">“truth in the inward parts”</span> (Psa. + 51:6), characterizing the new ruling powers in the spiritual phase + of the Kingdom of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + under the firmament were their wings straight, the one toward the + other: every one had two, which covered on this side, and every one + had two, which covered on that side, their + bodies.</span></span>—Beneath, subject to the direction of the + Christ, Head and Church triumphant, are the wings (Word of God—Rev. + 12:14). Whenever Divine Justice, Power, Love and Wisdom are in + action, the Word of God points straight up to the Father as the + Source of every good thing.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when they went, I heard the noise of their wings, like the noise of + great waters, as the voice of the Almighty, the voice of speech, as + the noise of a host: when they stood, they let down their + wings.</span></span>—The sound of the Father's Word is as the voice + of great waters (Rev. 1:15), mighty truths, in <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the voice of speech,”</span> for the benefit of His + children. It is the voice of God, too, when spoken by His people. + When Divine Justice, Power, Love and Wisdom operate upon human + society, then the Word of God is in full harmony therewith.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there was a voice from the firmament that was over their heads, + when they stood, and had let down their wings.</span></span>—It is + through the reigning Christ, Zion, that the voice of Jehovah shall + sound forth. <span class="tei tei-q">“The Lord will roar from + Zion.”</span> (Amos 1:2.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Out of Zion + shall go forth the Law.”</span> (Isa. 2:3.) Through The Christ + sounds forth the Word of God bespeaking to the world infinite + Justice, Power, Love and Wisdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + above the firmament that was over their heads was the likeness of a + throne, as the appearance of a sapphire stone: and upon the + likeness of the throne was the likeness as the appearance of a Man + above upon it.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“THE HEAD OF + CHRIST IS GOD.”</span> (1 Cor. 11:3.) Above the triumphant Christ, + Head and Body, is the Throne of Almighty God. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Son [is] subject to Him that put all things under + Him.”</span> (1 Cor. 15:28.) The Throne represents the dominion of + God. As the blue sapphire (symbolic of faithfulness), so is the + rulership of the Almighty. <span class="tei tei-q">“God is + faithful.”</span> (1 Cor. 1:9.) In the contemplation of the + watchers, the faithfulness, unchangeableness of God, is seen + shining through the Christ, the firmament, like the <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page376">[pg 376]</span><a name="Pg376" id="Pg376" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> soft blue of the sapphire stone. Man is + in the image and likeness of God. Reigning over all is One whom men + can understand, a Deity whose perfect Justice, Power, Love and + Wisdom elicit complete consecration. God is seen to be not a + ferocious demon, belying His own command of love, but a just, + reasonable, loving God, able to save all the willing and obedient. + Jesus, the friend of sinners, was and is the perfect image of the + Father.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I saw as the colour of amber, as the appearance of fire round about + within it, from the appearance of His loins even upward, and from + the appearance of His loins even downward, I saw as it were the + appearance of fire, and it had brightness round + about.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“God dwelleth in light + whereto no man can approach.”</span> (1 Tim. 6:16.) Radiant is the + Almighty with the golden glow of the Divine nature. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Our God is a consuming fire”</span> (Heb. 12:29); only + the perfect can stand in His presence; for all dross, not refinable + (Mal. 3:2, 3), is consumed by Justice. The essence of the Divine + Revelation is Love, the golden light radiating in every direction + from Our Father. <span class="tei tei-q">“He that loveth his + brother abideth in the light”</span> (1 John 2:10), in the Divine + love-light that surrounds the Throne and pervades the entire spirit + realm. This love is the light of the world, to light men unto + God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1:28. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud in the day of rain, + so was the appearance of the brightness round about. This was the + appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. And when I saw + it, I fell upon my face, and I heard a voice of one that + spake.</span></span>—The Throne and He that sat thereon were + surrounded by all the colors of the rainbow. (Rev. 4:3.) The love + spirit finds fruitage in character fruits. So the light of our + Father is divisible into the warm red of love, the glowing blue of + faithfulness, the brilliant green of immortality, the royal purple + of kingship, for those on any plane who are worthy of that honor, + etc.—the manifestation of every good character fruit and every good + purpose for the blessing of all His creatures. (John 15:8; Gal. + 5:22.) The glory of God is not a display of blinding light to + terrify men; but it is to do good, to manifest to the uttermost His + character of love. When the watchman of the Laodicean age discerned + the Divine character and Plan he fell upon his face (Rev. 1:17), in + reverential worship and in complete consecration to do the will of + his Father in Heaven. There sounded forth and through him, from the + pages of God's Word (Isa. 30:21), the voice of the Sublime One who + has been speaking to Christendom during this dawn of the Golden + Age.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page377">[pg 377]</span><a name= + "Pg377" id="Pg377" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc61" id="toc61"></a> <a name="pdf62" id="pdf62"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 2—The Rebellious House And + The Book</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He said unto me, Son of man, stand upon thy feet, and I will speak + unto thee.</span></span>—It is a mark of favor to stand before a + king. (Prov. 22:29.) Those who stand before rulers receive + commissions, are invested with authority and power.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the spirit entered into me when He spake unto me, and set me upon + my feet, that I heard Him that spake unto + me.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“The words which I speak, + they are spirit.”</span> (John 6:63.) When the full import of the + Word was discerned, Pastor Russell took a firm stand. The spirit, + power, influence of God entered into him, never to leave. He stood + firmly, before God, before his friends, and before all the hostile + hosts of Mystic Babylon the Great.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He said unto me, Son of man, I send thee to the children of Israel, + to a rebellious nation that hath rebelled against Me; they and + their fathers have transgressed against Me, even unto this very + day.</span></span>—Pastor Russell's work was largely among + professing Christians—not slum work, Christian work among the + professedly non-Christians, or a revivalistic work calling to + repentance and conversion. This was not the work appropriate to the + Harvest of the Christian Age. John the Baptist announced the First + Presence of Messiah, and began the harvesting of Jewry, and was not + sent to the heathen, but to the Lord's people, the Jews, to + acquaint them with the First Advent, expose those withholding the + keys of knowledge (Luke 11:52), and warn of the impending + destruction of Jerusalem and Judea in A. D. 70 and 73. (Matt. 3:7; + 24:2.) A like work was to be accomplished in Spiritual Israel, + Christendom, after the Lord's Second Advent in 1874. The man raised + up, <span class="tei tei-q">“set upon his feet,”</span> and given + wisdom, grace and power for the task, was Pastor Russell.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + they are impudent children and stiff-hearted. I do send thee unto + them; and thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—Few things are more trying than a family of + impudent children. Forwardness in evil-doing and evil-speaking was + one of the characteristics of the Hebrew people. They violated the + Word of God and justified the violation. (Matt. 15:5.) By + impudent—hard faced—tradition they made void the Word of God. The + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page378">[pg 378]</span><a name= + "Pg378" id="Pg378" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> effrontery of the + <span class="tei tei-q">“Christian”</span> era has been + unsurpassed. Possessing greatest light, they have sinned most + grievously. The Word said, <span class="tei tei-q">“He that is + begotten of God sinneth not”</span> (1 John 3:9); yet John Tetzel + was, and in some countries Roman Catholic priests still are, + selling indulgences to commit sin. Professing <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Christians”</span> keep Christianity out of their + affairs with the phrase, <span class="tei tei-q">“Business is + business.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear, (for + they are a rebellious house,) yet shall know that there hath been a + Prophet among them.</span></span>—The work of Ezekiel among the + Hebrews in captivity proved a thankless task. He was rejected by + both those in captivity and those remaining at Jerusalem under + Zedekiah. His following was almost nothing. But he witnessed + faithfully, and no Hebrew could say that he had not been cautioned + of danger and warned of impending catastrophe. Whether the clergy + and people of Christendom wished to heed Pastor Russell or not, + they certainly heard his words. (Z. '03-436.) His work was + peculiarly prospered. Against difficulties it grew and extended + beyond the wildest dreams, until it compassed the civilized world. + In the face of the united opposition of Protestant and Romanist + clergy, the steward of Almighty God accomplished the most gigantic + preaching work ever done by one man. <span class="tei tei-q">“I + cannot open the morning paper without Pastor Russell staring me in + the face,”</span> said a prominent minister. In the newspapers, in + the theatres, on the bill-boards, in billions of tract pages + distributed gratis, in millions of home libraries, in the questions + of inquiring church members, it was evident everywhere that a great + preacher was faithfully sounding forth a trumpet message. With a + voice of many waters, reverberating like thunder throughout the + world, spoke Pastor Russell; and ere long <span class= + "tei tei-q">“they shall know that there hath been a Prophet + [preacher] among them.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:6, 7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + thou, son of man, be not afraid of them, neither be afraid of their + words, though briers and thorns be with thee, and thou dost dwell + among scorpions; be not afraid of their words, nor be dismayed at + their looks though they be a rebellious house. And thou shalt speak + My words, unto them, whether they will hear, or whether they will + forbear; for they are most rebellious.</span></span>—Fearlessness + characterized Ezekiel and Pastor Russell, both outcasts among the + <span class="tei tei-q">“best”</span> people. Pastor Russell was + thrust by the church people into a wilderness condition, amid the + briers of opposition and reproach. Though the thorns of persecution + crowned his head, he was never afraid of words nor of angry looks. + (Jer. 1:8-10.) <span class="tei tei-q">“I would rather see him + stoned to death,”</span> said a Wilkes-Barre, Pa. <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page379">[pg 379]</span><a name="Pg379" id="Pg379" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> preacher, in answer to a kindly + invitation to come and hear Pastor Russell preach. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“He ought to be skinned alive, and his hide stretched + on a door,”</span> remarked a Chicago <span class= + "tei tei-q">“divine”</span> to another <span class= + "tei tei-q">“divine,”</span> coming out from one of Pastor + Russell's addresses. A scorpion has a great swelling, formidable + looking head, but it stings with its tail. (Rev. 9:5, 10.) + Ecclesiasticism is made up of organizations whose heads utter + boastful, swelling words, but which do injury through their + followers. The sting of a scorpion—of the followers of synods and + popes—is through poisoned words. Every great reformer has had some + turn on him who were very close to him. Not from outside did Pastor + Russell suffer most. A few from among his own household, whom he + had befriended, helped, pushed, advanced, struck at him to ruin him + and destroy his influence and his work. It is characteristic of the + scorpion to sting and poison in the dark corners of a man's own + home. <span class="tei tei-q">“Be not afraid, though thou dost + dwell among scorpions.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + thou, son of man, hear what I say unto thee; Be not thou rebellious + like that rebellious house; open thy mouth, and eat that I give + thee.</span></span>—The attitude of the rebellious Christian was + not that of God's chosen servant. Never did he rebel against the + Divine leading, nor seek to pervert the Word of God. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“My flesh is meat (food) indeed.”</span> (Jno. 6:55.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by + every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.”</span> (Matt. + 4:4.) Whatever the word or message that came from the Father's lips + through the inspired pages of the Bible, the Laodicean steward was + to appropriate, assimilate.—Rev. 10:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when I looked, behold, a hand was sent unto me; and lo, a roll of a + book was therein.</span></span>—The Divine hand sent from God is + the Divine power, support, upholding and advancing the interests of + whatever is in the hand. <span class="tei tei-q">“The book + therein”</span> is the Divine Plan of the Ages, Present Truth, + especially as relating to the impending downfall of Christendom in + the end of this Age. Ancient books were written on a continuous + sheet, rolled up. The sheet was often written on both sides. The + writing outside could be plainly read until covered by the rolling, + but that inside was entirely hidden from view. Present Truth, the + Divine Plan of the Ages, contains features which are plain to any + one who looks at them; such as those relating to the earthly + features of God's Plan—the evil in the earth, the clashing + interests of rich and poor, and various other elements of the + present order of things, the great war, and the approach of a + better order of things after <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page380">[pg 380]</span><a name="Pg380" id="Pg380" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> the present troubles are over. Present Truth, + <span class="tei tei-q">“the roll of the book,”</span> also + contains hidden, deep truths, discernible only to those who have + the Holy Spirit. It possesses features impossible for natural men, + not anointed with the Spirit, to perceive. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The natural man perceiveth not the things of the + Spirit, neither can he know them; for they are spiritually + discerned.”</span> (1 Cor. 2:14.) Many thousands of consecrated + Christians are upheld, comforted and rejoiced by the deep things of + God, made clear for the first time in centuries by the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“roll of the book.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">2:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He spread it before me; and it was written within and without; and + there was written therein lamentations, and mourning, and + woe.</span></span>—What an honor to be the person before whom the + Almighty would clearly spread out His purposes,—the honor which + came to Pastor Russell, and with it a witness work of vast extent + and responsibility! The purpose of Present Truth is to inform the + Lord's people and the people of the world, as far as they may + listen, concerning the significance of the times. All classes + profit more or less from the warning of Pastor Russell, as the + message goes broadcast throughout the world. It comes with a + different significance to Church and to world. To the Church it is + a trumpet call of truth (Rev. 10:2-7), to get ready quickly for + deliverance, resurrection glory, honor and immortality. To the + world, the worldly-minded, the Present Truth is something to be + dreaded. (Isa. 28:19.) This world, age, state of affairs, is in + process of destruction. The destroying agencies, as portrayed in + the Scriptures (1 Kings 19:11, 12; Z. '04-249; Z. '98-207, 208) are + world-wide war, then revolutions on an unprecedented scale, and + finally universal anarchy—savagery. The significance of anarchy is + appreciated by but few. It means an utter absence of government, + first the paralysis, and ultimately the ceasing, of the + governmental functions which now afford protection, peace and + safety to property and life. As matters progress to the climax, as + disaster after disaster overtakes human effort, and disintegration + descends into the dissolution of law and order, the whole earth + will be <span class="tei tei-q">“filled with violence”</span>. + (Gen. 6:11; Micah 6:12); and men's hearts will utterly fail. (Luke + 21:26.) Picture the worst revolutions ever known; this trouble will + outdo them all. Paint the darkest picture, and none will be as + black as the sable pall of this dreadful night, this reign of + terror already settling down upon mankind. Truly, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“mourning, lamentation and woe”</span> were the burden + of God's Prophet Ezekiel, as he foresaw the destruction of his + beloved city, Jerusalem—and of Pastor Russell, as he foreknew the + desolation of a world!</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page381">[pg 381]</span><a name= + "Pg381" id="Pg381" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc63" id="toc63"></a> <a name="pdf64" id="pdf64"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 3—Pastor Russell's Divine + Ordination</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover He said unto me, Son of man, eat + that thou findest; eat this roll, and go speak unto the house of + Israel.</span></span>—The Prophet was to find something. As Ezekiel + ate the book in the hand of God, so the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“faithful and wise servant”</span> of this day + absorbed, assimilated, the Plan of the Ages which was in the power + (hand) of the Almighty. Pastor Russell searched diligently to find + all that he could of the purposes of God. As he understood, he was + to go speak to <span class="tei tei-q">“the House of Sons”</span> + (Heb. 3:6), all the children, sons of God—to nominal Spiritual + Israelites.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So I + opened my mouth, and He caused me to eat that + roll.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“I never knew any one + so willing to do the will of God,”</span> said the private + secretary and traveling companion of Pastor Russell. He was eager + to learn all he could about the Heavenly Father's will. It was not + of himself that he learned and taught the Divine Plan; but God + Himself caused him to learn, believe and teach.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He said unto me, Son of man, cause thy belly to eat, and fill thy + bowels with this roll that I give thee. Then did I eat it; and it + was in my mouth as honey for sweetness.</span></span>—No mere + casual scanning of Present Truth would suffice. The man of God was + to be filled with the great Message. (Rev. 10:9, 10.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The sweetest story ever told”</span> (Psa. 19:10; + 119:103) brought inexpressible peace. It sweetened the experiences + of a life of sacrifice. Whoever eats, assimilates Present Truth, + finds every heart question answered, every doubt silenced. He + learns <span class="tei tei-q">“the peace of God that passeth + understanding”</span> (Phil. 4:7), and a sweetness as of honey in + the promises, plans, and purposes of the Father of Love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He said unto me, Son of man, go, get thee unto the house of Israel, + and speak with My words unto them.</span></span>—From apostolic + days to today all to whom the Spirit gives utterance begin to speak + (Acts 2:1-18) because constrained to do so, because they + <span class="tei tei-q">“love to tell the story.”</span> To + Ezekiel, and to the greatest preacher of modern times, came a + readiness of speech, when Jehovah Himself gave them His Spirit, and + commanded to <span class="tei tei-q">“get thee unto the house of + Israel, and speak with My words unto them.”</span></p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page382">[pg 382]</span><a name="Pg382" id="Pg382" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + thou art not sent to a people of a strange speech and of a hard + language, but to the house of Israel.</span></span>—Present Truth + was not to go to the heathen, the drunkards, unbelievers, but to + the Christian people of the world, the spiritual House of + Israel.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Not + to many people of a strange speech and of a hard language, whose + words thou canst not understand. Surely, had I sent thee to them, + they would have hearkened unto thee.</span></span>—If the Message + of Present Truth had been sent to the heathen with its glad tidings + for all, they would have turned from devil worship, to worship the + true God. (Matt. 11:21, 23.) On two occasions the trumpet sound was + heard by <span class="tei tei-q">“people of a strange speech and of + a hard language.”</span> Pastor Russell passed through Japan and + India on a round-the-world tour. In Japan the people requested that + he stay. It was the message they had longed for. In India the + natives heard him gladly. In eastern and southern Africa a believer + in Present Truth found his way from Nyassa to the Cape, and many + thousands of natives embraced the Truth and were baptised.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + the house of Israel will not hearken unto thee; for they will not + hearken unto me; for all the house of Israel are impudent and + hardhearted.</span></span>—Christendom has never hearkened unto + God. They hear and do not. (Jas. 1:22.) They are forgetful hearers + of the Word. (Jas. 1:25.) They know their Master's will and do it + not. (Luke 12:47.) Because they hear not God, they heed not the + Word of God when brought to them by His servants.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, I have made thy face strong + against their faces, and thy forehead strong against their + foreheads.</span></span>—Whatever situation Pastor Russell faced, + God made him more than equal to it. This last and most illustrious + of the reformers never asked for money; yet he had enough entrusted + to him to carry on the work. Champions of Christendom met him on + the debating platform; each encounter widened and strengthened the + witness for Present Truth. He faced the modern enemies of + Reformation with books by tens of millions, and they were unable to + combat their power. <span class="tei tei-q">“To read the + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Studies + in the Scriptures</span></span>,”</span> admonished a Southern + preacher to his flock, <span class="tei tei-q">“is to believe + them.”</span> No argument could be devised to stem the flood of + Truth, only a ban on the reading of the books. In innumerable + places priestcraft caused the public burning of the books. + Practically every home in America, England, Germany, Sweden, + Australia, and other Protestant countries was reached by a deluge + of free tracts. Such a tracting of the world with billions of + pages, was never known. The enemies of Truth were wholly unable to + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page383">[pg 383]</span><a name= + "Pg383" id="Pg383" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> check the spread of + knowledge. A further situation faced was the production of the free + Photo-Drama of Creation, seen and heard by twelve millions. No + answer could be put forth by clerical foes of truth, but baseless, + cruel libels on the private life of one of God's noblemen. + Audiences by the thousands listened to Bible lectures by Pastor + Russell and by hundreds of public speakers, and their voice is + still heard all over the world. Stinging assaults of slander were + ignored by a man of destiny, who had too much of God's work to do + to pay attention to the yelpings of little men—of the D. D.'s of + Christendom (Isa. 56:10), who love slumber, but who snarl and bite + when disturbed in their dreams of <span class="tei tei-q">“peace, + peace”</span> (Jer. 6:14), social and civic gospels, church unity, + and evangelistic raids on the pockets of the masses. Not a + situation or a person but was faced victoriously.—Isa. 54:17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img397.png"><img src="images/img397.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Pastor Russell in the Critics' Den + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + an adamant harder than flint have I made thy forehead; fear them + not, neither be dismayed at their looks, though they be a + rebellious house.</span></span>—The forehead is symbolic of wisdom. + A man of high forehead, as was Pastor Russell, is of a high type of + intellect. Pastor Russell's mind was made strong against opponents + of the Reform which is ushering in the everlasting Kingdom of + Messiah. It is impossible for error to withstand truth. (Luke + 21:15.) As in apostolic days, believers in Present Truth call + themselves <span class="tei tei-q">“in the Truth”</span> (2 Pet. + 1:12), the teachings of the Word of God are termed <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the Truth”</span> (1 John 3:19), and those who believe + them are known as <span class="tei tei-q">“Truth people.”</span> (3 + John 4.) The mind of Pastor Russell was filled with Truth. Crystal + clear, with hard, irresistible logic, the Present Truth, which + constituted his wisdom and understanding, was the hardest + proposition ecclesiasticism ever encountered. (Isa. 50:7.) The mind + of God's steward was as adamant. Adamant is literally, in Hebrew, + <span class="tei tei-q">“a diamond point.”</span> With diamond + hardness (Rev. 4:3), the Present Truth cuts its way through all + opposition, though the opposing thought be hard as flint. The + diamond is the most crystal clear of stones, and represents the + truth in irresistible form. It is futile to oppose the mind of any + Present Truth believer, for truth is irrefutable. To those who have + it, it imparts the mind of an intellectual giant—the mind of + Christ, of God. (1 Cor. 2:16.) Their foreheads are made as diamond. + In the light of the sun the diamond sparkles with indescribable + beauty. It breaks the sunlight up into its component parts and + reflects and refracts in prismatic flashes of rainbow colors. The + sun is the Gospel of Divine Love and its embodiment, Jesus Christ. + The component parts of Christian love are the <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page384">[pg 384]</span><a name="Pg384" id="Pg384" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> character fruits. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, + long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, + temperance.”</span> (Galatians 5:22-3.) The minds, wisdom, + characters of God's true people are full of manifestations of the + shining upon them of the glorious Gospel of the Son of + Righteousness—full of the beauty of righteousness. The minds of + God's saints are made as the diamond in its excelling hardness and + sunlit radiance.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover He said unto me, Son of man, all + My words that I shall speak unto thee receive in thine heart and + hear with thine ears.</span></span>—Like Ezekiel, Pastor Russell + was to hold back, pervert, or wrest <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">nothing</span></em>.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + go, get thee to them of the captivity, unto the children of thy + people, and speak unto them, and tell them, Thus saith the Lord + God; whether they will hear, or whether they will + forbear.</span></span>—It was to be a message for the Lord's people + in captivity to the king of this world. Satan, bound in Mystic + Babylon the Great, the governmental-ecclesiastical-commercial + system of Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + the Spirit took me up, and I heard behind me a voice of a great + rushing, saying, Blessed be the glory of the Lord from His + place.</span></span>—Through the begetting of the Holy Spirit we + are raised up to walk in newness of life (Rom. 6:4), to sit with + Christ in heavenly places (Eph. 2:6), in the Spirit-begotten + condition. The Spirit raised Pastor Russell up to an understanding + and appreciation of Heavenly things. (Matt. 3:16.) At Pentecost the + place where the Apostles were sitting was filled with a rushing + sound as of a mighty wind, and they received the Holy Spirit (Acts + 2:2.) The mighty rushing sound represented Pastor Russell's + receiving a rich endowment of the Spirit of God, to whose leadings + he was fully consecrated and to whose influence and guidance he + wholly devoted his life. The words of Christ and of God are + contained in the Bible, written thousands of years ago, behind in + the stream of time. It was in the Word of God, behind him in time + (Isa. 30:21), that Pastor Russell perceived the rushing sound, the + utterances of the Holy Spirit. The message of the Bible has been + perverted by Catholic and Protestant misunderstandings into + anything but a glorious and blessed Gospel. It is a thing to be + dreaded, if the glory of God is to eternally torment the vast + majority of humans. But the Message of Truth sounded forth by + Pastor Russell declares the grace of the Gospel which is to reach + every man, woman and child (1 Tim. 2:6) with its blessed influence, + power, wisdom and love, so that all creation in due time may join + in a mighty paeon of praise. <span class="tei tei-q">“Blessed be + the glory of Jehovah from His place.”</span>—Psa. 106:48.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img398.png"><img src="images/img398.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + The Clergy Would Censor The Bible + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page385">[pg 385]</span><a name= + "Pg385" id="Pg385" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + heard also the noise of the wings of the living creatures that + touched one another, and the noise of the wheels over against them, + and a noise of a great rushing.</span></span>—Many Christian + ministers have had glimpses of the Word of God, knowledge of some + details of the Plan, some measure of the Holy Spirit; but to Pastor + Russell, God's messenger to the last stage of the Church, was given + a superabundance of gifts, to set the things of God in order (Isa. + 44:7), to proclaim an harmonious understanding of all the Divine + purposes for mankind and of some for the angels. (Eph. 3:10.) He + heard the full harmony of <span class="tei tei-q">“the song of + Moses and the Lamb.”</span> (Rev. 15:3.) To him the wings (Rev. + 12:14), the Word of God, Old Testament and New, sounded their Glad + Tidings, a message whose parts <span class="tei tei-q">“touched one + another,”</span> were in complete touch, full harmony. He heard for + the first time since Apostolic days the Plan of God, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the noise of the wheels [cycles, ages].”</span> He + heard the manifestations of the operation of the Holy Spirit, the + <span class="tei tei-q">“noise of a great rushing,”</span> and was + filled with the Spirit in a measure beyond the portion of most + Christian men. His patience with the stupid and erring was godlike + and his love-lit face was an inspiration.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So + the Spirit lifted me up, and took me away; and I went in + bitterness, in the heat of my spirit; but the hand of the Lord was + strong upon me.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“God hath + taken you out of the world”</span> (John 17:16); raised + <span class="tei tei-q">“to sit with Christ in Heavenly + places.”</span> (Eph. 2:6.) The Spirit took Pastor Russell away + from earthly aims and raised him up to the plane of sacrificing + priesthood. He turned from commercial pursuits to devote his life + to the Heavenly Message. He tasted the bitter herbs of persecution, + of suffering with Christ; and amid ostracism and persecution he + lived the life of Christian service. He carried on his work in + fervency of spirit; for the power of God was upon him, + strengthening him with might in the inner man (Eph. 3:16), and with + wisdom to deliver, in the face of the determined opposition of + priestcraft, the trumpet message announcing the Presence of + Christ—the sound of the Seventh Trumpet, the trump of God.—Rev. + 10:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + I came to them of the captivity at Tel-abib, that dwelt by the + river of Chebar, and I sat where they sat and remained there + astonished among them seven days.</span></span>—Future historians + will record, as most remarkable, the mental, moral and spiritual + bondage in which professing Christians were held during the Gospel + Age, through the machinations of priestcraft, under the king of the + age, Satan himself. Pastor Russell came with his message, in a day + of supposed enlightenment, to a people <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page386">[pg 386]</span><a name="Pg386" id="Pg386" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> bound hand and foot. Tel-abib in Hebrew is + <span class="tei tei-q">“Hill of Grass”</span> (from <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Tel,”</span> hill, and <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Abib,”</span> sprouting, budding). Abib was another + name for Nisan, the first month of the Hebrew sacred year, + corresponding to April. In type or symbol a place represents a + condition, or a stage in historic development. The <span class= + "tei tei-q">“hill of budding,”</span> the beginning of the sacred + year, symbolizes the dawn of the Times of Restitution, the + <span class="tei tei-q">“Millennial Dawn.”</span> The Millennium + (Rev. 20:3, 4, 7) began in 1874, with the Return of Christ. It was + at about that time that Pastor Russell came to his + fellow-Christians with the beginning of a better understanding of + the Bible, <span class="tei tei-q">“the vision of God.”</span> It + was, as it were, the budding-time of the good promises of God for + the blessing of all peoples. The Christian people lived on and by + the stream of commercial, social and economic intercourse that + feeds and supports Christendom, Babylon.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it came to pass at the end of seven days, that the Word of the Lord + came unto me, saying.</span></span>—In a time prophecy a day in the + prophecy usually signifies a year in fulfillment. For seven years + after Christ's Return in 1874—until 1881—Pastor Russell, although + he knew much of God's Plan, was in some degree in the same + condition as other Christians in imperfect understanding of God's + Word. In 1881 a former associate, Mr. Barbour, of Rochester, N. Y., + who had been a faithful fellow-watcher, developed into the + <span class="tei tei-q">“Evil servant”</span> of Matt. 24:48-61 and + Zechariah 11:17, and produced a work on the Hebrew Tabernacle types + in opposition to the fundamentals of true Christianity. Pastor + Russell desired the truth on the subject. He gave himself up to + prayer and study of this matter alone. For days he struggled with + the problem and wrestled with God in supplication. At length the + matter cleared up. He then wrote <span class= + "tei tei-q">“<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Tabernacle Shadows of the Better + Sacrifices</span></span>.”</span> of which 1,500,000 copies have + since aided Christians to understand the deeper things of the Word + and to make complete consecration unto death. This was in 1881, at + which time he also published <span class="tei tei-q">“<span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Food for Thinking + Christians</span></span>,”</span> a work embodying much afterwards + expanded into the six volumes of <span class= + "tei tei-q">“<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Studies in the + Scriptures</span></span>.”</span> The same year, 1881, is + prophetically marked at the time for the final withdrawal of favor + from the churches, a favor which had begun to be withdrawn in + 1878—the year in which the clergy were cast off as representatives + of the Divine Word, and when Pastor Russell began his work by the + publication of 50,000 copies of <span class= + "tei tei-q">“<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Object and Manner of the Lord's + Return</span></span>.”</span> In 1873 the stewardship of the things + of God, the teaching of Bible truths, was taken from the clergy, + unfaithful to their age-long <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page387">[pg 387]</span><a name="Pg387" id="Pg387" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> stewardship, and given to Pastor Russell. In + the interim, until 1881, the new steward was setting the things in + order, getting the truths of the Bible in logical and Scriptural + form for presentation, until the last great item of the Hebrew + Tabernacle types, was ready. Then, in 1881, he became God's + watchman for all Christendom, and began his gigantic work of + witness.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Son + of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; + therefore hear the word at My mouth, and give them warning from + Me.</span></span>—The function of watchmanship was not given until + 1881. (Jer. 6:17; Isa. 21:6-12.) Faithfulness in individual + watching during a trial period of seven years was rewarded by the + bestowal of the office of the greatest servant whom the Church of + God has had since the Apostle Paul. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Whosoever will be chief among you let him be your + servant.”</span> (Matt. 20:27.) Pastor Russell at all times served + the Church in great things and small. No request was too + insignificant to get his careful attention. Rich and poor alike + were faithfully served in every possible way. This work prior to + 1881 was a great work for any ordinary man, but insignificant + compared with what was to follow. By 1884 the watchman's work had + grown to such proportions as to cause the founding of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-variant: small-caps">The Watch Tower + Bible and Tract Society</span></span>. This is the agency through + which God's appointed watchman has delivered his message to + Christendom. Pastor Russell paid no attention to the words or + opinions of man, however learned or pious, whether men of modern + days or the <span class="tei tei-q">“early fathers”</span> of + post-apostolic times. He listened to the word direct from the mouth + of God, spoken by holy men of old as moved by the Holy Spirit. (2 + Peter 1:21.) Ezekiel was raised up shortly before the destruction + of Jerusalem to warn the Hebrews of the impending calamity. Pastor + Russell's warning to Christendom, coming direct from God, has been + of the imminent collapse of the present <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Christian”</span> civilization in a welter of war, + revolution and anarchy, to be succeeded by the early establishment + of the Kingdom of God. In all his warnings he claimed no + originality. He said that he could never have written his books + himself. It all came from God, through the enlightenment of the + Holy Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When + I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him + not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, + to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; + but his blood will I require at thine hand.</span></span>—Pastor + Russell saw and revived the teaching of the Word of God that death + is death. <span class="tei tei-q">“All have sinned.”</span> (Rom. + 3:23.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Death passed upon all.”</span> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page388">[pg 388]</span><a name= + "Pg388" id="Pg388" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> (Romans 5:12.) + <span class="tei tei-q">“The wages of sin is death.”</span> (Rom. + 6:23.) <span class="tei tei-q">“There is none righteous.”</span> + (Rom. 3:10.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The dead sleep in the + dust.”</span> (Isa. 26:19.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Their thoughts + perish.”</span> (Psa. 146:4.) He taught clearly the Word of God + first enunciated to Adam, <span class="tei tei-q">“Thou shalt + surely die.”</span> (Gen. 2:17.) Man is not inherently immortal. At + death he is dead, unconscious, asleep until the resurrection, not + <span class="tei tei-q">“more alive than ever,”</span> as taught by + a blinded and apostate priestcraft. Man, soul and body, is not a + being whom God cannot destroy. <span class="tei tei-q">“Fear Him + who is able to destroy both soul and body.”</span> (Matt. 10:28.) + To all erring mankind Pastor Russell was directed by God to + reiterate the Divine penalty for sin, as death, and not eternal + torment. This was a fundamental part of the message both of Ezekiel + and of Pastor Russell.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yet + if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor + from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast + delivered thy soul.</span></span>—Pastor Russell faithfully warned + the wicked. He published a complete exposition of the Bible + statements regarding the Adamic death—3,000,000 copies of a + pamphlet, <span class="tei tei-q">“What Say the Scriptures About + Hell,”</span> quoting all Bible passages mentioning Sheol and + Hades, the death state. He scarcely ever spoke in public without + dwelling on this cardinal tenet, that the dead are dead. To the + very best of his ability he taught Christendom the truth. By + faithful testimony he delivered himself from liability.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:20, 21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Again, When a righteous man doth turn + from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a + stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not + given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness + which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I + require at thine hand. Nevertheless, if thou warn the righteous + man, that the righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall + surely live, because he is warned; also thou hast delivered thy + soul.</span></span>—Another cardinal teaching of God's Word, + clearly taught by Pastor Russell, is the nature of the eternal + punishment to be visited upon the incorrigible backslider. Clergy, + bishops and popes have taught for centuries on this subject an + irrational combination of extreme symbolism with gross literalism, + as suited their ambition to exercise worldly power and hold the + masses in subjection—minds, bodies and pocketbooks. They have + interpreted one symbolism symbolically and the next literally. They + have said that the <span class="tei tei-q">“Lake of Fire”</span> + and the <span class="tei tei-q">“torment”</span> are literal, but + that the <span class="tei tei-q">“beast”</span> and the + <span class="tei tei-q">“false prophet”</span> are symbolic (Rev. + 19:20), even though it involved the absurdity of a symbolic beast + going into a literal lake of fire! Blind and deaf to <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page389">[pg 389]</span><a name="Pg389" id="Pg389" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> those who have pointed out the + unreasonableness of such foolishness, they have turned savagely + upon those that have the Truth. In eighteen centuries they have + killed fifty million adherents of Christ, and persecuted + innumerable others. It is impossible to compute the number that + they will do to death in this, the close of the Gospel-Age Harvest, + when governmental protection shall be withdrawn from lovers of + truth, except that, this time, they will get <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">all</span></em> + such!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">An important + feature of Pastor Russell's teaching is that the Scriptural + punishment of the incorrigibly wicked is not life in torment but + oblivion, annihilation, the <span class="tei tei-q">“second + death”</span> (Rev. 21:8); that every one is, either in this life + or after the resurrection, to be brought to a full knowledge of the + Truth (1 Tim. 2:4); to receive some measure of the Holy Spirit; + that those who incur the extreme penalty for sin will be only those + who backslide beyond recovery. In full conformity with Ezekiel's + prophecy Pastor Russell taught that <span class="tei tei-q">“when a + righteous man doth commit iniquity, he shall die”</span>—the Second + Death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the hand of the Lord was there upon me; and He said unto me, Arise, + go forth into the plain, and I will there talk with + thee.</span></span>—Ezekiel was impelled by the Holy Spirit to + depart from the river Chebar with its teeming activities. Pastor + Russell's consecration led him to separate himself from commercial + activities and to give his life to the service of God. The hand of + the Lord was upon him to do this. The Lord's people, the Hebrews, + mingled with the Chaldeans, living in the plain—literally + <span class="tei tei-q">“vale”</span> or <span class= + "tei tei-q">“valley.”</span> Pastor Russell turned from ordinary + avocations to all the people dwelling in the Valley of the Shadow + of Death (Psa. 23:4); and in that condition God communed with His + true Watchman. Pastor Russell has been known to pass entire nights + in prayer, and go about his work the next day as though nothing + unusual had taken place.—Rev. 3:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + I arose, and went forth into the plain; and, behold, the glory of + the Lord stood there, as the glory which I saw by the river of + Chebar: and I fell on my face.</span></span>—Continually the vision + was before Pastor Russell of the character, plan and work of the + Almighty. Daily he renewed his covenant of consecration and daily + sought to carry it out.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + the Spirit entered into me, and set me upon my feet, and spake with + me, and said unto me, Go, shut thyself within thine + house.</span></span>—A thought possesses propulsive power, and must + result in action unless hindered by an opposing thought. The + Spirit, thoughts, words of <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page390">[pg 390]</span><a name="Pg390" id="Pg390" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> God were continually entering, from the + Bible, into Pastor Russell's mind and setting him into action. All + who have set themselves apart to do the will of God and have + received the Holy Spirit, are members of Christ, in the House of + Sons (Heb. 3:6), the Royal Priesthood. In the consecration of the + typical priesthood, the priest shut himself in the Tabernacle for + seven days. (Lev. 8:33.) (Seven symbolizes completeness.) So Christ + and those in Him abide continually in the antitypical Holy, the + spirit-begotten condition. Pastor Russell lived in the Spirit from + his consecration to his death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + thou, O son of man, behold, they shall put bands upon thee, and + shall bind thee with them, and thou shalt not go out among + them.</span></span>—Each forward step in any branch of knowledge + renders institutions based on past partial knowledge functionless; + and consequently the adherents and beneficiaries of such + institutions oppose the march of events. The clergy, trying to stem + the tide of Truth, to uphold an effete ecclesiasticism tottering to + its fall, put every restraint upon the influence of Pastor Russell; + but the bands upon him served also to bind the tares more tightly + into the organization bundles. (Matt. 13:30.) In fulfillment of the + prophetic parable the bundles are to be destroyed in the anarchy + about to ensue. Church members have been urged to get rid of every + scrap of paper bearing the Message of Present Truth; the Truth has + been preached against in practically every church in the English, + German and Swedish speaking world; people have been warned against + reading the Truth; Truth people have been discharged or refused + employment; in Europe they have been imprisoned at hard labor; some + have been done to death by firing squads; they have been forbidden + to hold meetings. Neither Pastor Russell nor his fellow-believers + were permitted to utter the Bible Truth before the congregations of + ecclesiasticism. It was not to go out among <span class= + "tei tei-q">“them,”</span> and his greatest work was the deepening + of the spirit of consecration among those of the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“House of Sons.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">3:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will make thy tongue cleave to the roof of thy mouth, that thou + shalt be dumb, and shalt not be to them a reprover; for they are a + rebellious house.</span></span>—It is impossible to witness + spiritual things to the carnally-minded (1 Cor. 3:1; John 16:12). + But Pastor Russell never refrained from speaking or publishing the + Word of God. The Bible teaches that the service of God must be of a + willing heart. It is a privilege which may be accepted or rejected, + as the hearer desires. Yet to the worldly, Pastor Russell was as + <span class="tei tei-q">“dumb”</span>, for they would not hear.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page391">[pg 391]</span><a name= + "Pg391" id="Pg391" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc65" id="toc65"></a> <a name="pdf66" id="pdf66"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 4—The Papal And Protestant + Sieges</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + also, son of man, take thee a tile, and lay it before thee, and + portray upon it the city, even Jerusalem.</span></span>—In + Ezekiel's days, in Chaldea, a book was a collection of inscribed + tiles. The Laodicean servant was to be a writer of books. In many + articles and chapters on the kingdoms of this world and their + judgment and fall, and that of their ecclesiastical, political and + business systems, Pastor Russell portrays Christendom, typically + spoken of as Jerusalem. It bore the Lord's name, but was defiled by + the evil practices of its inhabitants. (C. 295.) As a type, + Jerusalem represents particularly the ecclesiastical phase of + Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + lay siege against it, and build a fort against it, and cast a mount + against it, set the camp also against it, and set battering rams + against it round about.</span></span>—Ecclesiasticism was to + experience prolonged siege by a class symbolized by Ezekiel. The + siege was to be conducted by Truth, encompassing the stronghold of + the nominal city of God. Beleaguered ecclesiasticism was to go + through experiences like that of a besieged city shut off from its + province, shorn of its actual dominion, while nominally retaining + it, cut off from the supplies that had flowed from the tributary + peoples. In addition to the slow weakening of a close besiegement, + it was to withstand occasional assaults, make sorties and go + through a period of warfare, with only one possible end, the utter + destruction of the city. The besieged city was surrounded on every + side with a line of military works, trenches, palisades and forts, + collectively called a fort; from which, especially from the + principal center of offense, it was continually harassed by + wearing-down activities and assaulted by surprise attacks. So + ecclesiasticism was to be surrounded and placed on the defensive, + by strongly entrenched and fortified enemies. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“God is our fortress.”</span> (2 Sam. 22:2.) It was to + be done by a class of progressive and liberty-loving Christians in + revolt against and attack upon the intolerance, superstition, and + tyranny of priestcraft.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Ancient cities + were surrounded by high walls, with frequent towers for watchmen, + spearmen, bowmen and slingmen. The walls, in emergencies, were + lined with such <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page392">[pg + 392]</span><a name="Pg392" id="Pg392" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + fighters and with throwers of boulders and firebrands. The attack + was made upon a weak point in the wall; and an earthen mound or + mounds was cast up to furnish an elevation from which to equalize + for the besiegers the advantages of the defenders. The walls of + ecclesiasticism are its defense of creeds and of formalism and, not + least of all, of the civil powers and the men who stand as a + bulwark against attack. A <span class="tei tei-q">“mount”</span> + symbolizes a government. (Dan. 2:44, 45.) The nation (mount) was + organized, militant Protestantism. The camp is the temporary + abiding place of those who are fighting on the Lord's side. (Heb. + 13:13.) A battering ram was a device for battering down the wall of + a city to make a breach for the attack of the soldiery. + Ecclesiasticism has surrounded itself with walls of living stones, + soldiers, police and other officers of the civil powers who protect + the churches and church people (Isa. 59:10), educators to build up + belief in ecclesiasticism, writers to write articles and books, and + a host of other adherents and supporters. In the siege of + ecclesiasticism the Lord's yeomen have attacked aggressively with + books, newspapers, missionaries, lectures and education; seeking to + loosen and dislodge some of the living stones surrounding organized + error.—Jer. 6:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover take thou unto thee an iron pan, + and set it for a wall of iron between thee and the city; and set + thy face against it, and it shall be besieged, and thou shalt lay + siege against it. This shall be a sign to the house of + Israel.</span></span>—An iron pan, literally a <span class= + "tei tei-q">“thin plate,”</span> was between besieging + Protestantism and beleaguered ecclesiasticism. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“They were holpen with a little help”</span> (Dan. + 11:34). The civil powers were to stand as a wall of iron protecting + the Lord's people from the persecuting power of ruling priestcraft. + No breaches could be made in the wall. It was a <span class= + "tei tei-q">“wall of iron.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“No evil + shall befall thee.”</span> (Psa. 91:10.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Greater is He that is for thee than all these that be + against thee.”</span> (2 Kings 6:16.) Iron, as in the iron claws + and teeth of the beast of Daniel, symbolizes the agencies of an + irresistible power. Turning the face toward or against anything was + a mark of favor or of disfavor. (Psa. 104:29.) The Lord's people + were resolutely to disfavor established ecclesiasticism and to + besiege it from the Reformation to the close of the Harvest. When + Ezekiel sees another doing something it usually signifies another + than Pastor Russell doing it, but may signify Pastor Russell seeing + himself, or the Ezekiel class. The Ezekiel prophecy types and + symbolizes Pastor Russell or the Reformer class seeing Pastor + Russell or the Reformer class or some member of that class doing + the thing typed or <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page393">[pg + 393]</span><a name="Pg393" id="Pg393" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + symbolized. Here, the Protestant class from the Protestant + Reformation down through the Harvest period, is seen systematically + and effectually besieging established ecclesiasticism. The house of + Israel ordinarily meant the Hebrew nation, the nominal fleshly + house of Israel. The Hebrews were divided into the ten tribes + (Israel), thoroughly infected with Pagan beliefs and practices, and + the two tribes (Judah), holding more closely to Jehovah. In + antitype, when both Israel and Judah are mentioned, and the + prophecy is intended for an antitypical fulfillment, Israel + signifies the Papacy and Judah signifies established Protestantism. + Here the sign was to be the whole nominal house of Israel—all + professing Christians, Catholics and Protestants.—Z. '05-179.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Lie + thou also upon thy left side, and lay the iniquity of the house of + Israel upon it: according to the number of the days that thou shalt + lie upon it thou shalt bear their iniquity.</span></span>—In verses + 4 to 6 Israel and Judah are included in the same picture, and + signify Papacy and established, corrupted Protestantism. The left + side was a sign of less favor. Romanism kept on in sin and kept + adding, multiplying evil deeds, until iniquity should come to the + full (Gen. 15:16). A day in prophecy signifies a year in + fulfillment. (Num. 14:34.) Ezekiel here represents the reformer + class which had to endure the iniquities of Papacy, both by + persecution and by the shame of seeing professed Christians + believing grossest error. The iniquity of Papacy, the house of + Israel, lay in the fact that the Reformers had shown them insistent + proofs of their wrong course, and yet they continued in their own + way, heedless of the Divine warnings. Hence less favor has been + felt by Jehovah toward them than toward Protestantism.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + I have laid upon thee the years of their iniquity, according to the + number of the days, three hundred and ninety days; so shalt thou + bear the iniquity of the house of Israel.</span></span>—Upon the + reform element was laid the burden of seeing the dupes of Papal + priestcraft continually learning and living error. This was a + burden upon conscience, and was repugnant to the enlightened mind + of the reform element, known for centuries, in name at least, as + Protestant. Priestcraft of the larger division of Christendom was + to be under attack for 390 years, during which time the besieging + element, the reformers, were to be protected from Papacy by the + <span class="tei tei-q">“iron wall”</span> of the civil powers. + This began in 1528 and ends in 1918. The year 1528 is one of the + turning points of history. Protestantism in England and in Germany + was in the balance. The sudden rise of Charles V of Germany to + great power had <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page394">[pg + 394]</span><a name="Pg394" id="Pg394" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + emboldened Pope Clement to side with Charles. He induced the + Emperor to support a measure designed to limit the spread of + Protestantism, to be followed by its utter destruction. Under the + proposed law no Protestant was to convert a Romanist to the + reformed faith, nor would it be allowable for Protestantism to + spread to other countries. It meant for all Protestants an end such + as the Huguenots came to in France, the suppression of the + Renaissance with its <span class="tei tei-q">“increase of + knowledge”</span> (Dan. 12:4), and the end of the prosperous and + comparatively enlightened civilization of modern times. The future + of the whole world, and of the Divine Plan, was at stake! A general + war was barely avoided to destroy Lutheranism. Philip Landgrave of + Saxony discovered the plot, took arms, and in 1528 forced indemnity + from a Catholic bishop. Other princes of Germany stood with + Philip.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">To quote from + Dr. Peter Bayne, LL. D., the historian (<span class= + "tei tei-q">“Martin Luther”</span>), page 486: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“These (the princes of the reformed faith) were + inflexibly determined that the decree of the majority should not be + assented to. Philip of Hesse, John of Saxony, Markgraf George the + Pious of Brandenburg-Anspach, the Dukes of Lunenburg and Brunswick, + the Prince of Anhalt, and the representatives of Strasburg, + Nurnberg and twelve other free cities, entered a solemn protest + against the prospective revolution. They were called <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Protestants</span></span>! All, to this hour, + who claim that Truth shall be unveiled, and that no Pope, or + Kaiser, shall congeal the ever-advancing stream of progress and + improvement, may take an honorable pride in tracing their spiritual + descent to the intrepid Philip and the magnanimous and + simple-hearted John.”</span> (p. 481): <span class="tei tei-q">“How + thoroughly is the whole pageant of that war, 1528, erased from the + memory of the present generation! And yet the effect of those + events is not yet exhausted; nor would it be possible for any one + without forming some comprehension of them, to understand how link + added itself to link in the evolutionary chain of modern + history.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Thus Germany set + up the iron wall of civic defense between the besieging Protestants + and beleaguered Papacy. In England, too, the other great empire + which has stood as an iron wall between the reform element and + Papacy, the break with Rome began to take form in 1528. This was + the year when Pope Clement appointed his legates, Correggio and + Wolsey, to conduct the divorce trial of Queen Katherine of Aragon, + at the behest of Henry VIII. (Rev. 8:8, 9.) As God raised up a + willful, stubborn Pharaoh when He purposed to deliver the Hebrews + from Egypt, so He raised up the lustful Henry VIII as the agent + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page395">[pg 395]</span><a name= + "Pg395" id="Pg395" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> through whom the + break should come between England and Rome. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The natural result”</span> [of Henry's divorce + proceedings], says A. F. Pollard, the historian, in his + <span class="tei tei-q">“Henry VIII,”</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">“was the separation of England from Rome.”</span> Thus + did Divine wisdom use <span class="tei tei-q">“the wrath of man to + praise Him”</span> and cause the <span class="tei tei-q">“iron + wall”</span> of the civil, military and naval powers of the British + Empire, Germany, and of the United States, to stand an impregnable + barrier against the persecuting power of Great Babylon. Safe behind + the iron wall, the reform element was able to live and grow in its + camp and to keep up its siege of Roman Catholic priestcraft.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when thou hast accomplished them, lie again on thy right side, and + thou shalt bear the iniquity of the house of Judah forty days: I + have appointed thee each day for a year.</span></span>—The right + side signifies less disfavor than to Papacy. The house of Judah + represents Protestantism, the Protestant churches. Until 1878, when + cast off by the returned and present Messiah, Protestantism enjoyed + Divine favor, just as the two tribes, collectively called Judah, + did as compared with the idolatrous ten tribes of Israel. After + 1874 the Present Truth took the form of a general overhauling of + creeds and the announcement of Christ's Second Presence. This was + unanimously rejected by the Protestant churches; and organized + Protestant ecclesiasticism from 1878 on for forty years became the + Judah of this type, besieged on every side by the reform element, + under the leadership of the steward of Divine Truth, Pastor + Russell. Until 1918, Hebrew reckoning, beginning in the fall of + 1917, the civil powers continue as a <span class="tei tei-q">“wall + of iron,”</span> protecting the Lord's people in their witness + against error.—Rev. 3:14; B. 66, 91.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thou shalt set thy face toward + the siege of Jerusalem, and thine arm shall be uncovered, and thou + shalt prophesy against it.</span></span>—The Ezekiel class, the + true Protestant reform class, during the 390 and the 40 years set + themselves to the attack upon priestcraft. Pastor Russell seldom + spoke without some words of objection to or warning about + ecclesiasticism. The arm symbolizes power (E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">50</span></span>, 47) + and the uncovering of the arm is as when a man takes off his coat + in attacking a task. The siege was to be carried on with energy. + The reform element was to preach continually, not condoning or + excusing priestcraft, but directly and pointedly attacking it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And, + behold, I will lay bands upon thee, and thou shalt not turn thee + from one side to another, till thou hast ended the days of thy + siege.</span></span>—God bound His true people to this work. The + reform element were not to change their attitude, but continually + to keep at the attack upon <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page396">[pg 396]</span><a name="Pg396" id="Pg396" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> ecclesiastical corruption until the siege + should end in 1918. The Hebrew year 1918, begins in October, + 1917.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Take + thou also unto thee wheat, and barley, and beans, and lentiles, and + millet, and fitches, and put them in one vessel, and make thee + bread thereof, according to the number of the days that thou shalt + lie upon thy side; three hundred and ninety days shalt thou eat + thereof.</span></span>—These grains represent different grades of + spiritual food, each kind of food to be eaten by the kind of + Christian represented by the food. Wheat represents the true Gospel + of the Kingdom, as in the parable of the sower (Matt. 13:1-30), and + is the food of the Little Flock. Barley among the Hebrews was + little esteemed, for it was the price of an adulteress. (Hos. 3:2.) + It signifies the spiritual food of a class guilty of spiritual + adultery, unhallowed alliance with the world in the bringing forth + of <span class="tei tei-q">“strange”</span> children. (Hos. 5:7.) + Beans, lentiles, millet and fitches represent grades of food + inferior to wheat (which contains every element to support life) + and inferior even to barley. Their continued use as foods, causes + physical deficiencies, weaknesses and disease. Lentiles are usually + cultivated for fodder. Millet is still inferior. Symbolically it + represents Christians who <span class="tei tei-q">“have no depth of + earth.”</span> (Matt. 13:5.) Vetches, sometimes called <span class= + "tei tei-q">“tares”</span> or <span class="tei tei-q">“prickly + spelt,”</span> are a very poor food. Their prickly nature suggests + a type of hard-to-get-along-with Christians, and the kind of + mental, moral and spiritual food that produces them. In with some + of the true wheat, in established churchianity, as shown by verse + 16, were to be gathered Christians of various degrees of + development, each eating the kind of food corresponding to his + Christian development, the wheat class assimilating the best of the + Divine Word, and so on down to those who absorbed the poorest grade + of spiritual provender, some of it food usually regarded as fit + only for animals. This was the food the various classes should + subsist on, each according to his capacity, from 1528 to 1918, and + from 1878 to 1918.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:10, 11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + thy meat which thou shalt eat shall be by weight, twenty shekels a + day: from time to time shalt thou eat it. Thou shalt drink also + water by measure, the sixth part of a hin: from time to time shalt + thou drink.</span></span>—A shekel was half an ounce; twenty + shekels were ten ounces. A hin was a gallon and a half. The sixth + part of a hin was one quart. This was the daily ration, a + starvation allowance. They were not to feed on it continuously, but + on Sundays, or two or three times a week—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“from time to time.”</span> The people would, as a + class, have a scanty spiritual subsistence during the siege + period.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page397">[pg + 397]</span><a name="Pg397" id="Pg397" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + thou shalt eat it as barley cakes, and thou shalt bake it with dung + that cometh out of man, in their sight.</span></span>—Cakes, made + of this mixture, were used by the very poor in times of scarcity, + depicting the scarcity of spiritual food among the followers of + ecclesiasticism. The poor, not having stones or ovens, baked their + bread or cakes on heated stones or in the fire, or roasted them by + placing them between layers of dung, which burns slowly. Only the + dung of animals was used ordinarily. No insult or defilement was + greater than to turn a man's house into a receptacle for human + excrement. (Deut. 23:12-14.) Our Lord associated human dung with + <span class="tei tei-q">“that which defileth a man.”</span> (Matt. + 15:11.) Luther spoke of the <span class="tei tei-q">“dunghill of + Roman decretals.”</span> The human dung signifies human traditions, + clerical additions to the Word of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the Lord said, Even thus shall the children of Israel eat their + defiled bread among the Gentiles, whither I will drive + them.</span></span>—The spiritual food, poor as the mixture was, + was to be thoroughly defiled.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + said I, Ah Lord God! behold, my soul hath not been polluted: for + from my youth up even till now have I not eaten of that which dieth + of itself, or is torn in pieces; neither came there abominable + flesh into my mouth.</span></span>—This typifies the heart desire + of the reformer class to keep clear of defiling errors.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + he said unto me, Lo, I have given thee cow's dung for man's dung, + and thou shalt prepare thy bread therewith.</span></span>—The + spiritual food would be unsavory enough.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover he said unto me, Son of man, + behold, I will break the staff of bread in Jerusalem; and they + shall eat bread by weight, and with care; and they shall drink + water by measure; and with astonishment.</span></span>—The type + enacted by Ezekiel was intended to depict spiritual conditions in + ecclesiasticism, Romish after 1528 A. D. and Protestant after 1878 + A. D., in Jerusalem (churchianity), the besieged city, where there + would be a famine of the Word of God. As prophecies often have a + literal as well as a symbolic fulfillment, this refers also to the + straitness of the siege of literal Jerusalem and to the literal + scarcity of food in the Time of Trouble upon Christendom, with its + high cost of living, food dictators and food tickets.—Lev. + 26:26.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">4:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That + they may want bread and water, and be astonied one with another, + and consume away for their iniquity.</span></span>—Like as people + on poor food in starvation quantities weaken and die, so Christians + weaken and die spiritually on the diet provided by priests and + clergy.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page398">[pg 398]</span><a name= + "Pg398" id="Pg398" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc67" id="toc67"></a> <a name="pdf68" id="pdf68"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 5—The Severed Hair + Calamities</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + thou, son of man, take thee a sharp knife, take thee a barber's + razor, and cause it to pass upon thine head and upon thy beard: + then take thee balances to weigh, and divide the + hair.</span></span>—This is located <span class="tei tei-q">“after + the days of the siege”</span> of Jerusalem, or in antitype after + Romanism's and Protestantism's siege is ended in 1918. It had a + literal fulfillment in 606 B. C. and is to have a literal and a + symbolic fulfillment in and after 1918. It depicts the several + kinds of troubles upon Christendom, and the causes provoking them. + The shaving of the head represents the affliction of Christendom. + (Isaiah 3:17, 20, 24; Jer. 7:29.) The shaving of the beard was part + of the ceremonial treatment of a leper (Lev. 14:8, 9), and + signifies that after 1918 Christendom will be treated by outraged + Justice at a moral leper, unclean with incurable iniquity, the + perverseness, which, in the face of continual preaching of the + Gospel, led up to the recent wars.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Ezek. 5:2, 12, + 16, 17, relate to features of the destruction of literal Jerusalem + in 606 B. C. and 70-73 A. D. and of Christendom in 1914 to 1918 A. + D. Since in verse 12 a third part of the persons were to suffer + death or affliction, the hair in verses 1, 2 and 3 signifies the + people in Jerusalem—Christendom. In Samson's case the hair + represented his strength; and here the hair cut off signifies that + the people who are the strength of Christendom shall be cut off in + the brief but terribly eventful period beginning in 1918 A. D. A + third part are <span class="tei tei-q">“burned with fire in the + midst of the city.”</span> Fire symbolises destruction. One large + part of the adherents of ecclesiasticism win die from pestilence + and famine. (Deut. 32:24.) In 5:16, 17 the shafts of hunger are + represented as the evil arrows of famine. The staff is that upon + which one leans; the staff of bread is the food supply of + Christendom. In 1916 there was already a 25 per cent. crop shortage + throughout the world, presaging worse conditions to come. In verse + 18 the evil beasts sent upon Christendom are the savage + <span class="tei tei-q">“Christian”</span> governments of the world + (Deut. 32:24), which, by unheard-of barbarity in war, are bereaving + the people by millions and causing bloodshed unparalleled in + history.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page399">[pg + 399]</span><a name="Pg399" id="Pg399" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + shalt burn with fire a third part in the midst of the city, when + the days of the siege are fulfilled: and thou shalt take a third + part, and smite about it with a knife: and a third part thou shalt + scatter in the wind; and I will draw out a sword after + them.</span></span>—A third part of the hair was to be smitten with + a knife. See 5:12. This represents people not definitely in or + under ecclesiasticism, but associated with it, favoring it, and + benefiting from it These are to be smitten with the sword drawn for + destruction of life in the Time of Trouble. A considerable portion + of the people will be separated by the winds of warfare and + commotion from all connection with churchianity. These have been + connected with, sympathizers with, or beneficiaries from + churchianity. This class also will be involved in the bloodshed of + the <span class="tei tei-q">“great tribulation.”</span>—Matt. + 24:21; Rev. 7:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:3, 4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + shalt also take thereof a few in number, and bind them in thy + skirts. Then take of them again, and cast them into the midst of + the fire, and burn them in the fire; for thereof shall a fire come + forth into all the house of Israel.</span></span>—To bind in the + skirts is a symbol of close affiliation. A few adherents of + churchianity will affiliate themselves with those believing Present + Truth, but so searching will be the circumstances of the trouble + period that none not at heart <span class="tei tei-q">“in Present + Truth”</span> (2 Pet. 1:12) will be able to remain in the + protection overshadowing the Lord's people. These few will be + separated, and finally become involved in the destruction upon all + supporters of, sympathizers with and beneficiaries of churchianity. + Not one shall escape; it will be upon <span class="tei tei-q">“all + the house of Israel.”</span> Babylon's conflagration will be + hastened by the adherents here described. After 1918 the people + supporting churchianity will cease to be its supporters, be + destroyed as adherents, by the spiritual pestilence of errors + abroad, and by the famine of the Word of God among them. The Sword + of the Spirit (Eph. 6:17), which is the Word of God, will be + wielded in the hands of <span class="tei tei-q">“Present + Truth”</span> believers in such a manner as to cause conscientious + supporters of ecclesiasticism to cease to be supporters.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; This is Jerusalem: I have set it in the midst + of the nations and countries that are round about + her.</span></span>—God, through the increase of knowledge, the + Renaissance, and the dynamic power of belief in the Word of God, + has set up Christendom on a pinnacle of power in the midst of the + heathen nations or the world.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + she hath changed my judgments into wickedness more than the + nations, and my statutes more than the countries that are round + about her: for they have</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page400">[pg 400]</span><a name="Pg400" id="Pg400" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">refused + my judgments and my statutes, they have not walked in + them.</span></span>—God taught Christendom the principles of + Justice and gave her His law of Divine, self-sacrificing + love—<span class="tei tei-q">“A new law, that ye love one + another.”</span> (John 13:34.) Relatively to the light of + Christendom and heathendom, Christendom is far the more wicked; + for, having the instructions, exhortations and examples of the + Bible, she has both refused them and not walked in them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; + Because ye multiplied more than the nations that are round about + you, and have not walked in My statutes, neither have kept My + judgments, neither have done according to the judgments of the + nations that are round about you.</span></span>—Christendom under + the blessing of God has multiplied in material things and in + knowledge more than heathendom, and yet has not only not walked in + God's Law of Love, but has not lived up to the standards of + righteousness and justice of the heathen. Chinese are more reliable + in business engagements than are Christians. Some tribes in Africa + are more moral sexually than are whites, and explorers have noted + the natural kindness of the negroes of Nyassa and Soudan.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God: + behold, I, even I, am against thee, and will execute judgments in + the midst of thee in the sight of the + nations.</span></span>—Because of Christendom's wickedness against + light, God is against this system calling itself by Christ's holy + name, and will execute upon it judgment of such unprecedented + awfulness as to constitute a lasting lesson to <span class= + "tei tei-q">“uncivilized”</span> peoples.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will do in thee that which I have not done, and whereunto I will + not do any more the like, because of all thine + abominations.</span></span>—The punishments come because of + churchianity's illicit union of church and state, termed spiritual + <span class="tei tei-q">“fornication”</span> (Rev. 17:2); her + licensing of liquor, vice and crime; her doctrines of devils (1 + Tim. 4:1), such as eternal torment, inherent immortality and + Trinity; her desolating abomination in the Romish mass (Matt. + 24:15); and her Phariseeism in the face of wilful butchery of + millions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:10, 11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore the fathers shall eat the sons + in the midst of thee, and the sons shall eat their fathers; and I + will execute judgments in thee, and the whole remnant of thee will + I scatter into all the winds. Wherefore, as I live, saith the Lord + God; Surely, because thou hast defiled My Sanctuary with all thy + detestable things, and with all thine abominations, therefore will + I also diminish thee; neither shall Mine eye spare, neither will I + have any pity.</span></span>—The Hebrew sanctuary or temple typed + the Christian Sanctuary class, the Church of living stones (1 Pet. + 2:5), <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page401">[pg 401]</span><a name= + "Pg401" id="Pg401" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> the Temple of the + Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 3:16, 17.) True Christianity, pure in apostolic + days, was defiled (2 Chr. 36:14) with practices and doctrines + detestable and abominable to God, until now it is termed + <span class="tei tei-q">“the great whore,”</span> (apostate church + of Romanism) and the daughters <span class= + "tei tei-q">“harlots”</span> (Protestant churches). (Rev. 17:5.) + Divine Justice will not spare nor pity, until upon Christendom has + been visited all the righteous blood of hundreds of millions of + victims of her long centuries of unchristian wars and + persecutions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:12, 13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A + third part of thee shall die with the pestilence, and with famine + shall they be consumed in the midst of thee: and a third part shall + fall by the sword round about thee; and I will scatter a third part + into all the winds, and I will draw out a sword after them. Thus + shall Mine anger be accomplished, and I will cause My fury to rest + upon them, and I will be comforted: and they shall know that I the + Lord have spoken it in My zeal, when I have accomplished My fury in + them.</span></span>—Job hoped for the time when God's wrath should + be past. (Job 14:13.) The wrath of God will be over forever when + this trouble time is past. (Isa. 10:25.) Divine Justice will be + comforted, will rest, having accomplished its sentence of death, + with the accompaniments of sickness, sorrow, tears and degradation, + mental, moral and physical, upon the human race.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">5:14-17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover I will make thee waste, and a + reproach among the nations that are round about thee, in the sight + of all that pass by. So it shall be a reproach and a taunt, an + instruction and an astonishment unto the nations that are round + about thee, when I shall execute judgments in thee in anger and in + fury and in furious rebukes. I the Lord have spoken it. When I + shall send upon them the evil arrows of famine, which shall be for + their destruction, and which I will send to destroy you: and I will + increase the famine upon you, and will break your staff of bread: + So will I send upon you famine and evil beasts, and they shall + bereave thee; and pestilence and blood shall pass through thee; and + I will bring the sword upon thee. I the Lord have spoken + it.</span></span>—Christendom is to be laid waste by war, + revolution, anarchy, famine (Luke 21:26), and pestilence, from end + to end. Her vaunted and envied eminence will pass, through + self-destruction, due to false ideals of honor, into a desolation + causing the taunts and reproaches of the heathen, and being to the + heathen nations a cause of astonishment and source of instruction. + The fury of God's anger against her appears in the expression + <span class="tei tei-q">“in anger and in fury and in furious + rebukes.”</span></p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page402">[pg 402]</span><a name= + "Pg402" id="Pg402" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc69" id="toc69"></a> <a name="pdf70" id="pdf70"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel + 6—Sword—Famine—Pestilence</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:1-4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the Word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, set thy face + toward the mountains of Israel, and prophesy against them, and say, + Ye mountains of Israel, hear the word of the Lord God; Thus saith + the Lord God to the mountains and to the hills, to the rivers and + to the valleys; Behold, I, even I, will bring a sword upon you, and + I will destroy your high places. And your altars shall be desolate, + and your images shall be broken: and I will cast down your slain + men before your idols.</span></span>—This chapter relates to the + Divine wrath, after 1918 A. D., upon the governments, symbolically + called <span class="tei tei-q">“mountains and hills,”</span> and + the rivers, the denominations.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:5-7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will lay the dead carcasses of the children of Israel before + their idols; and I will scatter your bones round about your altars. + In all your dwelling places the cities shall be laid waste, and the + high places shall be desolate; that your altars may be laid waste + and made desolate, and your idols may be broken and cease, and your + images may be cut down, and your works may be abolished. And the + slain shall fall in the midst of you, and ye shall know that I am + the Lord.</span></span>—All state churches are to be destroyed, + literally by the sword, and by the truth about them in the Word of + God, the Sword of the Spirit. (2 Ki. 23:13-22.) At the tops of the + hills and mountains, the governments, are the altars, the centers + of the nation's worship. Great sacrifices are made by the masses to + maintain these altars.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yet + will I leave a remnant, that ye may have some that shall escape the + sword among the nations, when ye shall be scattered through the + countries.</span></span>—Heathendom will be the safest place on + earth in the time of Zion's travail! (Jer. 44:28.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they that escape of you shall remember Me among the nations whither + they shall be carried captives, because I am broken with their + whorish heart, which hath departed from Me, and with their eyes, + which go a whoring after their idols: and they shall loathe + themselves for the</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page403">[pg + 403]</span><a name="Pg403" id="Pg403" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">evils + which they have committed in all their + abominations.</span></span>—God has completely broken relations + with the churches, which with heart and eye have <span class= + "tei tei-q">“departed from Me.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall know that I am the Lord, and that I have not said in + vain that I would do this evil unto them.</span></span>—After the + trouble is over, the survivors will have a thousand years in which + to recognize the hand of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; Smite with thine hand, and stamp with thy foot, + and say, Alas for all the evil abominations of the house of Israel: + for they shall fall by the sword, by the famine, and by the + pestilence.</span></span>—The attitude of the Lord's true people, + <span class="tei tei-q">“the mourners in Zion”</span> (Isa. 61:3), + is that of righteous indignation against the abominations of + Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + that is far off shall die of the pestilence; and he that is near + shall fall by the sword; and he that remaineth and is besieged + shall die by the famine: thus will I accomplish My fury upon + them.</span></span>—In spite of the manifest judgments of God, the + devotees of Mystic Babylon, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Christians,”</span> will not turn to God but, while + doing reverence and rendering service to their altars and idols, + will be overtaken by literal sword, famine and pestilence (Jer. + 15:2) and by the spiritual Sword of the Spirit, by starvation from + the lack of God's Word, and by pestilential doctrines.—Psa. 91:6, + 7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + shall ye know that I am the Lord, when their slain men shall be + among their idols round about their altars, upon every high hill, + in all the tops of the mountains, and under every green tree, and + under every thick oak, the place where they did offer sweet savour + to all their idols.</span></span>—In the Roman and Greek churches + the idols, images and ikons are literal. There are other idols in + all the churches—power, prestige, social position, clerical honor, + gold, worldly education, etc. As in the Tabernacle types, zealous, + obedient sacrifice caused a <span class="tei tei-q">“sweet + savor”</span> to rise to God, so the same service raises a sweet + savor to the idols of Christendom. The <span class= + "tei tei-q">“green trees”</span> and <span class="tei tei-q">“thick + oaks”</span> were favorite objects of idolatry (Jer. 2:20; Hos. + 4:13), and typed the worship of prominent preachers and other + men.—Psalm 37:35.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">6:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So + will I stretch out My hand upon them, and make the land desolate, + yea, more desolate than the wilderness toward Diblath, in all their + habitations; and they shall know that I am the + Lord.</span></span>—Christendom is to be made more desolate than + the wilderness surrounding Palestine, wiped off the face of the + earth, to make way for the New Order of things, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the world to come”</span> (Heb. 2:5), <span class= + "tei tei-q">“wherein dwelleth righteousness.”</span>—2 Pet. + 3:13.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page404">[pg 404]</span><a name= + "Pg404" id="Pg404" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc71" id="toc71"></a> <a name="pdf72" id="pdf72"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 7—Dawn Of The Evil + Day</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:1-6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover the word of the Lord came unto + me, saying, Also, thou son of man, thus saith the Lord God unto the + land of Israel; An end, the end is come upon the four corners of + the land. Now is the end come upon thee, and I will send Mine anger + upon thee, and will judge thee according to thy ways, and will + recompense upon thee all thine abominations. And Mine eye shall not + spare thee, neither will I have pity; but I will recompense thy + ways upon thee, and thine abominations shall be in the midst of + thee; and ye shall know that I am the Lord. Thus saith the Lord + God; An evil, an only evil, behold, is come. An end is come, the + end is come; it watcheth for thee; behold, it is + come.</span></span>—Chapter 7 includes what Ezekiel saw in type and + what the Ezekiel class now sees in antitype—the destruction of the + symbolic earth (the social order), and the causes therefor; the + escape of the remnant who will pass alive through the trouble into + the better order of things; the defilement and destruction of God's + <span class="tei tei-q">“ornament,”</span> Christendom; and the + binding and destruction of the rule of wicked might. Pastor + Russell's mission, in large part, was to advise Christendom of its + impending end, in the time of world-wide trouble. It is the Divine + judgment upon the nations. They reap as they have sown. In times + past God winked at the iniquity of men (Acts 17:30); but now evil + shall receive its just recompense in the wrath of long-insulted + Justice. It will be a period of unmixed evil upon Christendom, the + purpose of which will be to demonstrate to men's certain knowledge + that <span class="tei tei-q">“thy God reigneth.”</span> (Isa. + 52:7.) There will be no chance of escaping from destruction, though + the nations—as in cases of Germany, the Allies and the United + States—earnestly seek in vain for some way of securing peace. The + trouble is due to the dawning of the Day of Christ, the Millennium. + It is the Day of Vengeance, which began in the world war of 1914 + and which will break like a furious morning storm in 1918.—Lam. + 4:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:7-9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + morning is come unto thee, O thou that dwellest in the land: the + time is come, the day of trouble is near, and not the sounding + again of the mountains.</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page405">[pg 405]</span><a name="Pg405" id="Pg405" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Now will + I shortly pour out My fury upon thee, and accomplish Mine anger + upon thee; and I will judge thee according to thy ways, and will + recompense thee for all thine abominations. And Mine eye shall not + spare, neither will I have pity; I will recompense thee according + to thy ways and thine abominations that are in the midst of thee; + and ye shall know that I am the Lord that + smiteth.</span></span>—The chiefest sufferers will be those setting + affections on earthly things, earth dwellers and earth lovers. + Steep mountain valleys are full of echoing sounds, falling trees, + dislodged rocks, avalanches, landslides, waterfalls, or the + thunders of local storms. Earth's nations have been resounding for + centuries with local wars, seditions, revolutions, famine and + pestilence. (A. 318.) These passed away; but the present commotion + and impending revolution and anarchy will not cease, but will + spread and increase until this order of things is destroyed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold the Day, behold it is come: the + Morning is gone forth; the rod hath blossomed, pride hath + budded.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Pride goeth before + destruction.”</span> (Prov. 16:18.) Human pride [among kaisers, + clergy, labor leaders, and capitalists], has budded, blossomed + forth into acts that will bring destruction. The rod is a symbol of + authority. Organized authority is perverted from its Divinely + appointed function of restraint and punishment of crime into a + ruthless rule of might and bloodshed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Violence is risen up into a rod of + wickedness; none of them shall remain, nor of their multitude, nor + of any of theirs; neither shall there be wailing for + them.</span></span>—Those who rule by violence shall be utterly + rooted out of the earth in the Time of Trouble, unhonored and + unwept (Jer. 16:4-6), accursed for the evil they have wrought. The + clergy, for whom many would even have died in the past, but who + have preached the people into this war and into the world's ruin, + will become objects of popular hatred.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + time is come, the Day draweth near; let not the buyer rejoice, nor + the seller mourn; for wrath is upon all the multitude + thereof.</span></span>—The year 1918, with its fearful revolutions + and succeeding anarchy, is at the door.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + the seller shall not return to that which is sold, although they + were yet alive: for the vision is touching the whole multitude + thereof, which shall not return; neither shall any strengthen + himself in the iniquity of his life.</span></span>—This indicates + the languishing and eventual decline and cessation of business. + (Isa. 33:8.) Symbolically, it represents the ceasing of the clergy + from <span class="tei tei-q">“selling”</span> religion and the + people from buying. <span class="tei tei-q">“Success consists in + knowing how to be discreetly dishonest”</span> is now a common + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page406">[pg 406]</span><a name= + "Pg406" id="Pg406" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> rule of practice; + but the time is at hand when iniquitous practices and precepts will + no longer profit any.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They + have blown the trumpet, even to make all ready; but none goeth to + the Battle; for My wrath is upon all the multitude + thereof.</span></span>—There are other trumpets than the trumpet of + Truth. Established error has its trumpet message. Ecclesiasticism, + capitalism, and governments together have blown the trumpet of the + Divine right of kings, magnates, and clergy, of the + civic-betterment gospel and of <span class= + "tei tei-q">“preparedness.”</span> Labor leaders have rallied the + people to fight for their unions. Trumpet messages will summon the + people of the world to yet other strife. But so furious and + heart-breaking will be the trouble that none will have the spirit + to respond. There is a hint here that conscription will meet with + opposition.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + sword is without, and the pestilence and the famine within: he that + is in the field shall die with the sword; and he that is in the + city, famine and pestilence shall devour him.</span></span>—Worldly + people in Christendom, not professors of Christianity, will be + pressed into the active fighting of the Time of Trouble and will + perish. (Deut. 32:25; Jer. 14:18.) Those in the city refer to the + professors of Christianity—church members.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + they that escape of them shall escape, and shall be on the + mountains like doves of the valleys, all of them mourning, every + one for his iniquity.</span></span>—There will be survivors of the + Time of Trouble who will live on into the Millennium proper. Those + of dove-like character will be most likely to survive. The dove has + a mournful note. This class will appreciate their iniquity, repent + of it and pray for forgiveness and deliverance.—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">231</span></span>, + 212.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">All + hands shall be feeble, and all knees shall be weak as + water.</span></span>—The hands symbolize power. The people of + Christendom will realize their helplessness. The extremity of the + situation will weaken the strongest.—Zeph. 1:14; A. 315.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They + shall also gird themselves with sackcloth, and horror shall cover + them; and shame shall be upon all faces, and baldness upon all + their heads.</span></span>—In mourning for their dead, men's minds + and hearts will revolt at the horrors of the calamity. All will + realize with shame that by drunkenness with Babylon's mixed + teachings (Rev. 17:2) they have brought the trouble on themselves. + In grief the Hebrews shaved the head.—Isa. 3:24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They + shall cast their silver in the streets, and their gold shall be + removed; their sliver and their gold shall not be able to deliver + them in the day of the wrath of the Lord; they shall not satisfy + their souls, neither fill</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page407">[pg 407]</span><a name="Pg407" id="Pg407" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">their + bowels; because it is the stumbling-block of their + iniquity.</span></span>—With the demonetization of silver, gold has + become as a thing unclean (is losing its purchasing power). All + forms of money, bonds, stocks and valuables will be worthless when + governments are gone and whole nations are starving. (D. 45.) There + was a literal fulfillment of this Scripture in 1898 when in Italy a + miller who had publicly thanked the Virgin for dear bread, + literally threw gold and silver to a crowd in the streets in a vain + endeavor to pacify them. They demanded his life and took it.—Z. + '98-331.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + for the beauty of His ornament, He set it in majesty; but they made + the images of their abominations and of their detestable things + therein; therefore have I set it far from + them.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Jerusalem is a crown + of glory and a royal diadem”</span>. (Isa. 62:3.) Christianity, the + embryonic Kingdom of God, was originally <span class= + "tei tei-q">“His ornament,”</span> in the apostolic age of the + Church. Literal images were set up by the Hebrews in secret places, + and to this day are worshipped by Romanists literally. Romanists + and Protestants alike worship the images of world-power, wealth, + state-church affiliation, clergy lordship, eternal torment, human + immortality and trinity, all alike detestable to a jealous God. The + actual ornament of God, His jewel, His diadem, is the true Church, + composed mostly of the poor, rich in faith (Jas. 2:5)—of the reform + element who since 1878 have been withdrawing from ecclesiasticism + and coming to God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will give it into the hands of the strangers for a prey, and to + the wicked of the earth for a spoil; and they shall pollute + it.</span></span>—The nominal jewel, churchianity, has become the + prey of clerical and social anarchists.—D. 550.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + face will I turn also from them, and they shall pollute My secret + place; for the robbers shall enter into it, and defile + it.</span></span>—The secret place is the condition of + consecration, which an apostate clergy pollute by + misrepresentations, such as that bravery in battle, suffering in + the trenches, devotion to a falling order of things (Hab. 2:13), + win a place in Heaven—won only by loyal devotion to God's Word, and + by the spirit-begotten alone. <span class="tei tei-q">“I am the + Door. He that entereth in by another way is a robber.”</span>—John + 10:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Make + a chain: for the land is full of bloody crimes, and the city is + full of violence.</span></span>—Bind, unite them together, let the + Divinely (!) appointed clergy and the governments for which they + stand sponsor, make common cause. (D. 550.) Christendom is full of + the beastly crimes of the most barbarous warfare ever known. A city + symbolizes a government.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page408">[pg 408]</span><a name="Pg408" id="Pg408" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Wherefore I will bring the worst of the + heathen, and they shall possess their houses: I will also make the + pomp of the strong to cease; and their holy places shall be + defiled.</span></span>—Macaulay, the English historian, spoke of + America as destined to be destroyed by its own Huns and Vandals, + the unassimilated, uncivilized elements, especially of the cities. + The anarchistic masses will literally live in the houses of the + erstwhile rulers and prominent people. The display of power and + magnificence of the strong one, Satan, the alleged eternal-torment + God, and the devil-worshipers of Christendom shall cease. + Literally, the churches, Y. M. C. A.'s, monasteries and convents, + supposedly holy, will be defiled by the impious.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Destruction cometh; and they shall seek + peace, and there shall be none.</span></span>—There shall be no + peace with God, or peace among the conflicting elements of + society.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Mischief shall come upon mischief, and + rumour shall be upon rumour; then shall they seek a vision of the + prophet; but the law shall perish from the priest, and counsel from + the ancients.</span></span>—Literally <span class= + "tei tei-q">“accident upon accident”</span> will befall the affairs + of Christendom. (Jer. 4:29.) The people, wild with perplexity, will + seek to the clergy for an understanding of the world-holocaust; but + the true Law, the Word of God, has departed from a clergy more + learned in church politics and money-raising schemes than in the + Bible. The ancients, the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“reverends,”</span> college professors and savants do + not know what counsel to give to meet the crisis.—Isa. 29:9-14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">7:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + king shall mourn, and the prince shall be clothed with desolation, + and the hands of the people of the land shall be troubled: I will + do unto them after their way, and according to their deserts will I + judge them; and they shall know that I am the + Lord.</span></span>—Satan shall mourn the downfall of his power, as + will the heads of the savage, beastly governments under his + control. (Matt. 4:8, 9.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The exalted + one”</span> or prince, Satan's chief representative among men, is + the pope; and he, with his princes, cardinals, archbishops, + bishops, priests and clergy, shall see the desolation due to their + work.</p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">O thou + of little faith, who dost thou fear?</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">The tempest hath no power when I + am near;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Will not the angry waves be + still at My command?</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Step out, I'll hold thy + hand,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Then, wherefore dost thou + fear?</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page409">[pg 409]</span><a name= + "Pg409" id="Pg409" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc73" id="toc73"></a> <a name="pdf74" id="pdf74"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 8—Molech, The Torment + Deity</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it came to pass in the sixth year, in the sixth month, in the fifth + day of the month, as I sat in mine house, and the elders of Judah + sat before me, that the hand of the Lord God fell there upon + me.</span></span>—Chapters 8 to 24 continue the recital of the sins + of Jerusalem, Christendom, and the Divine punishment to be + inflicted on her. Chapter 8 refers literally to the temple, and its + defilement by the seating of an idol of Baal at the door near the + Brazen Altar, by the desecration of its interior with symbols of + Egyptian heathenism and by the practicing of heathen worship within + the temple. This types the condition of the spiritual Temple of + God, <span class="tei tei-q">“which Temple ye are”</span>, the + Church of God, originally pure and holy, but defiled by the clergy + with pagan practices. The type refers back to 2 Chronicles 33:1-9, + where King Manasseh established heathen worship throughout + Palestine, set up a carved image in Solomon's temple and + <span class="tei tei-q">“made Judah and the inhabitants of + Jerusalem to err and to do worse than the heathens whom the Lord + had destroyed before the children of Israel.”</span> This resulted + in Manasseh's overthrow at the hands of the Assyrians. The name + Manasseh means <span class="tei tei-q">“causing + forgetfulness.”</span> He typed Satan, the god of this world, who, + by his lying deceptions has made professing Christians forget God. + Satan's chief <span class="tei tei-q">“angel of light”</span> is + the pope of Rome, ably seconded in keeping the people in the dark + by the cardinals, bishops, priests, monks and sisters of apostate + Rome and by the bishops and ministers of an apostate Protestantism. + These keep <span class="tei tei-q">“their people”</span> from real + Bible study, and encourage them in their forgetfulness of God and + their individual obligations to God, the Word of God, to + fellow-Christians and to the world. The house is the House of the + Sons of God, the consecrated. The elders, chosen by the people, + represented all the people. The Protestant clergy continually sat + before the Lord's steward, could not pick up a paper that they did + not see his sermons in it; but they would not hear his words, and + they rejected him and the truths which he so plainly and so kindly + stated.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page410">[pg + 410]</span><a name="Pg410" id="Pg410" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:2, 3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + I beheld, and lo a likeness as the appearance of fire: from the + appearance of his loins even downward, fire; and from his loins + even upward, as the appearance of brightness, as the colour of + amber. And He put forth the form of a hand, and took me by a lock + of mine head; and the spirit lifted me up between the earth and the + heaven, and brought me in the visions of God to Jerusalem, to the + door of the inner gate that looketh toward the north; where was the + seat of the image of jealousy, which provoketh to + jealousy.</span></span>—Through the illumination of the Holy + Spirit, the Ezekiel class is now taken up mentally into the powers + of spiritual control, to discern the significance of the evil done + by Satan and the clergy. They are brought to Jerusalem the + anti-typical, to consider established priestcraft. They are brought + to the door of the inner gate, the gate of the altar between the + people's court and priest's court—(the same as the Tabernacle + court.) They are brought to the antitypical Temple, to the Chord of + God, to the Lord's people—<span class="tei tei-q">“Ye are the + Temple of God”</span>. (1 Cor. 3:16.) <span class="tei tei-q">“I am + the Door”</span> (John 10:9.) The Door represents Christ, through + whom all that enter must come. The North symbolizes the seat of + Divine government, the spiritual phase of the Kingdom. (Isa. + 14:13.) The Door, Christ, looks toward, tends toward spiritual + things. Those that enter through Christ are expected to look + forward from the condition of belief to that of full consecration, + the spirit-begotten condition. In the Door, in the very place of + Christ, Manasseh, type of the devil, and an apostate clergy set up + an idol, an image of the Devil himself. Those who thereafter + entered the court had to worship the image, typing that under + clergy rule all entering the church, the condition of belief, had + to do honor to Satan, whose seat of chief power is at Rome, and + whose influence spreads wherever the clergy class is found.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The word + <span class="tei tei-q">“Baal”</span> means <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Lord.”</span> The clergy have set themselves as lords + over God's heritage (1 Pet. 5:3), the Church. By perversion of the + plain meaning of literal Bible statements, they have set up in the + place of God the deity of the Devil. This God of Romanism and + Protestantism is not one, but three; he inflicts tortures eternal; + his favor can be bought for money; he dwells in earthly buildings + (Acts 7:48), which are consecrated to him; he teaches the direct + opposite of the Word of God—that the dead are alive; he favors + spiritual adultery—the union of the church with the governments of + this world; he fosters lordship of the clergy class. The clergy's + God is plainly not Jehovah, but the ancient deity, hoary with the + iniquities of ages—Baal—the Devil himself. God pity the clergy, who + have so <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page411">[pg + 411]</span><a name="Pg411" id="Pg411" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + long deceived themselves and the people with their <span class= + "tei tei-q">“carved image, the work of their own hands!”</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">“I am jealous for Zion with a great + jealousy.”</span> (Zech. 1:14.) <span class="tei tei-q">“I, + Jehovah, thy God, am a jealous God.”</span> (Ex. 20:5.) There is + little wonder that the literal typical Baal of the Jews and the + anti-typical eternal-torment God of the clergy should provoke + Jehovah to jealousy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And, + behold, the glory of the God of Israel was there, according to the + vision that I saw in the plain.</span></span>—The usual place of + the Shekinah Light was in the Most Holy between the cherubim above + the golden Mercy Seat. It was from this glory that fire came out at + times like lightning to consume and destroy iniquitous offenders. + (Lev. 10:2.) It bodes ill for the devotees of the eternal-torment + god that the glory of Jehovah has come out against them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:5, 6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + said He unto me, Son of man, lift up thine eyes now the way toward + the North. So I lifted up mine eyes the way toward the North, and + behold northward at the gate of the altar this image of jealousy in + the entry. He said furthermore unto me, Son of man, seest thou what + they do? even the great abominations that the house of Israel + committeth here, that I should go far off from My sanctuary? but + turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater + abominations.</span></span>—It is needless to look for abominations + far off when such an abomination has been set up by <span class= + "tei tei-q">“impudent children”</span> at the very door of the + Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He brought me to the door of the court; and when I looked, behold a + hole in the wall.</span></span>—In Solomon's temple the court of + the priests was surrounded not by a simple wall, but by a row of + rooms or chambers where the priests and Levites stayed. The hole in + the wall was an opening or window into one of the chambers.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + said He unto me, Son of man, dig now in the wall, and when I had + digged in the wall, behold a door.</span></span>—The wall was the + wall of secrecy, misrepresentation and deception, by reason of + which the pagan practices and beliefs of various classes of + professed Christians were hidden from publicity and consequent + popular judgment. A little was known about them, represented by the + little hole in the wall. It is the work of the Ezekiel class to dig + through the wall and throw the light on these hidden things. The + time has come for judgment, and for everything that is done in a + chamber to be proclaimed from the housetops. (Luke 12:3.) Once the + wall of secrecy is dug through, the door is open to see whatever + transpires.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He said unto me, Go in, and behold the wicked abominations that + they do here.</span></span>—The court typifies the condition of + faith—tentative justification. The chambers <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page412">[pg 412]</span><a name="Pg412" id="Pg412" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> surrounded the court. They symbolize + the condition of those who profess faith and justification, but + whose lives and beliefs contradict their professions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So I + went in and saw; and behold every form of creeping things, and + abominable beasts, and all the idols of the house of Israel, + portrayed upon the wall round about.</span></span>—To the + Egyptians, artistic portrayals of creatures had a religious + significance. All kinds of living creatures were worshipped. Chief + of these was the bull Apis, which symbolized life and especially + the power of procreation. The devotees of the antitype are never so + happy as when giving life to new spiritual offspring. The children + thus begotten are mostly tares. But few of them have the life that + comes from consecration to the Word of God. The revivalist and the + clergy care little for any begotten of the Word of God and do + little to help them grow up in Christ. They grow, if at all, like + starved, neglected children. As the service of this worship could + be conducted only by the regular priests of Egypt, so the + antitypical work can be done only by the man-made clergy class of + the world (Egypt) and those <span class= + "tei tei-q">“ordained”</span> by them. Among the creeping things, + objects of worship, was the fly—the evangelist. (Rev. 16:2.) The + prince of the flies was Beelzebub. Flies breed in and feed upon the + <span class="tei tei-q">“dung hill of Popish decretals”</span> and + other <span class="tei tei-q">“traditions of men.”</span> They + never get far above earthly things, but circulate in the lower + strata of the air—ecclesiasticism. They bite and annoy both worldly + people and the Lord's people, as did the plague of flies in Egypt, + and are specially persistent in the humid condition of a rain—a + downpour of Truth. These, like all clergy-approved workers, are + looked up to, worshipped by the people of Christendom. Other + creeping things that fly signify degrading of forbidden beliefs and + practices, attractive, garbed in the cloak of religion, under + church auspices, as typed by their flying in the air, + ecclesiastical powers; but they are displeasing to God and tending + toward death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there stood before them seventy men of the ancients of the house of + Israel, and in the midst of them stood Jaazaniah the son of + Shaphan, with every man his censer in his hand; and a thick cloud + of incense went up.</span></span>—Worshipping the pictured images + were the elders, or ancients, appointed by and representing all the + people of Jerusalem. Jaazaniah was a Levite, typical of a believer + in Christ. The word Shaphan means <span class= + "tei tei-q">“sly”</span>, and suggests the slyness of the adherents + of wrong beliefs. Jaazaniah means <span class="tei tei-q">“God is + listening,”</span> and signifies the fact that whatever + <span class="tei tei-q">“Christian”</span> sinners may say, God is + actually paying attention. The censer was used to carry the fire in + which <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page413">[pg 413]</span><a name= + "Pg413" id="Pg413" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> incense was burned. + (Rev. 8:3.) It types the bearing of the fiery trials signified by + the fire. The devotees of error suffer in its behalf, as Truth + people suffer for the Truth. Incense types the heart's best + endeavors, here wrongly directed by many professing Christians in + the service of Satan, as were Saul's in persecuting Christians. + (Acts 22:3, 4.) Tares are often more devoted to their errors than + are the Lord's people to the Truth. <span class="tei tei-q">“The + children of this world are wiser in their generation than the + children of light.”</span> (Luke 16:8.) It was unlawful for a + Hebrew to burn incense, except as in the regular temple service. It + is an abomination for a professing Christian to put forth his + heart's best endeavors except in the service of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + said He unto me, Son of man, hast thou seen what the ancients of + the house of Israel do in the dark, every man in the chambers of + his imagery? for they say, The Lord seeth us not; the Lord hath + forsaken the earth.</span></span>—These departures from true + Christian belief are carried on <span class="tei tei-q">“in the + dark.”</span> (John 3:19.) Every tare, imitation Christian, has his + own peculiar beliefs and practices in <span class="tei tei-q">“the + chamber of his imagery,”</span> his mind. Because God knows how to + defer retribution until the Day of Judgment (2 Pet. 2:9), these + unwise ones delude themselves that the All-Seeing One does not see. + Those not familiar with the Divine Plan of the Ages, seeing the + conditions of savage war trending into worse things, apparently + have the delusion that the Lord has forsaken the earth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:13, 14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + said also unto me, Turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater + abominations that they do. Then He brought me to the door of the + gate of the Lord's house which was toward the north; and, behold, + there sat women weeping for Tammuz.</span></span>—Tammuz means + <span class="tei tei-q">“perfect (tam) by burning”</span> (muz). He + was a heathen god whose death was lamented annually by women + idolaters. He was the god of fire worship, the same as Molech, to + whom children were burned alive. He types the + eternal-torment-purgatory God, who perfects (supposedly) by the + fires of purgatory. The women weeping for him typify the + once-virgin churches, who honor the alleged hell-fire god and + lament the ones in the fire. There is a unity of heathen religions + with apostate <span class="tei tei-q">“Christianity”</span> which + stamps them all as pagan. The original heathen god was Nimrod, + <span class="tei tei-q">“the mighty hunter”</span> of Gen. 10:8-14, + where is related the origin of Babylon and Ninevah. Nimrod led men + and women from the true religion of devout Noah into gross + sensuality and neglect of the worship of Jehovah. He was beloved by + fallen women. For his iniquitous influence, Nimrod was condemned to + death by the council of judges; and his dead body was <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page414">[pg 414]</span><a name="Pg414" id="Pg414" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> cut into pieces, which were sent to all + parts of the inhabited world, with the threat of death to any who + practiced his evil ways. Nimrod married his own mother, Semiramis, + so that, in a sense, he was his own father and his own son. Here + was the origin of the Trinity doctrine.</p> + + <table summary="This is a table" cellspacing="0" class= + "tei tei-table" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"> + <colgroup span="4"></colgroup> + + <tbody> + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Nation</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Father-Husband</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Son</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">The Woman</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Asia</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Decius</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Cybele</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Assyria</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Winged bull</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Babylonia</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Lord of Heaven</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Babylonia</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Ninus</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Tammuz</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Queen of Heaven</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Chaldea</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Bal</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Ishtar</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Chaldea</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Cahna-Bel (Cannibal)</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">The Seed</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Chaldea</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Molech</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Ashtaroth</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Chaldea</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Zoroaster</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">The Seed of the Fire</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">China</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Child</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Madonna</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Egypt</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Apis bull</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Cow of Athor</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Egypt</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Osiris</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Horus</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Isis</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">English</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">The Devil</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Greece</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Bacchus</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Rhea</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Greece</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Capricornus</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Astarte</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Greece</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Kissos</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Mother of gods</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Greece</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Kronos</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Aphrodite</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Greece</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Orion</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Babe</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Ceres</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Greece</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Saturn</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Venus</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Greece</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Plutus</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Irene</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">India</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Vishnu</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Christina</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">India</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Tsi</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Eswara</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Italy</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Pope</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Virgin Mary</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Japan</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Child</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Madonna</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Nineveh</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Nimrod</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Nimrod</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Semiramis</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Palestine</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Baal</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Persia</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Sun</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Moon</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Persia</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Sun God</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Persia</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Child</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Madonna</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Philistia</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Dagon</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Rome</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Jupiter</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Jupiter Puer</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Fortuna</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Scandinavia</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Woden</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Thor</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Frieda</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Thibet</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"></td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Child</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Madonna</td> + </tr> + </tbody> + </table><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page415">[pg + 415]</span><a name="Pg415" id="Pg415" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The practices of + Nimrod were continued in secret by Semiramis; and as every caution + had to be taken, the things done were veiled in mystery. Each act + and person was represented only in symbols known to the initiated. + Here originated the various secret societies, with their + blood-curdling oaths of secrecy—Masonry, Oddfellowship, Jesuitism, + Knights of Malta, and so on. These are lineal descendants of the + <span class="tei tei-q">“mysteries”</span> of pagan sensuality, all + of them abominations to God. Semiramis, to further her schemes, + pretended that Nimrod, the father-son, had been raised from the + dead in the form of the sun, which thus became an object of + worship. She represented herself as the moon, which was also + adored. This was the original Trinity—Nimrod the father, Nimrod, or + Tammuz, the son and Semiramis the mother, the power, or spirit, + back of all. As the people multiplied and scattered they took with + them this heathen Trinity which appears in various nations in the + partial list shown on the preceding page.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">These under + inspiration of the Devil, put the false seed of the woman—Nimrod, + Tammuz, etc.,—in the stead of the true Seed, pushed Jehovah aside, + then into the background, and then out altogether. The Devil, + through the Pope of Rome, substituted forms of paganism for the + simplicity of true Christianity. <span class="tei tei-q">“Such + things are,”</span> says Cardinal Newman, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the very instruments and appendages of demon + worship,”</span> but <span class="tei tei-q">“sanctified by + adoption into the church.”</span> Roman Catholicism is a heathen + religion. Protestantism also worships Molech, the fire god, Tammuz, + the deity of torture, whom popes, cardinals, bishops, priests, + clergy, ministers, and laymen unite in honoring and worshipping + under the delusion that they are worshipping Jehovah, God of + Abraham, the true God of the Bible. However, ignorantly, + <span class="tei tei-q">“they worship devils.”</span>—1 Cor. + 10:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:15, 16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + said He unto me, Hast thou seen this, O Son of man? turn thee yet + again, and thou shalt see greater abominations than these. And He + brought me into the inner court of the Lord's house, and behold, at + the door of the temple of the Lord, between the porch and the + altar, were about five and twenty men, with their backs toward the + temple of the Lord, and their faces toward the east; and they + worshipped the sun toward the east.</span></span>—In the court + itself (1 Ki. 6:36), in the very presence of the blood-bought + sacrifice, these men were gathered. Only priests and Levites might + be in this court. They typified the believers and spirit-begotten + ones of the Christian Church. They were divided into about + twenty-five courses or sections and served in rotation. These typed + the divisions of Christians into about twenty-five principal + denominations. <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page416">[pg + 416]</span><a name="Pg416" id="Pg416" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + In the United States these are Adventists, Baptists, Brethren + (Dunkards), Catholics (Greek), Christian, Churches of Christ + Scientist, Churches of God, Congregationalists, Disciples of + Christ, Evangelical, Friends, German Evangelical Protestant, German + Evangelical Synod, Latter Day Saints, Lutherans, Scandinavian + Evangelical, Menonites, Moravians, Methodists, Pentecostals, + Presbyterians, Protestant Episcopals, Reformed, Salvation Army, and + United Brethren. With their backs toward the Temple of the Lord + (Jer. 2:27), these treat with contempt and scorn the little company + of God's true saints, rich in faith, <span class="tei tei-q">“the + Temple.”</span> To turn the back is a gross insult. Their faces are + toward the east. (Jer. 8:2.) All these denominations worship the + fire-god, the sun, the heathen god whose identity with paganism + appears foregoing.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + He said unto me, Hast thou seen this, O Son of man? Is it a light + thing to the house of Judah that they commit the abominations which + they commit here? for they have filled the land with violence, and + have returned to provoke Me to anger; and, lo, they put the branch + to their nose.</span></span>—So lightly do modern Babylonians, + apostate religionists, regard their abominable beliefs, that they + will not even give consideration to the presentation of the truth + about Jehovah and His Divine Plan of the Ages. It is the + church—clergy and members—who brought on the barbarous world-war. + They could have stood like a rock for peace; but the clergy, with + devilish exhortations, urged their fellow-savages to bloodshed. The + Divine judgment has gone against them and soon will swallow them up + in the earthquake (revolution) and fire (anarchy) of the Time of + Trouble. The last clause should read. <span class="tei tei-q">“They + send a stench to My nostrils.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img431.png"><img src="images/img431.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Destructive Criticism Of The Bible + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">8:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore will I also deal in fury; Mine + eyes shall not spare, neither will I have pity: and though they cry + in Mine ears with a loud voice, yet will I not hear + them.</span></span>—The fury of <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Christians”</span> in this savage war will be visited + upon them in the succeeding revolution and anarchy. When the real + Time of Trouble is on, after the war, Christendom will realize the + terrible truth that it is the punishment of Divine Justice—and will + pray mightily to God. Their prayers cannot be favorably answered + (Prov. 1:28) until <span class="tei tei-q">“the great + tribulation”</span> (Rev. 7:14) has finished its work of + <span class="tei tei-q">“bruising to heal.”</span>—Hos. 6:1.</p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">In the + world despised, neglected,</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Deemed its refuse and its + dross,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">She whose Lord the earth + rejected</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Shares His sorrow, bears His + loss.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page417">[pg 417]</span><a name= + "Pg417" id="Pg417" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc75" id="toc75"></a> <a name="pdf76" id="pdf76"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 9—The Man With The + Inkhorn</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + cried also in mine ears with a loud voice, saying, Cause them that + have charge over the city to draw near, even every man with his + destroying weapon in his hand.</span></span>—Chapter 9 depicts the + slaughter of the idolaters of Jerusalem. It types the literal + slaughter of the spiritual idolaters of Christendom in the Time of + Trouble, and also their destruction as tares (Matt. 13:40) by the + Word of Truth, which will manifest their true condition and cause + them to cease the pretense of being Christians. The picture + corresponds to the harvesting of wheat and tares by the sickle of + Truth (Rev. 14:15), and the burning of the tares. There is a + two-fold significance here—those having material charge of + Christendom, and those having spiritual charge (D. 527.) The first + class comprises the rulers of the great nations; the second class, + the feet members of the Little Flock (Luke 12:32)—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“All things are yours.”</span> (1 Cor. 3:21); + <span class="tei tei-q">“Inheritors of the Kingdom”</span> (Gal. + 5:21); <span class="tei tei-q">“Given charge of all His + goods”</span> (Luke 12:44), the Bible truths. The first class has + as weapons the armies and navies. The second has the Sword of the + Spirit, the Word of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img432.png"><img src="images/img432.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Seats Free And No Collection Was Never Babylon's Slogan + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And, + behold, six men came from the way of the higher gate, which lieth + toward the North, and every man a slaughter weapon in his hand; and + one man among them was clothed with linen, with a writer's inkhorn + by his side: and they went in, and stood beside the brazen + altar.</span></span>—The six with earthly weapons are the rulers of + the six great nations—Russia, Germany, Austria, France, England and + Italy. The six with the Sword of the Spirit symbolize all the + Elijah class, the six, with one other, making up the seven, the + complete number. These have their commission from <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the north,”</span> from the seat of Divine Dominion, + from God Himself. Practically all Bible translators and + commentators agree that the one with a writer's inkhorn by his side + was not one of the six, but a seventh, garbed as a priest, or as a + clerk or officer in an army of the East. The linen signifies the + imputed righteousness of Christ, (Rev. 19:8.) The writer's inkhorn + symbolizes that the seventh man's function was to write. God + identified him thus: When <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">The Watch Tower Bible and Tract + Society</span></span> was at Allegheny, Pa., an open Bible was to + be <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page418">[pg 418]</span><a name= + "Pg418" id="Pg418" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> painted on one of + the large front window of the office. A sign painter, not in the + Truth, painted the open Bible; and without instruction from any + one, of his own volition, he painted the Bible as open at Ezekiel, + Chapter 9. The man in linen was the Laodicean servant, the Lord's + faithful and wise steward, Pastor Russell. When Pastor Russell saw + this, he turned pale. Ezekiel seeing the man in linen, types Pastor + Russell thereafter seeing himself to be the antitype of that + man—one of the most prolific writers of the Age, and the only one + to write and publish widely the glad tidings of the actual Second + Presence of Christ. The seven men stood beside the brazen + altar—there, in connection with God's Plan, based upon the Ransom + sacrifice to receive their Divinely appointed commission.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the glory of the God of Israel was gone up from the cherub, + whereupon He was, to the threshold of the house. And He called to + the man clothed with linen, which had the writer's inkhorn by his + side.</span></span>—One of the four living creatures is here + designated a <span class="tei tei-q">“cherub.”</span> This one was + Justice, about to operate upon the iniquities of ecclesiasticism. + The threshold of the house refers to the door of the Holy, the + condition of the spirit-begotten. <span class="tei tei-q">“The + spirit of glory and of God is upon thee.”</span> (1 Pet. 4:14) The + message was to sound forth from the Lord's consecrated people + during the Harvest of the Gospel Age, from 1878 to 1918.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">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.</span></span>—The center of Christendom is the + nations of the United States, Canada, Great Britain, France, + Germany, Russia and Scandinavia. Hither and thither, traveling and + preaching for nearly forty years Pastor Russell obeyed this + command; and through the printed page of books, tracts and + newspapers he went into every corner of the world. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Set a mark”</span>, literally <span class= + "tei tei-q">“set a <span class="tei tei-q">‘<span lang="he" class= + "tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="he"><span style= + "font-style: italic">tav</span></span>’</span> upon the + foreheads.”</span> The <span class="tei tei-q">“<span lang="he" + class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="he"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Tav</span></span>”</span> was the + twenty-second letter of the Hebrew alphabet, and in its earlier + form had the shape of a cross (†). The forehead signifies the + intellect (Rev. 7:3; 14:1). Pastor Russell's great work was to + imprint indelibly in the minds of certain ones the truth about the + Cross, the sacrifice of the Christ, Head and Body, and the part of + the Church therein. It was the duty of the clerk or officer of an + oriental army to mark the people, either for slaughter or to be + left untouched. The <span class="tei tei-q">“mourners in + Zion”</span> (Isa. 61:3) are those faithful ones in Christendom + that appreciate that conditions are evil in churchianity, perhaps + without <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page419">[pg + 419]</span><a name="Pg419" id="Pg419" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + understanding just how. All these are to be marked in their minds + with the knowledge of the Present Truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + to the others He said in mine hearing, Go ye after him through the + city, and smite: let not your eye spare, neither have ye + pity.</span></span>—After Pastor Russell's writings have reached an + individual, the other members of the Elijah class, the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Truth people,”</span> approach him with the Sword of + the Spirit, the Word of God. This is to each individual a + <span class="tei tei-q">“savor of life to life, or of death to + death.”</span> (2 Cor. 2:14-16.) Those not believing Present Truth + will become only the more confirmed in error. (2 Thes. 2:11.) They + will be smitten by the Sword of the Spirit, which in them will + operate at this time to destroy any pretense of being Christians, + and cause them to take their proper stand as worldings—to be + destroyed as tares. In this, God's <span class="tei tei-q">“strange + work”</span> (Isa. 28:21), the Word of God will operate seemingly + without pity, to separate the people into two classes, in Present + Truth or out of it. In a literal sense the rulers of this evil Age + will pitilessly carry the Sword throughout the lengths and breadths + of Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">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. Then they began at the ancient men which were before the + house.</span></span>—Here are depicted the savagery of the + revolutions and the anarchy succeeding the great war. Though they + are to be literally martyred, the consecrated in Present Truth + cannot be hurt of either slaughter weapon; their hopes and their + treasures are in Heaven (Matt. 6:20), and no earthly calamity can + in any wise work them ill. Symbolically the Sword of the Spirit + will do no harm to mature Christians—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“men,”</span>—but many young or undeveloped believers, + not having the Holy Spirit, regardless of sex, will fall as tares, + as will all of the idol worshipers of Christendom. The literal + trouble will begin with a revolutionary outburst of anarchy against + the churches and the clergy (1 Pet. 4:17), as responsible for the + trouble because of having preached the people into the war, in the + face of innumerable Scriptures against fighting with carnal weapons + (Matt. 5:39, 44; John 18:11; 2 Cor. 10:4) and of those teaching + Christians to love one another and to forgive trespasses (Luke + 6:27-38), personal or national. (Rom. 12:17-21.) The Sword of the + Spirit will begin its work with the sanctuary class, the professing + Christians (1 Pet. 4:17). It will begin with <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the ancient men”</span>, the representatives of the + people—the clergy, doctors of divinity, priests, bishops and other + ecclesiastics.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page420">[pg + 420]</span><a name="Pg420" id="Pg420" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He said unto them, Defile the house, and fill the courts with the + slain: go ye forth. And they went forth, and slew in the + city.</span></span>—Typically the house of God was defiled by a + dead body. The Temple, the Body of Christ, the true Church, is + defiled by the presence in it of any one who has become spiritually + dead. The priests and Levites alone might enter the priests' court; + and this types that many professing to be consecrated Christians + will lose all claim to being followers of Christ—be slain + religiously. So many will thus lose belief that Christendom will be + filled with them. Literally the sanctuaries and the streets of + Christendom will be filled with the slain of the Time of + Trouble.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it came to pass, while they were slaying them, and I was left, that + I fell upon my face, and cried, and said, Ah Lord God! wilt Thou + destroy all the residue of Israel in Thy pouring out of Thy fury + upon Jerusalem?</span></span>—It will almost seem that none in + Christendom will escape alive; and, indeed, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Except those days be shortened, no flesh should be + saved.”</span>—Matt. 24:22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:9, 10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + said He unto me, The iniquity of the house of Israel and Judah is + exceeding great, and the land is full of blood, and the city full + of perverseness: for they say, The Lord hath forsaken the earth, + and the Lord seeth not. And as for Me also, Mine eyes shall not + spare, neither will I have any pity, but I will recompense their + way upon their head.</span></span>—On account of the light of the + Gospel of Love they possess, both Romanism and Protestantism are + guilty to an extraordinary degree before God. Christendom, through + its savage wars, is drenched with blood. Churchianity is full of + wilful sin. God will seem to have left the social order to its own + destruction.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">9:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And, + behold, the man clothed with linen, which had the inkhorn by His + side, reported the matter, saying, I have done as Thou hast + commanded me.</span></span>—Pastor Russell was faithful to his + great task of writing and publishing the Truth and imprinting the + <span class="tei tei-q">“<span lang="he" class="tei tei-foreign" + xml:lang="he"><span style= + "font-style: italic">tav</span></span>”</span> of Present Truth in + the minds of the spirit-begotten. In October, 1916, he died, and + beyond the veil has, ere this, undoubtedly, reported in the + presence of Christ that he has done the work he was given to + do.</p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Faithful when with tears thine eyes were + dim,</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Faithful when joys' cup + o'erflowed its brim;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Faithful when God seemed to veil + His face,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Faithful when He crowned thy + work with grace,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Faithful till was fled life's + fleeting breath,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Eager hands were folded still in + death.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page421">[pg 421]</span><a name= + "Pg421" id="Pg421" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc77" id="toc77"></a> <a name="pdf78" id="pdf78"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 10—Scattering Coals Of + Fire</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + I looked, and, behold, in the firmament that was above the head of + the cherubim there appeared over them as it were a sapphire stone, + as the appearance of the likeness of a throne.</span></span>—Verses + 1, 8-11, 12, 14-22 are explained in Chapter 1. The repetition of + the symbols of the Justice, Wisdom, Love and Power of God, of the + wings (Word of God), of the wheels, and the wondrous light, are + assurances that in the anarchous destruction of Christendom, our + Father is acting wisely, justly, lovingly and in accordance with + His Word and Plan for the good of mankind.—T. 125.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + He spake unto the man clothed with linen, and said, Go in between + the wheels, even under the cherub, and fill thine hand with coals + of fire from between the cherubim, and scatter them over the city. + And he went in in my sight.</span></span>—Ezekiel, typing Pastor + Russell, sees himself as acting in the manner here described. He + was to go in between the wheels, to do his work in accordance with + the Divine Plan, to act under the dictates of the Divine Justice, + <span class="tei tei-q">“the cherub.”</span> The coals of fire are + symbolic of the fiery trials, distress, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“great tribulation,”</span> with which Christendom will + be overwhelmed in the last period of the Time of Trouble, and the + prophecies of these events. (Rev. 8:5.) These Divinely permitted + troubles have the approval of Divine Wisdom, Justice, Love and + Power, as necessary from every viewpoint, and the inevitable + retribution of a long-forbearing God. Pastor Russell was to do this + work,—<span class="tei tei-q">“fill his hand,”</span> with all his + might, to devote himself wholly to this task. Over the whole world + was scattered the warning of impending trouble.—D. 57.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Now + the cherubim stood on the right side of the house, when the man + went in; and the cloud filled the inner court.</span></span>—The + cherubim stood by the nominal Temple class—to inquire and visit the + offences of Christendom. The house was on their left, the place of + disfavor. When no priests were in the Holy, it was filled with a + cloud. In 1 Kings 8:10 and in 2 Chron. 5:11-14 the cloud filled the + Holy, and the priests were unable to serve there because + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page422">[pg 422]</span><a name= + "Pg422" id="Pg422" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> of it. When the + cloud filled the Court, no one could see to serve in it. This types + that in the Harvest period, from 1878 to 1918, while Pastor Russell + was dispensing as part of the <span class="tei tei-q">“food in due + season”</span> the impending downfall of Christendom, those who had + been serving in the believing Court condition—clergy and other + church workers—were no longer permitted to do so. It corresponds to + the passing of the stewardship from the clergy to Pastor Russell in + 1878. This applies also to verse 4, where the presence of the cloud + also types the presence of Jehovah to visit punishment for + wickedness.—B. 138.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + the glory of the Lord went up from the cherub, and stood over the + threshold of the house; and the house was filled with the cloud, + and the court was full of the brightness of the Lord's + glory.</span></span>—Pastor Russell saw more clearly than any one + in this end of the Age the glorious Gospel of God in the Ransom for + all (Court and altar).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the sound of the cherubim's wings was heard even to the outer + court, as the voice of the Almighty God when he + speaketh.</span></span>—Here is indicated the sounding forth of the + Word of God through Pastor Russell's proclamation of Present Truth. + The inner Court typed the condition of faith and justification, and + the outer Court typed the condition of those not fully believing, + nor directly serving God. The preaching and writings of Pastor + Russell were heard by all classes of believers and unbelievers. It + was the voice of Jehovah, represented as almighty to save, that was + heard throughout the world.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it came to pass that when He had commanded the man clothed with + linen, saying, Take fire from between the wheels, from between the + cherubim; then he went in, and stood beside the + wheels.</span></span>—In the Divine Plan of the Ages Pastor Russell + was to find clearly indicated the great tribulation then close at + hand.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + one cherub stretched forth his hand from between the cherubim unto + the fire that was between the cherubim, and took thereof and put it + into the hands of him clothed with linen; who took it, and went + out.</span></span>—Justice gave to Pastor Russell the knowledge of + impending troubles, to go out and publish to Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there appeared in the cherubim the form of a man's hand under their + wings.</span></span>—The work of witness here depicted is carried + out by human beings, under the power and protection of the Word of + God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:9-11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when I looked, behold the four wheels by the cherubim, one wheel by + one cherub, and another wheel by another cherub: and the appearance + of the wheels was</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page423">[pg + 423]</span><a name="Pg423" id="Pg423" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">as the + colour of a beryl stone. And as for their appearance, they four had + one likeness, as if a wheel had been in the midst of a wheel. When + they went, they went upon their four sides; they turned not as they + went, but to the place whither the head looked they followed it; + they turned not as they went.</span></span>—See Chapter 1 for + explanation. The leading face in the head was the man's face, + typical of Divine Love. This is the dominating attribute of God's + character, directing the course of the other three.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + their whole body, and their backs, and their hands, and their + wings, and the wheels, were full of eyes round about, even the + wheels they four had.</span></span>—Every part of the Divine + character, as well as every operation of the Divine attributes and + of the human beings through which God acts is full of Wisdom.—B. + 305.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + for the wheels, it was cried unto them in my hearing, O + wheel.</span></span>—Very emphatic was the Divine directing of the + attention toward the wheels—the Divine Plan of the Ages. Pastor + Russell always directed the Bible student's mind toward the great + Plan.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">10:14-22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + every one had four faces; the first face was the face of a cherub, + and the second face was the face of a man, and the third the face + of a lion, and the fourth the face of an eagle. And the cherubim + were lifted up. This is the living creature that I saw by the river + of Chebar. And when the cherubim went, the wheels went by them: and + the cherubim lifted up their wings to mount up from the earth, the + same wheels also turned not from beside them. When they stood, + these stood; and when they were lifted up, these lifted up + themselves also; for the spirit of the living creature was in them. + Then the glory of the Lord departed from off the threshold of the + house, and stood over the cherubim. And the cherubim lifted up + their wings, and mounted up from the earth in my sight: when they + went out, the wheels also were beside them, and every one stood at + the door of the east gate of the Lord's house, and the glory of the + God of Israel was over them above. This is the living creature that + I saw under the God of Israel by the river of Chebar; and I knew + that they were the cherubim. Every one had four faces apiece, and + every one had four wings; and the likeness of the hands of a man + was under their wings. And the likeness of their faces was the same + faces which I saw by the river of Chebar, their appearance and + themselves: they went every one straight forward.</span></span>—See + explanation of these verses in Chapter 1. (Hos. 9:12) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Yea, woe also to them when I depart from + them.”</span></p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page424">[pg 424]</span><a name= + "Pg424" id="Pg424" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc79" id="toc79"></a> <a name="pdf80" id="pdf80"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 11—The Wicked + Counsel</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover the Spirit lifted me up, and + brought me unto the east gate of the Lord's house, which looketh + eastward: and behold at the door of the gate five and twenty men; + among whom I saw Jaazaniah, the son of Azur, and Pelatiah, the son + of Benaiah, princes of the people.</span></span>—The east gate + types Christ, the entrance to true Christianity. (John 10:9.) At + the door of the gate were the leading sects, Jaazaniah, the son of + Azur (helper) types the idea that by self-help man can please God. + Pelatiah (Jah delivers), the son of Benaiah (Jah is intelligent), + types the belief that earthly wisdom will deliver the world from + its difficulties. (1 Cor. 1:21.) These were <span class= + "tei tei-q">“princes among the people”</span>—very popular + ideas.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + said He unto me, Son of man, these are the men that devise + mischief, and give wicked counsel in this city.</span></span>—These + teachings have actuated many of the erroneous beliefs and wicked + acts of nominal Christians.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Which say, It is not near; let us build + houses: this city is the caldron, and we be the + flesh.</span></span>—Ecclesiasticism's thought is that the Time of + Trouble is not near, and the destruction of Christendom is not to + be thought of. (1 Thes. 5:3.) <span class="tei tei-q">“Let us build + houses”</span> is an expression implying confidence in the + permanence of things as they are. (2 Pet. 3:4.) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“This city is the caldron, and we be the flesh”</span> + (Jer. 1:13) is a proverb, here applied to the iron sides of the + caldron keeping away the fire, or in antitype civil and military + powers, protecting from actual anarchy (fire), however hot things + may become.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:4, 5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore prophesy against them, + prophesy, O son of man. And the Spirit of the Lord fell upon me, + and said unto me, Speak: Thus saith the Lord; Thus have ye said, O + house of Israel: for I know the things that come unto your mind, + every one of them.</span></span>—The false teachings of the clergy + are nothing new. Every one of them is the old worship of Nimrod and + Baal.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page425">[pg + 425]</span><a name="Pg425" id="Pg425" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Ye + have multiplied your slain in this city, and ye have filled the + streets thereof with the slain.</span></span>—There never was a war + that a clergy did not preach <span class="tei tei-q">“their + people”</span> into it, and multiply the slain. Furthermore, the + number is legion of those who would have liked to gain spiritual + life, but the clergy have discouraged (John 7:48), and in millions + of cases caused their actual death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; Your + slain whom ye have laid in the midst of it, they are the flesh, and + this city the caldron: but I will bring you forth out of the midst + of it.</span></span>—Another sense in which the Jerusalem Jews used + this proverb was that the Jews taken captive into Babylon were + worthless, and they in Jerusalem were the valuable flesh remaining. + (Mi. 3:3.) God here tells that the only ones to remain in + Christendom will be the literally dead, or those who are dead to + the claims of Mystic Babylon. These have the best chance of + surviving the trouble. The walls, defences, military and police, + will be broken down by war and revolution; and nothing can save the + adherents of ecclesiasticism from their fate.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Ye + have feared the sword; and I will bring a Sword upon you, saith the + Lord.</span></span>—The devotees of established priestcraft fear + both the literal sword and the Sword of the Spirit. The armies of + the nations will be in open revolt against the established powers, + religious, political and economic. Also the Sword of the Spirit, + the Word of God, will cut through all pretense and bring about the + death of religion in all not begotten of the Holy Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will bring you out of the midst thereof, and deliver you into the + hands of strangers, and will execute judgments among + you.</span></span>—Christendom win fall literally into the hands of + revolutionists and anarchists, Industrial Workers of the World, + Syndicalists, Socialists, unfriendly to established systems, and + spiritually into the power of the Word of God in the hands of His + <span class="tei tei-q">“strangers.”</span> (1 Pet. 1:1; 2:11,) a + <span class="tei tei-q">“just recompense of reward.”</span> (Heb. + 2:2.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:10, 11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Ye + shall fall by the sword; I will judge you in the border of Israel, + and ye shall know that I am the Lord. This city shall not be your + caldron, neither shall ye be the flesh in the midst thereof; but I + will judge you in the border of Israel.</span></span>—The Jews + taken captive out of Jerusalem were tried and slain at Riblah (a + bare place) outside of Palestine, typifying that the destroying + judgments on Christendom will come upon her after her institutions + have gone to pieces, and she is desolated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + ye shall know that I am the Lord: for ye have not walked in My + statutes, neither executed My judgments, but have done after the + manner of the heathen</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page426">[pg 426]</span><a name="Pg426" id="Pg426" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">that are + round about you.</span></span>—The people of Christendom will + finally appreciate that their distress is a punishment from God, + because of not having followed the plain injunctions of the Bible, + having mistaught the Word of God, and having lived no better than + unbelievers.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it came to pass, when I prophesied, that Pelatiah, the son of + Benaiah, died. Then fell I down upon my face, and cried with a loud + voice, and said, Ah Lord God! wilt Thou make a full end of the + remnant of Israel?</span></span>—While Pastor Russell's reasonable + and Divinely appointed teachings are doing their good work + throughout Christendom the idea that human wisdom, Prussian + culture, etc., can save the old order of things, will be seen + lifeless.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Again the Word of the Lord came unto me, + saying.</span></span>—Verses 14 to 25 are the message of comfort + and hope to those who are now out of harmony with + ecclesiasticism.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Son + of man, thy brethren, even thy brethren, the men of thy kindred, + and all the house of Israel wholly, are they unto whom the + inhabitants of Jerusalem have said, Get you far from the Lord: unto + us is this land given in possession.</span></span>—The Jews in + captivity were despised by those remaining in the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“holy”</span> city, Jerusalem. They type the people of + Christendom who honestly own themselves to be of the world and are + despised by the <span class="tei tei-q">“best people,”</span> the + educated, religious <span class="tei tei-q">“holy”</span> + Churchianity. <span class="tei tei-q">“Get you far from the + Lord”</span> is the attitude of the tares toward those who do not + pretend as much, but who are often much better in God's sight. The + <span class="tei tei-q">“best people”</span> not merely own most of + the earth now, but expect to own Heaven too—with the now worldly + people forever consigned to a devil-imagined hell of eternal + torment.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore say, Thus saith the Lord God; + Although I have cast them far off among the heathen, and although I + have scattered them among the countries, yet will I be to them as a + little Sanctuary in the countries where they shall + come.</span></span>—God especially favors the honest-hearted, + humble-minded, however far they may now be from Him in outward + appearance. Christ avoided the Scribes and the Pharisees, but + freely associated with the publicans and sinners.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore say, Thus saith the Lord God; I + will even gather you from the people, and assemble you out of the + countries where ye have been scattered, and I will give you the + land of Israel.</span></span>—In the coming Kingdom God will gather + first the outcasts from their condition of disfavor, even from the + dead, and will give them possession of the earth before the + proud-minded ecclesiastics are permitted <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page427">[pg 427]</span><a name="Pg427" id="Pg427" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> to return from the dead. This is to have also + a literal fulfillment on Fleshly Israel.—Z. '94-76.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall come thither, and they shall take away all the + detestable things thereof and all the abominations thereof from + thence.</span></span>—The common people, free from the perverse + influence of priestcraft, in Christ's Millennial Kingdom will + abolish all the clergy-fostered ideas and practices now so + abominable to God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; + and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give + them a heart of flesh.</span></span>—They will be single-hearted to + serve God and do His will alone. (Jer. 32:39.) From having the + spirit or mind of natural men they will be given the Holy Spirit, + when God <span class="tei tei-q">“pours out His Spirit upon all + flesh.”</span> (A. 333; Z. '03-171.) From being hard-hearted they + will become tender-hearted, forgiving one another even as God, for + Christ's sake will forgive them.—Eph. 4:32.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That + they may walk in My statutes, and keep Mine ordinances, and do + them: and they shall be My people, and I will be their + God.</span></span>—They will keep God's Law of Divine love. The + <span class="tei tei-q">“best people,”</span> who now regard + themselves as God's people, in the Age to come will learn that God + opposes the proud and favors the humble.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + as for them whose heart walketh after the heart of their detestable + things and their abominations, I will recompense their way upon + their own heads, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—Those who at + heart love established ecclesiasticism are counted as having the + heart, mind or will of the author of priestcraft, the Devil. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Ye generation of serpents (devils), how + scarcely shall ye escape the condemnation of Gehenna (Second + Death).”</span>—Matt. 23:33.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:22, 23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + did the cherubim lift up their wings, and the wheels beside them; + and the glory of the God of Israel was over them above. And the + glory of the Lord went up from the midst of the city, and stood + upon the mountain which is on the east side of the + city.</span></span>—God, and Divine favor, has ceased to be in or + with Christendom (D. 527), but is upon and with the true Kingdom + (mountain) of God (A. 318), toward the east (Zech. 14:4), the + antitypical Mount of Olives.—D. 653.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">11:24, 25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Afterwards the spirit took me up, and + brought me in a vision by the Spirit of God into Chaldea, to them + of the captivity. So the vision that I had seen went up from me. + Then I spake unto them of the captivity all the things that the + Lord had shewed me.</span></span>—These things seen in the + Scriptures are now preached and published to the captives in Mystic + Babylon.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page428">[pg 428]</span><a name= + "Pg428" id="Pg428" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc81" id="toc81"></a> <a name="pdf82" id="pdf82"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 12—Christendom's Blind + Flight</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:1, 2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + word of the Lord also came unto me saying, Son of man, thou + dwellest in the midst of a rebellious house, which have eyes to + see, and see not; they have ears to hear, and hear not; for they + are a rebellious house.</span></span>—In Chapter 12:1-16 is + depicted the blind flight of Christendom into revolution and + anarchy. Pastor Russell and his co-workers once dwelt in the midst + of the rebellious nominal house, or church, of God, with eyes + blinded and ears made deaf by their spiritual defection.—Matt. + 13:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore, thou son of man, prepare thee + stuff for removing, and remove by day in their sight; and thou + shalt remove from thy place to another place in their sight: It may + be they will consider, though they be a rebellious + house.</span></span>—He found in the Bible the Truth of God, which + exhorts to <span class="tei tei-q">“come out of her, O My + people”</span> (Rev. 18:4); and in obedience, he came out of his + church home into a condition of separateness, by every means of + publicity (in their sight) drawing the attention to his removal, in + the hope that those left behind might turn truly back to God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + shalt thou bring forth thy stuff by day in their sight, as stuff + for removing: and thou shalt go forth at even in their sight, as + they that go forth into captivity.</span></span>—In their + estimation, he did this as one taken by the Evil One.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Dig + thou through the wall in their sight, and carry out + thereby.</span></span>—He dug through the creeds walls and thus + <span class="tei tei-q">“came out of her.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + their sight shalt thou bear it upon thy shoulders, and carry it + forth in the twilight: thou shalt cover thy face, that thou see not + the ground: for I have set thee for a sign unto the house of + Israel.</span></span>—To them he was one not knowing whither he + went, with eyes blinded; whereas his action and his publishing of + the Truth was but God's way of beseeching Christendom and warning + her of her own fate.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I did so as I was commanded: I brought forth my stuff by day, as + stuff for captivity, and in the even I digged through the wall with + mine hand; I brought it forth</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page429">[pg 429]</span><a name="Pg429" id="Pg429" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">in the + twilight, and I bare it upon my shoulder in their + sight.</span></span>—Pastor Russell and the Truth people did this + with their limited power (hand), and laboriously (upon shoulder) + made their way with their goods, the precious Truths, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“out of her.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:8-9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + in the morning came the word of the Lord unto me, saying, Son of + man, hath not the house of Israel, the rebellious house, said unto + thee, What doest thou?</span></span>—The nominal church (home) of + Spiritual Israel have often inquired of Pastor Russell and of the + Truth people, <span class="tei tei-q">“What doest thou?”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Say + thou unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; This burden concerneth the + prince in Jerusalem, and all the house of Israel that are among + them.</span></span>—The import of the answer concerns the exalted + class (prince, exalted one), the lords in Christendom, the clergy, + and all professing Christians that are with them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Say, + I am your sign, like as I have done, so shall it be done unto them: + they shall remove and go into captivity.</span></span>—What has + been, is a lesson for them; as the Royal Priesthood has done, so + shall it be done unto them; they shall move down from their exalted + place and go into captivity to the laborite and revolutionary + elements. The Jews were literally to go into captivity into ancient + Babylon, which they did.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the prince that is among them shell bear upon his shoulder in the + twilight, and shall go forth: they shall dig through the wall to + carry out thereby; he shall cover his face, that he see not the + ground with his eyes.</span></span>—As to the Jews, their ruler + Zedekiah was by night to try to escape from Jerusalem, but he + should not see the way. Regarding Christendom's clergy, they shall + at the close of their day, abandon Christendom in the time of + revolution, to save what they can for themselves, and <span class= + "tei tei-q">“get out of her.”</span> They shall find a still more + worldly way out of their creed walls and shall be self-blinded to + the real condition of society (the earth).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + net also will I spread upon him, and he shall be taken in My snare: + and I will bring him to Babylon to the land of the Chaldeans; yet + shall he not see it, though he shall die there.</span></span>—Like + a snare shall revolution, in the guise of freedom for all, come + upon them; and, utterly blind to the significance of world events, + they shall be forced into revolution and anarchy, and there shall + this lordly class come to its end. (Hos. 7:12.) The literal + application upon King Zedekiah is of course understood; for he went + to Babylon, but never saw it, because his eyes were put + out.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page430">[pg + 430]</span><a name="Pg430" id="Pg430" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will scatter toward every wind all that are about him to help + him, and all his bands; and I will draw out the sword after + them.</span></span>—God will scatter in war, tumult and confusion + and in error; all that adhere to the clergy class, and all their + congregations (bands); and against them shall He direct weapons of + war and the Word of God, the Sword of the Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall know that I am the Lord, when I shall scatter them among + the nations, and disperse them in the countries.</span></span>—And + they shall appreciate that Jehovah is God, when this has come.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + I will leave a few men of them from the sword, from the famine, and + from the pestilence; that they may declare all their abominations + among the heathen whither they come: and they shall know that I am + the Lord.</span></span>—From among them God will leave a few manly + believers, who shall escape the sword, the famine, literal and of + the Word, and from the pestilential errors; that they, as then + faithful members of the Great Company, may explain to the + revolutionists and anarchists the Truth about the Divinely + forbidden doctrines and deeds of the clergy, and their + following.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:17, 18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover the Word of the Lord came unto + me, saying, Son of man, eat thy bread with quaking, and drink thy + water with trembling and with carefulness.</span></span>—The Lord's + people were to eat, drink and live with great economy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + say unto the people of the land, Thus saith the Lord God of the + inhabitants of Jerusalem and the land of Israel; They shall eat + their bread with carefulness, and drink their water with + astonishment, that her land may be desolate from all that is + therein, because of the violence of all them that dwell + therein.</span></span>—They were to say to the people of + Christendom: <span class="tei tei-q">“God says to the clergy and + people of nominal Spiritual Israel, the churches: You shall eat + your food by measure, and with economy—on the food-ticket plan—and + drink your Truth with amazement at the famine; for Christendom is + to be desolated of its people, because of the violent wars, and the + revolutions and anarchy of the people.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the cities that are inhabited shall be laid waste, and the land + shall be desolate; and ye shall know that I am the + Lord.</span></span>—The governments (cities) shall be destroyed and + the social order desolated in anarchy; and they shall feel the + outworkings of Jehovah's purposes upon them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:21, 22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the Word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, what is that + proverb that ye have in</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page431">[pg 431]</span><a name="Pg431" id="Pg431" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">the land + of Israel, saying, The days are prolonged, and every vision + faileth?</span></span>—Nominal clergy and Christians say concerning + the Bible, that this Age will last for thousands of years and that + Bible prophecies fail of fulfillment—2 Pet. 3:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Tell + them therefore, Thus saith the Lord God; I will make this proverb + to cease, and they shall no more use it as a proverb in Israel; but + say unto them, The days are at hand, and the effect of every + vision.</span></span>—God says that He will make their saying to + cease; for close at hand is the Time of Trouble and of the Kingdom + of God, and the fulfillment of prophecy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + there shall be no more any vain vision nor flattering divination + within the house of Israel.</span></span>—There shall be no more, + in the churches, delusive theories of the everlasting welfare of + Christendom or of evolution, or immortality, or flattering + prediction of peace, peace.—Lam. 2:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + I am the Lord; I will speak, and the word that I shall speak shall + come to pass; It shall be no more prolonged: for in your days, O + rebellious house, will I say the word, and will perform it, saith + the Lord God.</span></span>—Jehovah's Word shall come to pass + promptly, in the present day.—Isa. 55:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:26, 27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Again the Word of the Lord came unto me, + saying, Son of man, behold, they of the house of Israel say, The + vision that he seeth is for many days to come, and he prophesieth + of the times that are far off.</span></span>—The clergy say that + Pastor Russell's predictions of early trouble and the setting up of + the Kingdom are for hundreds or thousands of years to come, and + about things that are far off.—Amos. 6:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">12:28. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore say unto them, Thus saith the + Lord God, There shall none of My words be prolonged any more, but + the Word which I have spoken shall be done, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—Jehovah says that none of the words spoken + through His servant Pastor Russell, shall wait any longer for + fulfillment, but the things shall come as spoken.</p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Sometime, when all life's lessons have been + learned,</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And sun and stars forevermore + have set,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">The things which our weak + judgment here has spurned—</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">The things o'er which we grieved + with lashes wet—</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Will flash before us out of + life's dark night,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">As stars shine most in deeper + tints of blue;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And we shall see how all God's + plans were right,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">And how what seemed unkind was love most + true.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page432">[pg 432]</span><a name= + "Pg432" id="Pg432" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc83" id="toc83"></a> <a name="pdf84" id="pdf84"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 13—The Gaps In The + Wall</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:1, 2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the Word of the Lord came unto me saying, Son of man, prophesy + against the prophets of Israel that prophesy, and say thou unto + them that prophesy out of their own hearts, Hear ye the Word of the + Lord.</span></span>—God's Word is to write and speak against the + preachers of Christendom that say things originating in their own + imaginations; let them listen now to the Words of Jehovah.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; Woe unto the foolish prophets, that follow + their own spirit, and have seen nothing.</span></span>—Woe to the + foolish preachers, who as blind leaders have seen nothing + respecting today's crisis in the Word of God, or in the signs of + the times!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">O + Israel, thy prophets are like the foxes in the + deserts.</span></span>—O Christendom, thy preachers will be like + cunning foxes, finding profit in the desolation of their + country!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Ye + have not gone up into the gaps, neither made up the hedge for the + house of Israel to stand in the battle in the Day of the + Lord.</span></span>—They have not preached God's Truth to fill up + the breaches among Christendom's defenders, or to build up the + broken-down forsakers of Christendom's moral and spiritual + defenses, to enable Christendom to have strength to stand before + God in the Time of Trouble.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They + have seen vanity and lying divination, saying, The Lord saith: and + the Lord hath not sent them: and they have made others to hope that + they would confirm the Word.</span></span>—They have taken and + taught fallacious and delusive theories of evolution, destructive + criticism of the Bible, the Divine right of kings and of clergy, + and preached their people into savage warfare, saying it was the + Word of God, when God has not said it; and they have made others + believe their lies.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Have + ye not seen a vain vision, and have ye not spoken a lying + divination, whereas ye say, The Lord saith it; albeit I have not + spoken.</span></span>—They have misrepresented Jehovah.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; + Because ye have spoken vanity, and seen lies, therefore, behold, I + am</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page433">[pg + 433]</span><a name="Pg433" id="Pg433" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">against + you, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—Wherefore God is against + them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + Mine hand shall be upon the prophets that see vanity, and that + divine lies; they shall not be in the assembly of My people, + neither shall they be written in the writing of the house of + Israel, neither shall they enter into the land of Israel; and ye + shall know that I am the Lord God.</span></span>—God will stretch + out His hand against these preachers. They shall not be in the + Church triumphant (Heb. 12:23), nor shall they be written as + members of the spirit-born Great Company; nor shall they enter the + Heavenly phase of the Kingdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Because, even because they have seduced + My people, saying, Peace; and there was no peace; and one built up + a wall, and lo, others daubed it with untempered + mortar.</span></span>—Because the clergy have deceived and ruined + Christendom (Micah 3:5-7) proclaiming peace when there was no peace + (Jer. 6:14); and when one of them would build up a slight wall of + workers of earthly, civic, social betterment, the others would bind + it together with the binder of self-interest, not with truth + (water) or love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Say + unto them which daub it with untempered mortar, that it shall fall; + there shall be an overflowing shower; and ye, O great hailstones, + shall fall; and a stormy wind shall rend it.</span></span>—It shall + fall; there shall be an overflowing downpour of the water of Truth; + and hard truths, great hard facts shall fall upon the wall; and + gigantic wars and world wide commotion shall tear to pieces the + preachers' earthly-civic-social defense.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Lo, + when the wall is fallen, shall it not be said unto you, Where is + the daubing wherewith ye daubed it?</span></span>—Behold, when + Christendom's slight defense against the forces of evil, is fallen, + it shall be inquired of the clergy, <span class="tei tei-q">“Where + is that worthless, loveless, selfish binder wherewith you + inefficiently cemented together its members?”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; I will + even rend it with a stormy wind in My fury; and there shall be an + overflowing shower in Mine anger, and great hailstones in My fury + to consume it.</span></span>—Therefore God says: I will destroy + your defense with a furious storm of war and revolution, with a + flood of Truth and great hard facts.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So + will I break down the wall that ye have daubed with untempered + mortar, and bring it down to the ground, so that the foundation + thereof shall be discovered, and it shall fall, and ye shall be + consumed in the midst thereof: and ye shall know that I am the + Lord.</span></span>—So will I break down your flimsy defenses of + selfishness; they shall fall and you shall be buried in their + fall.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page434">[pg + 434]</span><a name="Pg434" id="Pg434" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + will I accomplish My wrath upon the wall, and upon them that have + daubed it with untempered mortar, and will say unto you, The wall + is no more, neither they that daubed it.</span></span>—The defense + of Christendom exists no more, neither they that plastered it with + showy self-interest.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To + wit, the prophets of Israel which prophesy concerning Jerusalem, + and which see visions of peace for her when there is no + peace.</span></span>—Namely, the preachers of Christendom who + preach peace when there is no peace.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Likewise, thou son of man, set thy face + against the daughters of thy people, which prophesy out of their + own heart; and prophesy thou against them.</span></span>—God + directs true Christians to set their faces against the man-made + churches, which preach things of their own imagining.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + say, Thus saith the Lord God; Woe to the women that sew pillows to + all armholes, and make kerchiefs upon the head of every stature to + hunt souls! Will ye hunt the souls of My people, and will ye save + the souls alive that come unto you?</span></span>—Woe to the + churches (women) that practice superstition (sew amulets about + their elbows—an oriental method of incantation), and wear veils of + mystery to ensnare men.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + will ye pollute Me among My people for handfuls of barley and for + pieces of bread, to slay the souls that should not die, and to save + the souls alive that should not live, by your lying to My people + that hear your lies?</span></span>—Shall they continue to profane + and prostitute My name among My people, for the price of the + spiritual fornication of church-state union (barley was the + customary offering for an adulteress) and for the weekly + collections offering, to discourage, persecute and kill the + godly?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Wherefore thus saith the Lord God; + Behold, I am against your pillows, wherewith ye there hunt to make + them fly, and I will tear them from your arms, and will let the + souls go, even the souls that ye hunt to make them + fly.</span></span>—God will strip the churches of the power of + their superstitions, and will let the people go out of the + bondage.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Your + kerchiefs also will I tear, and deliver My people out of your hand, + and they shall be no more in your hand to be hunted, and ye shall + know that I am the Lord.</span></span>—Their veil of mystery will + He tear away, and deliver His people, the Great Company, out of + bondage.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">13:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Because with lies ye have made the heart + of the righteous sad, whom I have not made sad; and strengthened + the hands of the wicked, that he should not return from his wicked + way, by promising him life.</span></span>—Wherefore the churches + shall no more hold forth delusive hopes.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page435">[pg 435]</span><a name= + "Pg435" id="Pg435" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc85" id="toc85"></a> <a name="pdf86" id="pdf86"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 14—Insincere + Inquirers</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + came certain of the elders of Israel unto me, and sat before + me.</span></span>—There will come certain of the clergy of + Christendom to the Truth people to listen and inquire.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:2, 3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the Word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, these men + have set up their idols in their heart, and put the stumbling block + of their iniquity before their face: should I be inquired of at all + by them?</span></span>—God's Word for them will be that these men + have insincerely set up in their hearts their idols of gold, power, + etc., and with a pretended face-to-face sincerity, have retained + their iniquitous stumbling block of love of sin. Should God be + inquired of at all by such men?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore speak unto them, and say unto + them, Thus saith the Lord God; Every man of the house of Israel + that setteth up his idols in his heart, and putteth the stumbling + block of his iniquity before his face, and cometh to the prophet; I + the Lord will answer him that cometh, according to the multitude of + his idols:</span></span>—Every man in the nominal church that + insincerely clings to his idols and to his love of iniquity, and + yet comes to one of God's people, Jehovah will answer not with + words, but with the retribution deserved for his idolatry.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That + I may take the house of Israel in their own heart, because they are + all estranged from Me through their idols.</span></span>—God will + treat the nominal Christian church in a manner like their own + insincere hearts, because by the idols they serve they are all + estranged from their love for Him.—2 Thes. 2:11, 12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore say unto the house of Israel, + Thus saith the Lord God; Repent, and turn yourselves from your + idols; and turn away your faces from all your + abominations.</span></span>—Say first to them: Repent of your evil + deeds, turn away from your idols, O Christendom, and resolutely + turn your faces unto Him, and from superstition, error, and from + practices which are abominable to His standards.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + every one of the house of Israel, or of the stranger that + sojourneth in Israel, which separateth himself from Me, and setteth + up his idols in his heart, and putteth the stumbling block of his + iniquity before his face,</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page436">[pg 436]</span><a name="Pg436" id="Pg436" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">and + cometh to a prophet to inquire of him concerning Me; I the Lord + will answer him by Myself.</span></span>—Every church member and + every one associated with him, who ceases to love God supremely, + sets his heart upon other subjects of love or worship, clings to + iniquitous practices, and then comes to the Truth people to find + what God says, verily Jehovah Himself will answer him—with deeds, + not with words merely.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will set My face against that man, and will make him a sign and a + proverb, and I will cut him off from the midst of My people; and ye + shall know that I am the Lord.</span></span>—God will thoroughly + disfavor that man, and make him an example and a by-word; He will + cut him off from a place among His people.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + if the prophet be deceived when he hath spoken a thing, I the Lord + have deceived that prophet, and I will stretch out My hand upon him + and will destroy him from the midst of My people + Israel.</span></span>—And if any preacher—even one of the Truth + people—shall get so wrong in heart that he is deceived in what he + says (Jer. 20:7), Jehovah will <span class="tei tei-q">“send him a + strong delusion that he should believe a lie,”</span> and will be + against him and will destroy him from the midst of His people.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall bear the punishment of their iniquity: the punishment of + the prophet shall be even as the punishment of him that seeketh + unto him.</span></span>—Both shall bear the same punishment for + their iniquity—the preachers and the man that listens to him.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That + the house of Israel may go no more astray from Me, neither be + polluted any more with all their transgressions; but that they may + be My people, and I may be their God, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—Professed Christian people shall stray no longer + from Him, nor become unclean spiritually through their wrongdoing, + but may truly be God's people, and He their God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:12, 13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Word of the Lord came again unto me, saying, Son of man, when the + land sinneth against Me by trespassing grievously then will I + stretch out Mine hand upon it, and will break the staff of the + bread thereof, and will send famine upon it, and will cut off man + and beast from it.</span></span>—When a whole country sins against + God with grievous, willful sin, then will He exercise His power + against it, and cut off the necessary supply of material (Lev. + 26:26) and spiritual food—send a famine of food and of the Word of + God upon it, and cut off all life from it.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page437">[pg 437]</span><a name="Pg437" id="Pg437" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Though these three men, Noah, Daniel and + Job, were in it, they should deliver but their own souls by their + righteousness, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—Though in that + country were the three most upright men of history, Noah, Daniel + and Job—typing here the Little Flock, the Great Company, and the + Household of Faith—they should by their righteousness save but + their own lives.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">If I + cause noisome beasts to pass through the land, and they spoil it, + so that it be desolate, that no man may pass through because of the + beasts.</span></span>—God has caused savage governments to overrun + Christendom with military and naval forces, and to ruin and + desolate it, so that no manly independent man can exist there.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Though these three men were in it, as I + live, saith the Lord God, they shall deliver neither sons nor + daughters; they only shall be delivered, but the land shall be + desolate.</span></span>—Though these three classes be in + Christendom, they shall deliver no one but themselves; they only + shall be delivered, but Christendom shall be desolated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Or + if I bring a sword upon that land, and say, Sword, go through the + land; so that I cut off man and beast from it:</span></span>—God + has brought upon Christendom destroying weapons (Lev. 26:25), and + the Sword of the Spirit is to go through Christendom and cut off + all that can be cut off, and no one shall save aught but + himself.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:18, 19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Though these three men were in it, as I + live, saith the Lord God, they shall deliver neither sons nor + daughters, but they only shall be delivered themselves. Or if I + send a pestilence into that land, and pour out My fury upon it in + blood, to cut off from it man and beast.</span></span>—God will + permit a pestilence, both of literal disease and of pestilential + errors in Christendom, in wrath to take away life.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:20, 21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Though Noah, Daniel and Job were in it, + as I live saith the Lord God, they shall deliver neither son nor + daughters; they shall but deliver their own souls by their + righteousness. For thus saith the Lord God; How much more when I + send My four sore judgments upon Jerusalem—the sword, and the + famine, and the noisome beast, and the pestilence—to cut off from + it man and beast.</span></span>—Christendom is so corrupt that God + is sending upon her His four dreadful punishments—the sword, the + famine, the savage government and the pestilence—as His + destroyers!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yet + behold, therein shall be left a remnant that shall be brought + forth, both sons and daughters: behold, they shall come forth unto + you, and ye shall see their way and their doings: and ye shall be + comforted</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page438">[pg + 438]</span><a name="Pg438" id="Pg438" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">concerning the evil that I have brought + upon Jerusalem, even concerning all that I have brought upon + it.</span></span>—There shall be left from the anarchy a few who + shall be brought through into the Kingdom as samples of + Christendom's pollution. They will live among those who have + suffered in Christendom's trouble, and amid the blessed Kingdom + influences by contrast the others shall see their continued evil + ways and doings. And they will cause everyone to feel satisfied, + content, over the trouble God is bringing upon Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">14:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall comfort you, when ye see their ways and their doings: + and ye shall know that I have not done without cause all that I + have done in it, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—When the others + see their evil ways and doings, they will be content as to the need + of the Time of Trouble, for they shall realize that not without + good cause shall God have done all that He will do to + Christendom.</p> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc87" id="toc87"></a> <a name="pdf88" id="pdf88"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 15—Fit For Fuel + Only</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">15:1-8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, What is the + vine tree more than any tree, or than a branch which is among the + trees of the forest? Shall wood be taken thereof to do any work? or + will men take a pin of it to hang any vessel thereon? Behold, it is + cast into the fire for fuel; the fire devoureth both the ends of + it, and the midst of it is burned. Is it meet for any work? Behold, + when it was whole, it was meet for no work: how much less shall it + be meet yet for any work, when the fire hath devoured it, and it is + burned? Therefore thus saith the Lord God, As the vine tree among + the trees of the forest, which I have given to the fire for fuel, + so will I give the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And I will set My face + against them; they shall go out from one fire, and another fire + shall devour them; and ye shall know that I am the Lord, when I set + My face against them. And I will make the land desolate, because + they have committed a trespass, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—Ecclesiasticism, which imagines itself to be the + true vine (John 15:1) with the sects as branches, is a wild vine + (Rev. 14:18), unable to support itself and clinging like a parasite + upon others for support. It brings forth no character fruitage, is + unfit for any Divine purpose, is slender, half-charred by the + assaults of Higher Criticism, and fit only to be destroyed.—Psa. + 80:8-16.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page439">[pg 439]</span><a name= + "Pg439" id="Pg439" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc89" id="toc89"></a> <a name="pdf90" id="pdf90"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 16—Unfaithfulness Of God's + People</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:1-5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Again the word of the Lord came unto me, + saying, Son of man, cause Jerusalem to know her abominations, and + say, Thus saith the Lord God unto Jerusalem; Thy birth and thy + nativity is of the land of Canaan; thy father was an Amorite, and + thy mother a Hittite. And as for thy nativity, in the day thou was + born thy navel was not cut, neither wast thou washed in water to + supple thee; thou wast not salted at all, nor swaddled at all. None + eye pitied thee, to do any of these unto thee, to have compassion + upon thee; but thou wast cast out in the open field, to the + loathing of thy person, in the day that thou wast + born.</span></span>—Chapter 16 is an amplification of the symbolic + description of Babylon the Great (Jerusalem), ecclesiasticism (Rev. + 17), as a once virgin but now apostate woman (church). The peoples + of whom the church was composed were originally heathen (16:3), in + and of the world (field).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:6-8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when I passed by thee, and saw thee polluted in thine own blood, I + said unto thee when thou wast in thy blood, Live; yea, I said unto + thee when thou wast in thy blood, Live. I have caused thee to + multiply as the bud of the field, and thou hast increased and waxen + great, and thou art come to excellent ornaments: thy breasts are + fashioned, and thine hair is grown, whereas thou wast naked and + bare. Now when I passed by thee, and looked upon thee, behold, thy + time was the time of love; and I spread My skirt over thee, and + covered thy nakedness: yea, I sware unto thee, and entered into a + covenant with thee, saith the Lord God, and thou becamest + Mine.</span></span>—God through Christ loved these people and + espoused them, He caused the church to grow beautiful.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:9-12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + washed I thee with water; yea, I thoroughly washed away thy blood + from thee, and I anointed thee with oil. I clothed thee also with + broidered work, and shod thee with badger's skin, and I girded thee + about with fine linen, and I covered thee with silk. I decked thee + also with ornaments, and I put bracelets upon thy hands, and a + chain on thy neck. And I put a jewel on thy forehead, and earrings + in thine ears, and a beautiful crown upon thine + head.</span></span>—He anointed them with the Holy Spirit (16:9, + oil), clothed them with the robe of Christ's <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page440">[pg 440]</span><a name="Pg440" id="Pg440" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> righteousness (Matt. 22:11) with the + embroidery of character fruits (Psa. 45:14), and gave them precious + ornament of Divine (golden) promises, put a jewel (pure, + diamond-sparkling Truth—1 Cor. 3:12) on their forehead (minds—Rev. + 7:3), golden earrings in their ears (ears to hear Divine + things—Gen. 24:22), and a beautiful crown on their head (tentative + kingship).—Rev. 2:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + was thou decked with gold and silver; and thy raiment was of fine + linen, and silk, and broidered work; thou didst eat fine flour, and + honey, and oil; and thou wast exceedingly beautiful, and thou didst + prosper into a kingdom.</span></span>—He gave them the purest and + best food from the Word of God (Psa. 147:14); and they became + beautiful in the beauty of holiness (Psa. 110:3), and prospered + even unto inheritance of the Kingdom of Heaven.—Col. 1:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + thy renown went forth among the heathen for thy beauty; for it was + perfect through My comeliness, which I had put upon thee, saith the + Lord God.</span></span>—They became renowned for their holy, kindly + characters; obtainable through sacrificial suffering.—Heb. + 2:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + thou didst trust in thine own beauty, and playedst the harlot + because of thy renown, and pouredst out thy fornications on every + one that passed by; his it was.</span></span>—The spirit of + fornication in a church is the desire to form a union with any + world-government (Rev. 18:3); this spirit was manifested to every + government.—Isa. 1:21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + of thy garments thou didst take, and deckedst thy high places with + divers colours, and playedst the harlot thereupon; the like things + shall not come, neither shall it be so.</span></span>—The high + places are the tops of mountains, the rulers of governments; there + the church displayed her greatest attractions, and induced the + spiritual fornication of governments, to an extent never to be + witnessed again.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + hast also taken thy fair jewels of My gold and of My silver, which + I had given thee, and madest to thyself images of men, and didst + commit whoredom with them.</span></span>—She took the Divine + treasures of Truth, and shaped and distorted them into the form of + traditions of men.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:18, 19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + tookest thy broidered garments, and coveredst them; and thou hast + set Mine oil and Mine incense before them. My meat also, which I + gave thee, fine flour, and oil, and honey, wherewith I fed thee, + thou hast even set it before them for a sweet savour; and thus it + was, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—The spiritual food of the + Word of God was spiced with human errors; such as Divine right of + kings and clergy, immortality, Trinity and eternal torment, + preached in a way to please the ruling powers and serve their + unholy purposes.—Hos. 2:8.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page441">[pg 441]</span><a name="Pg441" id="Pg441" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:20, 21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover thou hast taken thy sons and thy + daughters, whom thou hast borne unto Me, and these hast thou + sacrificed unto them to be devoured. Is this of thy whoredoms a + small matter? That thou hast slain My children, and delivered them + to cause them to pass through the fire for them?</span></span>—The + Church gave the children of God, begotten of the Word, to endure + doctrines of hell fire (Jer. 7:31) and fiery trials in the warfares + of governments.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + in all thine abominations and thy whoredoms thou hast not + remembered the days of thy youth, when thou wast naked and bare, + and wast polluted in thy blood.</span></span>—In her pride of + place, the church forgot the heathendom from which her members had + been raised.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:23-25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it came to pass after all thy wickedness, (woe, woe unto thee! + saith the Lord God.) That thou hast also built unto thee an eminent + place, and hast made thee a high place in every street. Thou hast + built thy high place at every head of the way, and hast made thy + beauty to be abhorred, and hast opened thy feet to every one that + passed by, and multiplied thy whoredoms.</span></span>—Woe, woe, + distress, trouble and destruction to such an apostate, who in every + conspicuous way (Isa. 57:7) served the interests of the god of this + world, made her <span class="tei tei-q">“virtues”</span> detestable + to thoughtful men, and offered herself for state-church union to + every government (street), state, city and town!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + hast also committed fornication with the Egyptians thy neighbors, + great of flesh; and hast increased thy whoredoms, to provoke Me to + anger.</span></span>—She united herself with the most worldly + people, great in earthly things.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, therefore I have stretched out My + hand over thee, and have diminished thine ordinary food, and + delivered thee unto the will of them that hate thee, the daughters + of the Philistines, which are ashamed of thy lewd + way.</span></span>—God has now, since 1878, brought the powers of + judgment against the apostate church and caused a famine of the + Word of God within church doors. He has given her over to the + encroachments of church daughters of aggressive worldliness and + doctrines of devils (Philistines)—Christian Science, Theosophy, New + Thought, Higher Criticism and Spiritism. Even these churches, + founded on doctrines of devils, are ashamed of the worldly, + self-debasing ways of the professedly orthodox Church of + Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:28, 29. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + hast played the whore also with the Assyrians, because thou wast + unsatiable; yea, thou hast played the harlot with them, and yet + couldest not be satisfied. Thou hast moreover multiplied thy + fornication in the land of Canaan unto Chaldea; and yet thou wast + not satisfied herewith.</span></span>—The Church has even sought + union <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page442">[pg 442]</span><a name= + "Pg442" id="Pg442" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> with the forces + (Assyrians) destined to overthrow Christendom—Socialism, Communism, + Industrial Workers of the World, Trade Unions, Syndicalists, + revolutionists, anarchists,—insatiable in her desire for power.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:30-34. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">How + weak is thine heart, saith the Lord God, seeing thou doest all + these things, the work of an imperious whorish woman, in that thou + buildest thine eminent place in the head of every way, and makest + thine high place in every street; and hast not been as a harlot, in + that thou scornest hire, but as a wife that committeth adultery, + which taketh strangers instead of her husband! They give gifts to + all whores; but thou givest thy gifts to all thy lovers, and hirest + them, that they may come unto thee on every side for thy whoredom. + And the contrary is in thee from other women in thy whoredoms, + whereas none followeth thee to commit whoredoms; and in that thou + givest a reward, and no reward is given unto thee, therefore thou + are contrary.</span></span>—How despicable is the attitude of the + professed church! ... lower even than an harlot! For a harlot has + some self-respect and gives herself only for gifts in return; but + the <span class="tei tei-q">“Christian”</span> church has offered + inducements to every possible kind and grade of governmental power + to enter into Divinely condemned union of church and state.—Hos. + 8:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:35-37. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Wherefore, O harlot, hear the word of the + Lord: Thus saith the Lord God; Because thy filthiness was poured + out, and thy nakedness discovered through thy whoredoms with thy + lovers, and with all the idols of thy abominations, and by the + blood of thy children, which thou didst give unto them. Behold, + therefore I will gather all thy lovers, with whom thou hast taken + pleasure, and all them that thou hast loved, with all them that + thou hast hated; I will even gather them round about against thee, + and will discover thy nakedness unto them, that they may see all + thy nakedness.</span></span>—Therefore God will cause the + governments, with which the apostate church has made alliance, to + hate and burn her with fire.—Rev. 17:16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:38-40. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will judge thee, as women that break wedlock and shed blood are + judged; and I will give thee blood in fury and jealousy. And I will + also give thee into their hand, and they shall throw down thine + eminent place, and shall break down thy high places: they shall + strip thee also of thy clothes, and shall take thy fair jewels, and + leave thee naked and bare. They shall also bring up a company + against thee, and they shall stone thee with stones, and thrust + thee through with their swords.</span></span>—By Moses' Law women + that broke wedlock were stoned to death; in earlier days they were + burned alive; and the <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page443">[pg + 443]</span><a name="Pg443" id="Pg443" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + guilty men also were killed. (Lev. 20:10, 14, 27.) Ecclesiasticism + will be smitten down with the stones of hard facts, and be + destroyed in the fires of anarchy, <span class="tei tei-q">“with + the fire of God's Jealousy.”</span> (Zeph. 3:8.) She shall be + stripped of her tinsel and gilt (imitation immortality), her purple + (imperial) and scarlet (bloody) colors, and of her real and + imitation jewels of Truth. The masses, incensed by vain sacrifices + and privations of a world-war, will despatch her.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:41. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall burn thine houses with fire, and execute judgments upon + thee in the sight of many women; and I will cause thee to cease + from playing the harlot, and thou also shalt give no hire any + more.</span></span>—Her houses (denominations) will be wiped out in + the anarchy. She will receive her terrible judgments in the + wondering sight of many heathen religions (women).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:42, 43. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So + will I make My fury toward thee to rest, and My jealousy shall + depart from thee, and I will be quiet and will be no more angry. + Because thou hast not remembered the days of thy youth, but hast + fretted Me in all these things; behold, therefore I also will + recompense thy way upon thine head, saith the Lord God: and thou + shalt not commit this lewdness above all thine + abominations.</span></span>—Not till ecclesiasticism has perished + from the face of the earth will God's fury and jealousy cease its + retributions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:44, 45. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, every one that useth proverbs + shall use this proverb against thee, saying, As is the mother, so + is her daughter. Thou art thy mother's daughter, that loatheth her + husband and her children; and thou art the sister of thy sisters, + which loathed their husbands and their children: your mother was a + Hittite, and your father an Amorite.</span></span>—The Hittites, + Amorites, Samaritans and Sodomites were all worshipers of Baal and + Astarte, under one name or another, and were adepts in the heathen + and immoral beliefs and practices of that religion, typical not of + fleshly but of spiritual uncleanness, as explained in foregoing + pages. The true Church's father was our Father, her mother the + Sarah Covenant of Grace, and her espoused husband, Christ. + Ecclesiasticism's parentage, as becometh the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“dwellers in the summits,”</span> the proud + <span class="tei tei-q">“best”</span> people, was the proud, + self-sufficient one, the Devil (John 8:44.) Romanism and + Protestantism are begotten, not by the Word of God, but by the + words of pride, of selfishness, of earthly ambition. Her mother was + of the Hittites, a commercial people, descendants of Ham, under + Divine disapproval; her spiritual mother was the false promises of + human tradition, which would barter a Divine promise for an earthly + meal; she loves compromise, and knows not principle. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Like mother, like daughter.”</span></p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page444">[pg 444]</span><a name="Pg444" id="Pg444" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:46. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + thine elder sister is Samaria, she and her daughters that dwell at + thy left hand; and thy younger sister, that dwelleth at thy right + hand, is Sodom and her daughters.</span></span>—Samaria and Sodom + were worshipers of Baal. With like parentage, ecclesiasticism is a + sister religion with the heathen religions, even acknowledging in + many volumes the unity of all religions, herself included. Samaria, + the ten apostate tribes, mingled the religion of Jehovah with that + of Baal—a fit religious sister of the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“nominal church,”</span> which reads the Bible and + serves the god of selfishness. Samaria elsewhere types not merely + ecclesiasticism's sister, but churchianity herself. Sodom, here + named Jerusalem's (ecclesiasticism's) sister religion, is directly + identified as churchianity in Rev. 11:8—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“The great city which spiritually is called Sodom and + Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.”</span> It types + professed Christianity in its lowest phase.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:47. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yet + hast thou not walked after their ways, nor done after their + abominations: but, as if that were a very little thing, thou was + corrupted more than they in all thy ways.</span></span>—As though + the ill-fame of Sodom were not enough, (apostate) Christianity has + excelled her in corruption; Sodom's literal depravity was + <span class="tei tei-q">“a very little thing”</span> to + ecclesiasticism's ways.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:48-50. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">At I + live, saith the Lord God, Sodom thy sister hath not done, she nor + her daughters, as thou hast done, thou and thy daughters. Behold, + this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread, + and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither + did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. And they were + haughty, and committed abomination before Me; therefore I took them + away as I saw good.</span></span>—Sodom's greatest depravity (A. + 111, 112) was a result of depraved sexuality in connection with the + religion of Baal. <span class="tei tei-q">“This dreadful + <span class="tei tei-q">‘consecration’</span> spread over + Phoenicia, Syria, Phrygia, Assyria and Babylonia. Ashtaroth, the + Greek Astarte, was its chief object.”</span> Its antitype in the + churches was, for national, state or municipal rulers, under guise + of advancing religion, to cause their tributary governments to + become <span class="tei tei-q">“Christianized.”</span> Whole + nations were thus <span class="tei tei-q">“Christianized”</span> + and baptized—the peoples of savage governments. Through a letting + down of the bars of immorality, spiritual and fleshly, this + ministered to the beastly propensities of rulers and of others. The + clergy, from Pope to class leader, prostituted religion for the + pleasure and profit of association with the rich and powerful. + Rulers were assured of the <span class="tei tei-q">“Divine right of + kings,”</span> and received homage, as God's representatives. The + people were led <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page445">[pg + 445]</span><a name="Pg445" id="Pg445" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + to believe that death for rulers was entrance to Heaven, and + thousands died in the exhilaration—mistaken for religious uplift—of + self-sacrifice in their behalf. Ministers of Satan masquerading as + angels of light, preached these falsities and millions believed + them, and for their own good, and the good of the world which they + have corrupted, God is about to take them away.—Z. '95-56.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:51, 52. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Neither hath Samaria committed half of + thy sins; but thou hast multiplied thine abominations more than + they, and hast justified thy sisters in all thine abominations + which thou hast done. Thou also, which hast judged thy sisters, + bear thine own shame for thy sins that thou hast committed more + abominable than they; they are more righteous than thou; yea, be + thou confounded also, and bear thy shame, in that thou hast + justified thy sisters.</span></span>—As Jerusalem's moral + corruption justified Sodom and Samaria, so ecclesiasticism's moral + and spiritual depravity have justified those elements in + Christendom typed by Samaria and Sodom. The clergy, and their + churches, because of pride of being the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“best people”</span>, have been more abominable than + those of baser sort.—Psa. 119:113; Prov. 6:17; 8:13; 16:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:53-55. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When + I shall bring again their captivity, the captivity of Sodom and her + daughters, and the captivity of Samaria and her daughters, then + will I bring again the captivity of thy captives in the midst of + them. That thou mayest bear thine own shame, and mayest be + confounded in all that thou hast done, in that thou art a comfort + unto them. When thy sisters, Sodom and her daughters, shall return + to their former estate, and Samaria and her daughters shall return + to their former estate, then thou and thy daughters shall return to + your former estate.</span></span>—In the resurrection of the dead, + <span class="tei tei-q">“just and unjust”</span> (Acts 24:15), + Jerusalem, in shame, will face Sodom and Samaria, confounded and + abased by the fact that her evil practices justified, excused and + <span class="tei tei-q">“comforted”</span> Sodom and Samaria. + Likewise ecclesiasticism, the clergy and their following of + <span class="tei tei-q">“best people”</span>, will be in shame over + the fact that their iniquity was an incentive to the evil doing of + the baser elements of Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:56-59. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + thy sister Sodom was not mentioned by thy mouth in the day of thy + pride. Before thy wickedness was discovered, as at the time of thy + reproach of the daughters of Syria, and all that are round about + her, the daughters of the Philistines, which despise thee round + about. Thou hast borne thy lewdness and thine abominations, saith + the Lord. For thus saith the Lord God; I will even deal with thee + as thou hast done, which hast despised</span> <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page446">[pg 446]</span><a name="Pg446" id="Pg446" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">the oath in breaking the + covenant.</span></span>—Among a proud and corrupt <span class= + "tei tei-q">“best”</span> people it was a tabooed subject even to + mention the depravities of the <span class="tei tei-q">“worser + kind”</span>; but in the last two score years of merciless + <span class="tei tei-q">“muckraking”</span> and publicity of + <span class="tei tei-q">“Christian”</span> criminality in choir + lofts, Sunday School rooms, church <span class= + "tei tei-q">“studies”</span>, belfries, orphan asylums and + convents, <span class="tei tei-q">“the wickedness was + discovered”</span> of clergy and church people, and so widely + published that the heathen religions (daughters of Syria and of the + Philistines) have come to know about it and to despise so-called + <span class="tei tei-q">“Christianity.”</span> Christendom has + despised its vow of consecration to God and the Covenant of Grace, + by which <span class="tei tei-q">“We, as Isaac was, are the + children of the Promise.”</span> (Gal. 4:28), and under which she + was betrothed to Christ. God will deal with Christendom in like + manner as Christendom has dealt with God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:60. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Nevertheless, I will remember My covenant + with thee in the days of thy youth, and I will establish unto thee + an everlasting covenant.</span></span>—Nevertheless, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“God is faithful”</span>, (1 Cor. 1:9); and as He made + a covenant with the church in the pure and faithful days of her + youth, He will remember that covenant, and in the Times of + Restitution will make with all people, through the Jews, the New + Covenant, everlasting, under which there will be showers of + blessing.—Ezek. 34:26.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:61. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + thou shalt remember thy ways, and be ashamed, when thou shalt + receive thy sisters, thine elder and thy younger: and I will give + them unto thee for daughters, but not by thy + covenant.</span></span>—When the people of Christendom, come back + from the dead to life on the earth they will remember their evil, + faithless ways, and experience deepest shame when people of the + baser sort are given to them as daughters, to love and cherish in + the Lord.—D. 633.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:62. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will establish My covenant with thee: and thou shalt know that I + am the Lord.</span></span>—The coming blessings are not for any + faithfulness of Christendom, but because God is faithful.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">16:63. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That + thou mayest remember, and be confounded, and never open thy mouth + any more because of thy shame, when I am pacified toward thee for + all that thou hast done, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—Then the + once apostate people, at last returned to <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the Bishop and Shepherd of their souls”</span> (1 Pet. + 2:25), will realize the fullness of God's eternal goodness and + love, and come into the peace of God (Phil. 4:7)—a peace that will + be eternal.—A. 111; Z. '94-46.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page447">[pg 447]</span><a name= + "Pg447" id="Pg447" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc91" id="toc91"></a> <a name="pdf92" id="pdf92"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 17—Parable Of The + Eagles</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:1, 2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the Word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, put forth a + riddle, and speak a parable, unto the house of + Israel.</span></span>—Chapter 17 pictures ecclesiasticism as a + king, his partial captivity to the forces destined to destroy him, + his turning for support to the forces of worldly wisdom and power, + the failure of the attempted alliance, and his final downfall.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + say, Thus saith the Lord God, A great eagle with great wings, + long-winged, full of feathers, which had divers colours, came unto + Lebanon and took the highest branch of the cedar.</span></span>—The + Assyrians (a great eagle) with great wings, long-winged, full of + feathers (strong of wing, powerful), which had divers colors (many + varieties and phases of appearance) came to Lebanon (the Hebrew + kingdom) and took the highest branch of the cedar (carried King + Jehoiachim captive). In antitype this signifies: The power destined + to destroy Christendom (anarchy, Nihilism, Socialism, and their + wisdom expressed in schools of thought tending to destroy respect + for Christendom) like an eagle (wise one) with great wings + (impressive words) long-winged (far-reaching), full of feathers + (full of argument), has quietly made its way into Christendom since + 1878 and taken captive the highest ones, many of the leading class + of Christendom (the Cedar) with doctrines of Evolution, Socialism, + and Higher Criticism, all destructive of the existing order of + things.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + cropped off the top of his twigs, and carried it into a land of + traffick; he set it in a city of merchants.</span></span>—These + were taken captive by these systems of thought into a condition + where the Heavenly ideals of the church were abandoned for mere + trafficking for position and power, and in human, earthly theories + and philosophies.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + took also of the seed of the land, and planted it in a fruitful + field; he placed it by great waters, and set it as a willow + tree.</span></span>—The remaining people of ecclesiasticism, more + lowly, the seed from whom had once sprung the ruling classes, will + be planted in rich, deep soil, well saturated with waters of the + great truths of fraternity, equality and liberty.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page448">[pg 448]</span><a name="Pg448" id="Pg448" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it grew, and became a spreading vine of low stature, whose branches + turned toward him, and the roots thereof were under him: so it + became a vine, and brought forth branches, and shot forth + sprigs.</span></span>—The new ecclesiasticism, fostered by + revivalists, evangelists, social and civic workers and other + earthly reformers, will grow and flourish into a form of + ecclesiasticism, low, never far above earthly things, whose numbers + (branches) tended toward anarchous systems of thought, and whose + roots, fundamental philosophy, will be under the sway of the + same.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:7, 8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">There was also another great eagle with + great wings and many feathers: and, behold, this vine did bend her + roots toward him, and shot forth her branches toward him, that he + might water it by the furrows of her plantation. It was planted in + a good soil by great waters, that it might bring forth branches, + and that it might bear fruit, that it might be a goodly + vine.</span></span>—But the new, low-born ecclesiasticism, alarmed + at the anarchous trend of thought, shall turn toward another great + system of wisdom (an eagle) equally of demoniacal origin; i. e., + conservative, worldly wisdom tending to uphold the present unholy + state of affairs.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Say + thou, Thus saith the Lord God: Shall it prosper? shall he not pull + up the roots thereof, cut off the fruit thereof, that it wither? It + shall wither in all the leaves of her spring, even without great + power or many people to pluck it up by the roots + thereof.</span></span>—The time of God's Kingdom having come, God + purposes to uproot the new ecclesiasticism. Its character fruitage, + being of the spirit of this world, must be cut off and withered in + the fiery trials of this tribulation time. Its promise (leaves) + shall wither away, even as it has withered wherever the great war + has touched.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yea, + behold, being planted, shall it prosper? shall it not utterly + wither, when the east wind toucheth it? It shall wither in the + furrows where it grew.</span></span>—From the east, the direction + of the rising Sun of Righteousness comes a wind, a teaching, + Present Truth, that shall touch the new ecclesiasticism and wither + it in a time when there is <span class="tei tei-q">“perplexity and + distress of nations, men's hearts failing them for fear of the + things coming on the earth”</span> (Luke 21:24, 25)—the social + order—ecclesiasticism—<span class="tei tei-q">“the + vine.”</span>—Rev. 14:18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:11, 12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover the word of the Lord came unto + me saying, Say now to the rebellious house, Know ye not what these + things mean? tell them, Behold, the King of Babylon is come to + Jerusalem, and hath taken the king thereof, and the princes + thereof, and led them with him</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page449">[pg 449]</span><a name="Pg449" id="Pg449" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">to + Babylon.</span></span>—The king of Babylon, Satan, has already come + to ecclesiasticism and taken captive the ruling class, the + prominent clergy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + hath taken of the king's seed, and made a covenant with him, and + hath taken an oath of him; he hath also taken the mighty of the + land.</span></span>—He holds the chief ones captive by reason of + their agreement with his modern, false, religious, social and + economic teachings.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That + the kingdom might be base, that it might not lift itself up, but + that by keeping of his covenant it might stand.</span></span>—As a + result ecclesiasticism will not be able to rise above earthly + things nor lift itself up to combat anarchous systems of thought. + If it could do so, it might not be overthrown immediately, but + might continue to stand for yet a little while.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + he rebelled against him in sending his ambassadors into Egypt that + they might give him horses and much people. Shall he prosper? shall + he escape that doeth such things? or shall he break the covenant, + and be delivered?</span></span>—Ecclesiasticism has rebelled by + crying out to the established wisdom of this world (Egypt), relying + upon strong, conservative worldly doctrines (horses) and many + supporters of the reactionary ideas, to save it from complete + overthrow.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As I + live, saith the Lord God, surely in the place where the king + dwelleth that made him king, whose oath he despised, and whose + covenant he brake, even with him in the midst of Babylon he shall + die.</span></span>—As God lives! In the condition of lawlessness, + wherein Satan, the king of anarchy, liveth, who elevated + ecclesiasticism to its place of power, there, in anarchy, in the + midst of lawless hosts, shall ecclesiasticism perish.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Neither shall Pharaoh with his mighty + army and great company make for him in the war, by casting up + mounts, and building forts, to cut off many + persons.</span></span>—Neither shall worldly wisdom, with its + mighty following, accomplish anything for ecclesiasticism in its + death struggle with anarchy, not even by raising up governmental + support (mounts) nor by the united efforts of the strongest + elements of this world's might.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:18, 19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Seeing he despised the oath by breaking + the covenant, when, lo, he had given his hand, and hath done all + these things, he shall not escape. Therefore thus saith the Lord + God; As I live, surely Mine oath that he hath despised, and My + covenant that he hath broken, even it will I recompense upon his + own head.</span></span>—Ecclesiasticism has been faithless to + Jehovah and will be faithless to its newly acquired + philosophy.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page450">[pg + 450]</span><a name="Pg450" id="Pg450" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will spread My net upon him, and he shall be taken in My snare, + and I will bring him to Babylon and will plead with him there for + his trespass that he hath trespassed against Me.</span></span>—Like + a snare, a net, shall the Time of Trouble come upon + ecclesiasticism; and it shall not escape destruction at the hands + of anarchy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + all his fugitives with all his bands shall fall by the sword, and + they that remain shall be scattered toward all winds: and ye shall + know that I the Lord have spoken it.</span></span>—Millions that + abandon churches and clergy in the trouble shall fall physically by + violence, and be slain spiritually by the Sword of the Spirit; and + those that escape death shall be scattered in the world-wide + commotion (winds) far from the systems they once supported. They + shall know that God has spoken truly, when the day of anarchy shall + come.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God: I will also take of the highest branch of the + high cedar, and will set it; I will crop off from the top of his + young twigs a tender one, and will plant it upon a high mountain + and eminent.</span></span>—Thus says the Lord God: One of the + highest branches of ecclesiasticism is Judaism. I will establish + Judaism. I will take, in Judaism, one of its young and tender + aspirations—Zionism—and will plant it, establish it at the very + pinnacle of the coming Kingdom of God—the Jews ruling, through the + resurrected Ancient Worthies—Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, etc.—over the + earthly phase of that Kingdom.—Psa. 45:16; Heb. 11:10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + the mountains of the height of Israel will I plant it; and it shall + bring forth boughs, and bear fruit, and be a goodly cedar; and + under it shall dwell all fowl of every wing; in the shadow of the + branches thereof shall they dwell.</span></span>—It shall branch + above all nations (boughs) and bear character fruit unto life + eternal. (John 4:36.) It shall be the desire of all nations (Hag. + 2:7) (a goodly cedar). Under it shall dwell in peace all the truly + wise ones of earth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">17:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + all the trees of the field shall knew that I the Lord have brought + down the high tree, have exalted the low tree, have dried up the + green tree, and have made the dry tree to flourish: I the Lord have + spoken and have done it.</span></span>—All the people (trees) of + the world (field) shall know that the Lord has brought down nominal + ecclesiasticism and exalted the Ancient Worthies, has dried up + <span class="tei tei-q">“Christianity”</span> and given vitality to + Zionism and Judaism.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page451">[pg 451]</span><a name= + "Pg451" id="Pg451" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc93" id="toc93"></a> <a name="pdf94" id="pdf94"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 18—</span><span class= + "tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 144%">“</span><span style="font-size: 144%">The Soul + That Sinneth</span><span style= + "font-size: 144%">”</span></span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:1, 2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Word of the Lord came unto me again, saying, What mean ye, that ye + use this proverb concerning the land of Israel, saying, the fathers + have eaten sour grapes, and the children's teeth are set on + edge?</span></span>—The Word of God came to be clearly understood + by Pastor Russell as to the equity of Jehovah's dealings with man + in condemning all to death. Both Jews and Christians have asked, + <span class="tei tei-q">“How is it just to visit the sins of the + fathers upon the children to the third and fourth + generations?”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“Why have the + children's teeth been set on edge by the fathers' eating the sour + grape of sin?”</span>—H. 59; E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">334</span></span>, + 309.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As I + live, saith the Lord God, ye shall not have occasion any more to + use this proverb in Israel.</span></span>—The doubters queried, + <span class="tei tei-q">“Doth not the son bear the iniquity of the + father?”</span> (18:19.) They complained, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The way of the Lord is not equal”</span> nor just. + (18:25.) Pastor Russell, expounding the Word of God, demonstrated + clearly that God's way is just (18:25); that man's ways are + unequal, unjust (18:29); and that God takes no <span class= + "tei tei-q">“pleasure at all that the wicked should die, but rather + that he should turn from his ways and live.”</span> (18:23-32.) The + time will soon be when the scornful proverb shall no longer possess + any force.—H. 46.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, all souls are Mine; as the soul + of the father, so also the soul of the son is Mine; the soul that + sinneth, it shall die.</span></span>—In the earthly phase of the + thousand-year probationary Kingdom of God the equal justice of God + will be manifest, father and son will be treated alike, no one + dying for a parent's sin; but each soul that sinneth shall die for + his own sin.—E. <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">354</span></span>, 331; A. 128.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:5-9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + if a man be just, and do that which is lawful and right, And hath + not eaten upon the mountains, neither hath lifted up his eyes to + the idols of the house of Israel, neither hath defiled his + neighbour's wife, neither hath come near to a menstruous woman, and + hath not oppressed any, but hath restored to the debtor his pledge, + hath spoiled none by violence, hath given his bread to the hungry, + and hath covered the naked with a garment; he that hath not given + forth upon usury, neither hath taken any increase, that hath + withdrawn his hand from iniquity,</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page452">[pg 452]</span><a name="Pg452" id="Pg452" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">hath + executed true judgment between man and man, hath walked in My + statutes, and hath kept My judgments, to deal truly; he is just, he + shall surely live, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—The Father of + equal love will beseech each sinner to repent and turn from his + transgression, that iniquity, wilful sin, be not his ruin. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Wherefore turn yourselves and live + ye.”</span> (Ezek. 18:30, 32.) The days of death from Adamic and + parental imperfection will be over; each one will be solely + responsible for his own life or death. To clearly explain the + changed situation the several cases are presented. If a righteous + man continue in a righteous course he shall live eternally.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:10-13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">If + he beget a son that is a robber, a shedder of blood, and that doeth + the like to any one of these things, And that doeth not any of + those duties, but even hath eaten upon the mountains, and defiled + his neighbour's wife, hath oppressed the poor and needy, hath + spoiled by violence, hath not restored the pledge, and hath lifted + up his eyes to the idols, hath committed abomination, hath given + forth upon usury, and hath taken increase: shall he then live? he + shall not live: he hath done all these abominations; he shall + surely die; his blood shall be upon him.</span></span>—If a man's + son is a wilful sinner, <span class="tei tei-q">“he shall surely + die; his blood shall be upon himself.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:14-18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Now, + lo, if he beget a son, that seeth all his father's sins which he + hath done, and considereth, and doeth not such like, that hath not + eaten upon the mountains, neither hath lifted up his eyes to the + idols of the house of Israel, hath not defiled his neighbour's + wife, neither hath oppressed any, hath not withholden the pledge, + neither hath spoiled by violence, but hath given his bread to the + hungry, and hath covered the naked with a garment, that hath taken + off his hand from the poor, that hath not received usury nor + increase, hath executed My Judgments, hath walked in My statutes; + he shall not die for the iniquity of his father, he shall surely + live. As for his father, because he cruelly oppressed, spoiled his + brother by violence, and did that which is not good among his + people, lo, even he shall die in his iniquity.</span></span>—If the + wicked man have a good, upright son, the good son shall live; but + the father shall die.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:19-23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yet + say ye, Why? doth not the son bear the iniquity of the father? When + the son hath done that which is lawful and right, and hath kept all + My statutes, and hath done them, he shall surely live. The soul + that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of + the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: + the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon</span> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page453">[pg 453]</span><a name= + "Pg453" id="Pg453" class="tei tei-anchor"></a><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">him, and the wickedness of the wicked + shall be upon him. But if the wicked will turn from all his sins + that he hath committed, and keep all My statutes, and do that which + is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. All + his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be + mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall + live. Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith + the Lord God: and not that he should return from his ways, and + live?</span></span>—The wicked man who turns to righteousness shall + not have his former sins held against him; but he shall live.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:24-30. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and + committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations + that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness + that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he + hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall + he die. Yet ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. Hear now, O + house of Israel; is not My way equal? are not your ways unequal? + When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and + committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he + hath done shall he die. Again, when the wicked man turneth away + from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is + lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive. Because he + considereth, and turneth away from all his transgressions that he + hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die. Yet saith + the house of Israel, The way of the Lord is not equal. O house of + Israel, are not My ways equal? are not your ways unequal? Therefore + I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his + ways, saith the Lord God. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your + transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your + ruin.</span></span>—The righteous man who turns to iniquity shall + die.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">18:31, 32. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Cast + away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have + transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why + will ye die, O house of Israel? For I have no pleasure in the death + of him that dieth, saith the Lord God: wherefore turn yourselves, + and live ye.</span></span>—This will be true of individuals as soon + as the last member of the spirit-begotten Body of Christ has died. + And it is true now—and has been true since 1878—of the institutions + of <span class="tei tei-q">“this present evil age,”</span> which + have been in Divine judgment since 1878. If ecclesiasticism, + <span class="tei tei-q">“the house of Israel,”</span> would cast + away all their transgressions, and gain a new heart and a new + spirit, they would abide forever; but they will never change their + evil ways; their destruction will be their own wilful + act—<span class="tei tei-q">“Why will ye die?”</span></p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page454">[pg 454]</span><a name= + "Pg454" id="Pg454" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc95" id="toc95"></a> <a name="pdf96" id="pdf96"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 19—The Lion's + Whelps</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover, take thou up a lamentation for + the princes of Israel.</span></span>—Chapter 19 has the form of a + dirge. It represents in antitype the downfall, in the Time of + Trouble, of ecclesiasticism pictured first, as two roaring lions + which are taken captive; and secondly, as a vine destroyed by fire + of internal origin. The princes of Israel are the clergy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + say, What is thy mother? A lioness: she lay down among lions, she + nourished her whelps among young lions.</span></span>—As the father + and the mother of Isaac were Abraham and Sarah, and the spiritual + father and mother of the true Church are Jehovah and His Covenant + of Grace (Gal. 4:22-28), so the spiritual father and mother of + ecclesiasticism, priestcraft, are the Devil and his covenant with + death. (Gen. 3:4; Isa. 28:18.) <span class="tei tei-q">“The Devil + goeth about like a roaring lion.”</span> (1 Pet. 5:8.) Their + nourishment has been <span class="tei tei-q">“doctrines of + devils.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + she brought up one of her whelps; it became a young lion, and it + learned to catch the prey; it devoured + men.</span></span>—Ecclesiasticism divided into two classes; one + higher, richer, more educated than the other—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“one of her whelps.”</span> They learned to devour men, + make them their prey.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + nations also heard of him; he was taken in their pit, and they + brought him with chains unto the land of Egypt.</span></span>—The + unbelieving peoples heard them; they, the clergy, were taken in the + pit of corrupt doctrine; they were captivated, taken captive, into + worldliness, the wisdom of this world, of <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Egypt.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Now + when she saw that she had waited, and her hope was lost, then she + took another of her whelps, and made him a young + lion.</span></span>—Another class of ecclesiasticism was developed, + under the same false covenant with death, into a full-fledged lion, + an embodiment and child of the eternal torment, trinity, + inherent-immortality teachings.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he went up and down among the lions, he became a young lion, and + learned to catch the prey, and devoured men.</span></span>—This was + the popular evangelist well trained in catching men and + shekels.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he knew their desolate palaces, and he laid waste their cities; and + the land was desolate, and the fulness thereof, by the noise of his + roaring.</span></span>—The revivalists caught men by thousands, and + <span class="tei tei-q">“the fulness thereof,”</span> great + contributions for a few weeks of noisy evangelism.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page455">[pg 455]</span><a name="Pg455" id="Pg455" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + the nations set against him on every side from the provinces, and + spread their net over him; he was taken in their + pit.</span></span>—Then the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“unconvertible”</span> people, anarchists, Socialists, + etc., spread the net of their teachings. The people, indignant at + their sufferings from wars and high cost of living, declined + further support.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they put in ward in chains, and brought him to the king of Babylon: + they brought him into holds, that his voice should no more be heard + upon the mountains of Israel.</span></span>—Revolution and anarchy + will place a complete restraint upon the revivalists, and bring + them to their end.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + mother is like a vine in thy blood, planted by the waters: she was + fruitful and full of branches by reason of many + waters.</span></span>—The false covenant-mother of ecclesiasticism + is a system of thought, in the very blood; it is part and parcel of + the existence of ecclesiasticism. It is <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the vine of the earth,”</span> of Rev. 14:19. This + system of error was once fruitful in gaining adherents.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + she had strong rods for the sceptres of them that bare rule, and + her stature was exalted among the thick branches, and she appeared + in her height with the multitude of her branches.</span></span>—The + vine had seeming strong authority for the rulership <span class= + "tei tei-q">“of them that bare rule,”</span> the clergy, + <span class="tei tei-q">“lords over God's heritage.”</span> (1 Pet. + 5:3.) To a mighty and lofty height did the vine of the earth + grow.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + she was plucked up in fury, she was cast down to the ground, and + the east wind dried up her fruit: her strong rods were broken and + withered; the fire consumed them.</span></span>—But in the fury of + the world-wide war she will be <span class="tei tei-q">“cast down + to the ground.”</span> The truths arising from the presence of the + dawning Sun of Righteousness will dry up the support of her fruit + (church members). Her authority—rod—will be broken, withered, and + destroyed in anarchy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + now she is planted in the wilderness, in a dry and thirsty + ground.</span></span>—In a world of hostile doctrines of Socialism + and anarchy, in a world-wide drought of the water of the Word of + God, the old system of sophistries will soon be in the wilderness + condition, in a state of complete ostracism.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">19:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + fire is gone out of a rod of her branches, which hath devoured her + fruit, so that she hath no strong rod to be a sceptre to rule. This + is a lamentation, and shall be for a lamentation.</span></span>—The + savage application in the world-wide war of the rod of the Divine + authority of rulers will cause revolt, revolution and anarchy to + spring up, like a fire, which will bring to an utter end the + denominational clusters, the fruit of the vine of the earth.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page456">[pg 456]</span><a name= + "Pg456" id="Pg456" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc97" id="toc97"></a> <a name="pdf98" id="pdf98"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 20—The Hypocritical + Ecclesiastics</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it came to pass in the seventh year, in the fifth month, the tenth + day of the month, that certain of the elders of Israel came to + inquire of the Lord, and sat before me.</span></span>—The elders of + Israel came to confer with Ezekiel, but he would not be interviewed + by them, because of their idolatrous tendencies. The Hebrews had + always had such propensities. God had refrained from destroying + them in order to preserve His own good name among the heathen + peoples; but now He was about to punish them, until the appointed + time should come when He would regather them. The destruction of + Judaism is here pictured as a fire in a forest. This chapter + introduces another group of prophecies against Christendom, ending + with Chapter 24. Some of the prominent ecclesiastics will read up + or consult Pastor Russell and his writings, and the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Truth people,”</span> ostensibly to learn what they + can.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:2, 3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + came the Word of the Lord unto me, saying, Son of man, speak unto + the elders of Israel, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; + Are ye come to inquire of Me? As I live, saith the Lord God, I will + not be inquired of by you.</span></span>—Present Truth will refuse + any favorable answer to ecclesiasticism.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Wilt + thou judge them, son of man, wilt thou judge them? cause them to + know the abominations of their fathers.</span></span>—Instead, it + will pronounce judgment upon them. It will cause them to realize + the abominations in doctrine and in life of professed Christians, + as a result of the teachings of the Dark Ages.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God: in the day when I chose + Israel, and lifted up Mine hand unto the seed of the house of + Jacob, and made Myself known unto them in the land of Egypt, when I + lifted up Mine hand unto them, saying, I am the Lord your + God.</span></span>—First viewed as God's people <span class= + "tei tei-q">“in the world,”</span> Egypt, God chose them, made + Himself known to them, and lifted up for them the hand of His + power.—Z. '94-357.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + the day that I lifted up Mine hand unto them, to bring them forth + of the land of Egypt into a land that I had espied for them, + flowing with milk and honey, which is the glory of all + lands.</span></span>—He promised to bring them in <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page457">[pg 457]</span><a name="Pg457" id="Pg457" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> the resurrection, if faithful, into the + <span class="tei tei-q">“mansion”</span> prepared for them—Heaven + itself, the most glorious condition in God's Universe.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + said I unto them, Cast ye away every man the abominations of his + eyes, and defile not yourselves with the idols of Egypt: I am the + Lord your God.</span></span>—God had told them to cast away all + filthiness of the flesh and the spirit (2 Cor. 7:1), to do away + with the desire of things seen with the fleshly eyes (1 John 2:16), + and no longer to defile themselves spiritually with cravings for + earthly power. But while professing Christ's name, they rebelled in + their heart against God, and would not listen to Him.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + they rebelled against Me, and would not hearken unto Me: they did + not every man cast away the abominations of their eyes, neither did + they forsake the idols of Egypt: then I said, I will pour out My + fury upon them, to accomplish My anger against them in the midst of + the land of Egypt.</span></span>—Over and over, throughout the + Gospel Age, God was indignant enough to bring destruction upon + them; but He did not, in order that His name and reputation might + not come into disrespect among the worldly people, who were taught + by professing Christians that God was with them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:9, 10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + I wrought for My name's sake, that it should not be polluted before + the heathen, among whom they were, in whose sight I made Myself + known unto them, in bringing them forth out of the land of Egypt. + Wherefore I caused them to go forth out of the land of Egypt, and + brought them into the wilderness.</span></span>—God's Word views + professing Christians also as in the wilderness condition of + separateness from and ostracism by the worldly—as <span class= + "tei tei-q">“brought forth out of the land of Egypt.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover also I gave them My sabbaths, to + be a sign between Me and them, that they might know that I am the + Lord that sanctifieth them.</span></span>—He gave them the + privilege of entering in advance of the world into His sabbath + (Millennial) rest—the rest of peace with God by faith, of + justification freely given through the blood of the <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page458">[pg 458]</span><a name="Pg458" id="Pg458" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> Son of God. The Lord Himself set them + apart for His holy service.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + the house of Israel rebelled against Me in the wilderness: they + walked not in My statutes, and they despised My judgments, which if + a man do, he shall even live in them; and My sabbaths they greatly + polluted: then I said, I would pour out My fury upon them in the + wilderness, to consume them.</span></span>—As a class, professed + Christians have rebelled against being in the wilderness condition + of separateness from and ostracism by the worldly. They have lived + not according to the Law of Divine Love, but have despised the + opportunities of the trial period. They have despised the + Scriptural doctrine of the Millennium, and have made a common thing + of the rest of faith by introducing all kinds of penances, masses, + alms, and other deeds whereby to earn the peace with God, freely + offered through faith in Jesus' atoning Sacrifice. Often was God + indignant enough to destroy them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + I wrought for My name's sake, that it should not be polluted before + the heathen, in whose sight I brought them out.</span></span>—But + for His own name's sake, not theirs, God refrained from permitting + the Time of Trouble to come before the appointed time, that the + people of this world might not belittle Him and His protecting + power.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:15, 16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yet + also I lifted up My hand unto them in the wilderness, that I would + not bring them into the land which I had given them, flowing with + milk and honey, which is the glory of all lands; because they + despised My judgments, and walked not in My statutes, but polluted + My sabbaths: for their heart went after their + idols.</span></span>—Yet the Word of God has made it plain that + those in the wilderness condition who have not given their whole + heart to God shall not be changed to the spirit nature and brought + to the Heavenly plane of being.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:17-21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Nevertheless Mine eye spared them from + destroying them, neither did I make an end of them in the + wilderness. But I said unto their children in the wilderness, Walk + ye not in the statutes of your fathers, neither observe their + judgments, nor defile yourselves with their idols: I am the Lord + your God; walk in My statutes, and keep My judgments, and do them; + and hallow My sabbaths; and they shall be a sign between Me and + you, that ye may know that I am the Lord your God. Notwithstanding, + the children rebelled against Me; they walked not in My statutes, + neither kept My judgments to do them, which if a man do, he shall + even live in them; they polluted My sabbaths: then I said, I would + pour out My fury upon them to accomplish My anger against them in + the wilderness.</span></span>—God <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page459">[pg 459]</span><a name="Pg459" id="Pg459" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> did not at once destroy those in the + wilderness condition, but gave the same fatherly admonition to + those who succeeded them, all in vain.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:22-24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Nevertheless I withdrew Mine hand, and + wrought for My name's sake, that it should not be polluted in the + sight of the heathen, in whose sight I brought them forth. I lifted + up Mine hand unto them also in the wilderness, that I would scatter + them among the heathen, and disperse them through the countries; + because they had not executed My judgments, but had despised My + statutes, and had polluted My sabbaths, and their eyes, were after + their fathers' idols.</span></span>—God repeated His forbearance, + in not scattering them back into the world, nor destroying + them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Wherefore I gave them also statutes that + were not good, and judgments whereby they should not + live.</span></span>—At last God gave them up <span class= + "tei tei-q">“to their own heart's desires”</span> (Psa. 81:12), to + <span class="tei tei-q">“worship the hosts of heaven,”</span> their + own pulpit stars (Acts 7:42), who <span class="tei tei-q">“changed + the truth of God into a lie,”</span> into <span class= + "tei tei-q">“human traditions,”</span> and <span class= + "tei tei-q">“worshipped and served created things rather than the + Creator”</span> (Rom. 1:25)—following evil statutes, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“customs,”</span> and enduring worldly trials and + temptations, bringing them, not life, but death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I polluted them in their own gifts, in that they caused to pass + through the fire all that openeth the womb, that I might make them + desolate, to the end that they might know that I am the + Lord.</span></span>—God gave them up to doctrinal pollutions, in + that they believed in and worshipped the eternal torment god, + Moloch, the Devil, and singed, scorched spiritually, with the fear + of <span class="tei tei-q">“the hot place,”</span> all their + children, those young in nominal Christianity. (Jer. 32:35.) This + caused them to be desolate, deserted, abandoned by the true God, + like the heathen without God—though not that God might ultimately + destroy them; for in the Times of Restitution they will by contrast + appreciate the true God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:27-28. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore, son of man, speak unto the + house of Israel, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; Yet in + this your fathers have blasphemed Me, in that they have committed a + trespass against Me. For when I had brought them into the land, for + the which I lifted up Mine hand to give it to them, then they saw + every high hill, and all the thick trees, and they offered there + their sacrifices, and there they presented the provocation of their + offering: there also they made their sweet savour, and poured out + there their drink offerings.</span></span>—The Christian's course + was typed by the experience of the Hebrews in the land of Canaan + (Isa. 57:5), in the blessedness of Divine favor and <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page460">[pg 460]</span><a name="Pg460" id="Pg460" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> in the abundance of God's gifts. When + brought into this condition of favor, instead of being thankful and + giving their whole hearts to God in devoted consecration, the great + mass of professing Christians committed the same abominations that + the heathen were guilty of—union of church with worldly power, + making the high ones the heads of the church, as the King of + England and the Czar of Russia; doing homage to all of earth's + great ones (the thick trees); rendering service and obedience + (sweet savor) to traditions of men; and preaching (pouring out) + strong doctrines, intoxicating wine of their mixed teachings (drink + offerings).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:29. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + I said unto them, What is the high place whereunto ye go? And the + name thereof is called Bamah unto this day.</span></span>—In verse + 29 Ezekiel speaks with contempt of the Hebrew apostasy. He uses a + play upon words, not apparent in the English translation. He asks + them, <span class="tei tei-q">“Mah ba”</span> (Where go?), and + answers, <span class="tei tei-q">“Ba-mah”</span> (the high places) + is the name to this day. Pastor Russell frequently spoke with + contempt—deserved, from the Divine viewpoint—of the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“high-place,”</span> nominal church, her clergy and her + laity, always going to the <span class="tei tei-q">“high + ones.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:30. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Wherefore say unto the house of Israel, + Thus saith the Lord God; Are ye polluted after the manner of your + fathers? and commit ye whoredom after their + abominations?</span></span>—Again, in the phase of captivity in + <span class="tei tei-q">“Babylon,”</span> the Lord's people were + guilty of doctrinal and moral pollution and of illicit union of + church and earthly power.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:31. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + when ye offer your gifts, when ye make your sons to pass through + the fire, ye pollute yourselves with all your idols, even unto this + day: and shall I be inquired of by you, O house of Israel? As I + live, saith the Lord God, I will not be inquired of by + you.</span></span>—God will not even listen to the prayers of such + professed Christians.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:32. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + that which cometh into your mind shall not be all, that ye say, We + will be as the heathen, as the families of the countries, to serve + wood and stone.</span></span>—Their heart's real desire to become + good-fellows in the world's fellowship (Jer. 44:17) shall fail.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:33. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As I + live, saith the Lord God, surely with a mighty hand, and with a + stretched out arm, and with fury poured out, will I rule over + you.</span></span>—God began at the appointed time, 1914, to punish + the accumulated sins of Christendom <span class="tei tei-q">“with a + mighty hand (power) and with a stretched out arm”</span> (Christ + present the Second time, Isa. 53:1), and with fury poured out + <span class="tei tei-q">“a great Time of Trouble such as never + was”</span> (Dan. 12:1), and which the Lord declared would never + require a repetition.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page461">[pg + 461]</span><a name="Pg461" id="Pg461" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:34. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will bring you out from the people, and will gather you out of + the countries wherein ye are scattered, with a mighty hand, and + with a stretched out arm, and with fury poured + out.</span></span>—But even this tribulation will be done in a + Father's love and for the good of His erring children, to cleanse + them. Through this trouble God will search out all professed + Christians, make them manifestly separate from the openly + worldly.—Z. '94-76.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:35. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will bring you into the wilderness of the people, and there will + I plead with you face to face.</span></span>—God will bring them + into a wilderness condition of separateness from the world and of + ostracism and persecution by the revolutionary and anarchistic + masses, and face to face He will plead with the nominal church to + forsake evil and idolatry.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:36. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Like + as I pleaded with your fathers in the wilderness of the land of + Egypt, so will I plead with you, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—As He did with the Hebrews in their trial time + in the Wilderness of Sinai.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:37. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will cause you to pass under the rod, and I will bring you into + the bond of the covenant.</span></span>—God will cause His people, + all those not utterly devoid of the Holy Spirit—<span class= + "tei tei-q">“the Great Company”</span> in the churches—to pass + under the rod of correction and to resume their fidelity to their + vow of consecration.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:38. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will purge out from among you the rebels, and them that + transgress against Me: I will bring them forth out of the country + where they sojourn, and they shall not enter into the land of + Israel: and ye shall know that I am the Lord.</span></span>—He will + permit conditions of persecution by Socialists, revolutionists, + syndicalists, nihilists and anarchists, against persons professing + Christianity (<span class="tei tei-q">“the religion that got the + world into trouble”</span>), such that every person not possessing + the Holy Spirit will renounce all pretense of being Christian and + will get out of the deplorable condition (country) wherein the true + Christians will be. This outcast class, being entirely <span class= + "tei tei-q">“of the earth, earthy,”</span> shall not enter the + spiritual phase of the Kingdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:39. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + for you, O house of Israel, thus saith the Lord God; Go ye, serve + ye every one his idols, and hereafter also, if ye will not hearken + unto Me: but pollute ye My holy name no more with your gifts, and + with your idols.</span></span>—Let who will then serve their idols; + but they shall no longer associate themselves with God's children, + nor falsely bear the name of Christ, nor pollute God's holy name + nor His Church with their presence or their practices. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“If the Lord be God, <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">follow + Him</span></em>; if Baal, follow <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">him</span></em>.”</span></p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page462">[pg 462]</span><a name="Pg462" id="Pg462" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:40. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + in Mine holy mountain, in the mountain of the height of Israel, + saith the Lord God, there shall all the house of Israel, all of + them in the land, serve Me: there will I accept them, and there + will I require your offerings, and the first fruits of your + oblations, with all your holy things.</span></span>—God wounds to + heal. In the real <span class="tei tei-q">“high places,”</span> the + Kingdom of God now at hand, planned for man's blessed restitution, + all who are truly God's shall serve Him, some in the spiritual + phase of the Kingdom, some in the earthly phase. (Mal. 3:3, 4.) + There God will accept all comers, <span class="tei tei-q">“The + Spirit and the Bride say, Come ... and whosoever will, let him take + of the Water of Life freely”</span> (Rev. 22:17.) There God will + accept their offerings of themselves in heartfelt consecration, and + the first and best of their offerings and all their possessions, + then hallowed by the influences of the Kingdom of Love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:41. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + will accept you with your sweet savour, when I bring you out from + the people, and gather you out of the countries wherein ye have + been scattered, and I will be sanctified in you before the + heathen.</span></span>—God will accept their heart's best endeavors + (incense), when He gathers His children—His spirit children and His + earth children—out from the prison-house of death, and out from the + dark shadows of a world-wide heathenism. Then God win be seen to be + holy, sanctified, in His children, in the sight of all the + Satan-blinded idolaters of earth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:42. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + ye shall know that I am the Lord, when I shall bring you into the + land of Israel, into the country for the which I lifted up Mine + hand to give it to your fathers.</span></span>—God's children, who + have not known Him as He is, will know Him then as the God of + infinite Justice, Wisdom, Love and Power,—when they shall be + established in the Kingdom, in whatever phase they are fitted + for—the Kingdom whose earthly phase God promised to give to + Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and all the Ancient Worthies (Psa. 45:16), + and whose Heavenly phase He covenanted to give to the spirit class + of the Gospel Age.—Heb. 11:40.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:43. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there shall ye remember your ways, and all your doings, wherein ye + have been defiled; and ye shall loathe yourselves in your own sight + for all your evils that ye have committed.</span></span>—Then those + who have not loved the God of Love as they should shall remember + their former ways and loathe themselves for the evil done against + such Love Divine.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:44. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + ye shall know that I am the Lord, when I have wrought with you for + My name's sake, not according to your wicked ways, nor according to + your corrupt doings, O ye house of Israel, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—They will humbly, <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page463">[pg 463]</span><a name="Pg463" id="Pg463" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> thankfully and with fervent gratitude and + love know that Jehovah, who is Love (1 John 4:8), dealt with them, + for the carrying out of His all holy purposes, and not as Justice + might have called for in connection with their ways.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:45, 46. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover the Word of the Lord came unto + me, saying, Son of man, set thy face toward the south, and drop thy + word toward the south, and prophesy against the forest of the south + field.</span></span>—The words of Ezekiel return to the impending + destruction of Jerusalem—of Christendom. Pastor Russell was to + speak, as from the Divine viewpoint (the North) against the + multitudes (trees in the forest) in the earthly phase (the south) + of the Kingdom of God, already established invisibly by God in + 1878-1914. Jerusalem (ecclesiasticism) was in a southerly direction + (belonging to the earth, earthy), from the Prophet's point of + view.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:47. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + say to the forest of the south, Hear the word of the Lord; Thus + saith the Lord God; Behold I will kindle a fire in thee, and it + shall devour every dry tree: the flaming flame shall not be + quenched, and all faces from the south to the north shall be burned + therein.</span></span>—God permitted in 1914 the kindling of the + present unquenchable conflagration of war, and of revolution and + anarchy to come. Righteous (green tree) and wicked (dry tree) alike + are to suffer in the fiery trials of the trouble time. All who are + of the earth, earthy (of the south, earthly phase of the Kingdom), + but who pretend or claim to be of the spiritual phase, to have the + Holy Spirit (look toward the north, the spiritual), are to be + burned, as the tares are burned after the gathering of the wheat + into the Heavenly garner.—Matt. 13:30.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:48. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + all flesh shall see that I the Lord have kindled it: it shall not + be quenched.</span></span>—All mankind will understand, before the + Time of Trouble is over, that <span class="tei tei-q">“the strange + work”</span> is of Jehovah.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">20:49. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + said I, Ah Lord God! they say of me, Doth he not speak + parables?</span></span>—The people of ecclesiasticism, misled by + the clergy, are unable to understand Pastor Russell's teachings + regarding the trouble, or to get the Divine viewpoint.</p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">There + are great truths that pitch their shining tents</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Outside our walls, and though + but dimly seen</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">In the gray dawn, they will be + manifest</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">When the light widens into perfect + day.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page464">[pg 464]</span><a name= + "Pg464" id="Pg464" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc99" id="toc99"></a> <a name="pdf100" id="pdf100"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 21—The Thrice-Doubled + Sword</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:1, 2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, set thy face + toward Jerusalem, and drop thy word toward the holy places, and + prophesy against the land of Israel.</span></span>—The Lord has + drawn the sword against Jerusalem and sharpened and pointed it in + fury. (21:1-17.) The king of Babylon (Satan) uses divination as to + the route by which to bring the sword against Jerusalem; the Jews + deride such a method (21:18-24), but the Hebrew crown is to be + overturned. (21:25-57.) The Ammonites (aggressive worldly + believers), too, are to be given to the sword.—21:28-32.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + say to the land of Israel, Thus saith the Lord: Behold, I am + against thee, and will draw forth My sword out of its sheath, and + will cut off from thee the righteous and the + wicked.</span></span>—Jehovah is against Christendom, has drawn + against it both the literal weapons of war, in warfare and + revolution, and the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. (Eph. + 6:17.) He will cause both righteous and wicked to die in the Time + of Trouble; and by His Word He will bring about conditions such + that all wicked professing Christians will abandon all pretense of + Christianity, and the righteous will <span class="tei tei-q">“come + out of her”</span> (Rev. 18:4) and be gathered as wheat into the + Divine garner—Heaven.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Seeing then that I will cut off from thee + the righteous and the wicked, therefore shall My sword go forth out + of his sheath against all flesh from the south to the + north.</span></span>—Cannon, rifle, shot, shell, bomb and torpedo + shall be unleashed and turned against all flesh, from those of the + earthly (of the south) to those having the Holy Spirit (of the + north). The Word of God will be taken out of its sheath of mystery + and plainly show the meaning of this trouble, and that it is to be + upon all.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That + all flesh may know that I the Lord have drawn forth My sword out of + its sheath: it shall not return any more.</span></span>—All the + people shall know that the trouble has come from Jehovah, and that + its consummation is a certainty.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Sigh + therefore, thou son of man, with the breaking of thy loins; and + with bitterness sigh before their eyes.</span></span>—Pastor + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page465">[pg 465]</span><a name= + "Pg465" id="Pg465" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> Russell and the + Truth people have carried a heavy heart burden in this message of + the ills coming upon Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it shall be, when they say unto thee, Wherefore sighed thou? that + thou shalt answer, For the tidings, because it cometh. And every + heart shall melt, and all hands shall be feeble, and every spirit + shall faint, and all knees shall be weak as water: behold, it + cometh, and shall be brought to pass, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—For the days are near when even the strongest + shall falter.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:8, 9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Again the word of the Lord came unto me, + saying, Son of man, prophesy, and say, Thus saith the Lord; Say, A + sword, a sword is sharpened, and also + furbished.</span></span>—Modern weapons of destruction are brought + to a hitherto unknown efficiency, as is the Sword of the Spirit in + the hands of the <span class="tei tei-q">“feet”</span> members of + Christ.—Isa. 52:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">It + is sharpened to make a sore slaughter; it is furbished that it may + glitter: should We then make mirth? it contemneth the rod of My + Son, as every tree.</span></span>—The weapons of war will make a + frightful slaughter among men; and the Sword of the Spirit, the + Word of God, will cause millions to cast off Christianity. It + glitters with flashes of enlightenment reflected from the risen Sun + of Righteousness, which to its idolatrous enemies are gleamings of + trouble and distress. Who could rejoice over the trouble? Not the + Lord's people; for it presages the destruction of the power (rod) + of all professing to be of the Son of God, together with all their + institutions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he hath given it to be furbished, that it may be handled: this + sword is sharpened, and it is furbished, to give it into the hand + of the slayer.</span></span>—It is given, bright and sharp, to be + swung in the hand of skillful slayers.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:12, 13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Cry + and howl, son of man; for it shall be upon My people, it shall be + upon all the princes of Israel: terrors by reason of the sword + shall be upon My people: smite therefore upon thy thigh. Because it + is a trial, and what if the sword contemn even the rod? it shall be + no more, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—The destruction by the + weapons of war and by the Word of God shall be upon <span class= + "tei tei-q">“My [professed] people,”</span> upon all the clergy + (princes). Fear shall take hold of churchianity.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + therefore, son of man, prophesy, and smite thine hands together, + and let the sword be doubled the third time, the sword of the + slain: it is the sword of the great men that are slain, which + entereth into their privy chambers.</span></span>—Pastor Russell + was to give expression to the final wrath of Jehovah. The + destruction will be of double <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page466">[pg 466]</span><a name="Pg466" id="Pg466" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> severity three times—in war, revolution and + anarchy. The Sword of the Spirit was to be wielded by Pastor + Russell twice three times, in his six volumes of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Studies in the + Scriptures</span></span>. The weapons of destruction will pursue + all the great ones of earth, penetrating into all their most secret + places. The Sword of the Spirit will search out all the lords of + God's heritage (1 Pet. 5:3), the clergy, exposing their inmost + ideas contrary to Jehovah and His Plan.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + have set the point of the sword against all their gates, that their + heart may faint, and their ruins be multiplied: ah! it is made + bright, it is wrapped up for the slaughter.</span></span>—The point + of the sword against ecclesiasticism, revealing its true nature and + imminent fall, is the present exposition of the prophecies of + Revelation and Ezekiel. The Hebrew says that it is made + <span class="tei tei-q">“lightning brightness.”</span> It is an + illumination of the whole Babylonish system, for ages wrapped in + the mystery of types and symbolisms. How gladly the clergy would + have destroyed these two books of the Bible, had they known what + they taught!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Go + thee one way or the other, either on the right hand, or on the + left, whithersoever thy face is set.</span></span>—Wheresoever + Pastor Russell and the Truth people set their face to go, it is + authorized for them by the Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + will also smite Mine hands together, and I will cause My fury to + rest: I the Lord have said it.</span></span>—God will manifest His + anger and cause His fury to rest upon ecclesiasticism.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:18, 19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the Word of the Lord came unto me again, saying, Also, thou son of + man, appoint thee two ways, that the sword of the king of Babylon + may come: both twain shall come forth out of one land: and choose + thou a place, choose it at the head of the way to the + city.</span></span>—There were two ways that the weapons of war, + revolution and anarchy might strike; in either way the blow would + come from Satan, the king of anarchy. It was to come from Riblah, + the fork of the roads. Riblah means <span class= + "tei tei-q">“desolate.”</span> Since 1878 the worldly churches, and + since 1914 the worldly governments, have been <span class= + "tei tei-q">“left desolate”</span> (Matt. 23:38) and subject, the + one to desolation by the Sword of the Spirit, the other to + desolation by carnal weapons.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Appoint a way, that the sword may come to + Rabbath of the Ammonites, and to Judah in Jerusalem the + defenced.</span></span>—The sword might go east of Jordan against + the Ammonites (Amos 1:14; Jer. 49:2), or west of Jordan, directly + at Jerusalem, first of all. It might strike the Great (Rabbath) + Company (Rev. 7:9) of <span class="tei tei-q">“fellow + companions”</span> (Psa. 45:14) (Ammonites), or directly and first + strike against churchianity (Judah) and ecclesiasticism + proper—<span class="tei tei-q">“the <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page467">[pg 467]</span><a name="Pg467" id="Pg467" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> fenced off,”</span> exclusive, superior, + <span class="tei tei-q">“best”</span> people, hitherto so + thoroughly defended from harm.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + the king of Babylon stood at the parting of the way, at the head of + the two ways, to use divination: he made his arrows bright, he + consulted with images, he looked in the liver.</span></span>—The + forces that will overthrow Christendom are thoroughly under the + influence and guidance of evil spirits—as is suggested by the + shuffling of arrows named for the two cities, by the consulting of + idols (theories), and by the looking in the liver (spiritism), by + interpretation. The Devil chooses bitter words (arrows) (Psa. + 64:3), consults evil spirits (images), and is guided even in his + opposition to Jehovah by his own interpretations of + Scripture.—Matt. 4:6; 2 Cor. 11:14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">At + his right hand was the divination for Jerusalem, to appoint + captains, to open the mouth in the slaughter, to lift up the voice + with shouting, to appoint battering rams against the gates, to cast + a mount, and to build a fort.</span></span>—The proof from the + Scriptures shows that the evil spirits directed that the + revolutionary and anarchistic movement should proceed first to the + destruction of Christendom. The ex-Czar of Russia was a + spiritualist, and maintained mediums for consultation. Kaiser + Wilhelm of Germany, for years prior to the great war, followed the + guidance of a demon which spoke to him clairaudiently, urging him + to his present course. A surprising number of prominent men consult + spirit mediums. The voice of the spirits was for war by every + conceivable means, nation against nation, but destined to effect + the desolation of ecclesiasticism as well.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it shall be unto them as a false divination in their sight, to them + that have sworn oaths: but He will call to remembrance the + iniquity, that they may be taken.</span></span>—In the sight of + those that have sworn allegiance to ecclesiasticism's god, the + father of lies, this true prediction of the downfall of the nations + will seem an erroneous expectation—as it has appeared to all the + great ones of Christendom. They have thought that this war would be + as other wars. But the end of the Age (world) has come; and + ecclesiasticism's iniquities shall no longer go unpunished.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; + Because ye have made your iniquity to be remembered, in that your + transgressions are discovered, so that in all your doings your sins + do appear; because, I say, that ye are come to</span> <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page468">[pg 468]</span><a name="Pg468" id="Pg468" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">remembrance, ye shall be taken with the + hand.</span></span>—Universal muck-raking by Socialists, + Anarchists, magazine writers, social surveyors and reformers has + caused Christendom's forgotten iniquities to be freshly remembered, + and her transgressions uncovered, so that there is no + department—commercial, financial, political or religious—in which + her sinful practices do not appear. These things God has permitted + to be made manifest that she may be taken red-handed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + thou, profane wicked prince of Israel, whose day is come, when + iniquity shall have an end.</span></span>—The profane and wicked + prince of the Jews was Zedekiah, their last king. (A. 248; Z. + '04-343.) The antitype is churchianity's lordly class, the clergy, + profaning the holy Temple of God, the Church, the Body of Christ, + with doctrines of devils (1 Tim. 4:1), as wicked in the sight of + God as were their prototypes, the scribes, doctors and Pharisees, + with their hypocritical pretense of holiness. Their time has + come—1918—when iniquity in the House of the Sons of God shall have + an end.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; Remove the diadem, and take off the crown: this + shall not be the same: exalt him that is low, and abase him that is + high.</span></span>—Thus says Almighty God: Remove the mitre + (mistranslated <span class="tei tei-q">“diadem”</span>). The mitre + was a band of linen about the forehead, typing the righteousness of + Christ, supposed to be in the minds of the clergy, but no more + actually in them as a class than in whited sepulchres. (Matt. + 23:27.) The king wore a golden crown on his head, held there by a + white linen mitre. (A. 248; B. 76, 79; Z. '98-359.) The clergy, the + lords of God's heritage, have crowned themselves with the rulership + of earth, in the person of the pope and in the general desire of + clergymen to rule in the affairs of men, a lordship based upon + their supposed righteousness (mitre). This great crisis will not be + like the temporary setbacks of ecclesiasticism in past centuries. + The lowly, revolutionary, anarchistic masses will exalt themselves + to power in the Time of Trouble, and the lofty clergy shall be + utterly abased.—Matt. 23:12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + will overturn, overturn, overturn it; and it shall be no more, + until He come whose right it is; and I will give it + Him.</span></span>—In warfare, revolution and anarchy Jehovah will + triply overthrow Christendom until Christ in great power will take + the crown and rule the affairs of earth.—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">147</span></span>, + 133; A. 248; B. 76, 79; Z. '05-253; H. 61.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:28. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + thou, son of man, prophesy and say, Thus saith the Lord God + concerning the Ammonites, and concerning their reproach; even say + thou, The sword, the</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page469">[pg 469]</span><a name="Pg469" id="Pg469" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">sword is + drawn: for the slaughter it is furbished, to consume because of the + glittering.</span></span>—Nor will the openly worldly, professing + Christian escape, for war, revolution and anarchy are + abroad—<span class="tei tei-q">“the sword is drawn”</span>—to + consume the worldly, too.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:29. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">While they see vanity unto thee, while + they divine a lie unto thee, to bring thee upon the necks of them + that are slain, of the wicked, whose day is come, when their + iniquity shall have an end.</span></span>—Destruction will come + even when the worldly-wise are mistakenly asserting that it will + not come nigh them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:30. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Shall I cause it to return into his + sheath? I will judge thee in the place where thou wast created, in + the land of thy nativity.</span></span>—The tribulation shall not + be quieted—the sword shall not <span class="tei tei-q">“return unto + his sheath;”</span> for God will condemn the worldly Christian + also, in the condition of unbelief wherein they have been.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:31. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will pour out Mine indignation upon thee; I will blow against + thee in the fire of My wrath, and deliver thee into the hand of + brutish men, and skilful to destroy.</span></span>—God will pour + out His wrath upon the worldly professing Christians. He will blow + upon them fiery blasts of war, revolution and anarchy. They shall + be delivered into the hands of a revolted soldiery, brutal, + destructive, pitiless, skilled in the arts of slaughter, taught by + Teutons and Allies to know the utmost efficiency in war. The Sword + of the Spirit, the Word of God, too, will be in the hands of + consecrated ones, seemingly but not actually cruel, skilled through + Divine power to use it with telling effect.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">21:32. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + shalt be for fuel to the fire; thy blood shall be in the midst of + the land; thou shalt be no more remembered: for I the Lord have + spoken it.</span></span>—Institutions Divinely condemned shall be + as fuel for the fires of bloody anarchy and pass into oblivion. The + war is the melting-pot of ecclesiasticism.</p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Beautiful hands are they that + do</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">The work of the noble, good and + true,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Busy for them the long day + through;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Beautiful faces—they that + wear</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">The light of a pleasing spirit + there,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">It matters little if dark or + fair;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And truly beautiful in God's + sight,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Are the precious souls who love the + right.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page470">[pg 470]</span><a name= + "Pg470" id="Pg470" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc101" id="toc101"></a> <a name="pdf102" id="pdf102"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 22—The Melting Pot Of + War</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:1-4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover the word of the Lord came unto + me, saying, Now, thou son of man, wilt thou judge, wilt thou judge + the bloody city? yea, thou shalt shew her all her abominations, + then say thou, Thus saith the Lord God; the city sheddeth blood in + the midst of it, that her time may come, and maketh idols against + herself to defile herself. Thou art become guilty in thy blood that + thou hast shed; and hast defiled thyself in thine idols which thou + hast made; and thou hast caused thy days to draw near, and art come + even unto thy years: therefore have I made thee a reproach unto the + heathen, and a mocking to all countries.</span></span>—In Chapter + 22 the various iniquities of Jerusalem are related. (22:1-12.) + Their punishment is described under the figure of a melting-pot. + (22:13-22.) Christendom, and especially ecclesiasticism, is guilty + of bloodshed and of defiling paganism. This, by a natural process, + has brought about a situation which could not continue. The present + outbreak of evil and trouble, in view of the lofty pretenses of the + past, has made paganized Christendom a byword among acknowledgedly + pagan peoples.—D. 72.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Those that be near, and those that be far + from thee, shall mock thee, which art infamous and much + vexed.</span></span>—The unbelievers, both in and out of + <span class="tei tei-q">“Christian”</span> countries, scoff at + <span class="tei tei-q">“Christendom”</span>—now defiled of name + and <span class="tei tei-q">“full of tumult.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, the princes of Israel, every one + were in thee to their power to shed blood.</span></span>—In + Christendom all the rulers, in the mania for war, have used every + power to promote bloodshed. The spiritual rulers have, by false + teachings, destroyed the spiritual hopes of millions.—Luke + 11:52.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + thee have they set light by father and mother: in the midst of thee + have they dealt by oppression with the stranger: in thee have they + vexed the fatherless and the widow.</span></span>—They have dealt + unjustly by the classes needing help. Spiritually they have + despised our Father and His Covenant of Grace, and oppressed those + who are His pilgrims and strangers in the world.—1 Pet. + 1:1.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page471">[pg + 471]</span><a name="Pg471" id="Pg471" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + hast despised Mine holy things, and hast profaned My + sabbaths.</span></span>—They have despised the holy teachings of + God's Word, respecting the seventh thousand-year Day of rest, and + have attempted justification by works instead of in the rest of + faith.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + thee are men that carry tales to shed blood: and in thee they eat + upon the mountains: in the midst of thee they commit + lewdness.</span></span>—In the churches are gossipers, evil + speakers, assassins of reputation. In them are some that feast at + the tables of devils (1 Tim. 4:1; 1 Cor. 10:21), like lords or + rulers at the heads of the nations; they long for unhallowed + church-state union.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:10, 11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + thee have they discovered their fathers' nakedness; in thee have + they humbled her that was set apart for pollution. And one hath + committed abomination with his neighbor's wife; and another hath + lewdly defiled his daughter-in-law; and another in thee hath + humbled his sister, his father's daughter.</span></span>—They have + not only made state-churches in every possible direction, but have + been in vast numbers guilty of sexual immorality.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + thee have they taken gifts to shed blood; thou hast taken usury and + increase, and thou hast greedily gained of thy neighbors by + extortion, and hast forgotten Me, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—They have used the gifts of God for evil + purposes, even to slay God's holy martyrs; they have even practised + extortion upon those close to them. This they have done because + they have forgotten the Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, therefore I have smitten Mine + hand at thy dishonest gain which thou hast made, and at thy blood + which hath been in the midst of thee.</span></span>—God has shown + plain signs of anger against ecclesiasticism's hypocrisy and her + spirit of murder.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Can + thine heart endure, or can thine hands be strong, in the days that + I shall deal with thee? I the Lord have spoken it, and will do + it.</span></span>—Her heart must fail her, and her powers weaken, + before an abused conscience, in the days when God will deal with + her iniquities.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will scatter thee among the heathen, and disperse thee in the + countries, and will consume thy filthiness out of + thee.</span></span>—He will scatter the ecclesiastics and by fiery + trials consume the uncleanness out of ecclesiasticism.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + thou shalt take thine inheritance in thyself in the sight of the + heathen, and thou shalt know that I am the Lord.</span></span>—She + shall be profaned, desecrated and destroyed in the sight of earth's + nations.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:17, 18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, the house of + Israel is to Me become dross; all they are brass, and tin, and + iron, and lead, in the midst</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page472">[pg 472]</span><a name="Pg472" id="Pg472" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">of the + furnace; they are even the dross of + silver.</span></span>—Ecclesiasticism, clergy and laity alike, are + to the just and holy God become as the refuse of the baser metals + in a fiery furnace of affliction; they are the dross of the Great + Company (silver). (Jer. 6:30.) The baser metals type degrees of + earthly natures; brass (human perfection), tin (tares, begotten of + error), iron (savage worldly power), and lead (sin, iniquity).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; + Because ye are all become dross, behold, therefore I will gather + you into the midst of Jerusalem.</span></span>—God will gather the + corrupt peoples and the nations of Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + they gather silver, and brass, and iron, and lead, and tin, into + the midst of the furnace, to blow the fire upon it, to melt it; so + will I gather you in Mine anger and in My fury, and I will leave + you there, and melt you.</span></span>—This great conglomeration of + persons of all shades of baseness shall be gathered as into a blast + furnace, where God will permit indescribable troubles to afflict + them; and there He will leave them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yea, + I will gather you, and blow upon you in the fire of My wrath, and + ye shall be melted in the midst thereof.</span></span>—They are to + be melted in heart and spirit in the fiery afflictions of His + wrath.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + silver is melted in the midst of the furnace, so shall ye be melted + in the midst thereof; and ye shall know that I the Lord have poured + out My fury upon you.</span></span>—As the Great Company of God's + spirit-begotten children have suffered by the millions, so shall it + be with the clergy and laity, who profess Christianity without its + spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:23, 24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the Word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, say unto + her, Thou art the land that is not cleansed, nor rained upon in the + day of indignation.</span></span>—Christendom in this Time of + Trouble is without the cleansing, refreshing showers of the water + of God's Word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">There is a conspiracy of her prophets in + the midst thereof, like a roaring lion ravening the prey; they have + devoured souls; they have taken the treasure and precious things; + they have made her many widows in the midst + thereof.</span></span>—Among the clergy there is a conspiracy + against the Truth. The <span class="tei tei-q">“Federation of the + [so-called] Churches of Christ in America,”</span> like a very + devil (roaring lion), will yet tear to pieces the Present Truth + people, will put many to death, and cause some weaker ones to lose + their spiritual lives. They will take and destroy the literature + containing the precious Bible truth. Literally the preachers by + preaching the men into war have made widows by the + millions.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page473">[pg + 473]</span><a name="Pg473" id="Pg473" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Her + priests have violated My law, and have profaned Mine holy things: + they have put no difference between the holy and profane, neither + have they shewed difference between the unclean and the clean, and + have hid their eyes from My sabbaths, and I am profaned among + them.</span></span>—The Roman Catholic priests—and the Protestant + clergy—have violated the Law of Divine Love; have polluted God's + truths with pagan teachings, have shown no difference between those + cleansed by the blood of Christ and those still in their sins, have + denied the Bible teaching of the Millennium (Rev. 20:2-7), have + hidden the Sabbath rest of justification by faith, and have + promoted a money-grabbing system of penances and masses for sin and + of collections, which discredits and profanes God's name.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Her + princes in the midst thereof are like wolves ravening the prey, to + shed blood, and to destroy souls, to get dishonest + gain.</span></span>—The ecclesiastics, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“wolves in sheeps' clothing”</span> (Matt. 7:15), tear + their prey, the Body members of Christ, shed blood in persecution, + and destroy spiritual life—all to acquire money to perpetuate their + infamous, paganized religion.—Micah 2:9-11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:28. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + her prophets have daubed them with untempered mortar, seeing + vanity, and divining lies unto them, saying, Thus saith the Lord + God, when the Lord hath not spoken.</span></span>—The preachers of + Protestantism have whitewashed the whole crowd of ecclesiastics, + imagining empty doctrines of Evolution and Higher Criticism, and + lying to the people by giving their own theories as God's Word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:29. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + people of the land have used oppression, and exercised robbery, and + have vexed the poor and needy; yea, they have oppressed the + stranger wrongfully.</span></span>—The laity of both Romanism and + Protestantism have oppressed the poor in spirit, have robbed those + needing God's help of what comfort they had, and have wrongfully + oppressed the <span class="tei tei-q">“pilgrims and + strangers”</span> (Heb. 11:13) among them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:30. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and + stand in the gap before Me for the land, that I should not destroy + it; but I found none.</span></span>—God promised not to destroy + Sodom if there should be ten righteous men in it; He will seek for + even <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">one</span></span> who is righteous in Christ's + righteousness, in ecclesiasticism, to make up the wall of her + goat-fold, and stand in the gap, that He should not destroy her; + but He will find not one!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">22:31. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore have I poured out Mine + indignation upon them; I have consumed them with the fire of My + wrath; their own way have I recompensed upon their heads, saith the + Lord God.</span></span>—Therefore ecclesiasticism is doomed to + extinction.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page474">[pg 474]</span><a name= + "Pg474" id="Pg474" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc103" id="toc103"></a> <a name="pdf104" id="pdf104"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 23—Two Apostate Church + Systems</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:1, 2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Word of the Lord came again unto me, saying, Son of man, there were + two women, the daughters of one mother.</span></span>—Chapter 23 + describes the church-state unions of the Roman Catholic church, + pictured as an unchaste woman, Aholah, and of the Protestant + church, her unchaste sister, Aholibah, and the destruction of both + in the Time of Trouble by the nations with which they have made + unions.—Jer. 3:6-10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they committed whoredoms in Egypt; they committed whoredoms in + their youth: there were their breasts pressed, and there they + bruised the teats of their virginity.</span></span>—Both of these + churches have always catered to worldly ideas and people, and even + in their youth were guilty of unions of church with state.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the names of them were Aholah the elder, and Aholibah her sister: + and they were Mine, and they bare sons and daughters. Thus were + their names; Samaria is Aholah, and Jerusalem + Aholibah.</span></span>—Their names are significant. Aholah means + <span class="tei tei-q">“her own tent.”</span> God is not in + Romanist ecclesiasticism at all; it has its own tabernacle, called + (Acts 7:43) <span class="tei tei-q">“the tabernacle of + Moloch.”</span> Satan himself dwells in and actuates the Papal + system. Aholibah means <span class="tei tei-q">“My tent is in + her.”</span> God's Tabernacle, the true Church, has been among the + Protestants chiefly. In this picture, an unchaste Protestant + ecclesiasticism is designated <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Jerusalem.”</span> They both have sons—prominent + ones—and daughters—sectarian churches.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + Aholah played the harlot when she was Mine; and she doted on her + lovers, on the Assyrians her neighbors.</span></span>—The Romish + church dates back to apostolic days, when she was God's Church + [Mine]; but she fell in love with her neighbors, the rulers of that + brutal age, and sought temporal power.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Which were clothed with blue, captains + and rulers, all of them desirable young men, horsemen riding upon + horses.</span></span>—The leaders and rulers in worldly affairs + were apparently faithful (clothed in blue, typical of + faithfulness), and seemed desirable and attractive to be associated + with. They were men of thought and men of action, riding hobbies of + vain philosophies.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page475">[pg + 475]</span><a name="Pg475" id="Pg475" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + she committed her whoredoms with them, with all them that were the + chosen men of Assyria, and with all on whom she doted: with all + their idols she defiled herself.</span></span>—The Church + associated with them for gain of worldly power, set her affections + on them, instead of on things Above, and defiled herself with their + pagan ideas.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Neither left she her whoredoms brought + from Egypt: for in her youth they lay with her, and they bruised + the breasts of her virginity, and poured their whoredom upon + her.</span></span>—Nor did she give up her worldliness when she + took up oriental asceticism.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:9, 10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Wherefore I have delivered her into the + hand of her lovers, into the hand of the Assyrians, upon whom she + doted. These discovered her nakedness: they took her sons and her + daughters, and slew her with the sword: and she became famous among + women; for they had executed judgment upon her.</span></span>—The + rulers discovered the naked, unprotected condition of Romanism; and + by hundreds of thousands poured in from the East, literal Tartars, + Vandals, Huns and Turks, and the pagan ideas from the same sources, + and slew the sons and daughters of Romanism with the literal sword, + as well as her children spiritually. Among the Pagan religions + (women) Romanist <span class="tei tei-q">“Christianity”</span> + became a name and a byword; for the invaders had executed the + judgment of God upon her.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when her sister Aholibah saw this, she was more corrupt in her + inordinate love than she, and in her whoredoms more than her sister + in her whoredoms.</span></span>—Protestantism began in comparative + purity, but later on developed an inordinate love for temporal + power. Even more than Papacy she tried in every nation to + <span class="tei tei-q">“run things.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">She + doted upon the Assyrians her neighbours, captains and rulers + clothed most gorgeously, horsemen riding upon horses, all of them + desirable young men.</span></span>—She, too, set her affections on + popularity with earth's rulers, great and small, conservative, + radical and revolutionary.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:13-17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + I saw that she was defiled, that they took both one way. And that + she increased her whoredoms: for when she saw men portrayed upon + the wall, the images of the Chaldeans portrayed with vermilion, + girded with girdles upon their loins, exceeding in dyed attire upon + their heads, all of them princes to look to, after the manner of + the Babylonians of Chaldea, the land of their nativity: and as soon + as she saw them with her eyes, she doted upon them, and sent + messengers unto them</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page476">[pg 476]</span><a name="Pg476" id="Pg476" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">into + Chaldea. And the Babylonians came to her into the bed of love, and + they defiled her with their whoredom, and she was polluted with + them, and her mind was alienated from them.</span></span>—God saw + that both churches, Romish and Protestant, were of like tendency to + church-state union, especially Protestantism; for she never saw or + heard of a great worldly man, even down to the local leaders of the + smallest rural communities, that she did not desire their influence + and help—particularly their money—and systematically invited them + to connect themselves with a church, quite regardless of whether or + not they remained worldly. So much did the prominent people in + every place crowd into the Protestant churches and try to + <span class="tei tei-q">“boss”</span> things, that the rank and + file even of ecclesiastics and of the less prominent supporters of + ecclesiasticism grew sick of them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So + she discovered her whoredoms, and discovered her nakedness: then My + mind was alienated from her, like as My mind was alienated from her + sister.</span></span>—The newspaper writers, Socialists, anarchists + and muck-rakers, exposed the worldliness of the Protestant + churches; and God Himself, from 1878 on, has been alienated from + them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:19-21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yet + she multiplied her whoredoms, in calling to remembrance the days of + her youth, wherein she had played the harlot in the land of Egypt. + For she doted upon their paramours, whose flesh is as the flesh of + asses, and whose issue is like the issue of horses. Thus thou + calledst to remembrance the lewdness of thy youth, in bruising thy + teats by the Egyptians for the paps of thy + youth.</span></span>—Protestant ecclesiasticism multiplied her + worldly alliances; and the prominent and wealthy, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“of the earth, earthy,”</span> filled the churches with + tares, worldlings, desirous of profiting by association with + prominent people.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore, O Aholibah, thus saith the + Lord God: Behold, I will raise up thy lovers against thee, from + whom thy mind is alienated, and I will bring them against thee on + every side.</span></span>—Therefore, O Protestantism, thus saith + the Lord Jehovah: I will raise up, in warfare and revolution, the + worldly people in you, of whom you are already sick, and bring them + against you on every side.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Babylonians, and all the Chaldeans, Pekod, and Shoa, and Koa, and + all the Assyrians with them; all of them desirable young men, + captains and rulers, great lords and renowned, all of them riding + upon horses.</span></span>—The worldly, the worldly-wise + (Chaldeans), the officers (Pekod), princes (Shoa), and rulers + (Koa), and all the discontented and anarchistic with them shall + come against you, riding hobbies destructive to + you.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page477">[pg + 477]</span><a name="Pg477" id="Pg477" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall come against thee with chariots, wagons, and wheels, and + with an assembly of people, which shall set against thee buckler + and shield and helmet round about: and I will set judgment before + them, and they shall judge thee according to their + judgments.</span></span>—They shall war against thy welfare with + organizations of their own (chariots), with leaders (riders, + mistranslated wagons), with a systematic plan of operation + (wheels), and with a great following of revolutionists; and they + shall condemn thee by their own perverted ideas of justice.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will set My jealousy against thee, and they shall deal furiously + with thee: they shall take away thy nose and thine ears; and thy + remnant shall fall by the sword; they shall take thy sons and thy + daughters; and thy residue shall be devoured by the + fire.</span></span>—Unknown to Protestantism, God's jealousy has + been excited by her worldliness; and He will permit the masses to + deal with her in fury; they will destroy her spirituality, taking + away her ability to discern spiritual things (nose), and to hear + (ear) the Word of God. They will force Protestantism's sons and + daughters into service in war and revolution; and the remnant will + be destroyed in the ensuing anarchy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They + shall also strip thee out of thy clothes, and take away thy fair + jewels.</span></span>—Protestantism shall be stripped of her robes + of self-righteousness and of her imitation jewels—those not truly + Christianized; for they will cast off all pretense of religion.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + will I make thy lewdness to cease from thee, and thy whoredom + brought from the land of Egypt: so that thou shalt not lift up + thine eyes unto them, nor remember Egypt any + more.</span></span>—Being no longer attractive or useful to the + ruling powers, she will perforce cease her advances toward the + grasping of worldly power.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:28. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I will deliver thee into the hand + of them whom thou hatest, into the hand of them from whom thy mind + is alienated.</span></span>—All law-abiding people, and especially + Protestant ecclesiasticism, hate and fear the lawless forces + destructive of society; but into the cruel hands of such shall they + be delivered.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:29. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall deal with thee hatefully, and shall take away all thy + labour, and shall leave thee naked and bare; and the nakedness of + thy whoredoms shall be discovered, both thy lewdness and thy + whoredoms.</span></span>—These evil forces shall deal hatefully + with Protestantism, take away all the results of her work, and + strip her completely, because of the ultimate evils wrought by + union of church and state.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page478">[pg 478]</span><a name="Pg478" id="Pg478" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:30. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + will do these things unto thee, because thou hast gone a whoring + after the heathen, and because thou art polluted with their + idols.</span></span>—God will do this because Protestantism has + sought and made church-state unions, and has been polluted with + worldly ideas and practices.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:31. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + hast walked in the way of thy sister; therefore, will I give her + cup into thine hand.</span></span>—She has walked in the way of + Papacy; therefore will God give to her also Papacy's cup of + tribulation.—Jer. 25:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:32. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God: Thou shalt drink of thy sister's cup deep and + large; thou shalt be laughed to scorn and had in derision; it + containeth much.</span></span>—Protestantism shall drink deep and + large the measure of Romanism's cup of trouble; it contains much. + As a result of wars and devastation brought on by worldliness, in + the face of boasted godliness, Protestantism shall be scorned and + derided by the whole world.—Rev. 9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:33. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + shalt be filled with drunkenness and sorrow, with the cup of + astonishment and desolation, with the cup of thy sister + Samaria.</span></span>—Protestantism shall be intoxicated with the + war spirit (Jer. 13:13), and later stupefied with amazement at the + ruinous results of her own course, ending in the same cup of + trouble, utter ruin, as confronts her sister-church, + Catholicism.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:34. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + Shalt even drink it and suck it out, and thou shalt break the + sherds thereof, and pluck off thine own breasts: for I have spoken + it, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—Protestantism shall drain the + cup of desolation and sorrow and shall suck out the very dregs. + (Isa. 30:14.) It shall be broken up in anarchy, and shall lose all + the features that made it attractive to this world's governments + for purposes of union of church and state.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:35. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God: + Because thou hast forgotten Me, and cast Me behind thy back, + therefore bear thou also thy lewdness and thy + whoredoms.</span></span>—Because she has forgotten the Lord and + cast Him out of her mind, Protestantism shall endure unaided by Him + the results of her own evil course.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:36. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Lord said moreover unto me: Son of man, wilt thou judge Aholah and + Ahollbah? yes, declare unto them their + abominations.</span></span>—In Verses 36 to 49 Romanism and + Protestantism are together jointly condemned.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:37. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That + they have committed adultery, and blood is in their hands, and with + their Idols have they committed adultery, and have also caused + their sons, whom they bare unto me, to pass for them through the + fire, to devour them.</span></span>—They have both effected + church-state unions. They have blood guilt, for wars, and for + causing the spiritual <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page479">[pg + 479]</span><a name="Pg479" id="Pg479" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + death of multitudes. They have given their hearts to idol + doctrines. They have caused God's children to endure fiery + troubles, and have scorched, scarred and burned their religious + lives with the eternal torment theory.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:38. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover this they have done unto Me; + they have defiled My Sanctuary In the same day, and have profaned + My sabbaths.</span></span>—They have defiled God's Sanctuary, the + Church, with soul-destroying doctrines in the same Day, the Gospel + Age. They have derided the Millennium, and have substituted works + for the rest of faith, as the basis of justification before + God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:39. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + when they had slain their children to their idols, then they came + the same day Into My Sanctuary to profane it; and lo, thus have + they done in the midst of Mine house.</span></span>—They would slay + their people in war and the same day go to worship God, even in the + midst of God's Sanctuary, the Little Flock of the true Church.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:40. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + furthermore, that ye have sent for men to come from far, unto whom + a messenger was sent; and, lo, they came; for whom thou didst wash + thyself, paintedst thy eyes, and deckedst thyself with + ornaments.</span></span>—They sought for union with and sent + preachers to prominent men, at heart in a condition far from God; + for them they <span class="tei tei-q">“whitewashed”</span> + themselves, made their wisdom (eyes) attractive with worldly + philosophies, and adorned themselves with the imitation jewels of + courtesy, tact and politeness.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:41. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + satest upon a stately bed, and a table prepared before it, + whereupon thou hast set Mine Incense and Mine + oil.</span></span>—They took their seat upon a stately creed-bed, + adapted to worldly, regal purposes, with a table of religious food, + teachings, philosophies, not of God, where they gave their hearts' + best endeavor and prostituted what measure of the Holy Spirit they + had to worldly ends.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:42. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + a voice of a multitude being at ease was with her; and with the men + of the common sort were brought Sabeans from the wilderness, which + put bracelets upon their hands, and beautiful crowns upon their + heads.</span></span>—With the ecclesiasticism of Papacy and + Protestantism was the voice of a multitude of worldly church + members, thoroughly at ease in apostate Zion. (Amos 6:1.) Among the + church members were men of the blackest character (Sabeans, + descendants of Ham, disfavored of God), who belonged outside the + pale of religion, who adorned themselves with seeming character + jewels and crowns of inherent immortality, not of God, but of + Plato.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page480">[pg + 480]</span><a name="Pg480" id="Pg480" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:43. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + said I unto her that was old in adulteries, Will they now commit + whoredoms with her, and she with them?</span></span>—It seemed + impossible that the churches should unite with such evil men, to + gain influence and power.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:44. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yet + they went in unto her, as they go in unto a woman that playeth the + harlot: so went they in unto Aholah and unto Aholibah, the lewd + women.</span></span>—Nevertheless, both Romish and Protestant + ecclesiasticism did so.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:45. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the righteous men, they shall judge them after the manner of + adulteresses, and after the manner of women that shed blood; + because they are adulteresses, and blood is in their + hands.</span></span>—But men with a sense of decency, justice and + the fitness of things will condemn both churches, Romish and + Protestant, as adulteresses were judged among the Hebrews—stone + them to death with hard facts, and by the ravages of revolution and + anarchy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:46. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + thus saith the Lord God, I will bring up a company upon them, and + will give them to be removed and spoiled.</span></span>—God will + bring up against them a great rabble of people with a keen sense of + outraged justice—Socialists, trades-union men, laborites, social + democrats, nihilists and anarchists. Also a multitude of God's + children, begotten of the Holy Spirit, will rise up against these + apostacies.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:47. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the company shall stone them with stones, and dispatch them with + their swords; they shall slay their sons and their daughters, and + burn up their houses with fire.</span></span>—This multitude will + down ecclesiasticism with hard facts, and destroy her with material + weapons and with the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. The + anarchists will literally slay church members by millions; and the + sons of God will by His Holy Word cause them to cease their + pretense of being Christians.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:48. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + will I cause lewdness to cease out of the land, that all women may + be taught not to do after your lewdness.</span></span>—Thus will + the Lord cause the desire for the union of churches with worldly + power to cease out of human society, that all religious bodies may + learn forever to avoid this abominable practice.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">23:49. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall recompense your lewdness upon you, and ye shall bear the + sins of your idols: and ye shall know that I am the Lord + God.</span></span>—Thus shall ecclesiasticism's faithless apostasy + be recompensed upon her when she suffers the results of the + sinfulness of loving other mighty ones than Jehovah, and thus shall + she learn the supremacy of God in the affairs of men.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page481">[pg 481]</span><a name= + "Pg481" id="Pg481" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc105" id="toc105"></a> <a name="pdf106" id="pdf106"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 24—The Boiling + Caldron</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:1, 2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Again in the ninth year, in the tenth + month, in the tenth day of the month, the word of the Lord came + unto me, saying, Son of man, write thee the name of the day, even + of this same day: the king of Babylon set himself against Jerusalem + this same day.</span></span>—It was in the fall of 1916—a year and + seven months before the city was to be smitten in the spring of + 1918—that the forces of laborism, revolution and anarchy, began to + assert themselves against the established order of things in + Christendom—the siege of the city began.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + utter a parable unto the rebellious house, and say unto them, Thus + saith the Lord God: Set on a pot, set it on, and also pour water + into it.</span></span>—Jerusalem is likened to a boiling caldron + from which meat is taken; then it is set empty on the fire and the + rust burned out. Ezekiel's wife dies; but he suppresses his + feelings, and, after the ordinance for a priest, makes no mourning + for the dead—a picture of the dumb sorrow of the Hebrews on the + destruction of Jerusalem. The prophecy of this chapter was uttered + on the same day that the king of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar, + <span class="tei tei-q">“came, he and all his host, and pitched + against it; and they built forts against it round about; and the + city was besieged unto the eleventh year of king Zedekiah.”</span> + (2 Kings 25:1, 2.) Its antitype is that on or about November 1, + 1916, the date of Pastor Russell's death, ecclesiasticism began to + enter upon its life-and-death struggle, materially, with the forces + of laborism and anarchy, and religiously with the consecrated + children of God, whose work from then on was increasingly to bear + witness to the apostasy and imminent destruction of churchianity. + Ecclesiasticism, rebellious against her God, is as an organization, + like a caldron of brass (copper), typing that many of its members + believe the Word of God. It is set amid the fiery troubles of + revolution and anarchy. There is water in it, symbolic of what + Truth there is in ecclesiasticism.—Jer. 1:13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Gather the pieces thereof into it, even + every good piece, the thigh, and the shoulders: fill it with the + choice bones.</span></span>—In it are gathered the great and + prominent (good pieces), and also the strong ones (bones) of her + flock.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page482">[pg + 482]</span><a name="Pg482" id="Pg482" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Take + the choice of the flock, and burn also the bones under it, and make + it boil well, and let them seethe the bones of it + therein.</span></span>—The social elements will grow hot in the + Time of Trouble until the truths in ecclesiasticism make it + exceedingly warm for her members. Then the heated, excited, + troublous condition will be transmitted, and as the truths warm up, + will get all the church members into exceedingly hot water, even + the strongest ones.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Wherefore thus saith the Lord God: Woe to + the bloody city, to the plot whose scum is therein, and whose scum + is not gone out of it! bring it out piece by piece; let no lot fall + upon it.</span></span>—Woe to Christendom, ecclesiasticism, bloody + in the blood of soldiers, peasants, workingmen, martyrs and saints, + by the millions, and blood guilty for the spiritual hopes of + millions, extinguished by her false doctrines. Her rust (R. V.) is + in her. Bring out her leading members, one by one, + indiscriminately, into captivity to the forces of revolution.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + her blood is in the midst of her; she set it upon the top of a + rock; the poured it not upon the ground, to cover it with + dust;</span></span>—Her infamy of blood is in her very substance. + She has not been able to conceal it, but it is exposed to full view + in <span class="tei tei-q">“the top of her rock,”</span> in the + kings and the kaisers, her heads in church-state union.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">That + it might cause fury to come up to take vengeance; I have set her + blood upon the top of a rock, that it should not be + covered.</span></span>—The fury of a revolted soldiery and populace + will rise up against the heads of the governments, who are also + heads of the churches, to take vengeance upon ecclesiasticism's + sins.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; Woe to + the bloody city! I will even make the pile for fire + great.</span></span>—Innumerable will be the opponents of + churchianity, and blazing hot their wrath.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Heap + on the wood, kindle the fire, consume the flesh, and spice it well, + and let the bones be burned.</span></span>—Heap up the fires of + discontent and anarchy, consume the tares in Christendom, as tares. + Thicken the broth (R. V.), boil it down until the very bones, the + strong church members, cease to be such.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + set it empty upon the coals thereof, that the brass of it may be + hot, and may burn, and that the filthiness of it may be molten in + it, that the scum of it may be consumed.</span></span>—Then + ecclesiasticism, the clergy class, with emptied pews, shall sit + amid the fiery trouble and be consumed, that their corruption may + be done away.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">She + hath wearied herself with lies, and her great scum went not forth + out of her: her scum shall be in the</span> <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page483">[pg 483]</span><a name="Pg483" id="Pg483" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">fire.</span></span>—She has wearied even + the preachers with the dishonesty of preaching things not believed + in, and yet they did not cast out her doctrinal corruption, which + shall be fuel for the fire of anarchy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + thy filthiness is lewdness: because I have purged thee, and thou + wast not purged, thou shalt not be purged from thy filthiness any + more, till I have caused My fury to rest upon + thee.</span></span>—Her corruption was in her desire to become + prominent and powerful through the power of earth's great ones. God + purged her of these things to some extent through godly preachers + and reformers; but she was not purged in heart and quickly reverted + to the things Divinely proscribed. Since 1878 God has made no + further attempt to reform ecclesiasticism; and she shall not be + purged, but the fury of God's jealousy shall rest upon her.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + the Lord have spoken it; it shall come to pass, and I will do it; I + will not go back, neither will I spare, neither will I repent; + according to thy ways, and according to thy doings, shall they + judge thee, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—God Himself has + spoken this and will do it. He will not go back, neither spare, nor + change His Plan; but in just recompense for her doings shall the + Socialists and anarchists condemn her.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:15, 16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Also + the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, behold, I + take away from thee the desire of thine eyes with a stroke: yet + neither shalt thou mourn nor weep, neither shall thy tears run + down.</span></span>—God took away from Pastor Russell the desire of + his eyes, her whom he loved, with a stroke, or <span class= + "tei tei-q">“plague”</span> of spiritual error, which completely + separated them. By the Mosaic ordinance a priest on the death of + father, mother, or wife, was to show no special sign of grief, but + was to remain in the Tabernacle, or Temple, and attend as usual to + the service of God. Pastor Russell, as a member of the great High + Priest and as Christ's representative in the world, the sole + steward of the <span class="tei tei-q">“meat in due season,”</span> + suffered deeply, but shed no tears.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Forbear to cry, make no mourning for the + dead, bind the tire of thine head upon thee, and put on thy shoes + upon thy feet, and cover not thy lips, and eat not the bread of + men.</span></span>—Rather, he made no mourning for her that was to + him as dead, but continued in the work of the sacrificing + priesthood. He was sustained in his affliction, not by human aid, + but by the consolations of his Father's Word.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page484">[pg 484]</span><a name="Pg484" id="Pg484" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So I + spake unto the people in the morning: and at even my wife died; and + I did in the morning as I was commanded.</span></span>—He continued + his addresses and writings to the Lord's people; his wife became to + him as one dead: and he continued uninterruptedly in the work of + the ministry.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the people said unto me, Wilt thou not tell us what these things + are to us, that thou doest so?</span></span>—Why was Pastor Russell + caused by his Father to endure the fiery trials and ecclesiastical + falsehoods in connection with this incident of his life?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:20, 21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + I answered them, The word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Speak + unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I will + profane My Sanctuary, the excellency of your strength, the desire + of your eyes, and that which your soul pitieth; and your sons and + your daughters whom ye have left shall fall by the + sword.</span></span>—God gives the reason. It was as a picture or + parable of what is to happen to Christendom. Until 1878 the nominal + church had been in a sense God's sanctuary or Temple; but He was + from then on, culminating in 1918, to remove it with a stroke or + plague of erroneous doctrines and deeds Divinely permitted. The + Church was the strength of Christendom, that about which its life + centered, and around which its institutions were built. It was the + desire of the eyes of the people, that which all Christians loved. + Nevertheless, God was to make manifest the profanation which + ecclesiasticism had made of the Christian Church, and to cause the + church organizations to become to Him as one dead, an unclean + thing, not to be touched, or mourned. And the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“children of the church”</span> shall perish by the + sword of war, revolution and anarchy, and by the Sword of the + Spirit be made to see that they have lost their hope of life on the + spirit plane—that <span class="tei tei-q">“the door is + shut.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + ye shall do as I have done: ye shall not cover your lips, nor eat + the bread of men.</span></span>—So universal and dreadful will be + the troubles that the dead will literally lie unburied and unwept. + There can be no mourning for the dead in a period when the living + are overwhelmed by troubles worse than death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + your tires shall be upon your heads: and your shoes upon your feet: + ye shall not mourn nor weep; but ye shall pine away for your + iniquities, and mourn one toward another.</span></span>—The + mourning will be an inner sorrow of a people stupefied by terrible + experiences, who pine <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page485">[pg + 485]</span><a name="Pg485" id="Pg485" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + away and without outward expression sink together into the + fellowship of helpless grief.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + Ezekiel is unto you a sign: according to all that he hath done + shall ye do: and when this cometh, ye shall know that I am the Lord + God.</span></span>—Thus the silent sorrow at Pastor Russell's heart + was to be a sign to Christendom. The sorrowful experiences of + Pastor Russell in this connection shall later on be those of all + Christendom; <span class="tei tei-q">“and when this cometh”</span> + they shall know that Jehovah God is supreme, and back of all the + judgments of the trouble time.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:25, 26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Also, thou son of man, shall it not be in + the day when I take from them their strength, the joy of their + glory, the desire of their eyes, and that whereupon they set their + minds, their sons and their daughters. That he that escapeth in + that day shall come unto thee, to cause thee to hear it with thine + ears?</span></span>—Also, in the year 1918, when God destroys the + churches wholesale and the church members by millions, it shall be + that any that escape shall come to the works of Pastor Russell to + learn the meaning of the downfall of <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Christianity.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">24:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + that day shall thy mouth be opened to him which is escaped, and + thou shalt speak, and be no more dumb: and thou shalt be a sign + unto them; and they shall know that I am the + Lord.</span></span>—Pastor Russell's voice has been stilled in + death; and his voice is, comparatively speaking, dumb to what it + will be. In the time of revolution and anarchy he shall speak, and + be no more dumb to those that escape the destruction of that day. + Pastor Russell shall <span class="tei tei-q">“be a sign unto + them,”</span> shall tell them the truth about the Divine + appointment of the trouble, as they consult his books, scattered to + the number of ten million throughout Christendom. His words shall + be a sign of hope unto them, enabling them to see the bright side + of the cloud and to look forward with anticipation to the glorious + Kingdom of God to be established. Then <span class= + "tei tei-q">“they shall know the Lord.”</span></p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">Build + thee more stately mansions, O my soul,</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 7.20em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">As the swift seasons + roll!</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 7.20em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Leave thy low vaulted + past!</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Let each new temple, nobler than + the last,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Shut thee from heaven with a + dome more vast,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 7.20em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Till thou at length art + free,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Leaving thine outgrown shell by life's + unresting sea.</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page486">[pg 486]</span><a name= + "Pg486" id="Pg486" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc107" id="toc107"></a> <a name="pdf108" id="pdf108"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 25—Recompense Upon The + Tares</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">25:1, 2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + word of the Lord came again unto me, saying, Son of man, set thy + face against the Ammonites, and prophesy against + them.</span></span>—Chapter 25 foretells that after the fall of + apostate ecclesiasticism in revolution, in 1918, the end of the + various discordant non-Christian elements of Christendom, hostile + to true Christianity, which will seek to profit by her fall, will + come. The Ammonites (25:1-7) and the Moabites (25:8-11), both + children of Lot—who was himself a type of the Great Company + class—are a type of a class brought into being by their father, the + Great Company class (Lot), while he was in a state of drunken + stupor from mixed doctrines, through Lot's daughters, type of the + worldly churches of the Great Company. The Edomites, descendants of + Esau, represent a class who sell their birthright to sonship of God + for a mess of pottage, worldly advantage (25:12-14); and the + Philistines, a people who migrated from Egypt, and aggressively + preyed upon the Jews, type of a class of aggressive, middle-course, + professing Christians who prey upon true Christians. The message + begins with words against the Ammonites, types of those believing + worldlings who were brought into the churches by the more or less + faithless Great Company, and who in an aggressive and predatory + fashion as Jesuits, persecuting Romish priests, and Protestant + clergy and their kind persecuted the true Christians. The Ammonites + are described as <span class="tei tei-q">“fierce marauders, crafty, + cruel, predatory.”</span> The Ammonites worshipped Baal, under the + name Chemosh, the god of fire and of fornication, type of the + eternal-torment-purgatory god, the encourager of the spiritual + adultery of church-state union.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">25:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + say unto the Ammonites, Hear the word of the Lord God; Thus saith + the Lord God; Because thou saidst, Aha, against My Sanctuary, when + it was profaned; and against the land of Israel, when it was + desolate; and against the house of Judah, when they went into + captivity.</span></span>—When God's true Church shall be persecuted + in the <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page487">[pg + 487]</span><a name="Pg487" id="Pg487" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + world-war and revolution, and true Christian faith shall be + desolated, and the multitude of those that praise God (Judah, + praise) shall go into captivity to the infidel revolutionists, the + persecuting, world-loving church members (Ammonites) will he glad + of it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, therefore I will deliver thee to + the men of the east for a possession, and they shall set their + palaces in thee, and make their dwellings in thee: they shall eat + thy fruit, and they shall drink thy milk.</span></span>—God will + deliver this class unto the anarchists, to possess them, and make + themselves at home with their property, and to make away with their + doctrines (milk).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">25:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will make Rabbah a stable for camels, and the Ammonites a + couching place for flocks: and ye shall know that I am the + Lord.</span></span>—And I will make the lordly clergy class + (Rabbah, great) waste and abandoned.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">25:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + thus saith the Lord God; Because thou hast clapped thine hands, and + stamped with the feet, and rejoiced in heart with all thy despite + against the land of Israel.</span></span>—Because they shall + rejoice greatly, in their despite against Christianity.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">25:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, therefore I will stretch out Mine + hand upon thee, and will deliver thee for a spoil to the heathen: + and I will cut thee off from the people, and I will cause thee to + perish out of the countries: I will destroy thee; and thou shalt + know that I am the Lord.</span></span>—Therefore God will stretch + out His hand against them, and deliver them to be despoiled by the + infidel anarchists in their midst. He will cut them off as a class, + cause them to cease and destroy them, and they shall know that He + is God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">25:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God: Because that Moab and Seir do say, Behold, the + house of Judah is like unto all the heathen.</span></span>—The + Moabites (<span class="tei tei-q">“Seir”</span> should be omitted) + were the civilized part of the descendants of Lot, born of incest, + of a drunken father, Lot, and worshippers of Baal, while + acknowledging Jehovah. They typed a church membership begotten by + the mixture of truth and error, by the Great Company class, through + their world-loving churches (daughters of Lot), and worshipping the + eternal-torment God, imagining him to be Jehovah, and practicing + the spiritual harlotry of union of church and state. Moab was + <span class="tei tei-q">“a nation high spirited, wealthy, populous, + civilized, and of wide reputation and popularity.”</span> They type + a like class.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">25:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore, behold, I will open the side + of Moab from the cities, from his cities which are on his + frontiers, the glory of the country, Beth-jeshi-moth, Baal-meon, + and Kiriathaim.</span></span>—God will cause this class to be + attacked in the anarchy (Beth-jeshimoth, place of desolation), on + two <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page488">[pg 488]</span><a name= + "Pg488" id="Pg488" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> grounds, their + apostate clergy (Baalmeon, lord of the habitation) and church-state + system (Kiriathaim, double city).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">25:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Unto + the men of the east with the Ammonites, and will give them in + possession, that the Ammonites may not be remembered among the + nations.</span></span>—The anarchists will also overcome the + aggressive class (Ammonites).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">25:11, 12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will execute judgments upon Moab; and they shall know that I am + the Lord. Thus saith the Lord God; Because that Edom hath dealt + against the house of Judah by taking vengeance, and hath greatly + offended, and revenged himself upon them.</span></span>—The + professedly Christian <span class="tei tei-q">“Edomites”</span> (D. + 14-19)—nominally believers in God (descendants of Abraham), but + worshipping a variety of gods of power, wealth, and worldliness, + especially the eternal-torment God—(Josephus says the Edomites + worshipped Cese, the destroyer)—will help greatly in pulling down + Christianity.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">25:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; I will + also stretch out Mine hand upon Edom, and will cut off man and + beast from it; and I will make it desolate from Teman; and they of + Dedan shall fall by the sword.</span></span>—God will stretch His + hand against this class (Edom-Idumea) and from end to end they + shall fall by the weapons of destruction, and by the Sword of the + Spirit.—Isa. 34:5, 6; Jer. 49:7-17.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">25:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will lay My vengeance upon Edom by the hand of My people Israel: + and they shall do in Edom according to Mine anger and according to + My fury; and they shall know My vengeance, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—The Truth people shall declare what God will do + to this class in His furious anger.—Isa. 15:1-9; Jer. 48:1-47.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">25:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; Because the Philistines have dealt by revenge, + and have taken vengeance with a despiteful heart, to destroy it for + the old hatred.</span></span>—The worldly professing Christians + (Philistines, emigrants from Egypt) persecute God's true people, + and shall in the revolution despitefully aid in destroying + Christianity.—Joel 3:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">25:16, 17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; + Behold, I will stretch out Mine hand upon the Philistines, and I + will cut off the Cherethim, and destroy the remnant of the sea + coast. And I will execute great vengeance upon them with furious + rebukes; and they shall know that I am the Lord, when I shall lay + My vengeance upon them.</span></span>—God will, through the + anarchists, stretch out His hand against this class, and will cut + off those that carry out persecution and death upon His people + (Cherethim, executioners), and all worldly professing Christians as + such, including those that border on anarchy (sea coast).</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page489">[pg 489]</span><a name= + "Pg489" id="Pg489" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc109" id="toc109"></a> <a name="pdf110" id="pdf110"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 26—Downfall Of + Philosophy</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it came to pass in the eleventh year, in the first day of the + month, that the word of the Lord came unto me, + saying.</span></span>—Chapter 26 depicts ecclesiasticism in the + guise of an elaborate system of philosophy. The name Tyrus + signifies <span class="tei tei-q">“Rock;”</span> and human + philosophy, particularly Greek Platonic philosophy, is the real + rock foundation of ecclesiastical teachings. Any true ecclesiastic, + when driven by the Word of God from his untenable errors, claims + sanction for them by reference to the philosophy of Plato and the + inherent immortality of man, etc.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Son + of man, because that Tyrus hath said against Jerusalem, Aha, she is + broken that was the gates of the people; she is turned unto me; I + shall be replenished, now she is laid waste.</span></span>—This + system and its adherents will manifest their essentially + non-Christian nature when Christendom (Jerusalem) falls at the + hands of the revolutionists in 1918. Philosophy, Higher Criticism, + will rejoice that ecclesiasticism, which claimed to be the gateway + to God for the people, is broken. They will imagine that the + adherents of a Christianity that has failed will turn to + philosophy, and that the adherents of philosophy will be increased + now that ecclesiasticism is desolated. Human philosophy will seem + to be the sole refuge of the people of Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; + Behold, I am against thee, O Tyrus, and will cause many nations to + come up against thee, as the sea causeth his waves to come + up.</span></span>—Because Christendom has borne the name of Christ + and had the oracles of God, therefore God is against philosophy and + will cause the many nations of Christendom to come up against + established philosophy, as a sea of anarchy, with the discontented + masses attacking, wave after wave, endlessly.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall destroy the walls of Tyrus, and break down her towers: I + will also scrape her dust from her, and make her like the top of a + rock.</span></span>—The anarchists shall destroy the walls of + defense, composed of the adherents to human philosophy, and shall + break down the loftiest and strongest organizations, its towers of + defense. <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page490">[pg + 490]</span><a name="Pg490" id="Pg490" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + God will remove the last vestiges of human adherence to + Christendom's system of philosophy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">It + shall be a place for the spreading of nets in the midst of the sea: + for I have spoken it, saith the Lord God: and it shall become a + spoil to the nations.</span></span>—In the anarchy, human + philosophy shall be utterly abandoned—deprived of all its former + supporters, by whole nations of anarchists.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + her daughters which are in the field shall be slain by the sword: + and they shall know that I am the Lord.</span></span>—The religious + organizations (daughters) founded on philosophy, which are in the + world (field), shall be wiped out; and in the Kingdom their former + adherents shall come to know Jehovah as He is.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I will bring upon Tyrus + Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, a king of kings, from the north, + with horses, and with chariots, and with horsemen, and companies, + and much people.</span></span>—Jehovah God declares that against + human philosophy (Tyrus) and its systems and adherents, He will + array Satan—the king of this evil world, ruler of mystic Babylon, + <span class="tei tei-q">“the gateway to Bel,”</span> to devil + worship, king over the kings and other children of disobedience. He + shall be permitted to come by God Himself (the North) (Jer. 1:14), + with teachings (horses) of anarchy, with institutions based upon + such teachings (chariots), with leaders and teachers riding these + hobbies (horsemen), with an organised following (companies) and + with many people following after anarchy in unorganized mobs (much + people).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + shall slay with the sword thy daughters in the field: and he shall + make a fort against thee, and cast a mount against thee, and lift + up the buckler against thee.</span></span>—With weapons of + destruction (swords) anarchy shall seek to destroy the + philosophical churches and other religious organizations + (daughters) in the world (field) and shall systematically besiege + them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he shall set engines of war against thy walls and with his axes he + shall break down thy towers.</span></span>—Anarchy shall make war + against their defenders (walls), and with keen, strong, cutting + arguments (axes), shall break down philosophy's strongholds + (towers).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By + reason of the abundance of his horses their dust shall cover thee: + thy walls shall shake at the noise of the horsemen, and of the + wheels, and of the chariots, when he shall enter into thy gates, as + men enter into a city wherein is made a + breach.</span></span>—Anarchistic teachings (horses) without limit + shall fill the air with confusion (dust); philosophy's defenders + (walls) shall fear and quake at the tumult (noise) of the leaders + and teachers of <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page491">[pg + 491]</span><a name="Pg491" id="Pg491" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + anarchy (horsemen), and of their systematic plans (wheels) of + destruction, and of the anarchistic organizations (chariots), when + Anarchy shall pour its forces through the great ones (gates) of + Philosophy, for the great ones will become channels (breaches) for + the inpouring teachings of anarchy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With + the hoofs of his horses shall be tread down all thy streets: he + shall slay thy people by the sword, and thy strong garrisons shall + go down to the ground.</span></span>—With the impact (hoofs) of + doctrines (horses) of destruction, anarchy shall beat down all the + orderly ways (streets) of philosophy. Anarchy shall destroy the + adherents of philosophy with weapons of destruction, and the + learned and mighty colleges and universities (garrisons) shall go + down in failure and ruin.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall make a spoil of thy riches, and make a prey of thy + merchandise: and they shall break down thy walls, and destroy thy + pleasant houses: and they shall lay thy stones and thy timber and + thy dust in the midst of the water.</span></span>—And the + anarchists shall spoil the ideals (riches), and stop the teaching + (merchandise) of philosophy; they shall break down the defense of + philosophy's adherents (walls), and destroy the pleasing + philosophical organizations (pleasant houses). They shall engulf + the believers (stones) and supporters (timbers) in the rising tide + of anarchy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will cause the noise of thy songs to cease; and the sound of thy + harps shall be no more heard.</span></span>—And God will cause the + noise of philosophy's siren songs, her falsely pleasant teachings + (songs) to cease; and the utterance of her melodious books (harps) + shall be no more heard forever.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will make thee like the top of a rock: thou shalt be a place to + spread nets upon; thou shalt be built no more: for I the Lord have + spoken it, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—Philosophy, falsely + so-called, shall be utterly desolated, and shall be built up no + more forever; for Jehovah God has spoken it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God to Tyrus; Shall not the isles shake at the sound + of thy fall, when the wounded cry, when the slaughter is made in + the midst of thee?</span></span>—The world will be full of + revolutionary republics (isles), devoid of Christian principles and + following man-made ideas; these republics shall be shaken to their + foundations, when anarchy begins its dread slaughter of men and of + systems.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + all the princes of the sea shall come down from their thrones, and + lay away their robes, and put off their broidered garments: they + shall clothe themselves</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page492">[pg 492]</span><a name="Pg492" id="Pg492" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">with + trembling; they shall sit upon the ground, and shall tremble at + every moment, and be astonished at thee.</span></span>—Then shall + the rude rulers of the revolutionary, half-anarchistic republics + lose their positions of power (thrones), and lay aside their honors + (robes), and discard their works of revolution (broidered + garments); they shall be filled with dread and with trembling, and + shall marvel at the downfall of their socialistic and revolutionary + philosophies.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall take up a lamentation for thee, and say to thee, How art + thou destroyed, that wast inhabited of seafaring men, the renowned + city, which wast strong in the sea, she and her inhabitants, which + cause their terror to be on all that haunt it!</span></span>—They + shall lament; for the great systems of human philosophy shall be + destroyed, where abode polished cosmopolitan men of the world + (seafaring men), the renowned system of thought which was strong + among all peoples (in the sea), even in the midst of a world of + restless, discontented masses.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Now + shall the isles tremble in the day of thy fall; yea, the isles that + are in the sea shall be troubled at thy + departure.</span></span>—Now shall the revolutionary republics + (isles) tremble in the year of philosophy's downfall; the republics + in the midst of the anarchistic peoples (sea) shall be in trouble + with the failure of the system of man-made philosophy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + thus saith the Lord God; When I shall make thee a desolate city, + like the cities that are not inhabited; when I shall bring up the + deep upon thee, and great waters shall cover + thee.</span></span>—For God will utterly desolate philosophical + teachings; when He brings up the sea of anarchy upon them, and + engulfs them in the tidal wave.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When + I shall bring thee down with them that descend into the pit, with + the people of old time, and shall set thee in the low parts of the + earth, in places desolate of old, with them that go down to the + pit, that thou be not inhabited; and I shall set glory in the land + of the living.</span></span>—God will bring human philosophy down + to destruction, without an adherent and in disgrace and reproach + (into the pit), in order that He may establish His glorious truth + in the Kingdom of resurrection and of life.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">26:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + will make thee a terror, and thou shalt be no more: though thou be + sought for, yet shalt thou never be found again, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—God will make human philosophy a wasted, + desolated thing (a terror); never shall it exist any more; though + men and devils should seek to reestablish it, never shall it be + found again, saith Jehovah God.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page493">[pg 493]</span><a name= + "Pg493" id="Pg493" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc111" id="toc111"></a> <a name="pdf112" id="pdf112"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 27—Philosophy's Utter + Ruin</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Word of the Lord came again unto me, saying.</span></span>—In + Chapter 27 Christendom, regarded as an independent system of pagan + philosophy, is represented as a gallant ship. Its component parts + are represented symbolically (27:4-7), as are its mariners and + pilots (27:8-9). In verses 9 to 25 the figure reverts to a + mercantile city, and the sources of its articles of trade. It is + again pictured as a ship, which is steered by its mariners into an + angry sea, and wrecked.—Verses 26 to 36.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Now, + thou son of man, take up a lamentation for Tyrus.</span></span>—The + man-made system of Pagan philosophy must fall.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + say unto Tyrus, O thou that art situate at the entry of the sea, + which art a merchant of the people for many isles, Thus saith the + Lord God: O Tyrus, thou hast said, I am of perfect + beauty.</span></span>—O Christendom, thou that hast the entree to + the ears of the peoples (sea), which art a salesman (merchant) of + philosophical doctrines for the people of many revolutionary + republics, thus says the Lord God: O Christendom, ecclesiasticism, + thou hast regarded thy pagan philosophies as perfect, faultless and + beautiful.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + borders are in the midst of the seas, thy builders have perfected + thy beauty.</span></span>—Thou, as an independent pagan religious + organization or system, belongest among the disobedient children + (sea) of the world. Thy philosophers, doctors of divinity, + professors and writers, have perfected thy seemingly beautiful + philosophy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They + have made all thy ship boards of fir trees of Senir; they have + taken cedars from Lebanon to make masts for + thee.</span></span>—They have made as thy fundamental supporters + (boards) believers in everlasting human life (firs, evergreen + trees), in high stations in society (Mount Senir, or Hermon, + <span class="tei tei-q">“pointed rock”</span> was in Benjamin, one + of the Hebrew tribes, and type of the Great Company). They have + taken as the support (masts) of thy seeming righteousness (linen + sails) earth's greatest men and the rulers, believers in inherent + immortality (cedars), picturing them as from the loftiest, purest + sources. (Lebanon, a great mountain range, means <span class= + "tei tei-q">“white, snowy.”</span>).</p><span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page494">[pg 494]</span><a name="Pg494" id="Pg494" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Of + the oaks of Bashan have they made thine oars; the company of the + Ashurites have made thy benches of ivory, brought out of the isles + of Chittim.</span></span>—The prominent tares, leaders (oaks), whom + other tares follow and worship, and who are fruitful in producing + more tares (Bashan means fruitful), are the mechanism (oars) for + making thee move and progress among the people. The company of + free-thinkers (Ashurite means freemen) have made thy white + (supposedly righteous) seats (ivory signifies dreams—of immediate + spirit life when they die) to be the seats (seats of the mighty), + of the rowers who work the oars.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Fine + linen with broidered work from Egypt was that which thou spreadest + forth to be thy sail; blue and purple from the isles of Elishah was + that which covered thee.</span></span>—Thy ensigns, banners, sails, + over thee, to be driven by the winds of error, are false + righteousness (linen), with innumerable works of self-righteousness + (broidered work), and of worldliness (Egypt); thou wast covered + with the faithfulness (blue) and royalty (purple) of the worst of + earth's pagan peoples (Elishah, descended from Javan, European, the + most cruel and ferocious people of earth, as shown by their + history, including this furious world-war.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + inhabitants of Zidon and Arvad were thy mariners; thy wise men, O + Tyrus, that were in thee, were thy pilots.</span></span>—The + adherents of the belong-to-a-church or go-to-hell idea (Zidon meant + <span class="tei tei-q">“fortress,”</span> and the idea is the + fortress of ecclesiasticism), and the supporters of the falsely + comforting refuge of Platonic immortality of the soul (Arvad means + refuge, and Platonic heathen philosophy is the refuge of + philosophic Christendom) were thy mariners, the ones who + <span class="tei tei-q">“worked”</span> thy oars; thy philosophers + (wise ones), from Plato to Nietsche, charted thy evil course, and + were the real <span class="tei tei-q">“sky-pilots”</span> for the + rowers to row by.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + ancients of Gebal and the wise men thereof were in thee thy + calkers; all the ships of the sea with their mariners were in thee + to occupy thy merchandise.</span></span>—The doctors of divinity + (ancients of Gebal) (Psa. 83:7) and the creed builders said enough + on both sides of any question for theological authorities (calkers) + to keep the people (sea) from getting on the inside, or having any + real participation in thy affairs. In the middle of verse 9 the + figure changes back to that of the prosperous mercantile city that + Tyre was. All the independent religious and philosophical churches + and other organizations (ships) of the sea (peoples and nations) + with their sky-pilots (mariners) were in thee, O Christendom, thou + aggregation <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page495">[pg + 495]</span><a name="Pg495" id="Pg495" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + of confused and contradictory philosophies, to receive, hold and + disseminate thy teachings, doctrines, traditions, fables and + philosophies (merchandise).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They + of Persia and of Lud and of Phut were in thine army, thy men of + war; they hanged the shield and helmet in thee; they set forth thy + comeliness.</span></span>—Believers in the hell-fire superstition + (Persians were fire worshippers), and middle-course, conservative + worldly men of sin (the people of Lud and Phut were dark-skinned + men, living probably west of Egypt, type of worldly compromisers + with sin) were in thine army, those that fight the bad fight of + error for thee; in thee they hung the shield of credulity (faith) + and the helmet of a false salvation; they extolled the loveliness + of thy philosophy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + men of Arvad with thine army were upon thy walls round about, and + the Gammadim were in thy towers; they hanged their shields upon thy + walls round about; they have made thy beauty + perfect.</span></span>—The believers in human immortality, thy + philosophic refuge (Arvad means <span class= + "tei tei-q">“refuge”</span>) with thine army just mentioned were + the wall of thy defense and thy watchmen, college professors, + economists (the Gammadim are thought to mean watchmen or guards) + were in thy watch towers; upon thy walls, in the minds of thy + supporters (walls) they hanged their shields of credulity; they + have made thy philosophies and sophistries seem perfectly + beautiful.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Tarshish was thy merchant by reason of + the multitude of all kinds of riches; with silver, iron, tin, and + lead, they traded in thy fairs.</span></span>—Thy preachers + (merchants, trading in philosophy for gain) were a hard proposition + (Tarshish means hard), with an abundant supply of teachings + regarded worth while by the world; with worldly truth—silver—with + strong earthly authority—iron—with actually worthless philosophies + (tin was as the dross of silver) and with downright wicked + doctrines (lead symbolized wickedness—Zech. 5:7-8) they taught and + preached (traded) in thy preaching places (fairs).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Javan, Tubal, and Meshech, they were thy + merchants: they traded the persons of men and vessels of brass in + thy market.</span></span>—Believers in Greek philosophy (Javan + represented the Greek race), and believers in the most far-fetched + and uncouth ideas, such as monkey-born evolution (Tubal and Meshech + were the remotest and rudest of nations), were thy preachers + (merchants). They sold men into bondage to sin, and presented + teachings of human perfection (brass) attainable otherwise than + through Christ. Brass should be translated copper, and signifies + perfect human nature.—T. 18.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page496">[pg 496]</span><a name="Pg496" id="Pg496" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They + of the house of Togarmah traded in thy fairs with horses and + horsemen and mules.</span></span>—The representatives of the rudest + and crudest ideas (Togarmah) preached in thy churches with + doctrines (horses) and with followers of the doctrines and with + mixed human and spirit nature ideas (mules).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + men of Dedan were thy merchants; many isles were the merchandise of + thine hand: they brought thee for a present, horns of ivory and + ebony.</span></span>—Men of low ideals (Dedan means low) were thy + preachers; many revolutionary republics (islands) were thy + preaching places; they presented thee with dreams, visions (ivory) + of power (horns), good and bad (ebony).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Syria was thy merchant by reason of the + multitude of the wares of thy making: they occupied in thy fairs + with emeralds, purple, and broidered work, and flat linen, and + coral, and agate.</span></span>—Believers in doctrines of lofty + self-righteousness (Syria signifies high land) were thy preachers; + they traded for gain in philosophies of eternal life (emeralds) + without Christ's purchase, with teachings of self-kingship + (purple), with works of self-mastery (broidered work), with + self-righteousness (linen), with an imitation ransom (red coral), + and imitation character jewels (agate).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Judah, and the land of Israel, they were + thy merchants: they traded in thy market wheat of Minnith, and + Pannag, and honey, and oil, and balm.</span></span>—With thine + errors were mingled God's Truth to make up thy mixed doctrines. + Some of thy preachers were really believers in the Bible (of Judah + and Israel), taught the wholesome spiritual Bible truths (wheat), + good teachings for the natural man (Pannag means millet), and + teachings about Christ's Second Coming (honey), the anointing oil + of the Holy Spirit (Rev. 10:9, 10), and the balm of the comfort of + the Word of God.—Rom. 15:4.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Damascus was thy merchant in the + multitude of the wares of thy making, for the multitude of all + riches; in the wine of Helbon, and white wool.</span></span>—Thy + preachers (merchants) were among the chiefest of the lofty, + self-righteous, lordly ones (Damascus was capital of Syria, the + high land), trading in all varieties of thy doctrines and + philosophies, especially the mixed doctrines (wine) of earthly + prosperity (Helbon, fruitfulness) and in natural human + righteousness (white wool).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Dan + also and Javan going to and fro occupied in thy fairs: bright iron, + cassia, and calamus, were in thy market.</span></span>—Apostate + Christians (Dan was the seat of idolatry and types a class once + spirit-begotten but fallen away) <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page497">[pg 497]</span><a name="Pg497" id="Pg497" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> and Grecian pagans (Javan represented the + Greeks) preached in thy church gatherings; lordship, authority + (iron), the claim of apostolic authority (cassia, deputyship), and + a claimed knowledge of the Bible (calamus) were in thy churches + (markets).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Dedan was thy merchant in precious + clothes for chariots.</span></span>—Preachers of low ideals (Dedan, + low) preached that thy church organizations (chariots) should be + made presentable by being robed in the embroidery of many works, + church fairs and suppers, institutional work, and civic and social + service (chariot clothes or robes).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Arabia, and all the princes of Kedar, + they occupied with thee in lambs, and rams, and goats: in these + were they thy merchants.</span></span>—Thy preachers, with claims + of consecration, separateness (Arabia, wilderness), and all the + powerful right reverends, fathers, and other lords (Kedar, + powerful), they traded (exchanged from one church to another) their + converts (lambs), old church members (rams), and out-and-out tares + (goats).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + merchants of Sheba and Raamah, they were thy merchants: they + occupied in thy fairs with chief of all spices, and with all + precious stones, and gold.</span></span>—The preachers in captivity + (Sheba, captivity) to Satan, and those who tremble at Satan's word + (Raamah, trembling) set forth a counterfeit of the Holy Spirit + (principal spices, Exodus 30:23), all kinds and degrees of + self-development of character (precious stones), and the alleged + inherent spark of the Divine (!) in man (gold).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Haran, and Canneh, and Eden, the + merchants of Sheba, Asshur, and Chilmad, were thy + merchants.</span></span>—The preachers of New Thought, Theosophy, + Christian Science and other phases of Spiritism, self-styled, + strong and enlightened (Haran), set up and distinguished (Canneh), + and believers in delightful delusions (Eden, delight), are in + captivity (Sheba, captivity) to Satan, and really without hope of + Kingdom honors (Chilmad, level, plain, without mountains).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">These were thy merchants in all sorts of + things, in blue clothes, and broidered work, and in chests of rich + apparel, bound with cords, and made of cedar, among thy + merchandise.</span></span>—These self-reliance preachers set forth + the robes of a counterfeit faithfulness (blue), fruitless works of + self-improvement (broidered work), and organizations (chests) + offering an imitation righteousness (rich apparel), bound with + cords of free-thought love and a delusive hope, and represented as + having eternal life (cedar).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + ships of Tarshish did sing of thee in thy market: and thou wast + replenished, and made very glorious</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page498">[pg 498]</span><a name="Pg498" id="Pg498" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">in the + midst of the seas.</span></span>—The mighty independent religious + sects (ships of Tarshish—Isa. 3:16) did preach of thy philosophies + and thou wast richly supported (replenished) and made of great + reputation (glorious) among the peoples and nations (seas).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + rowers have brought thee into great waters: the east wind hath + broken thee in the midst of the seas.</span></span>—The picture + changes back to a gallant ship. Thy strong preachers (rowers) have + steered thee into angry seas (anarchy); the doctrines (winds) from + the presence of Christ the Sun of Righteousness (east wind) have + broken thy power in the midst of a time of anarchy (seas).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thy + riches, and thy fairs, thy merchandise, thy mariners, and thy + pilots, thy calkers, and the occupiers of thy merchandise, and all + thy men of war, that are in thee, and in all thy company which is + in the midst of thee, shall fall into the midst of the seas in the + day of thy ruin.</span></span>—Thy philosophies, thy churches, thy + doctrines, thy preachers, thy philosophers, thy Doctors of Divinity + (sky-pilots), thy church members, all thy church workers, and all + the multitude that come to church, shall fall in the anarchy in the + day of thy ruin.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:28. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + suburbs shall shake at the sound of the cry of thy + pilots.</span></span>—Those affiliated with thee shall quake at the + shoutings and threatenings of thy sky-pilots.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:29. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + all that handle the oar, the mariners, and all the pilots of the + sea, shall come down from their ships, they shall stand upon the + land.</span></span>—All those that work, the influential church + members, the preachers, and all the sky-pilots of the anarchistic + masses (sea) (Rev. 18:17-18), shall abandon their independent + organizations or their heathen religions, and shall try to find + more solid ground to stand on than thou wast on.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:30. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + shall cause their voice to be heard against thee, and shall cry + bitterly, and shall cast up dust upon their heads, they shall + wallow themselves in the ashes.</span></span>—They shall speak + against thee, and cry out with bitterness against thee, they shall + show signs of grief.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:31. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall make themselves utterly bald for thee, and gird them + with sackcloth, and they shall weep for thee with bitterness of + heart and bitter wailing.</span></span>—It was a custom in ancient + times for those who had suffered great calamities to shave their + heads. The Lord promises such an occasion for weeping to Zion, His + professed people.—Isa. 3:24.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page499">[pg 499]</span><a name="Pg499" id="Pg499" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:32. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + in their wailing they shall take up a lamentation for thee, and + lament over thee, saying, What city is like Tyrus, like the + destroyed in the midst of the sea?</span></span>—In their bemoaning + the downfall of so-called <span class="tei tei-q">“Christian + philosophy”</span> they shall lament over thee, saying, What + organization was ever like Christendom, like her who has been + destroyed in anarchy?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:33. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When + thy wares went forth out of the seas, thou filledst many people; + thou didst enrich the kings of the earth with the multitude of thy + riches and of thy merchandise.</span></span>—When thy philosophies + were accepted by the masses, thou didst satisfy many people. Thou + didst enrich materially and mentally the rulers and the + clergy-lords of society with thy innumerable philosophies and thy + doctrines.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:34. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + the time when thou shalt be broken by the seas in the depths of the + waters, thy merchandise and all thy company in the midst of thee + shall fall.</span></span>—When thou shalt be broken and engulfed in + the roaring waves of anarchy, thy doctrines shall cease and all thy + supporters shall fall.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:35. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">All + the inhabitants of the isles shall be astonished at thee, and their + kings shall be sore afraid, they shall be troubled in their + countenance.</span></span>—All the people of the revolutionary + republics shall marvel at thy fall, and the rulers of that brief + era shall be troubled and afraid of meeting thy fate in the + anarchy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">27:36. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + merchants among the people shall hiss at thee; thou shalt be a + terror, and never shalt be any more.</span></span>—The preachers + (merchants) then taking their place among the unbelieving masses + shall scoff at thee; thou shalt be a <span class= + "tei tei-q">“worn-out and wasted thing”</span> (literal) and never + shalt thou exist any more.</p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">O bliss of the purified! bliss + of the free!</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">I plunge in the crimson tide + opened for me;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">O'er sin and uncleanness + exulting I stand,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And point to the print of the + nails in His hand.</span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">O bliss of the purified! Jesus + is mine;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">No longer in dread condemnation + I pine;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">In conscious salvation, I sing + of His grace,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Who lifteth upon me the light of + His face.</span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">O Jesus, the crucified! thee + will I sing,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">My blessed Redeemer, my God and + my King;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">My soul filled with rapture + shall shout o'er the grave,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And triumph o'er death in + the</span> <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">Mighty + to save.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page500">[pg 500]</span><a name= + "Pg500" id="Pg500" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc113" id="toc113"></a> <a name="pdf114" id="pdf114"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 28—Destruction Of The + Devil</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Word of the Lord came again unto me, saying.</span></span>—Chapter + 28:1-10 depicts the destruction of priestcraft by the sword of + revolution and anarchy and by the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of + God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Son + of man, say unto the prince of Tyrus, Thus saith the Lord God; + Because thine heart is lifted up, and thou hast said, I am a god, I + sit in the seat of God, in the midst of the seas; yet thou art a + man, and not God, though thou set thine heart as the heart of + God.</span></span>—To the exalted class, the clergy (prince) of + Christendom, as a system of paganized philosophy: Because of thy + pride of heart, thou hast said through thy chief representative, + the Pope of Rome, I am as a god, I am the vice-gerent of Jehovah, + my seat is <span class="tei tei-q">“upon many waters”</span> (Rev. + 17:1), upon <span class="tei tei-q">“peoples and multitudes and + nations and tongues”</span> (Rev. 17:15), yet thou art man-made, + man-ordained, and not of God, not Divinely ordained, even though + thou set thine heart to pose before the people as Divinely + ordained.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, thou art wiser than Daniel; there + is no secret that they can hide from thee.</span></span>—Behold, + thou thinkest that thou art wiser than Daniel (Z. '05-280); that + through supposed Divine inspiration, the confessional and the + universal clergy-spy system, there is nothing in Heaven or earth + which thou dost not know.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">With + thy wisdom and with thine understanding thou hast gotten thee + riches, and hast gotten gold and silver into thy + treasures.</span></span>—With thy false philosophy and thy + misunderstanding thou hast acquired riches, much gold and silver + into thy treasury—many, too, of both Little Flock (gold) and Great + Company (silver) into bondage.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By + thy great wisdom and by thy traffick has thou increased thy riches, + and thine heart is lifted up because of thy + riches.</span></span>—By scientific suppositions of infidel + Evolution and Higher Criticism, and by good salesmanship of these + worthless goods, thou hast heaped up wealth; and thou hast become + proud, because of thy riches of materials, doctrines and + membership.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page501">[pg + 501]</span><a name="Pg501" id="Pg501" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; + Because thou hast set thine heart as the heart of + God.</span></span>—Therefore Jehovah says, Because thou hast set + thyself up in pride to be as God, claiming to represent Him on + earth as God's vice-gerent.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, therefore I will bring strangers + upon thee, the terrible of the nations: and they shall draw their + swords against the beauty of thy wisdom, and they shall defile thy + brightness.</span></span>—I will bring upon thee paganized + anarchists, strangers to thy theories, the terror of the + nations—and also My pilgrims and strangers, the sons of God, those + whom thy philosophy dreadest; and the anarchists shall turn their + weapons of destruction against thee, and the sons of God shall + smite with the Sword of the Spirit thy falsely beautiful + philosophy, and shall expose the real pollution of thy wisdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They + shall bring thee down to the pit, and thou shalt die the deaths of + them that are slain in the midst of the sea.</span></span>—They + shall bring thee down to a dishonored oblivion, and materially and + religiously thou shalt die the deaths of those slain in the roaring + waves of anarchy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Wilt + thou yet say before him that slayeth thee, I am God? but thou shalt + be a man, and no God, in the hand of him that slayeth + thee.</span></span>—Though thou sayest to the anarchy that shall + slay thee materially and to Him that shall destroy thee + religiously, <span class="tei tei-q">“I represent God!”</span>—yet + thou shalt be seen to be man-made and not ordained by God, in the + power of the destroyer appointed by Jehovah.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + shalt die the deaths of the uncircumcised by the hand of strangers: + for I have spoken it, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—Thou shalt + die the deaths of the wicked by the hand of the anarchists, and be + destroyed religiously as one of unclean conscience (uncircumcised) + at the hand of the sons of God, My strangers and pilgrims in the + earth (1 Pet. 1:1); for Jehovah hath spoken it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover the Word of the Lord came unto + me, saying.</span></span>—Verses 11 to 26 deal with the destruction + of the Devil, pictured as the King of Tyrus.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Son + of man, take up a lamentation upon the King of Tyrus, and say unto + him, Thus saith the Lord God; Thou sealest up the sum, full of + wisdom and perfect in beauty.</span></span>—Satan, the Devil, the + father of lies and king over Christendom's system of pagan + philosophy, is by nature the summation of perfection, the + personification of Wisdom (Wisdom was one of the cherubs) and by + nature perfect in the beauty of holiness.—Z. '03-135.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was thy + covering: the sardius, topaz, and</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page502">[pg 502]</span><a name="Pg502" id="Pg502" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">the + diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the + emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of thy + tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou + wast created.</span></span>—Thou wast in the garden of Eden at the + fall of man. Every good fruit of character wast thine adornment + (Rev. 21:18-21); with this perfection of character endowment thou + wast created.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + art the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee so; thou + wast upon the Holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in + the midst of the stones of fire.</span></span>—Before thy fall thou + wast appointed the care-taker (coverer) of the innocent pair in + Eden. Thou wast the embodiment of Wisdom (cherub), and endowed with + the Holy Spirit (anointed); and I so made thee. Thou wast in high + position in the holy heavenly Kingdom of God (Eph. 6:12); thou hast + had thy course of life among God's holy angels (Isa. 14:13)—stars, + fiery stones.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:15, 16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till + iniquity was found in thee. By the multitude of thy merchandise + they have filled the midst of thee with violence, and thou hast + sinned: therefore I will cast thee as profane out of the mountain + of God: and I will destroy thee, O covering cherub, from the midst + of the stones of fire.</span></span>—By their multitudinous trading + in mixed doctrines (merchandise) <span class="tei tei-q">“for + revenue only”</span> thy adherents, demons and clergy, have filled + thy following with violence and warfare; and thou hast sinned unto + death. Therefore I will cast thee as polluted out of the Kingdom of + God (A. 318); and I will destroy thee from amongst My holy + angels.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Thine heart was lifted up because of thy + beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness; + I will cast thee to the ground, I will lay thee before kings, that + they may behold thee.</span></span>—Thou becamest proud because of + thine endowment of beauteous character. Thou hast corrupted thy + wisdom by reason of thy conceited teaching of counterfeit wisdom + (brightness); I will humble thee to the dust, and expose thy real + character.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + hast defiled thy sanctuaries by the multitude of thine iniquities, + by the iniquity of thy traffick: therefore will I bring forth a + fire from the midst of thee, it shall devour thee, and I will bring + thee to ashes upon the earth in the sight of all them that behold + thee.</span></span>—Thou hast defiled the churches of Christendom + by thine iniquitous doctrines and the teaching of them. Therefore I + will utterly destroy thee with annihilation, and thy following with + anarchy, in the sight of all that behold thee, in Heaven and on + earth.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page503">[pg + 503]</span><a name="Pg503" id="Pg503" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">All + they that know thee among the people shall be astonished at thee: + thou shalt be a terror, and never shalt thou be any + more.</span></span>—All shall marvel at thy destruction; thou shall + become wasted, devastated (a terror), and never shalt thou exist + any more.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Again the Word of the Lord came unto me, + saying,</span></span>—Verses 20 to 26 relate to the destruction of + organized Churchianity.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Son + of man, set thy face against Zidon, and prophesy against + it.</span></span>—Zidon meant <span class= + "tei tei-q">“fortress”</span>; and the fortress of churchianity + since the third century A. D. has been the doctrine that, to be + saved, men must belong to a church organization. The King of Zidon + typed the Devil.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + say, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I am against thee, O Zidon; + and I will be glorified in the midst of thee; and they shall know + that I am the Lord, when I shall have executed judgments in her, + and shall be sanctified in her.</span></span>—God says, I am + against thee, organized churchianity, and I will be glorified and + made holy in thee, only when I have executed retribution and + justice upon thee.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + I will send into her pestilence, and blood into her streets; and + the wounded shall be judged in the midst of her by the sword upon + her on every side; and they shall know that I am the + Lord.</span></span>—For I will afflict thee with literal and + spiritual sickness and death (shed blood).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + there shall be no more a pricking brier unto the house of Israel, + nor any grievous thorn of all that are round about them, that + despised them; and they shall know that I am the Lord + God.</span></span>—The adherents to the church-organization idea + have persecuted and dispersed both Jews and Christians, but they + shall do so no more.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">28:25, 26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; When I shall have gathered the house of Israel + from the people among whom they are scattered, and shall be + sanctified in them in the sight of the heathen, then shall they + dwell in their land that I have given to My servant Jacob. And they + shall dwell safely therein, and shall build houses, and plant + vineyards; yea, they shall dwell with confidence, when I have + executed judgments upon all those that despise them round about + them; and they shall know that I am the Lord their + God.</span></span>—The Jews shall enjoy God's earthly blessings, + and the true Christians His Heavenly blessings, when He has + executed justly earned judgments upon the people that have adhered + to or taught the belong-to-a-church-or-go-to-hell idea.—Z. + '94-76.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page504">[pg 504]</span><a name= + "Pg504" id="Pg504" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc115" id="toc115"></a> <a name="pdf116" id="pdf116"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 29—The Egyptians A + Type</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + the tenth year, in the tenth month, in the twelfth day of the + month, the Word of the Lord came unto me, + saying.</span></span>—Chapters 29 to 32 are directed against Egypt, + its king and people, and against the surrounding peoples. Egypt was + divided into Upper and Lower Egypt, and was known as Mizraim, which + meant <span class="tei tei-q">“Middle Country,”</span> and typed + organized, entrenched and enthroned middle-course worldliness. The + word Egypt means <span class="tei tei-q">“that binds or + oppresses,”</span> and signifies the bondage of the Lord's people + to the oppressive, enslaving spirit of the world—the spirit that + slew our Lord (Rev. 11:8), and has enslaved and slain millions of + God's saints. Chapter 29:1-7 represents worldliness as a crocodile, + the dragon of Revelation 12:3, etc.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Son + of man, set thy face against Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and prophesy + against him, and against all Egypt.</span></span>—This message is + against Satan, the Devil, the king of this present evil world, and + against all worldliness.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Speak, and say, Thus saith the Lord God; + Behold, I am against thee, Pharaoh king of Egypt, the great dragon + that lieth in the midst of his rivers, which hath said. My river is + mine own, and I have made it for myself.</span></span>—Jehovah + says, I am against thee, Satan (Pharaoh means the sun, the god of + the sun worshipper, the Devil), the great wicked dragon, also + called Pagan Rome (later Papal Rome), that dwells in the midst of + the church denominations (rivers, channels of Truth), and says, The + church system is mine own, and I (not God) made it for my own + purposes.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + I will put hooks in thy jaws, and I will cause the fish of thy + rivers to stick unto thy scales, and I will bring thee up out of + the midst of thy rivers, and all the fish of thy rivers shall stick + unto thy scales.</span></span>—God will bind thy utterances (jaws) + with a chain (hook means chain or ring) (Rev. 20:1), and will cause + thy active worldly church members and other adherents in thy + churches (rivers) to adhere to thy protecting doctrines (scales) + and will alienate thy churches from thee (corresponds to drying up + Euphrates) and from all thy active supporters.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page505">[pg 505]</span><a name="Pg505" id="Pg505" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will leave thee thrown into the wilderness, thee and all the fish + of thy rivers: thou shalt fall upon the open fields; thou shalt not + be brought together, nor gathered: I have given thee for meat to + the beasts of the field and to the fowls of the + heaven.</span></span>—And I will cause thee to be forsaken (in the + wilderness), thee and all thy adherents (fish). Thou shalt fall + unprotected into the hands of a cold, cruel world (open fields), + not to be established again in power, but to be destroyed by the + evil revolutionary governments (beasts) of the world (field), in + world-wide revolution, and by wicked criminals, jail birds (fowls) + and anarchists.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the inhabitants of Egypt shall know that I am the Lord, because + they have been a staff of reed to the house of + Israel.</span></span>—The worldly people who have been no real + support to either Jews or true Christians (Isa. 36:6; Z. '95-144), + shall realize that Jehovah is the Lord.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When + they took hold of thee by thy hand, thou didst break, and rend all + their shoulder: and when they leaned upon thee, thou brakest, and + madest all their loins to be at a stand.</span></span>—When they in + their weakness sought some aid of thee, thou didst roughly abuse + them; and didst try to destroy them in persecution.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:8, 9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; + Behold, I will bring a sword upon thee, and cut off man and beast + out of thee. And the land of Egypt shall be desolate and waste; and + they shall know that I am the Lord: because he hath said, The river + is mine, and I have made it.</span></span>—And worldliness shall be + destroyed, and the people shall know Jehovah as He is; because + Satan said, The churches are mine.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, therefore I am against thee, and + against thy rivers, and I will make the land of Egypt utterly waste + and desolate, from the tower of Syene even unto the border of + Ethiopia.</span></span>—I am against thee and thy churches, and + will utterly destroy worldliness from end to end.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:11, 12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">No + foot of man shall pass through it, nor foot of beast shall pass + through it, neither shall it be inhabited forty years. And I will + make the land of Egypt desolate in the midst of the countries that + are desolate, and her cities among the cities that are laid waste + shall be desolate forty years: and I will scatter the Egyptians + among the nations, and will disperse them through the + countries.</span></span>—Christendom shall be uninhabited and + desolate for forty years after its devastation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yet + thus saith the Lord God; At the end of forty years will I gather + the Egyptians from the people whither they were + scattered.</span></span>—After forty years God will gather into the + Kingdom the scattered worldly people.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page506">[pg 506]</span><a name="Pg506" id="Pg506" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will bring again the captivity of Egypt, and will cause them to + return into the land of Pathros, into the land of their habitation; + and they shall be there a base kingdom.</span></span>—And will + bring them back from the dead into their own country, where they + shall be insignificant.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">It + shall be the basest of the kingdoms; neither shall it exalt itself + any more above the nations: for I will diminish them, that they + shall no more rule over the nations.</span></span>—This has been + literally fulfilled upon Egypt, which for many centuries has not + enjoyed self-government.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it shall be no more the confidence of the house of Israel, which + bringeth their iniquity to remembrance, when they shall look after + them: but they shall know that I am the Lord + God.</span></span>—Neither Jews nor Christians shall ever again + look to the worldly people (Egypt), (Isa. 30:1-5) for help; for the + sight of the worldly will make them remember Christendom's + iniquity.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:17, 18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it came to pass in the seven and twentieth year, in the first + month, in the first day of the month, the Word of the Lord came + unto me, saying, Son of man, Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon caused + his army to serve a great service against Tyrus: every head was + made bald, and every shoulder was peeled: yet had he no wages, nor + his army, for Tyrus, for the service that he had served against + it.</span></span>—The forces of anarchy's king, the Devil, will + perform a great service in the Divine Plan of the Ages, but there + will be nothing in it for the anarchists.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; + Behold, I will give the land of Egypt unto Nebuchadrezzar king of + Babylon; and he shall take her multitude, and take her spoil, and + take her prey; and it shall be the wages of his + army.</span></span>—Jehovah will give worldly Christendom to + anarchy: and this shall be the material reward of the forces of + anarchy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + have given him the land of Egypt for his labour wherewith he served + against it, because they wrought for Me, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—God will give worldly Christendom to anarchy, + for its labor in serving the interests of God's plans against pagan + religion masquerading as Christendom, because in doing so anarchy + will do its part.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">29:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + that day will I cause the horn of the house of Israel to bud forth, + and I will give thee the opening of the mouth in the midst of them; + and they shall know that I am the Lord.</span></span>—During the + Time of Trouble God will cause the power (T. 42) of the Jews to bud + forth in Zionism, and make known the glad tidings of the Kingdom, + taught in <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Studies in the Scriptures</span></span>.—Isa. + 19:1-25.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page507">[pg 507]</span><a name= + "Pg507" id="Pg507" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc117" id="toc117"></a> <a name="pdf118" id="pdf118"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 30—Pharaoh's Two Arms + Broken</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:1, 2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Word of the Lord came again unto me, saying, Son of Man, prophesy + and say, Thus saith the Lord God, Howl ye, Woe worth the + day.</span></span>—Thus saith Jehovah: Weep, and cry! O woeful + day!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + the day is near, even the day of the Lord is near, a cloudy day; it + shall be the time of the heathen.</span></span>—The day is near, + the day of Jehovah, a gloomy day—the time of infidel anarchy!—Joel + 1:15; Zeph. 1:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the sword shall come upon Egypt, and great pain shall be in + Ethiopia, when the slain shall fall in Egypt, and they shall take + away her multitude, and her foundations shall be broken + down.</span></span>—The weapons of anarchy and the Sword of the + Spirit shall come against worldly Christendom. Great distress shall + be upon non-church members (Ethiopia, black) socialists, laborites + and revolutionists, when Christendom's slain shall fall literally + and spiritually, when her multitude shall abandon her, and when her + foundations—social, economic, moral and religious—shall be broken + down in war, revolution and anarchy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Ethiopia, and Libya, and Lydia, and all + the mingled people, and Chub, and the men of the land that is in + league, shall fall with them by the sword.</span></span>—The worst + peoples, darker religiously and morally—the socialists, laborites + and revolutionists, in touch with worldly Christendom—shall fall + with Christendom by literal weapons and by the Word of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord; They also that uphold Egypt shall fall; and the + pride of her power shall come down: from the tower of Syene shall + they fall in it by the sword, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—All + supporters of worldly Christendom shall fall; her pride of power + shall be humbled; from end to end of Christendom shall they + fall.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall be desolate in the midst of the countries that are + desolate, and her cities shall be in the midst of the cities that + are wasted.</span></span>—Worldly Christendom shall be utterly + desolated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall know that I am the Lord, when I have set a fire in + Egypt, and when all her helpers shall be + destroyed.</span></span>—They shall know that Jehovah permitted + anarchy <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page508">[pg + 508]</span><a name="Pg508" id="Pg508" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + to start in Christendom, and will recognize Him, when they see that + all their helpers are destroyed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">In + that day shall messengers go forth from me in ships to make the + careless Ethiopians afraid, and great pain shall come upon them, as + in the day of Egypt: for, lo, it cometh.</span></span>—At the time + of Christendom's fall, the message from God shall be borne by + independent religious organizations to the too-confident + socialists, laborites, and revolutionists that shall make them + afraid of anarchy, and great distress shall ensue upon them, as in + Christendom's fall.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; I will also make the multitude of Egypt to + cease by the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of + Babylon.</span></span>—God will make the multitude of adherents to + worldly Christendom to cease adhering to her, by the power of + revolution and anarchy and their instigator, the Devil.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">He + and his people with him, the terrible of the nations, shall be + brought to destroy the land: and they shall draw their swords + against Egypt, and fill the land with the + slain.</span></span>—Satan and his followers—devils and humans—the + most terrible of all the nations—the anarchists—shall destroy + Christendom's worldly order of things. They shall attack + Christendom with their weapons and fill the land with their + slain—as will the Sword of the Spirit with those slain + spiritually.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will make the rivers dry, and sell the land into the hand of the + wicked: and I will make the land waste, and all that is therein, by + the hand of strangers: I the Lord have spoken it.</span></span>—God + will cause the denominations to become dry of members and of money, + will give the order of things over into the power of the wicked + anarchists, and will desolate Christendom's order of things and all + belonging to it, literally by the power of anarchists, strangers to + the existing order of things, and spiritually by the sons of + God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; I will also destroy the idols, and I will cause + their images to cease out of Noph; and there shall be no more a + prince of the land of Egypt: and I will put a fear in the land of + Egypt.</span></span>—God will destroy Christendom's idols of love + of gold, power, etc (Jer. 43:12, 13), and will cause these gods to + cease among the more prosperous people of Christendom (Noph was the + Delta and richer part of Egypt); and there shall be no <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page509">[pg 509]</span><a name="Pg509" id="Pg509" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> more an exalted class, a worldly clergy + class, in Christendom; but God will put in her fear and failing of + heart.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will make Pathros desolate, and will set fire in Zoan, and will + execute judgments in No.</span></span>—God will make the upper + classes (Pathros, upper Egypt), desolate, will permit anarchy and + destruction to start among them (Zoan, capital of Egypt), and will + execute retributive judgments upon the leaders of the upper classes + (No, capital of Upper Egypt).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will pour My fury upon Sin, the strength of Egypt; and I will cut + off the multitude of No.</span></span>—God will pour His fury upon + Papacy, the strength of worldly Christendom, and will cut off the + multitudes that support the upper classes.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will set fire in Egypt: Sin shall have great pain, and No shall + be rent asunder, and Noph shall have distresses + daily.</span></span>—God will let anarchy start in Christendom. + Papacy shall have great distress; the upper classes shall be rent + asunder, and the lower classes shall suffer daily distress.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + young men of Aven and of Pi-beseth shall fall by the sword: and + these cities shall go into captivity.</span></span>—The young men + who follow Christendom's vain show (Aven, vanity), and her honors + (Pi-beseth, very exalted), shall fall by the sword of anarchy; for + these things shall come to their end in anarchy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:18, 19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">At + Tehaphnehes also the day shall be darkened, when I shall break + there the yokes of Egypt: and the pomp of her strength shall cease + in her: as for her, a cloud shall cover her, and her daughters + shall go into captivity. Thus will I execute judgments in Egypt: + and they shall know that I am the Lord.</span></span>—For the lower + classes also (Tehaphnehes, in Lower Egypt), it shall be a dark day + when God breaks the bondage imposed by worldly Christendom. Her + pompous power shall cease. A cloud of trouble shall cover her, and + her churches (daughters) shall be taken and lost in anarchy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:20, 21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it came to pass in the eleventh year, in the first month, in the + seventh day of the month, that the word of the Lord came unto me, + saying, Son of man, I have broken the arm of Pharaoh king of Egypt; + and, lo, it shall not be bound up to be healed, to put a roller to + bind it, to make it strong to hold the + sword.</span></span>—Ecclesiasticism, Satan's right arm shall be + broken, never to be healed. The Lord's time for their punishment + has come.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page510">[pg + 510]</span><a name="Pg510" id="Pg510" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; + Behold, I am against Pharaoh king of Egypt, and will break his + arms, the strong, and that which was broken; and I will cause the + sword to fall out of his hand.</span></span>—God is against Satan, + the mighty king of worldliness, and will break also the civil + powers, and make him powerless to use his sword.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will scatter the Egyptians among the nations, and will disperse + them through the countries.</span></span>—God will scatter the + worldly people among the anarchists.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will strengthen the arms of the king of Babylon, and put My Sword + in his hand: but I will break Pharaoh's arms, and he shall groan + before him with the groanings of a deadly wounded + man.</span></span>—God will strengthen the civil and philosophic + (infidel, anarchistic religions) powers of Anarchy; and anarchy + shall both use the Bible (God's Sword) and shall wield the sword of + earthly weapons, as His own sword; and this evil order of things, + with powers broken down, shall utter its dying groans of + distress.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + I will strengthen the arms of the king of Babylon, and the arms of + Pharaoh shall fall down; and they shall know that I am the Lord, + when I shall put My sword into the hand of the king of Babylon, and + he shall stretch it out upon the land of Egypt.</span></span>—But + this order of things, with powers broken, and the anarchistic state + of affairs with strengthened power, shall realize that it is of + Jehovah's might, when anarchy grows in power and attacks the + existing order of things.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">30:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will scatter the Egyptians among the nations, and disperse them + among the countries; and they shall know that I am the + Lord.</span></span>—And the worldly peoples scattered everywhere, + shall by the fulfillment of this prophecy know that Jehovah rules + in the affairs of men.</p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">Mine + eyes can see the glory of the presence of the + Lord;</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">He is trampling out the + winepress where his grapes of wrath are stored;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">I see the flaming tempest of His + swift descending Sword:</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 7.20em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Our King is marching on.</span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">I can + see His coming judgments, as they circle all the + earth,</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">The signs and groanings + promised, to precede a second birth;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">I read His righteous sentence, + in the crumbling thrones of earth:</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 7.20em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Our King is marching on.</span><span style= + "font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page511">[pg 511]</span><a name= + "Pg511" id="Pg511" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc119" id="toc119"></a> <a name="pdf120" id="pdf120"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 31—Christendom Not To + Endure</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:1, 2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it came to pass in the eleventh year, in the third month, in the + first day of the month, that the Word of the Lord came unto me, + saying, Son of man, speak unto Pharaoh king of Egypt, and to his + multitude; Whom art thou like in thy + greatness?</span></span>—Chapter 31 represents Christendom as a + cedar tree which is cut down. It opens with a message respecting + Satan (Pharaoh, the sungod) king of worldly Christendom (Egypt) and + her multitudes. What comparison could be made of her greatness!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, the Assyrian was a cedar in + Lebanon with fair branches, and with a shadowing shroud, and of a + high stature; and his top was among the thick + boughs.</span></span>—Behold, Satan and his counterfeit Christian + system (tree; <span class="tei tei-q">“Assyrian”</span> should + probably read <span class="tei tei-q">“teashur,”</span> a + box-tree), thought of as never to end (cedar, type of man with + eternal life), and as a righteous kingdom (Lebanon, a mountain, + white, snowy), having as members (branches, like the branches of + Christendom) the great, the evil and the good, worldly people, with + protecting power (shadowing shroud) and very prominent, with the + greatest people at the very top.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + waters made him great, the deep set him up on high with her rivers + running round about his plants, and sent out her little rivers unto + all the trees of the field.</span></span>—The peoples and the + secular truth (waters) made Satan's system great; the great nations + and the apparently profound truths of liberty, fraternity and + equality, made it prominent, with its roots (plantings) nourished + by nations and sects (rivers) and sending out national and + denominational influences throughout all the systems of the + world.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore his height was exalted above + all the trees of the field, and his boughs were multiplied, and his + branches became long because of the multitude of waters, when he + shot forth.</span></span>—Therefore Christendom's prominence was + exalted above everything like it in the world; and its mighty + members were increased in number and made of far reaching + influence, because of the multitude of their people and of their + teachings.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">All + the fowls of heaven made their nests in his boughs, and under his + branches did all the beasts of the field bring forth their young, + and under his shadow dwelt</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page512">[pg 512]</span><a name="Pg512" id="Pg512" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">all + great nations.</span></span>—All the jail-birds (fowls) of the + powers of spiritual control, made their church organizations + (nests) among its members; and under the power of its membership + (branches) did all of the governments (beasts) of this world + (field) bring forth their progeny; and under its defense (shadow) + dwelt all nations.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + was he fair in his greatness, in the length of his branches: for + his root was by great waters.</span></span>—Thus was it magnificent + in its greatness, and in the extent of its ramifications; for it + was rooted in great peoples and in great secular truths.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + cedars in the garden of God could not hide him: the fir trees were + not like his boughs, and the chestnut trees were not like his + branches; not any tree in the garden of God was like unto him in + his beauty.</span></span>—In Christendom's egotism there was + nothing equal to her in this age or the next.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + have made him fair by the multitude of his branches; so that all + the trees of Eden, that were in the garden of God, envied + him.</span></span>—Christendom felt itself the envy of everything, + present and to come.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; + Because thou hast lifted up thyself in height, and he hath shot up + his top among the thick boughs, and his heart is lifted up in his + height.</span></span>—Because of Christendom's self-exaltation and + pride.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + have therefore delivered him into the hand of the mighty one of the + heathen; he shall surely deal with him: I have driven him out for + his wickedness.</span></span>—God will deliver Christendom into the + power of the god (el, mighty one) of the heathen, the Devil + himself; He shall surely deal vengeance to her; He will drive her + out of existence.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + strangers, the terrible of the nations, have cut him off, and have + left him: upon the mountains and in all the valleys his branches + are fallen, and his boughs are broken by all the rivers of the + land; and all the people of the earth are gone down from his + shadow, and have left him.</span></span>—The anarchists, the terror + of the nations, will lay her low; upon the kingdoms (mountains), + and among the people (valleys) her members (branches) will fall, + and be broken off by her seceding denominations; all the people of + this order of things will leave her protection, and abandon + her.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Upon + his ruin shall all the fowls of the heaven remain, and all the + beasts of the field shall be upon his branches.</span></span>—The + jail-birds of ecclesiasticism, and all the revolutionary + governments of this state of affairs, shall profit by her ruin and + through her members (branches).</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page513">[pg 513]</span><a name="Pg513" id="Pg513" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To + the end that none of all the trees by the waters exalt themselves + for their height, neither shoot up their top among the thick + boughs, neither their trees stand up in their height, all that + drink water; for they are all delivered unto death, to the nether + parts of the earth, in the midst of the children of men, with them + that go down to the pit.</span></span>—No other earthly system may + follow her proud example; for all of them are delivered, as + systems, into death, to a dishonored place among the lowest in + society.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; In the day when he went down to the grave I + caused a mourning: I covered the deep for him, and I restrained the + floods thereof, and the great waters were stayed; and I caused + Lebanon to mourn for him, and all the trees of the field fainted + for him.</span></span>—In the year 1918, when Christendom shall go + down as a system to oblivion, (Sheol) to be succeeded by + revolutionary republics, God will cause mourning. He will restrain + and defer for a brief period the threatening waves of anarchy. He + will cause the nations to mourn for Christendom, and all the + man-made systems (trees) of the world (field) to become weak on + account of her fall.—E. <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">392</span></span>, 372.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + made the nations to shake at the sound of his fall, when I cast him + down to hell (Sheol) with them that descend to the pit: and all the + trees of Eden, the choice and best of Lebanon, all that drink + water, shall be comforted in the nether parts of the + earth.</span></span>—God will cause the nations to shake with + gigantic revolutions, when He shall cast worldly Christendom, as an + organized system, down to oblivion (as He did the Jews in the Dives + parable).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They + also went down into hell (Sheol) with him, unto them that be slain + with the sword; and they that were in his arm, that dwelt under his + shadow in the midst of the heathen.</span></span>—But they also + shall go down to oblivion (Sheol) (E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">392</span></span>, + 372), with Christendom, as well as those that were her power, that + dwelt under her defense among the people.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">31:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To + whom art thou thus like in glory in greatness among the trees of + Eden? yet thou shalt be brought down with the trees of Eden unto + the nether parts of the earth; thou shalt lie in the midst of the + uncircumcised with them that be slain by the sword. This is Pharaoh + and all his multitude, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—Though + worldly Christendom is unsurpassed in glory and in greatness among + other systems, yet shall she be brought down to be one of the most + disesteemed grades of the social order; she shalt be counted as one + of the ungodly. The Egyptians practiced circumcision, typical of + worldly Christendom's counterfeit ease of conscience through belief + in error. This is said of Satan, the god of Christendom and all his + multitude.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page514">[pg 514]</span><a name= + "Pg514" id="Pg514" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc121" id="toc121"></a> <a name="pdf122" id="pdf122"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 32—Christendom's Utter + Downfall</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:1, 2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it came to pass in the twelfth year, in the twelfth month, in the + first day of the month, that the word of the Lord came unto me, + saying, Son of man, take up a lamentation for Pharaoh king of + Egypt, and say unto him, Thou art like a young lion of the nations, + and thou art as a whale in the seas: and thou camest forth with thy + rivers, and troubledst the waters with thy feet, and fouledst their + rivers.</span></span>—In Chapter 32 Christendom's destruction is + depicted in several ways: as the catching of a sea monster + (32:1-6); as the putting out of her light (32:7-8); also, in + addition the downfall of her systems (32:9-10) as a worldly system + destroyed by anarchy (32:11-16); as the going down of worldly + Christendom to oblivion (32:17-21); as the fall into oblivion of + the anarchists (32:22-23); of the Eastern mysticism in Christendom + (32:24-25); of her worst classes (32:26-28); of the worldly + religious people (32:29); of the church organization of + ecclesiasticism (32:30), and of Christendom's king, Satan, and all + his multitudes. (32:31-32.) The message begins with a lamentation + over Satan (Pharaoh), king of worldly Christendom (Egypt), and his + visible representatives, the apostate clergy. Among the nations + they are as a lion in power and ferocity (lion also symbolizes the + Devil); and as a monstrous power (whale) among the peoples (seas); + they came with their sects (rivers), and muddied the Truth (waters) + with their earthly-minded members, the clergy (feet), and filled + their churches (rivers) with worldliness.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; I will therefore spread out My net over thee + with a company of many people; and they shall bring thee up in My + net.</span></span>—God will gradually bring the Time of Trouble + upon Christendom like a snare, as a movement toward liberty for the + people, through a multitude of progressives, radicals, + revolutionists and anarchists; and these shall ensnare her + unknowingly in the great tribulation, and bring her up out of favor + with the people (out of the sea.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + will I leave thee upon the land, I will cast thee forth upon the + open field, and will cause all the fowls of the heaven to remain + upon thee, and I will fill the beasts of the whole earth with + thee.</span></span>—Then God will leave her <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page515">[pg 515]</span><a name="Pg515" id="Pg515" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> defenseless against the whole world, + and will cause the worst classes (birds) of an apostate + Christianity (heavens) to feed upon her, and will cause the evil + revolutionary governments (beasts) of the whole earth to fill + themselves up with her former members.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will lay thy flesh upon the mountains, and fill the valleys with + thy height.</span></span>—And her prominent members shall die, and + of her lesser people a great number.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + will also water with thy blood the land wherein thou swimmest, even + to the mountains; and the rivers shall be full of + thee.</span></span>—The loss of life shall extend to her highest + government officials and rulers (mountain); and the churches shall + be full of her dead.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:7, 8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when I shall put thee out, I will cover the heaven, and make the + stars thereof dark; I will cover the sun with a cloud, and the moon + shall not give her light. All the bright lights of heaven will I + make dark over thee, and set darkness upon thy land, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—When God shall put out Christendom's light in + 1918, He will blind the minds of ecclesiasticism (heaven) (A. 318), + and deprive their pulpit stars of wisdom from the true apostolic + stars, the Apostles. (D. 591). He will darken the understanding of + the Gospel (sun) of Jesus Christ (D. 590) with the cloud of the + Time of Trouble; and the light (truth) of the Mosaic Law shall not + shine forth in her.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + will also vex the hearts of many people, when I shall bring thy + destruction among the nations, into the countries which thou hast + not known.</span></span>—God will also trouble the hearts of many + other peoples, when He shall visit the same Time of Trouble upon + other nations, where the clergy had no sway.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yea, + I will make many people amazed at thee, and their kings shall be + horribly afraid for thee, when I shall brandish My Sword before + them; and they shall tremble at every moment, every man for his own + life, in the day of thy fall.</span></span>—Yea, He will make many + nations to marvel at Christendom's fall; and their rulers shall + fear and quake on account of her destruction, when they are + threatened with destruction by anarchy. Every moment shall every + man of them tremble for his life.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + thus saith the Lord God; The sword of the king of Babylon shall + come upon thee.</span></span>—The destructive weapons of the Devil, + the King of Confusion (Babylon), of Anarchy, shall be turned + against worldly Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By + the swords of the mighty will I cause thy multitude to fall, the + terrible of the nations, all of them: and they shall spoil the pomp + of Egypt, and all the multitude thereof shall be + destroyed.</span></span>—By the weapons of a <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page516">[pg 516]</span><a name="Pg516" id="Pg516" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> mighty, revolted soldiery will God + cause their multitudes to fall, even all the terrible men of all + Christendom; and the anarchists shall take as their spoil the pomp + of the nations, and all the adherents of the nations of Christendom + shall cease to support them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + will destroy also all the beasts thereof from beside the great + waters; neither shall the foot of man trouble them any more, nor + the hoofs of beasts trouble them.</span></span>—God will destroy + all of the ferocious governments from beside the great nations + (waters); neither shall worldly men trouble the people any more, + nor the down-treading oppression of savage governments make them + trouble.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + will I make their waters deep, and cause their rivers to run like + oil, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—Then will God give the + people peace (deep waters), and make their course to run with quiet + smoothness. They shall know the deep things of God, and have the + Holy Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When + I shall make the land of Egypt desolate, and the country shall be + destitute of that whereof it was full, when I shall smite all them + that dwell therein, then shall they know that I am the + Lord.</span></span>—When God shall have made worldly Christianity + desolate, and worldliness shall be destitute of its prosperous + worldlings, when He shall have smitten with the great tribulation + all that are at home in their worldliness, then, in the better days + to come, shall they know Him as He is.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">This + is the lamentation wherewith they shall lament her: the daughters + of the nations shall lament her: they shall lament for her, even + for Egypt, and for all her multitude, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—The heathen religions (daughters) shall lament + worldly Christendom's downfall, and the downfall of her + adherents.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:17, 18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">It + came to pass also in the twelfth year, in the fifteenth day of the + month, that the word of the Lord came unto me saying, Son of man, + wail for the multitude of Egypt, and cast them down, even her, and + the daughters of the famous nations, unto the nether parts of the + earth, with them that go down into the pit.</span></span>—These + verses depict the mourning for the multitudes of worldly + Christians, tares, when they and worldly Christendom and the + churches (daughters) of the great powers (nations) are cast down to + the disesteemed lower strata of the social order, with those that + die a disreputable death (pit).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Whom + dost thou pass in beauty? go down, and be thou laid with the + uncircumcised.</span></span>—Worldly Christendom has imagined + herself of unsurpassable desirability, <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page517">[pg 517]</span><a name="Pg517" id="Pg517" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> but she shall go down to oblivion, with those + regarded as polluted (uncircumcised).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They + shall fall in the midst of them that are slain by the sword: she is + delivered to the sword: draw her and all her + multitudes.</span></span>—Her populace shall fall by weapons of + destruction, and by the Sword of the Spirit; she is delivered to + destruction. They shall draw her as a system, and her adherents, as + adherents, away for burial!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + strong among the mighty shall speak to him out of the midst of hell + with them that help him: they are gone down, they lie + uncircumcised, slain by the sword.</span></span>—The one strong + among Christendom's great men, no longer men of power, and those + that helped her shall speak of her downfall, in their fallen + condition (Sheol); they shall have fallen from high positions, and + be as men outcast and polluted, reduced to lowliness by the might + of anarchy, and by the Sword of the Spirit.—E. <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">392</span></span>, + 372.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:22, 23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Asshur is there and all her company: his + graves are about him: all of them slain, fallen by the sword: Whose + graves are set in the sides of the pit, and her company is round + about her grave; all of them slain, fallen by the sword, which + caused terror in the land of the living.</span></span>—The + revolutionists (Asshur, Assyria, the revolutionary anarchists) in + multitudes shall go down to oblivion, dead literally or dead to + their order of things.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">There is Elam and all her multitude round + about her grave; all of them slain, fallen by the sword, which are + gone down uncircumcised into the nether parts of the earth, which + caused their terror in the land of the living; yet have they borne + their shame with them that go down to the pit.</span></span>—There + in oblivion shall be buried New Thought, Christian Science, and + other forms of Oriental religion or Mysticism (Elam, Persia, home + of Mysticism), and the multitude of their believers, ceased then to + be mystics; all fallen by the literal sword or by the Sword of the + Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">They + have set her a bed in the midst of the slain with all her + multitude: her graves are round about him: all of them + uncircumcised, slain by the sword: though their terror was caused + in the land of the living, yet have they borne their shame with + them that go down to the pit: he is put in the midst of them that + be slain.</span></span>—The anarchists shall put Mysticism to rest + in destruction.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">There is Meshech, Tubal, and all her + multitude: her graves are round about him: all of them + uncircumcised, slain by the sword, though they caused their terror + in the land of the living.</span></span>—There shall be the worst + classes of Christendom, the anarchists themselves, in oblivion, all + in disrepute, destroyed in the destruction they + wrought.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page518">[pg + 518]</span><a name="Pg518" id="Pg518" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall not lie with the mighty that are fallen of the + uncircumcised, which are gone down to hell with their weapons of + war: and they have laid their swords under their heads, but their + iniquities shall be upon their bones, though they were the terror + of the mighty in the land of the living.</span></span>—And they + shall not be mentioned, not even with these great men who have gone + down as evil but with some small degree of repute; and with them + shall be the end of war (H. 16); but the very memory of the + anarchists shall be as of iniquity personified.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:28. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yea, + thou shalt be broken in the midst of the uncircumcised, and shalt + lie with them that are slain with the sword.</span></span>—They + shall be thought of as evil only, slain with the sword, and + disesteemed by the Word of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:29. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">There is Edom, her kings, and all her + princes, which with their might are laid by them that were slain by + the sword: they shall lie with the uncircumcised, and with them + that go down to the pit.</span></span>—In the general ruin shall be + worldly apostate persecuting Christendom, slain by anarchy's + weapons and by the Word of God. They shall be polluted, and come to + a disreputable end.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:30. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">There be the princes of the north, all of + them, and all the Zidonians, which are gone down with the slain; + with their terror they are ashamed of their might; and they lie + uncircumcised with them that be slain by the sword, and bear their + shame with them that go down to the pit.</span></span>—The great + ecclesiastical lords (north) and all the adherents of the + belong-to-a-church-or-go-to-hell doctrine (Zidonians, among whom + was Jezebel) shall go to oblivion. Though a dreadful terror in + their activities, they shall be ashamed; they shall go down, as + polluted with iniquity.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:31. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Pharaoh shall see them, and shall be + comforted over all his multitude, even Pharaoh and all his army + slain by the sword, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—Satan + (Pharaoh), the god of worldly Christendom, then bound for a + thousand years, shall see the fall of these his multitudes, slain + by the literal sword, or by the Word of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">32:32. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + I have caused My terror in the land of the living: and he shall be + laid in the midst of the uncircumcised with them that are slain + with the sword, even Pharaoh and all his multitude, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—Satan and his multitude shall cease to trouble + the earth, gone down finally to oblivion, as one polluted with + iniquity.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">From chapters 25 + to 32 Ezekiel prophesied against seven foreign nations (Ammon, + Moab, Edom, Philistia, Tyre, Sidon and Egypt), indicating + <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">ALL</span></em> non-Christian elements.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page519">[pg 519]</span><a name= + "Pg519" id="Pg519" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc123" id="toc123"></a> <a name="pdf124" id="pdf124"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 33—Why Ecclesiasticism Must + Perish</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:1, 2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Again the Word of the Lord came unto me, + saying, Son of man, speak to the children of thy people, and say + unto them, When I bring the sword upon a land, if the people of the + land take a man of their coasts, and set him for their + watchman.</span></span>—A mutual responsibility exists between one + of God's watchmen and His people, the one to speak and the other to + listen. (33:1-19.) Ezekiel recites his warning of Jerusalem's fall. + (33:20-29.) The people listen, but do not believe. (33:30-33.) This + chapter repeats the statements of 3:17-21 and 18:5-29 regarding the + watchman set to warn the people of Christendom, his message and + responsibility, and the responsibility of the Christian people + toward the watchman—Pastor Russell, and his message and warning + from God. <span class="tei tei-q">“A man of their coasts”</span> + refers to the clergy class appointed and ordained by the people, + and set by them as <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">their</span></em> watchman.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">If + when he seeth the sword come upon the land, he blow the trumpet, + and warn the people.</span></span>—Who of the clergy class have + blown the trumpet of Truth and warned <span class= + "tei tei-q">“their”</span> people of the impending doom of + Christendom?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + whosoever heareth the sound of the trumpet, and taketh not warning; + if the sword come, and take him away, his blood shall be upon his + own head. He heard the sound of the trumpet, and took not warning; + his blood shall be upon him. But he that taketh warning shall + deliver his soul.</span></span>—The people who have heard the + warning have only themselves to blame.—Isa. 58:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and + the people be not warned; if the sword come, and take any person + from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood + will I require at the watchman's hand.</span></span>—The clergy + have an awful responsibility. Faithful watching on their part with + their great influence among the people, would have saved tens of + millions from physical death, and a host from the religious death + that will overtake so many. The outraged people will turn on the + clergy, as they did in the French Revolution, and in a frightful + carnival will exact full toll for the lives lost in war. + Responsibility for the Time of Trouble lies squarely at the door of + ecclesiasticism; for <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page520">[pg + 520]</span><a name="Pg520" id="Pg520" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + had the clergy taken a united stand upon the Word of God against + industrial, social, political, moral and religious evils, they + could have reformed Christendom and prevented the world war and the + ensuing revolution and anarchy. Our Lord said, prophetically, + <span class="tei tei-q">“Upon this generation shall come all the + blood—to the blood of Zechariah, whom you will murder between the + sanctuary and the altar.”</span> (Matt. 23:35 Diaglott, foot-note.) + Josephus says of this man that he boldly accused the clergy of + Jerusalem with being the cause of the trouble upon the city. He was + tried, accused of inciting anarchy, was found innocent, and was + then slain by the clergy class. His fate represents experiences + coming upon the Lord's true people shortly.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:7-9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So + thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of + Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at My mouth, and warn + them from Me. When I say unto the wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt + surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, + that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood shall I + require at thine hand. Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his + way to turn from it; if he do not turn from his way, he shall die + in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy + soul.</span></span>—Pastor Russell faithfully taught that + <span class="tei tei-q">“the wages of sin is death”</span> (Rom. + 6:23), and not eternal torment. He also warned the wicked systems + of earth, political, economic and religious, that they should + surely perish from the earth, if they did not turn whole-heartedly + to Jehovah, the God of infinite Love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore, O thou son of man, speak unto + the house of Israel; Thus ye speak, saying, If our transgressions + and our sins be upon us, and we pine away in them, how should we + then live?</span></span>—The nominal Christians of our day were + typed by the Hebrews who went to Ezekiel with insincere objections. + They have treated Pastor Russell with a seeming but insincere + respect. When they inquired into his writing and predictions, based + upon the Word of God, they had no sincerity either in their + questions or their professions toward him or the Word set forth by + him.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:11-19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Say + unto them, As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the + death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and + live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O + house of Israel? Therefore, thou son of man, say unto the children + of thy people, The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver + him in the day of his transgression: as for the</span> <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page521">[pg 521]</span><a name="Pg521" id="Pg521" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">wickedness of the wicked, he shall not + fall thereby in the day that he turneth from his wickedness; + neither shall the righteous be able to live for his righteousness + in the day that he sinneth. When I shall say to the righteous, that + he shall surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and + commit iniquity, all his righteousness shall not be remembered; but + for his iniquity that he hath committed, he shall die for it. + Again, when I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; if he + turn from his sin, and do that which is lawful and right; if the + wicked restore the pledge, give again that he had robbed, walk in + the statutes of life, without committing iniquity; he shall surely + live, he shall not die. None of his sins that he hath committed + shall be mentioned unto him: he hath done that which is lawful and + right; he shall surely live. Yet the children of thy people say, + The way of the Lord is not equal: but as for them, their way is not + equal. When the righteous turneth from his righteousness, and + commiteth iniquity, he shall even die thereby. But if the wicked + turn from his wickedness, and do that which is lawful and right, he + shall live thereby.</span></span>—God has no pleasure in the + destruction of Christendom. If it had turned from its spiritual + idolatry and harlotry to obey God it would have been saved from its + impending doom. Its destruction is traceable directly to a + <span class="tei tei-q">“small group of willful men,”</span> + leaders and guides of the masses; namely the pope, the cardinals, + bishops, priests, ministers, revivalists and other religious + leaders who have mistaught rulers and people, and by their + combination of worldly and religious teachings brought the world + into a condition where the social elements are working their mutual + destruction. God pity the clergy for what is coming upon them; for + the people will surely recognize the part they have signally failed + to play in not, by concerted preaching of true godliness, checking + the world's mad rush to anarchy and annihilation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Literally the + Scriptures foregoing are an affirmation that any one who kept the + Mosaic Law perfectly should enjoy life indefinitely as long as he + kept the law. Spiritually it teaches the Christian that if he has + turned from sin to serve God, under the spirit of the Divine Law of + Love, he shall have life everlasting. (Rom. 8:13, 14.) Symbolically + it speaks to this evil state of affairs, or world, especially to + that wicked one, ecclesiasticism, and enumerates its iniquities: it + has sinned before God: it has broken God's Law of Love and every + other Law, and excused the breach by sophistries. Romanism, with + which Protestantism has linked hands, teaches the most iniquitous + and wicked things.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page522">[pg + 522]</span><a name="Pg522" id="Pg522" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“A culprit or a witness questioned by a judge, but in + an illegal manner (of which the culprit, of course, is the judge) + may swear that he knows nothing of the crime about which he is + questioned, although he knows it well, meaning mentally, that he + knows nothing in such manner as to answer.”</span>—Alphonso Maria + de Liguori, Popish theologian, bishop and founder of the order of + Redemptorists, 1696-1787.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Again + <span class="tei tei-q">“Saint”</span> Liguori: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“He may swear that he knows nothing, when he knows that + the person who committed the crime committed it without malice; or + if he knows the crime, but secretly, and there has been no scandal. + When a crime has been well concealed, the witness and even the + criminal, may and even must, swear that the crime has never been + committed. The accused may deny his crime under oath, understanding + that he has not committed this crime in such a manner as to be + obliged to confess it. He who has sworn to keep a secret is not + obliged to keep his oath, if any consequential injury to him or to + others is thereby caused. If any one has sworn before a judge to + keep the truth, he is not obliged to say secret things. (A woman + who has really committed adultery may deny it under oath, provided + she has been to confess: for then the sin has been pardoned, and + has really ceased to exist.) It is right to advise any one to + commit a robbery, or a fornication in order to avoid a murder. We + may be allowed to conceal the truth, or disguise it under ambiguous + or equivocal words or signs, for a just cause, and where there is + no necessity to confess the truth.”</span> And Liguori is still a + <span class="tei tei-q">“saint”</span> in the Roman + ecclesiasticism, <span class="tei tei-q">“where Satan's seat + is,”</span> and with whom Episcopalians, Church of England men, and + Protestants generally, are trying to come together in a church + union or federation, destined fortunately to an early decease.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“They are not to be called oaths, but rather perjury, + which are in opposition to the welfare of the Romish + church.”</span>—The Lateran Council (<span class= + "tei tei-q">“infallible”</span>). <span class="tei tei-q">“If any, + either alone or before others, whether asked or of his own accord, + or for the purpose of sport, or for any other object, swears that + he has not done something else which he has done, or in a different + way from that in which he has done it, or any other truth that is + added, he does not really lie, nor is he perjured.”</span>—Pope + Innocent XI, another of the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“saints.”</span> 1611-1689. <span class="tei tei-q">“A + man may swear that he never did such a thing (though he actually + did it), meaning within himself that he did not do so on a certain + day, or before he was born, or understanding any other such + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page523">[pg 523]</span><a name= + "Pg523" id="Pg523" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> circumstances, while + the words which he employs have no such sense as would discover his + meaning.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“Promises are not binding, + when the person in making them had no intention to bind + himself.”</span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Saint”</span> Antonio + Escobar of Mendoza, a Spanish Casuist and Jesuit, 1589-1699 + (<span class="tei tei-q">“Papacy and Civil Power,”</span> page + 607). <span class="tei tei-q">“I pronounce all Roman Catholic + priests, bishops, popes, monks, friars and nuns to be the most + deliberate and willful set of liars that ever infested this or any + other country, or disgraced the name of religion.”</span>—William + Hogan, a prominent southern lawyer, formerly a priest, on page 172 + of his book, <span class="tei tei-q">“Popery.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Stealing is + authorized by Popish ecclesiasticism: <span class="tei tei-q">“A + servant has the right to rob his master, a child his father, and a + poor man the rich. The poor man who has concealed the goods and + effects of which he has need, may swear that he has + nothing.”</span> In Romish theology it is ordinarily a mortal sin + to steal two pieces of gold; but, <span class="tei tei-q">“If any + one steal small sums at different times, either from the same or + from different persons, not having the intention of stealing large + sums, nor of causing a great damage, his sin is not mortal. If + several persons steal from the same master, in small quantities, + each in such a manner as not to commit a mortal sin, though each + knows that all of these little thefts together cause a considerable + damage to their master, yet no one of them commits a mortal sin, + even when they steal at the same time. A son does not commit a + mortal sin when he steals only twenty or thirty pieces of gold from + a father who has an income of 150 pieces of + gold.”</span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Saint”</span> Liguori.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Ecclesiasticism, + the dominant power of the Gospel Age, authorizes murder: + <span class="tei tei-q">“A man who has been excommunicated by the + Pope may be killed anywhere, because the Pope has an indirect + jurisdiction over the whole world, even in temporal + things.”</span>—Dens, a Roman Catholic theological authority in his + <span class="tei tei-q">“Theologica Morales.”</span> Pope Gregory + VII (alias <span class="tei tei-q">“Saint”</span> Hildebrand), + 1020-1085, pronounced that it was no murder to kill an + excommunicated person. <span class="tei tei-q">“This rule has been + for 700 years and continues to be, part of the ecclesiastical law. + One of the later popes has declared that the murder of a Protestant + is so good a deed that it atones and more than atones for the + murder of a Catholic.”</span>—Lord Acton in the London Times, July + 26, 1872. Says Dr. Isaac J. Lansing in <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Romanism and the Republic;”</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Every person who had anything to do with the + assassination of Abraham Lincoln was a Roman Catholic. John Wilkes + Booth was a Roman Catholic; Payne and Atseroth, also Dr. Nudd, who + dressed Booth's leg; Garrett, in whose premises he was killed; also + Harold was <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page524">[pg + 524]</span><a name="Pg524" id="Pg524" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> a + Roman Catholic; Mrs. Suratt and her son were Roman Catholics; their + house was the headquarters for Roman Catholics and for the Jesuit + priests. All this was brought out before the military tribunal + which condemned some of them to death. When John Suratt fled from + Washington he was taken charge of by Jesuits, and under a Jesuit + convoy was carried to France.”</span>—Page 272.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Catholics who shall assume the cross for the + extermination of heretics, shall enjoy the same indulgences and be + protected by the same privileges as are granted to those who go to + the help of the Holy Land. We decree, further that all who may have + dealings with heretics, shall be excommunicated.”</span>—The + Lateran Council (composed of candidates for Roman Catholic + <span class="tei tei-q">“saintship.”</span>).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Papacy, the + mother of harlots, also permits her clergy to become criminals: + <span class="tei tei-q">“Were even the lives of her ministers + debased by crime, they are still within her pale, and therefore + lose none of the powers with which her ministry invests + them.”</span>—Catechism of the Council of Trent. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“A mortal sin is that which kills the soul and deserves + hell,”</span> says Archbishop John Hughes, of New York. Papal + ecclesiasticism controls the education of the nations under threat + of mortal sin: <span class="tei tei-q">“Catholic electors (voters) + in this country, who do not use their electoral (voting) power in + behalf of separate (religious public) schools, are guilty of mortal + sin. Likewise parents not making the sacrifices necessary to secure + such schools, or sending their children to mixed schools. Moreover, + the confessor (priest) who would give absolution to such parents, + electors or legislators as support mixed schools, to the prejudice + of separate schools, would be guilty of a mortal sin.”</span>—Right + Reverend Charbonnel, Bishop of Toronto, Canada.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The chastity of + an attractive and obedient young nun may hang by the following + slender thread: <span class="tei tei-q">“When a nun receives a + precept from her prelate, superior, or confessor, she should + immediately execute it, not only to please them, but principally to + please God, whose will is known by their command. If then, you + receive a command from one who holds the place of God (a man-made + priest!) you should observe it as if it came from God Himself. + There is more certainty of doing the will of God by obedience to + our superiors than by obedience to Jesus Christ should He appear in + person and give His command. The nun shall be most certain of not + having to render an account of the actions performed through + obedience; for these the superior only, who commands them, shall be + accountable.”</span>—Liguori, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Saint,”</span> in Popish constellation of fallen + stars. According to Cardinal Manning, a bright star in the Roman + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page525">[pg 525]</span><a name= + "Pg525" id="Pg525" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> Catholic heavens + (page 89 of his <span class="tei tei-q">“True Story of the Vatican + Council”</span>) the pope is infallible in matters of faith and + morals: and the canonizing of <span class= + "tei tei-q">“saints”</span> comes under this head. Cardinal Newman + on page 84 of his <span class="tei tei-q">“Via Media,”</span> 1887 + edition, asserts concerning the canonizing of <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Saints:”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The infallibility of the church must certainly extend + to this solemn and public act, canonization; and that because so + serious a matter, affecting the worship of the faithful, the + church, that is, the Pope, must be infallible.”</span> One of the + persons duly authorized by infallible Romish canonization is + <span class="tei tei-q">“Saint”</span> Bridget, who lived in 1360. + This <span class="tei tei-q">“saint”</span> says: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Pope is a murderer of souls. He destroys the flock + of Christ and fleeces it. More savage is he than Judas, and more + unjust than Pilate, and worse and more wicked than Lucifer. He has + exchanged all the ten commandments of God for this single one of + his own, <span class="tei tei-q">‘Give me money, money, + money.’</span> The Pope with his clergy are the forerunners of + Antichrist, rather than the servants of Christ. The Pope's court on + earth plunders the Heavenly court of Christ. The clergy never read + the Book of God; but they are ever studying the book of this world. + I once loved priests more than men and even angels. The kiss of + those fornicating priests is the kiss of Judas when he betrayed our + Lord!”</span>—Montagu, pages 305-6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">An essential + factor in the power of this evil one, and an important part of the + iniquity of ecclesiasticism is the Romish confessional, which many + Episcopal and Protestant ecclesiastics would, if they could, + establish in the harlot daughters, the daughter churches, + Protestantism. This feature is of Pagan origin. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Auricular confession was enjoined in the Elusinian + mysteries, by Zoroaster in Persia, by Buddha in India, and was + practiced by the ancient Babylonians and Egyptians, the Mexicans + before Cortez, the Peruvians before Pizarro, by the Japanese, the + Siamese, and others.”</span> The confessional has made of every + priest a spy upon the privacy of the home, the inner secrets of + business and the confidential affairs of city, state, province, and + nation. Theoretically the confessions are confidential, as Dr. Dens + says: <span class="tei tei-q">“It is not lawful to reveal anything + that is told in confession, though it be to avoid the greatest evil + that can happen; but actually the secrets of the confessional are + revealed.”</span> <span class="tei tei-q">“De Sanctis,”</span> page + 122, says:</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“While the penitent arraigns his faults with all the + fatuity of a simpleton, what is the confessor doing? Laughing at + the simplicity of the penitent: and afterwards in the priestly + orgies that follow a morning of great confessions, in the hilarity + that flows from wine, amid coarse explosions of laughter, they + describe the stupid folly of their <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page526">[pg 526]</span><a name="Pg526" id="Pg526" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> penitents; and each priest vies with his + fellows in rendering his own penitents more ridiculous than the + rest. This breach of faith extends to the highest of Rome's + degraded ecclesiasticism.”</span> History records that Pope Pius V, + <span class="tei tei-q">“saint”</span> (1504-1572) <span class= + "tei tei-q">“for the punishment of certain offences took advantage + of the confessional, which ought to be an inviolable + sanctuary.”</span> Pope Sixtus V (1521-1590) told the under clergy + that <span class="tei tei-q">“they could make a report to the + Pontiff, without any danger attached to revealing a confession, he + giving them absolution for the whole.”</span> Elliott, a former + priest, in <span class="tei tei-q">“Delineation of Roman + Catholicism,”</span> says, <span class="tei tei-q">“All our + conversation ran upon the stories he [another priest] heard in + confession. It is the ordinary discourse of the priests, when they + meet, to inform one another of what they have heard in confession. + I was often present at such conferences, where the conversation was + so indecent that even an honest pagan would have blushed.”</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">“Every day they (the Dominican monks) came + and talked most licentiously, relating things that had happened at + the Holy office at Perugia, confessions they had heard, + etc.”</span>—Scipione Ricca, Bishop of Pistoria, and an Italian + reformer, 1741-1810.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Bishop Hugh + Latimer, of England (1485-1555), whom the Romish ecclesiasticism + caused to be burned at the stake, said: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“And so they came to know all the secrets that were in + men's hearts, so that neither emperor nor king could say nor do, + nor think anything in his heart, but they knew it, and so applied + all the purposes and intents of princes to their own commodities. + And this was the fruit of their auricular confession.”</span> + Finally, from De Sanctis, page 133, etc: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Confession in relation to society may be defined as an + universal spydom, organized and complete. Confessors are not + content to know the sins of those who confess; but they must learn + the regulation and management of the family; and when an ingenuous + youth or innocent maiden comes under the fangs of a knavish + confessor (and which of them is not a knave?) they do not escape + until they have first revealed the secrets of the family + circle—without, however, being aware of it.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“De Sanctis”</span> continues: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Encouragement is given to theft, as to every other + crime, by the facility of obtaining pardon, and absolutions are + given to robbers, usurers, murderers, without their having made any + restitution whatever. They repair to the confessor, present him + with a goodly offering for a mass; or, if they are robbers of + celebrity, men abounding in wealth, they found a chapelry, a + benefice, or something of the kind. At Rome, for instance, every + one knows that Pius VII (1742-1823) granted <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page527">[pg 527]</span><a name="Pg527" id="Pg527" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> to all who hear confessions in the Holy + house Ponterotto, the privilege of absolving from restitution all + who have defrauded the Rev. Apostolic Chambers, or the government; + and all defraud, and run there to receive absolution. But this is + not enough. Leo X (1475-1521), in his bull beginning with + <span class="tei tei-q">‘Postquam ad Apostulatus’</span> gives + confessors the privilege not only of absolving robbers, but of + permitting them to retain in all good conscience, the fruits of + their usury, robberies, thefts, etc., on condition that part of the + goods be given to the church!”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Ecclesiasticism + is a greedy robber: <span class="tei tei-q">“By confession many + families are immersed in poverty; because the grasping confessor, + taking advantage of the weak moments of a dying man, has had the + will made to the profit of the clergy; and facts of the kind may be + reckoned by the million. The grasping cupidity of ecclesiasticism's + will-hunters, and the consequent ruin of innocent and helpless + families, formed the subject of an indignant remonstrance of the + German princes at the Diet of Nuremberg. To such a length was this + execrable practice sometimes carried that the last sacraments were + denied to the dying man until he consented to make a will in the + priest's favor.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"> + Ecclesiasticism's apostasy, in teachings and in life, has sown the + seeds of the fiery harvest of anarchy: <span class="tei tei-q">“The + horrible consequence for religion is that infidelity advances with + huge strides, especially in Roman Catholic countries. The + enlightenment of the age no longer permits men to believe in the + priests blindly, as in the times of ignorance. Free discussion + alone could show that the doctrines of the Roman church are not + those of the Gospel; discussion, as it would prove their falsehood + to a demonstration, would establish the truth. Discussion being + prevented, it follows that, seeing clearly the falsehood and + iniquity of the Roman doctrines, men believe them, because they are + not discussed, to be the doctrines of the Christian religion, and + abandon them, and live in indifference and infidelity.”</span> + Protestantism, ecclesiasticism, has been an apt follower of Papacy + in suppression of discussion. Witness the systematic world-wide ban + on any discussion of Present Truth as presented by God's watchman, + Pastor Russell! Ecclesiasticism, priestcraft, had for ages + supplanted the worship of God with paganism, and in the Gospel Age + has insidiously transformed the Gospel of Christ, has tried to + destroy liberty and progress and has built up a gigantic system of + oppression and destruction of the friends of the Truth. The most + ferocious of the popes are made the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“saints”</span> of Satan's church. And, says De + Sanctis: <span class="tei tei-q">“In canonizing such men, the Popes + have canonized their doctrines; <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page528">[pg 528]</span><a name="Pg528" id="Pg528" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> hence it cannot he said that despotism, + obscuration [suppression of Truth], oppression of nations, and + hatred for any kind of progress, exist through the mal-practice of + any one of the popes; they exist by the very system of the Papacy. + The corruption of religion ought not to be attributed to abuse of + it by the individual, but to the system; therefore the Gospel ought + to reign in its purity, and ought to be delivered from this great + enemy; and Italy and Rome ought to confer upon the world this great + benefit of despoiling the popes of their usurped power.”</span> Why + not reform, purge, cleanse ecclesiasticism? As well try to reform + cancer. The sole safeguard is the destruction, excision of the + germs. Any real reform would cause the prompt dropping out of the + system-loving millions who would soon reorganize into another + vicious system. The very constitution of ecclesiasticism forbids + its ever being other than what the Wall Street Journal denominates, + <span class="tei tei-q">“that international nuisance, the + church-state.”</span> Here are some of the articles of Papacy's + present, past and future constitution (infallible):</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">1. All human + power is evil, and must therefore be under the Pope. 2. The + temporal powers must act unconditionally, in accordance with the + orders of the spiritual. 3. The Church is empowered to grant or + take away any temporal possession. 4. The Pope has the right to + give countries and nations which are non-Catholic to Catholic + regents, who can reduce them to slavery. 5. The Pope can make + slaves of those Christian subjects whose prince or ruling power is + interdicted by the Pope. 6. The laws of the Church concerning the + liberty of the Church and the Papal power are based upon Divine + inspiration. 7. The Pope has the right to practice the + unconditional censure of books. 8. The Pope has the right to annul + state laws, treaties, constitutions, etc.; to absolve from + obedience thereto, as soon as they seem detrimental to the rights + of the Church, or those of the clergy. 9. The Pope possesses the + right of admonishing, and if needs be of punishing, the temporal + rulers, emperors and kings, as well as of drawing before the + spiritual forum any case in which a mortal sin occurs. 10. Without + the consent of the Pope no tax or rate of any kind can be levied + upon a clergyman or upon any church whatsoever. 11. The Pope has + the right to absolve from oaths, and obedience to the persons and + the laws of the princes whom he excommunicates. (Note. All + Protestants are excommunicated.) 12. The Pope can annul all legal + relations of those in ban, especially their marriage. 13. The Pope + can release from every obligation, oath, vow, either before or + after being made. 14. The execution of Papal <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page529">[pg 529]</span><a name="Pg529" id="Pg529" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> commands for the persecution of + heretics causes remission of sins. 15. He who kills one that is + excommunicated is no murderer in a legal sense.<span class= + "tei tei-q">“—The Canon Law”</span>, by Dr. G. F. von Schulte, + Professor of Canonical Law at Prague.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Here the crafty + and wicked Mother of Harlots, ecclesiasticism, asserts her + infallible right to permit, directly or indirectly, any and every + crime possible for depraved humanity to commit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Protestantism + longs for the old-time power of the clergy. It has the spirit, + disposition, of spiritual fornication, goes to the limit in its + efforts to control affairs through local, state, and national + governmental agencies, and now is ready and willing to ally itself + with liberty-destroying papal ecclesiasticism. It displays its true + nature and its indifference to the good of the people in its + willing eagerness to unite in any manner with the force which has + for centuries throttled liberty, banished the Word of God, and + stifled freedom in blood. Let not the people of Christendom + overlook this when the Protestant clergy advocate church union, as + they will. What can be done with such an organization as apostate + ecclesiasticism? The truly Christian individual's answer must be to + obey the Divine command, <span class="tei tei-q">“Come out of her, + My people, that ye be not partakers [partners in] of her sins + [outlined foregoing, <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">ad nauseam</span></span>] and that ye receive + not of her plagues.”</span> (Rev. 18:4.) The Lord's people, all + that really have the Holy Spirit, will and must <span class= + "tei tei-q">“come out of her,”</span> clean away from this + unhallowed partnership and federation with iniquity. + Ecclesiasticism, however, may rest assured that she will not suffer + greatly in loss of members or of persons of wealth and power; for + but few of the Lord's people are in her. Each ecclesiastic can be + assured that <span class="tei tei-q">“his people,”</span> the + tares, the worldly church members, the Babylonians, the spiritual + idolaters and fornicators, the congregation of Molech, will stick + by him until the heat of the fiery trials of the time of trouble + drives even <span class="tei tei-q">“the clergy's people”</span> + out into the open of worldliness.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Verse 13 shows + that, in view of the enormity of ecclesiasticism's iniquity, both + Roman and Protestant, their partnership in criminality, and their + stubborn and willful persistence in evil, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“For his iniquity that he hath committed, he shall + die.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yet + ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. O ye house of Israel, I + will judge you every one after his ways.</span></span>—O house of + nominal churchianity, the time has <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page530">[pg 530]</span><a name="Pg530" id="Pg530" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> come for God to Judge you, to recompense you + double, according to your ways!—Rev. 18:6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it came to pass in the twelfth year of our captivity, in the tenth + month, in the fifth day of the month, that one that had escaped out + of Jerusalem came unto me, saying, The city is + smitten.</span></span>—In 24:25-27, after having cited the + skepticism of the Jews as to Ezekiel's message, it was stated that + from the time of Jerusalem's fall until the tidings of the fall + should arrive, Ezekiel was to be dumb, having no new message to be + heard by the people. The intervening prophecies, chapters 26 to 32 + are not against the Hebrews, but against the heathen nations. The + city fell in the eleventh year of Zedekiah's reign, the fourth + month, the ninth day (2 Kings 25:2, 3), from which to the coming of + the tidings of the city's fall, on the twelfth year, tenth month + and fifth day, was one year, five months, twenty-six days. On that + momentous day came the tidings, <span class="tei tei-q">“The city + is smitten!”</span> Pastor Russell's voice was stilled in death on + October 31, 1916. If an application of Ezekiel's period of dumbness + is valid here as a time feature, the tidings, the realization that + Christendom is smitten by the onslaughts of revolution, might be + expected to flash throughout the world on or about April 27, 1918, + a year, five months and twenty-six days after the death of God's + great watchman. As in Ezekiel 24:27, this would be a sign, an + indication to Christendom of the truth of Pastor Russell's + commission from the Almighty.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Now + the hand of the Lord was upon me in the evening, afore he that was + escaped came; and had opened my mouth, until he came to me in the + morning; and my mouth was opened, and I was no more + dumb.</span></span>—The Lord made good His promise while the news + was approaching; and removed Ezekiel's dumbness half a day before, + in the evening, before the morning when the tidings arrived. It was + on the same day; for in the Hebrew system of time, the evening + began the day. This signifies that perhaps half a year prior to the + general realization of Christendom's downfall, Pastor Russell, + though dead, shall again speak through this, the seventh volume of + his <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Studies in the Scriptures</span></span>—for + this is but the completion of his great work of admonition and + warning for the Church and for Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:23, 24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + the Word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, they that + inhabit those wastes of the land of Israel speak, saying Abraham + was one, and he</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page531">[pg + 531]</span><a name="Pg531" id="Pg531" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">inherited the land: but we are many; the + land is given us for inheritance.</span></span>—After Jerusalem had + been sacked and King Zedekiah captured, as related in 2 Kings 25, + <span class="tei tei-q">“the captain of the guard left of the poor + of the land to be vine-dressers and husbandmen.”</span> These + (<span class="tei tei-q">“those inhabiting those wastes of the land + of Israel”</span>) imagined that <span class="tei tei-q">“the land + is given to us for an inheritance.”</span> They thought they would + be left in undisturbed possession, but certain of them came into + further conflict with the Assyrians. Then the land was made utterly + desolate. This signifies, in fulfillment, that while the revolution + overthrowing ecclesiasticism will make quite a clean sweep, there + will still remain some of the more lowly adherents of + ecclesiastical systems, who will imagine that they and their ideals + are to prosper and spread even to the control of the revolutionary + order of things.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:25, 26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Wherefore say unto them, Thus saith the + Lord God; Ye eat with the blood, and lift up your eyes toward your + idols, and shed blood; and shall ye possess the land? Ye stand upon + your sword, ye work abomination, and ye defile every one his + neighbor's wife; and shall ye possess the land?</span></span>—But + God knows their hearts, and is against them, for their continuance + in the evil ways of ecclesiasticism.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Say + thou thus unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; As I live, surely + they that are in the wastes shall fall by the sword, and him that + is in the open field will I give to the beasts to be devoured, and + they that be in the forts and in the caves shall die of the + pestilence.</span></span>—A sad awakening awaits them. As Jehovah + lives, those tares then surviving the ravages of revolution shall + be slain by the sword of anarchy, and shall have taken away all + pretense of being Christians. Those that have the spirit of earthly + ambition shall be given to be destroyed by the savagery of anarchy; + and those in the strongholds and in the protected conditions of + revolution shall die literally of pestilence and be destroyed + religiously by the pestilential teachings of those evil days.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:28. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + I will lay the land most desolate, and the pomp of her strength + shall cease; and, the mountains of Israel shall be desolate, that + none shall pass through.</span></span>—God purposes to utterly + desolate this evil order of things and to completely abase the last + vestiges of its pride and pomp, and to cause the governments of + this Age, even in their changed forms of revolution, to pass + away.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:29. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + shall they know that I am the Lord, when I have laid the land most + desolate, because of all their abominations which they have + committed.</span></span>—Then at last <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page532">[pg 532]</span><a name="Pg532" id="Pg532" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> the people that remain will realize that the + war, revolution and anarchy, were the righteous judgments of the + Almighty against the spiritual, political and economic abominations + of Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:30. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Also, thou son of man, the children of + thy people still are talking against thee by the walls and in the + doors of the houses, and speak one to another, every one to his + brother, saying, Come, I pray you, and hear what is the Word that + cometh forth from the Lord.</span></span>—Reverting to the present + time, about contemporary with the realisation that Christendom is + smitten, the hypocrisy of professed Christians is spoken against. + The tares in their churches (houses) will talk of Pastor Russell + and his works and words—they will read this book, and will urge one + another to <span class="tei tei-q">“hear what is the Word that + cometh from the Lord.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:31. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee + as My people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them; + for with their mouth they shew much love, but their heart goeth + after their covetousness.</span></span>—They will come in numbers, + apparently <span class="tei tei-q">“as My people;”</span> and like + all tares, imitation Christians, they will listen respectfully to + God's Words urging haste in consecration for the coming Kingdom; + but they will not do the things they hear. They will manifest with + their mouths great love for God, but will at heart be the + self-seekers they always were!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:32. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + lo, thou art unto them as a very lovely song of one that hath a + voice, and can play well on an instrument: for they hear thy words, + but they do them not.</span></span>—To these people, in their + insincerity and hypocrisy, Pastor Russell's works will be scarcely + a grade higher than an entertainment, a beautiful song, + <span class="tei tei-q">“the song of Moses and the Lamb,”</span> + well played on the many-stringed harp, the Bible, but not heeded as + of solemn import.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">33:33. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when this cometh to pass (lo, it will come), then shall they know + that a prophet hath been among them.</span></span>—But when the + things predicted in the entire sens volumes of the <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Studies in the + Scriptures</span></span> come to pass, then shall the tares, too + late, realize that a great and Divinely ordained preacher + <span class="tei tei-q">“hath been among them.”</span></p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">Master, + speak! Thy servant heareth,</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Longing for Thy gracious + Word,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Longing for Thy voice that + cheereth;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Master, let it now be + heard.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">I am listening, Lord, for + Thee;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">What hast Thou to say to + me?</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page533">[pg 533]</span><a name= + "Pg533" id="Pg533" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc125" id="toc125"></a> <a name="pdf126" id="pdf126"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 34—The Unfaithful + Shepherds</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:1, 2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the Word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, prophesy + against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy and say unto them, Thus + saith the Lord God unto the shepherds; Woe be to the shepherds of + Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the + flocks?</span></span>—God is against the clergy. Chapter 34 is a + burning arraignment of ecclesiasticism. It is to be taken in a dual + sense as concerning the clergy's treatment of God's true people, + the true Church on the spiritual plane, and of the Jews on the + earthly plane, both of whom the self-appointed shepherds, the + clergy, have neglected, abused and scattered. (34:1-8, 17-21.) God + will judge ecclesiasticism (34:9, 10, 16, 17, 20, 22), and will + Himself, through His own agencies, regather and bless His true + flock, Jewish and Christian. (34:10, 11-17, 22-31.) The words + <span class="tei tei-q">“shepherd”</span> and <span class= + "tei tei-q">“pastor”</span> have the same meaning (D. 62; F. 287). + Thus saith Jehovah God to the clergy, from Pope to preachers, + Woe—in the revolution and anarchy, from 1918 on—woe to the clergy + that selfishly look out for <span class="tei tei-q">“No. 1,”</span> + that seek big salaries, live in tax-free and rent-free parsonages + and rectories, that apply to themselves every promise of the Divine + Word. Should not the clergy, the pastors, unselfishly feed the + flock of God?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Ye + eat the fat, and ye clothe you with the wool, ye kill them that are + fed: but ye feed not the flock.</span></span>—Ye live on the + choicest offerings of the people. Ye <span class= + "tei tei-q">“fleece”</span> the sheep of their golden fleece. Them + that are fed to fatness with the Word of God, ye kill spiritually + if ye can. Ye have literally killed over fifty millions in bloody + persecutions. Ye have preached millions into a dreadful death in + the trenches. Ye do everything to the sheep but feed them. Did I + not command you thrice, <span class="tei tei-q">“Feed My + sheep?”</span>—John 21:17; 1 Pet. 5:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that + which was sick, neither have ye bound up that which was broken, + neither have ye brought again that which was driven away, neither + have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with cruelty + have ye ruled them.</span></span>—Those weakened by spiritual + disease—by the pestilence of false doctrines—ye have not + strengthened <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page534">[pg + 534]</span><a name="Pg534" id="Pg534" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + with the pure Word of God, the Bread of Life. Rather ye have thrown + them poisonous, death-dealing doctrines (1 Cor. 10:21) from the + <span class="tei tei-q">“table of devils.”</span> Ye have not + healed with the Divine Word of comfort (2 Cor. 1:3-7; Rom. 15:4) + those spiritually sick with temporary ailment of the soul. Ye have + not bound up, with the strong promises of God, the broken in spirit + (Isa. 61:1.) Neither have ye brought back into renewed faithfulness + those driven away by your treatment, nor sought to find and bring + to renewed relation to God those sheep that have strayed from him + in life and doctrine. Rather than feed them, serve and shepherd + them, ye have ruled them, lorded over God's heritage (1 Pet. 5:3), + as concerns both God's true Christian sheep and His sheep of the + Hebrew race.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they were scattered, because there is no shepherd: and they became + meat to all the beasts of the field, when they were + scattered.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“My sheep know My + voice [of love], and a stranger will they not follow.”</span> (John + 10:4, 5.) They were not kept together, cared for and cherished in + the bonds of Christian love. There were not among you the true + under-shepherds having My Spirit of Divine Love; and you, + adulterous priests of Baal, and of Molech—the cruel, fiery-torment + God—none having My Spirit could hear or follow. And when they were + scattered, they, the inoffensive, unresisting ones, became the prey + of every evil government and of every evil employer and + corporation. Ye made them cannon-fodder by the thousands for the + blood-guilty kaisers, czars, kings and generals of your evil order + of things.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + sheep wandered through all the mountains, and upon every high hill: + yea, My flock was scattered upon all the face of the earth, and + none did search or seek after them.</span></span>—My people + wandered homeless and friendless throughout all the nations of this + evil world. My flock of Apostles, martyrs, sacrificers, was + scattered throughout all human society. Not one of the selfish, + idolatrous clergy of either Romanism or Protestantism cared for + them, or loved My beloved ones enough to seek after them; but + rather ignored them, ostracized them, compelled their silence, + drove them out from the churches, and stilled their voices in + persecution and in death.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore, ye shepherds, hear the Word of + the Lord.</span></span>—Ye have done this for centuries; and God + permitted you to continue, because the time had not come. But now + has come the hour of your judgment, ye popes, cardinals, bishops, + priests, preachers, revivalists, and clergy of Baal, of every order + and grade. Hear ye the Word of Jehovah.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page535">[pg 535]</span><a name="Pg535" id="Pg535" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As I + live, saith the Lord God, surely because My flock became a prey, + and My flock became meat to every beast of the field, because there + was no shepherd, neither did My shepherds search for My flock, but + the shepherds fed themselves, and fed not My + flock.</span></span>—As I live, saith the Living God, surely + because My true flock became a prey, and was exploited by every + evil ruler and employer, because there was no true shepherd among + you, and you clergy did not love and cherish and seek for My + beloved flock, but you loved and fed yourselves, and starved My + true people with a famine for the hearing of the Word of God.—Amos + 8:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore, O ye shepherds, hear the word + of the Lord.</span></span>—Therefore, ye clergy, hear the Word of + the true God, Jehovah.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; Behold, I am against the shepherds; and I will + require My flock at their hand, and cause them to cease from + feeding the flock; neither shall the shepherds feed themselves any + more; for I will deliver My flock from their mouth, that they may + not be meat for them.</span></span>—Thus saith Jehovah God; Behold, + I am against the clergy (H. 12), great and little, high and low; + and I will exact from them an accounting for My beloved people; I + will take My flock entirely from them. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Come out of her, O My people, and touch not the + unclean thing.”</span> (Rev. 18:4; 2 Cor. 6:17.) And I will cause + the clergy to cease from feeding or attempting to preach to My + flock, or any flock in My name; for in a Time of great Trouble I + will deliver My people from the mouths of the clergy (Rev. + 9:17-19), that My flock may not furnish them support any more, that + My people may not ever again be preached by the clergy into + slaughter.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I, even I, will both search My + sheep, and seek them out.</span></span>—Jehovah will ignore the + hireling, faithless clergy, and through an agency of His own lowly + despised, caluminated, ostracised will patiently, persistently, + lovingly search for all His <span class="tei tei-q">“little + ones,”</span> those having His Spirit, and will seek them out.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As a + shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his + sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out My sheep, and will + deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in + the cloudy and dark day.</span></span>—As an oriental shepherd, who + knows and loves his sheep and is known and loved of them, seeks + them out, when they are scattered (John 10:4-15), so will God seek + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page536">[pg 536]</span><a name= + "Pg536" id="Pg536" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> out every one of His + beloved ones, and will deliver them out of the condition of + loneliness, distress, famine and persecution, where they have been + scattered by the apostate clergy in the troublous and dark period + of the Gospel Age.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will bring them out from the people, and gather them from the + countries, and will bring them to their own land, and feed them + upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in all the + inhabited places of the country.</span></span>—God himself will + bring them together from the various paganized <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Christian”</span> denominations, into the joy and + peace and love of a condition at one with Himself and with others + of like precious faith. Upon the height of the Heavenly Kingdom + will He feed them, by rivers of crystal clear Truth, and amid the + rejoicing throngs of the Heavenly courts. His chosen people, the + Jews, will God bring by the agency of the resurrected Ancient + Worthies to Palestine, where He will feed them upon the historic + mountains of that hallowed land, in the then great cities of a + realized Zionism.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of + Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie in a good fold, + and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of + Israel.</span></span>—God will feed His Little Flock, first on + Present Truth and then, at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb He will + appoint their place as Kings and Priests of the Kingdom. He will + make them abide forever in the place, the Divine spirit nature, + which Christ went to Heaven to prepare. Upon the Word, fresh from + the mind of God, shall they feast forever, in the spiritual phase + of the Kingdom. To the Jews will be fulfilled these promises in the + earthly phase of the Kingdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + will feed My flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the + Lord God.</span></span>—God will feed His Flock with Present Truth, + and will give them the rest of <span class="tei tei-q">“the peace + that passeth understanding.”</span>—Phil. 4:7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was + driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will + strengthen that which was sick; but I will destroy the fat and the + strong; I will feed them with judgment.</span></span>—Not one true + sheep shall be lost. God's unerring eye will seek every one, and + bring all back, first into the Truth, and then into the Kingdom. He + will bind up the broken in spirit and strengthen the spiritually + sick. In the latter part of this verse the picture of the shepherds + is dropped and a new parable begins, likening the clergy and their + strong supporters and <span class="tei tei-q">“laity”</span> to + different classes of sheep and goats (cattle). God purposes in the + impending revolution and anarchy to destroy all the fat priests + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page537">[pg 537]</span><a name= + "Pg537" id="Pg537" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> and clergy of all + grades—as priests and clergy, at least—and those that, like the + Pharisees of old, are sure they will securely stand in the presence + of the Lord. <span class="tei tei-q">“Let him that thinketh he + standeth take heed lest he fall.”</span> (1 Cor. 10:12.) He will + feed them with famine and destruction, and with the judgments + pronounced in His Word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + as for you, O My flock, thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I judge + between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the + goats.</span></span>—The nominal flock is made up of clergy and + laity of sheep and goats. In the flock God discerns the weaker + sheep and the stronger rams and the goats—the clergy, + class-leaders, etc.,—some of whom are real sheep and some goats, + destined to the left side of disfavor. Many of these are even + wolves in sheep's clothing.—Matt. 7:15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Seemeth it a small thing unto you to have + eaten up the good pasture, but ye must tread down with your feet + the residue of your pastures? and to have drunk of the deep waters, + but ye must foul the residue with your feet?</span></span>—The + stronger ones have not helped the weak to feed and grow strong; + but, as though it were a small matter, the clergy, have lived on + the fat of the land, relatively to their poorer congregations. They + have eaten up the good Word of God for themselves, particularly the + Romish clergy; and what spiritual food they have given the laity, + they have walked all over with muddy feet—mingled it with earthly + doctrines, social and civic betterment and traditions of men. They + have drunk of the water of Truth (C. 65) coming from the Bible, but + have spoiled the waters by mingling it with Evolution and Higher + Criticism.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + as for My flock, they eat that which ye have trodden down with your + feet; and they drink that which yet have fouled with your + feet.</span></span>—And the laity, God's flock, whom God + commissioned the shepherds to feed with the good Word of God, have + eaten and drunk spiritual food polluted by the clergy with + doctrines of devils.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God unto + them; Behold I, even I, will judge between the fat cattle and + between the lean cattle.</span></span>—Therefore God Himself is + about to judge and make a manifest difference between the + unfaithful, rich in learning and opportunity, and the poorer ones + on whom they have imposed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Because ye have thrust with side and with + shoulder, and pushed all the diseased with your horns, till ye have + scattered them abroad.</span></span>—Because the rich, learned and + exclusive have shoved aside the weaker ones, and have, by their + earthly power, pushed out of the churches all His flock, those not + <span class="tei tei-q">“at ease in Zion.”</span>—Amos 6:1; Isa. + 66:5.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page538">[pg + 538]</span><a name="Pg538" id="Pg538" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore will I save My flock, and they + shall no more be a prey; and I will judge between cattle and + cattle.</span></span>—Therefore will God Himself save His own in + these troublous times, by teaching them Present Truth; and they + shall <span class="tei tei-q">“come out of her”</span> (Rev. 18:4), + out of the churches altogether, so that the clergy and the + <span class="tei tei-q">“best”</span> people can no longer exploit + them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will set up one Shepherd over them, and He shall feed them, even + My servant David; He shall feed them, and He shall be their + Shepherd.</span></span>—God has established Jesus (David) the + Beloved (Jer. 23; 4, 5; John 10:11), and Pastor Russell as a + faithful and wise under-shepherd, to bring forth from the Bible + Storehouse truths new and old, to feed the sheep.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I the Lord will be their God, and My servant David a prince among + them; I the Lord have spoken it.</span></span>—Jehovah (not the + eternal-torment Molech God) will be their God, and His beloved Son + and his under-shepherds shall occupy exalted places among them. In + the Times of Restitution the Beloved Christ, Head and body, (David, + beloved) will be the true Shepherd to the earthly flock, the + Jews.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will make with them a covenant of peace, and will cause the evil + beasts to cease out of the land: and they shall dwell safely in the + wilderness and sleep in the woods.</span></span>—With the truly + Christian flock God will make a covenant of the peace that passeth + understanding (Phil. 4:7); and with the Jews will make the New + Covenant through its Mediator, The Christ. He will cause the + roaring lion (Isa. 35:9), Satan, to cease from troubling (Job + 3:17), and will forever restrain in oblivion the evil governments. + His flock shall dwell securely, even in the wilderness condition, + until their change come (Job. 14:14), and shall rest in the cooling + shadows (Cant. 2:3), in the refreshing truths brought forth from + the Storehouse by righteous, strong teachers and leaders among + them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will make them and the places round about My hill a blessing; and + I will cause the shower to come down in his season; there shall be + showers of blessing.</span></span>—The Lord will make the Truth + people, His flock, and everything and every condition related to + His Kingdom, a blessing to others (Mal. 3:10); they shall be the + Seed of Abraham, to bless all the families of the earth. (Gal. + 3:8.) God has caused showers of truth to descend upon His flock at + their appointed times, down-pours of spiritual blessing in the + <span class="tei tei-q">“<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Studies in the + Scriptures</span></span>.”</span> At the appointed time of the + beginning of returning favor to the Jews, 1878, the latter rains + began to fall in Palestine, making that fertile land a fit + habitation again for the chosen nation.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page539">[pg 539]</span><a name="Pg539" id="Pg539" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the tree of the field shall yield her fruit, and the earth shall + yield her increase, and they shall be safe in their land, and shall + know that I am the Lord, when I have broken the bands of their + yoke, and delivered them out of the hand of those that served + themselves of them.</span></span>—Thinking, manly men, gathered + into Present Truth from the world, yield their fruitage of spirit + fruits of character; and the blessed condition in which they are + yields its increase of spiritual blessing and food; they are safe + in their place, <span class="tei tei-q">“seated with Christ in the + Heavenlies”</span> (Eph. 1:3, 20), where they assuredly know God + with heart knowledge. God has broken the bands of the heavy yoke of + ecclesiasticism, and delivered them out of the hand of a clergy + that lived upon His flock, calling it <span class= + "tei tei-q">“their people.”</span> For Fleshly Israel and those who + shall become Israelites there shall be the blessings of an earthly + Eden, with an abundance of fruitage from trees and soil (A. + 192).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:28. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall no more be a prey to the heathen, neither shall the + beast of the land devour them; but they shall dwell safely, and + none shall make them afraid.</span></span>—God's flock of + spirit-begotten ones shall be no more preyed upon by paganized + <span class="tei tei-q">“Christians,”</span> nor persecuted, + devoured, destroyed, by the great <span class= + "tei tei-q">“beast”</span> of Christendom, the Papacy, with its + <span class="tei tei-q">“Holy Inquisition;”</span> but they shall + dwell safely in the hollow of His hand, His power, and none can + make afraid those sealed in their foreheads with the Truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:29. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will raise up for them a plant of renown, and they shall be no + more consumed with hunger in the land, neither bear the shame of + the heathen any more.</span></span>—God raised up, in 1878, in the + First Resurrection of the dead, the Body members of His Son, + <span class="tei tei-q">“the Stem of David,”</span> and previously + in 1874, had sent again His Son to feed the flock, to serve them + (Luke 12:37), and sup with them (Rev. 3:20) in a feast of fat + things spiritual—the Present Truth. Those in the Truth shall never + again suffer from famine of the Word of God; nor shall they, when + raised up to sit with Christ in power and glory (Matt. 19:28), ever + again bear reproach from a paganized <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Christian”</span> apostasy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:30. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + shall they know that I the Lord their God am with them, and that + they, even the house of Israel, are My people, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—This is the way that the Lord's Spiritual Flock + and both Jews, and nominal Christians, shall come to know of a + certainty that Jehovah is with them, that they are His people.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">34:31. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + ye My flock, the flock of My pasture, are men, and I am your God, + saith the Lord God.</span></span>—This prophecy, this type, this + symbolism, refers to the people who constitute God's flock, Jewish + and nominal.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page540">[pg 540]</span><a name= + "Pg540" id="Pg540" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc127" id="toc127"></a> <a name="pdf128" id="pdf128"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 35—Edom A Type</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">35:1, 2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover the Word of the Lord came onto + me, saying, Son of man, set thy face against mount Seir, and + prophesy against it.</span></span>—Mount Seir and Edom are + practically synonymous; for the Edomites inhabited the mountain + range region along the east side of the valley, extending from the + Dead Sea to the Elamitic or Persian Gulf. What Edom types Pastor + Russell makes clear in volume IV of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>, pp. 14, 20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">One of the + features of the Time of Trouble will be upon the fleshly-minded + Christians, tares, who after the fall of ecclesiasticism, will + repudiate Christianity, and take their stand as worldings, + Edomites—the <span class="tei tei-q">“people of Mount Seir,”</span> + mere tares. These, having assisted in the downfall of + ecclesiasticism, will seek to take the place and power of defunct + Christendom in an utterly Christless arrangement of things.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">35:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + say unto it, Thus saith the Lord God, Behold, O mount Seir, I am + against thee, and I will stretch out Mine hand against thee, and I + will make thee most desolate.</span></span>—The godless nations + that will succeed fallen Christendom will also find God against + them, and that His power is stretched out against them and will + make them, too, most desolate.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">35:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + will lay the cities waste, and thou shalt be desolate, and thou + shalt know that I am the Lord.</span></span>—God will, through + anarchy, lay waste the Socialistic, labor-union, social-democratic + and other governments which will emerge as the outcome of the + revolutions of Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">35:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Because thou hast had a perpetual hatred, + and hast shed the blood of the children of Israel by the force of + the sword in the time of their calamity, in the time that their + iniquity had an end.</span></span>—These economic-political + movements—Socialism, labor-unionism, syndicalism, nihilism, and + others, but not including anarchy, which will swallow them up—have + had a long standing hatred against ecclesiasticism, have spoken and + worked against it, and against the social order characteristic of + the past age. In the overthrow of ecclesiasticism, the + fleshly-minded tares, <span class="tei tei-q">“Edomites”</span> and + the classes mentioned, will turn on the <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page541">[pg 541]</span><a name="Pg541" id="Pg541" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> clergy and laity of the churches, as well as + upon the Lord's spirit-begotten children—upon any remaining to + profess Christianity, whether through adherence to the church + systems or through consecration to God—and will slaughter them by + thousands.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">35:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore, as I live, saith the Lord God, + I will prepare thee unto blood, and blood shall pursue thee; since + thou hast not hated blood, even blood shall pursue + thee.</span></span>—In gatherings of Socialists, there is no end to + the differences of opinion as to what Socialism is and how it is to + be worked out in practice. This factional division contains the + seeds of the destruction of the short-lived governmental system of + Socialism, under whatever name, for a bloody end. They courted + revolution and shall receive of the same.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">35:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + will I make mount Seir most desolate, and cut off from it him that + passeth out and him that returneth.</span></span>—Thus will God + cause the brief Socialistic phase of the Time of Trouble to become + <span class="tei tei-q">“most desolate.”</span> Not one person + connected with it shall escape the universal anarchy, the last and + worst phase of the tribulation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">35:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will fill his mountains with his slain men; in thy hills, and in + thy valleys, and in all thy rivers, shall they fall that are slain + with the sword.</span></span>—The Socialistic, labor-ridden nations + (mountains), shall be filled with the slain; among the upper + classes of socialism, and among the more insignificant people + (valleys) and in connection with all their channels of Socialistic + truth (rivers), the people of that order of things shall be slain. + In a sense the Sword of the Spirit, will slay them; it foretells + their destruction.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">35:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + will make thee perpetual desolations, and thy cities shall not + return; and ye shall know that I am the Lord.</span></span>—The + Socialistic state shall be utterly destroyed, and its various forms + of government (cities) go to oblivion.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">35:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Because thou hast said, These two nations + and these two countries shall be mine, and we will possess it; + whereas the Lord was there.</span></span>—The then non-religious + Socialists, laborites, etc., will say: <span class= + "tei tei-q">“These two systems (nations), Catholic and Protestant, + and the condition of things characteristic of them, shall come + under the sway of Socialism, and we Socialists, etc., shall rule + over and control them”</span>, whereas they will overlook the + all-important fact that God has been among these people, and they + were called God's people.—<span class="tei tei-q">“The Lord was + there.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">35:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore, as I live, saith the Lord God, + I will even do according to thine anger, and according to thine + envy, which thou hast used out of thy hatred against them; and I + will make Myself known among them, when I have judged + thee.</span></span>—Therefore as the Socialists, etc., will turn + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page542">[pg 542]</span><a name= + "Pg542" id="Pg542" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> upon ecclesiasticism + and Christianity in anger and fury and with hateful envy, so God + will do to the Socialistic laborite order of things. As they aid in + smiting down Christianity, so will the anarchists smite them + down.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">35:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + thou shalt know that I am the Lord, and that I have heard all thy + blasphemies, which thou hast spoken against the mountains of + Israel, saying, They are laid desolate, they are given us to + consume.</span></span>—The laborites, etc., will learn that God + rules in the affairs of men, and that the Almighty will pay + attention to their utterances against the nations (mountains) of + Christendom (Israel), when, after ecclesiasticism's fall, the + laborites shall say, <span class="tei tei-q">“The nations have been + desolated, and are given to us working people to divide up for + ourselves.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">35:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + with your mouth ye have boasted against Me, and have multiplied + your words against Me: I have heard them.</span></span>—The + Socialistic and kindred movements, while speaking savagely against + capitalism, and covertly against Christianity, have in reality been + speaking against an order permitted by God, and in which God was—in + the indwelling of His Holy Spirit, in such true Christians as were + in the systems. In expressing the determination to lead the world + out of the darkness of evil economic, social and political + conditions, they unwittingly boast against God by presuming to + perform what God previously planned to be done by His faithful + Church, and which by any lesser agency is absolutely impossible of + accomplishment, God will not pass by unnoticed the words of + Socialists, syndicalists, laborites, etc. He will hear them, and + remember them for just recompense.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">35:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; When the whole earth rejoiceth, I will make + thee desolate.</span></span>—When the Times of Restitution of all + things come, one of the things not to be restored is the Socialist, + laborite movement. When all society rejoices in the new order of + things ordained of God, the Socialistic state will have been + utterly and forever desolated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">35:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + thou didst rejoice at the inheritance of the house of Israel, + because it was desolate, so will I do onto thee; thou shalt be + desolate, O mount Seir, and all Idumea, even all of it: and they + shall know that I am the Lord.</span></span>—As the fleshly-minded + apostates from Christianity, siding with the radicals and + revolutionaries, will rejoice at the inheritance of desolation that + will be Christendom's after 1918, so will God do to the successful + revolutionary movement; it shall be utterly desolated, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“even all of it.”</span> Not one vestige of it shall + survive the ravages of world-wide all-embracing anarchy, in the + fall of 1920. (Rev. 11:7-13)</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page543">[pg 543]</span><a name= + "Pg543" id="Pg543" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc129" id="toc129"></a> <a name="pdf130" id="pdf130"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 36—Christendom's Early + Restoration</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Also, thou son of man, prophesy unto the + mountains of Israel, and say, Ye mountains of Israel, hear the Word + of the Lord.</span></span>—In Chapter 6 is described the iniquities + of the nations of Christendom and their doom. Chapter 36 describes + the rejoicing of the non-Christian elements over her fall, and + God's jealous anger against them. It foretells the early + re-peopling of the nations of Christendom, their conversion to true + Christianity, and the reason for God's action in behalf of the + nations just previously destroyed. Taken literally, it foretells + the same good future for His chosen but long-chastised people, the + Jews. This is the message to the nations (mountains) of + Christendom, as the Word of Jehovah concerning them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; Because the enemy hath said against you, Aha, + even the ancient high places are ours in + possession.</span></span>—Because the revolutionists, who shall + overthrow the nations of Christendom, shall say against them, + <span class="tei tei-q">“Aha, even the oldest and greatest nations + of Christendom are under the control of us revolutionists, + Socialists and laborites.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore prophesy and say, Thus saith + the Lord God; Because they have made you desolate, and swallowed + you up on every side, that ye might be a possession unto the + residue of the heathen, and ye are taken up in the lips of talkers, + and are an infamy of the people.</span></span>—Thus saith Jehovah + God to the nations of Christendom: Because the revolutionists shall + have justly made you desolate and overrun you in every direction, + so that you might be ruled over by pagan, fleshly-minded, infidel, + revolutionary rulers, and because you shall be the subject of + flippant discussion among the revolutionaries, and through your + fall become infamous among all the heathen peoples of the world, in + Europe, America and elsewhere.—Lam. 2:15, 16.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore, ye mountains of Israel, hear + the Word of the Lord God; Thus saith the Lord God to the mountains + and to the hills, to the rivers and to the valleys, to the desolate + wastes and to the cities that are forsaken, which became a prey and + derision to the residue of the heathen that are round + about.</span></span>—Therefore, ye nations of Christendom, thus + saith Jehovah to the nations, great and <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page544">[pg 544]</span><a name="Pg544" id="Pg544" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> small, to the religious denominations, to the + lowly members of society, to the masses wasted and desolated by war + and revolution, to the governments, local and national that shall + be abandoned, which shall become the victims of the Socialists, + laborites and other revolutionists, who shall hold you in derision + for your fall from eminence to desolation.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; Surely + in the fire of My jealousy have I spoken against the residue of the + heathen, and against all Idumea, which have appointed My land into + their possessions with the joy of all their heart, with despiteful + minds, to cast it out for a prey.</span></span>—Therefore, saith + God, surely I am jealous over the reflections they cast upon Me, + and at the mouths of many prophets have I foretold the destruction + by anarchy of the rest of those who falsely profess My name and + then help to desolate Christendom—the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Christian”</span> infidels and all the former + fleshly-minded Christians (Idumeans) who shall have presumed, with + malicious joy, to overthrow the order of things which bears My + name—Christendom!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Prophesy therefore concerning the land of + Israel, and say unto the mountains and to the hills, to the rivers + and to the valleys, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold I have spoken + in My jealousy and in My fury, because ye have borne the shame of + the heathen.</span></span>—O nations of fallen Christendom, My + people, because you shall have borne shame and reproach from the + ungodly revolutionists, I will bring My jealous fury to bear upon + your destroyers.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; I have + lifted up Mine hand, Surely the heathen that are about you, they + shall bear their shame.</span></span>—Jehovah has sworn (lifted the + hand) that the Socialists, laborites, etc., shall bear a similar + shame and reproach, when their short-lived order of things has in + turn been desolated by the anarchists.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + ye, O mountains of Israel, ye shall shoot forth your branches, and + yield your fruit to My people of Israel; for they are at hand to + come.</span></span>—A branch signifies a person born from another; + as, Christ was a Branch of David. Here the branches shooting forth + from the mountains are the people of Christendom, slain in + revolutions and anarchy, springing forth, rising from the dead, to + people Christendom again. But you, O nations, of Christendom, your + dead shall rise up from their sleep in the dust of the earth, to + the earthly restitution—resurrection; you shall yield proper + fruitage as the truly Christian people of Christendom; for they are + close at hand to come back in the dust of the earth, in the mire of + trenches, fortresses and battle fields. They sleep in death, ready + to come, for <span class="tei tei-q">“All that are in <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page545">[pg 545]</span><a name="Pg545" id="Pg545" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> their graves shall hear the voice of + the Son of God, and shall come forth”</span> to resurrection.—John + 5:28, 29.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For, + behold, I am for you, and I will turn unto you, and ye shall be + tilled and sown.</span></span>—Now that the Times of Restitution + are at the door, God will be for them and will turn his favor unto + them, and they shall be cultivated by truly Christian preachers + commissioned by the resurrected Ancient Worthies at Jerusalem, and + sown with the seed of the true Gospel of the Kingdom of restitution + and blessing for all people.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will multiply men upon you, all the house of Israel, even all of + it; and the cities shall be inhabited, and the wastes shall be + builded.</span></span>—The dead, fallen by the sword of war, + revolution and anarchy, shall come forth from their graves to + inhabit the earth. Thus, as they multiplied the dead, will God + multiply the living, to the number of all the dead of Christendom, + even every one of them; they shall become in His sight, not dead in + trespasses and sins, but living, true-blue, manly men for the + Christ of divine love. The governments (cities) shall be + reestablished; and commerce, transportation, industry and art, + wasted by the Time of Trouble, shall be built up again, upon the + foundation of the wholly righteous principles of the New Era.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will multiply upon you man and beast; and they shall increase and + bring fruit; and I will settle you after your old estates, and will + do better unto you than at your beginnings: and ye shall know that + I am the Lord.</span></span>—God will multiply useful workers in + industries, and the invention of labor-saving machinery—the beasts + of burden and of the productive arts and trades. They shall + increase in numbers and in service to mankind, and shall multiply + the productivity of the workers, bringing forth with the busy, + happy hum of industry, plenty for all, fruitage abundant for the + needs of humanity. God will settle them, establish them in + permanent conditions, and will do for them far better than He could + do in the former days of Christendom, when the operation of His + Spirit energizing mind and spirit in invention, art, industry, + commerce and religion, was hindered by apostasy of clergy and + rulers. Men shall learn by happy experience how good is Jehovah and + how truly He is love, and not the fire-god, eternal-torment Molech, + whom they ignorantly worshipped, thinking they did Jehovah + service.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yea, + I will cause men to walk upon you, even My people Israel; and they + shall possess thee, and thou shalt be their inheritance, and thou + shalt no more henceforth bereave them of men.</span></span>—God + will cause men, perfected by <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page546">[pg 546]</span><a name="Pg546" id="Pg546" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> processes of restitution and resurrection, to + live in the nations of resurrected Christendom. Men of this highly + exalted type shall possess Christendom, when Christ's Kingdom shall + be inherited by the kingly men for whom it was prepared from the + foundations of the earth. Never more shall the nations of + Christendom bereave themselves of men, as they have done in + centuries of oppression, misrule and persecution, and especially in + the Time of Trouble.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; Because they say unto you, Thou land devourest + up men, and hast bereaved thy nations.</span></span>—Because the + infidel revolutionists will throw at Christendom the taunt, + <span class="tei tei-q">“Your social order, economic, political and + religious, eats up, destroys men, in industry, persecution, war, + and revolution, and bereaves the nations of their best + men.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thou shalt devour men no more, + neither bereave thy nations any more, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—Never shall this be any more, says God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Neither will I cause men to hear in thee + the shame of the heathen any more, neither shalt thou bear the + reproach of the people any more, neither shalt thou cause thy + nations to fall any more, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—Neither + will God permit men to hear the infidel peoples put Christendom to + shame, nor to heap reproach upon her; for Christendom shall be no + more a reproach among the heathen, nor shall she cause her nations + to fall again.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:16, 17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover the Word of the Lord came unto + me, saying, Son of man, when the house of Israel dwelt in their own + land, they defiled it by their own way and by their doings: their + way was before Me as the uncleanness of a removed + woman.</span></span>—While ecclesiasticism and its adherents + control Christendom, they defile it spiritually by their + traditions, doctrines and actions. Their spiritual condition is + before God as a church polluted, unclean spiritually, unfit to + touch, which ought to be <span class="tei tei-q">“cut off from + social privileges and her citizenship among God's people put in + abeyance,”</span> as long as the spiritually unclean condition + lasts, an uncleanness which may be removed only by a liberal + application of <span class="tei tei-q">“the waters of + separation”</span> (Lev. 15:19-31)—the cleansing reformation of the + pure, unadulterated, fearlessly preached and applied Word of God, + <span class="tei tei-q">“the water of the Word.”</span>—Eph. + 5:26.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Wherefore I poured My fury upon them for + the blood that they had shed upon the land, and for their idols + wherewith they had polluted it.</span></span>—The penalty for + wilful violation of the Hebraic precepts regarding uncleanness was + the final cutting off of the culprit from the Lord's people. + Wherefore God shall pour out upon ecclesiasticism <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page547">[pg 547]</span><a name="Pg547" id="Pg547" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> His fury in war, revolution, and + anarchy, for the lives—physical and religious—taken throughout the + lengths and breadths of human society, and for the idolatrous + worship of Molech, the eternal-torment God, and of Baal, the god of + adulterous church-state union, wherewith she has polluted + Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I scattered them among the heathen, and they were dispersed through + the countries: according to their way and according to their doings + I judged them.</span></span>—God will scatter the church adherents + among the revolutionists, and disperse them throughout a variety of + infidel, Socialistic, laborite and other like conditions, judging + the ecclesiastics according to their apostasy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when they entered unto the heathen, whither they went, they + profaned My holy name, when they said to them, These are the people + of the Lord, and are gone forth out of His + land.</span></span>—Wherever these fleshly-minded Christians shall + be scattered, they will blaspheme God's holy name, with the + reproach that though they had claimed to be Jehovah's people, God + had been unable to safeguard them and they had abandoned all + pretense of being Christians.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">But + I had pity for Mine holy name, which the house of Israel had + profaned among the heathen, whither they went.</span></span>—But + God will have regard for the prestige of His reputation for + justice, power, love and wisdom, which the apostate of Christendom + shall impugn during the revolutionary order of things.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore say unto the house of Israel, + Thus saith the Lord God; I do not this for your sakes, O house of + Israel, but for Mine holy name's sake, which ye have profaned among + the heathen, whither ye went.</span></span>—Therefore Jehovah says + that what He is about to do, He will not do for their sakes, for + they deserve nothing at His hand but the judgments justly visited + upon them; but that He will do it for His holy name's reputation, + which they have persistently misrepresented and blasphemed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will sanctify My great name, which was profaned among the + heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the + heathen shall know that I am the Lord, saith the Lord God, when I + shall be sanctified in you before their eyes.</span></span>—God + will make His name sacred, and forever hallowed, among the pagan + peoples, the name which apostate Christians have profaned and + defamed among them; and God will make the infidel peoples to + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page548">[pg 548]</span><a name= + "Pg548" id="Pg548" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> know of a certainty + that He is the all-wise, just, loving and almighty Jehovah, when He + finally converts all such to true Christianity.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all + countries, and will bring you into your own land.</span></span>—God + will save His professed people from the faithless, unbelieving + condition of the revolutionists and the professedly pagan peoples, + and will gather them out of all the evil conditions into which they + shall fall, into a condition of genuine conversion and consecration + to Himself. How much like God! all will exclaim, who know Jehovah. + What an example does the Father set to His children, the sons of + God!—Eph. 5:1; Z. '92-63.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from + all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse + you.</span></span>—Then will Jehovah wash His apostate people with + the pure, unpolluted water of the Word of Truth; and from all their + filthiness of flesh and spirit, of life and of doctrine, and from + their idolatry of Molech and of Baal, will He cleanse them; and + they shall be clean.—A. 333; Z. '92-64.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">A + new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within + you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I + will give you a heart of flesh.</span></span>—God judges the + thoughts and intents of the heart, and He will give His professed + people a pure heart to serve Him and to love Him with fullness of + consecration. He will take away from them the stony heart (Jer. + 31:33), wherewith for sake of earthly emoluments and honor of men, + they have resisted Him and hardened their consciences against His + Truth. He will put within them a new spirit which they have not + known—the spirit of willing service and obedience to Jehovah, the + spirit of the truth, the spirit of wisdom, of courage, of a sound + mind, and of Divine love.—2 Tim. 1:7; Z. '99-187; A. 310; Z. + '03-171.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will put My Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in My + statutes, and ye shall keep My judgments, and do + them.</span></span>—God will give them His Holy Spirit and cause + them to walk in His <span class="tei tei-q">“royal law of + love”</span> (Jas. 2:8), so that they shall keep that law and do + it—Z. '99-138.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:28. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye + shall be My people, and I will be your God.</span></span>—And they + shall abide in the condition of Divine favor that the fathers + walked in, and truly be God's people; and Jehovah, the God of + love—not Molech, nor Baal—shall be their God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:29. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">I + will also save you from all your uncleanness: and I will call for + the corn, and will increase it, and lay</span> <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page549">[pg 549]</span><a name="Pg549" id="Pg549" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">no + famine upon you.</span></span>—God will save the people now + constituting His professed, but apostate church, from all their + spiritual and fleshly uncleanness. He will call for the wheat, the + bread of life, the Word of God, and will give them to feed on this + good Word, and will permit no more famine of the Word of God among + them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:30. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will multiply the fruit of the tree, and the increase of the + field, that ye shall receive no more reproach of famine among the + heathen.</span></span>—God will multiply the fruits of + righteousness, and cause the new social order to increase its + character fruitage, so that Christians shall receive no more from + the heathen the reproach that there is among them a famine of God's + Word, and that they fail to practise what they profess.—Amos. + 8:11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:31. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that were not + good, and shall loathe yourselves in your own sight for your + iniquities and for your abominations.</span></span>—Then, in the + abundance of the wonderful and undeserved goodness and love of God, + God's professed people shall remember their former evil doctrines, + that misrepresented His holy character, and their doings that were + not good, especially their grasping for world power and their + persecution of the sons of God. Then they shall loathe themselves + for their iniquitous doctrines and for their sectarian + abominations.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:32. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Not + for your own sakes do I this, saith the Lord God, be it known unto + you: be ashamed and confounded for your own ways, O house of + Israel.</span></span>—Be it known, in advance, that Jehovah will do + these good things, not for their sakes in any sense; for they merit + far different treatment at His hands. They shall be ashamed and + utterly confounded at His goodness. Thus, with goodness and with + love overflowing will God recompense the evil they have done Him + and His true children.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:33. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; in the day that I shall have cleansed you from + all your iniquities I will also cause you to dwell in the cities, + and the wastes shall be builded.</span></span>—In the 1,000-year + day, the Millennium, the <span class="tei tei-q">“Times of + Restitution of all things”</span> (Acts 3:19-21), when God shall + have cleansed those who are now His professed people from their + iniquities, He will cause them to abide in new governments of the + nations and cities of Christendom (Lu. 19:17), whose wasted arts, + manufactures, industries, transportation and commerce shall be + built up again.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:34. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the desolate land shall be tilled, whereas it lay desolate in the + sight of all that passed by.</span></span>—Christendom, utterly + desolated in war, revolution and anarchy, and lying desolate in the + sight of the whole world, shall be cultivated <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page550">[pg 550]</span><a name="Pg550" id="Pg550" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> in the arts, sciences, trades and + professions, and especially with the true Gospel of the + Kingdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:35. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall say, This land that was desolate is become like the + garden of Eden; and the waste and desolate and ruined cities are + become fenced, and are inhabited.</span></span>—And the infidel + peoples shall exclaim, <span class="tei tei-q">“Christendom that + was utterly desolated, has become like the Garden of Eden!”</span> + For governments, national, city, and local, which were wasted, + desolated and ruined, have been replaced by better and permanent + (fenced) arrangements brought about by the mighty power of + Jehovah's Love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:36. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + the heathen that are left round about you shall know that I the + Lord build the ruined places, and plant that that was desolate: I + the Lord have spoken it, and I will do it.</span></span>—Then the + unbelieving peoples will come to the realization that the One that + shall rebuild ruined Christendom and plant the desolate people with + the seed of the glad gospel of the Kingdom is Jehovah. Jehovah has + spoken it, and will bring it to pass.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:37. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; I will yet for this be inquired of by the house + of Israel, to do it for them; I will increase them with men like a + flock.</span></span>—God will yet be supplicated by desolated + Christendom to do this for them. Then, in answer to their prayers, + He will, by awakenings from the dead, increase their numbers with + men in multitudes.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">36:38. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">As + the holy flock, as the flock of Jerusalem in her solemn feasts; so + shall the waste cities be filled with flocks of men: and they shall + know that I am the Lord.</span></span>—Like as vast flocks of sheep + and cattle were gathered for sacrifice at the annual feasts at + Jerusalem, so shall the devastated nations of Christendom be filled + with great crowds of consecrated, holy men, each devoted as a + willing thank offering forever to live for God. And they shall + know, when God has brought them back from the dead, that He is + Jehovah, a God of infinite Justice, Power, Love and Wisdom.</p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Hail to the brightness of Zion's + glad morning!</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Joy to the lands that in + darkness have lain!</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Hushed be the accents of sorrow + and mourning!</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Zion, in triumph, begins her + glad reign.</span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">See the dead risen from land and + from ocean;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Praise to Jehovah ascending on + High;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Fall'n are the engines of war + and commotion;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Shouts of salvation are rending + the sky.</span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page551">[pg 551]</span><a name= + "Pg551" id="Pg551" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc131" id="toc131"></a> <a name="pdf132" id="pdf132"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 37—The Valley Of Dry + Bones</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + hand of the Lord was upon me, and carried me out in the Spirit of + the Lord, and set me down in the midst of the valley which was full + of bones.</span></span>—Chapter 37:1-14 has a fourfold application: + (1) to the Valley of Jehoshaphat, the Adamic death, into which the + Hebrew nation has gone; (2) to the captivity of the Hebrews in + literal Babylonia; (3) the captivity of the Hebrews in Mystic + Babylon, Christendom; and (4) the dead condition of the hopes of + Christendom in and after the Time of Trouble. It is because the + Jews were types of the Christians that the blessed fulfilment of + this prophecy applies with peculiar force to Christendom in and + after the Time of Trouble. The power (hand) of Jehovah was upon + Ezekiel to enable him to see and expound this vision for the + benefit of the Hebrews and their dead hopes in captivity (2) in + literal Babylon, (3) in Mystic Babylon (Christendom) and (1) in the + Adamic death. (Z. '99-190; '01-358.) The power of God is now upon + His people to understand the application of the vision of dry bones + as pertaining to the hopes of (4) the people of Christendom, who, + though believers in God, have not the Holy Spirit to illuminate + their mental vision, and who will find themselves in the depths + (valley) of despair in and after the Time of Trouble.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The condition of + the withered hopes of Christendom in the Time of Trouble and death + is pictured by the Valley of Jehoshaphat (Joel 3:2, 9-14): + <span class="tei tei-q">“I will gather all nations, and will bring + them down into the Valley of Jehoshaphat [of judgment and death], + and will plead [in war, revolution and anarchy] with them there for + My people and My heritage Israel [the true Church] whom they have + scattered among the nations, and parted My land [into several + hundred denominations]. Proclaim ye this among the nations: Prepare + war, wake up the mighty men, let all the men of war draw near; let + them come up; beat your plowshares into swords, and your pruning + hooks into spears; let the weak [Belgium, etc.] say, I am strong. + Assemble yourselves, and come, all ye heathen, and gather + yourselves together round about; thither cause thy mighty ones [the + Little Flock, mighty in the power of the Lord] to come down, O + Lord. Let the heathen [in Christendom, and out] <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page552">[pg 552]</span><a name="Pg552" id="Pg552" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> be wakened, and come up to the Valley + of Jehoshaphat: for there will I sit to judge all the heathen round + about. Put ye in the sickle, for the harvest [of the vine of the + earth, (Rev. 14:19) Christendom] is ripe; come, get you down; for + the press is full, the fats overflow; for their wickedness is + great. Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision [for or + against God and His Word] for the Day [of vengeance] of the Lord is + near in the valley of decision.”</span>—Joel 3:2, 9-15.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Vast will be the + slaughter, complete the devastation, heart-rending the ruin and the + desolation of the hopes and aspirations of Christendom in the dark + and gloomy valley of the Day of Vengeance of Jehovah. It will + indeed be a valley—a cast down, humbled, lowly condition, in which + the people of proud Christendom will suddenly find themselves, a + condition full of the memories of ruined hopes, (bones) (Mal. 4:1.) + The valley is full of dried-up hopes (bones): (1) the twelve tribes + of Israel in death; (2, 3) the Hebrews in captivity to literal and + mystical Babylon; and (4) the hopes of Christendom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + caused me to pass by them round about: and behold, there were very + many in the open valley; and lo, they were very + dry.</span></span>—The hopes of the Hebrews, held out to them in + Scripture, were very many, but until the regathering out of literal + and mystical Babylon, and from the dead, were and shall be + lifeless. Pastor Russell, in Volume IV of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Studies in the + Scriptures</span></span>, compassed the entire range of the + afflictions and desolated hopes of mankind in war, revolution and + anarchy of the great Time of Trouble.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + he said unto me, Son of man, can these bones live! And I answered, + O Lord God, Thou knowest.</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“Is + there any hope for the scattered people of Israel, that they will + ever be restored as a nation? Can the good hopes of Christendom, + ruined by war, revolution and anarchy, be revived?”</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">“O Jehovah God, Thou knowest and hast + foretold the answer by the mouths of Prophets and Apostles, and + Thine own Son!”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Again He said unto me, Prophesy upon + these bones, and say unto them, O ye dry bones, hear the Word of + the Lord.</span></span>—And God says about the Scriptural hopes of + both Jews and of Christendom, whose fall, ignominy and captivity in + literal Babylon, in mystic Babylon, in the Adamic death and in the + Time of Trouble have caused, and will cause, so great sufferings + and so many tears. <span class="tei tei-q">“Hear the good Word of + Jehovah concerning thy ruined hopes.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God unto these bones; Behold, I will cause breath to + enter into you, and ye shall live.</span></span>—Thus saith Jehovah + God about the hopes of Christendom: <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page553">[pg 553]</span><a name="Pg553" id="Pg553" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> Behold, in the blessed Times of Restitution, + the time for His great love for men to be revealed, He shall cause + the people that are left among the Hebrews and in Christendom to + talk and pray about their good hopes for the uplift of themselves + and all the world to better, higher things. And their hopes shall + live again; for God will cause the spirit of life, life-energy, to + enter into their hopes and into their dead—those captive in the + Adamic death and in the ruin of the great tribulation.—E. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">341</span></span>, 316.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will lay sinews upon you, and will bring up flesh upon you, and + cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and ye shall live; and + ye shall know that I am the Lord.</span></span>—God will make their + hopes strong; for His Word encourages their realization; and He + gives them power, form and substance and protection, and will + finally give them vitality, and they shall live, shall become a + bright and vital reality. Then with thanksgiving they shall know + Him truly as Jehovah.—E. <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">341</span></span>, 316.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So I + prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a + noise, and behold a shaking, and the bones came together, bone to + his bone.</span></span>—While Ezekiel was speaking there began + <span class="tei tei-q">“a shaking”</span>—the commotion incident + to the fall of Babylon and the transfer of the empire to the Medes + and Persians, typifying the coming Time of Trouble. And while + Pastor Russell was preaching there began—in 1914—the shaking of + Christendom, in wars, revolutions and anarchy, preparatory to the + transfer of the rulership from Mystic Babylon, Christendom, to the + two-phase, spiritual and natural, Kingdom of God; also the + Zionistic hopes of the Jews began to assume definite, connected and + Scriptural form. In due time, after the hopes of Christendom shall + have been utterly ruined in the trouble, there will be <span class= + "tei tei-q">“a noise,”</span> as of the rushing wind of a second + Pentecostal outpouring of the Holy Spirit <span class= + "tei tei-q">“upon all flesh.”</span> It will be upon all + Christendom, where men will be awaiting it with prayer and + supplication. And behold! all Christendom will be shaken with + emotion and with a revival of hope; and all the good hopes of + Christendom, whose realization hitherto had been vague and + disconnected, will be seen in their proper and Divinely appointed + relation (bone to his bone).—Z. '99-191.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when I beheld, lo, the sinews and the flesh came up upon them, and + the skin covered them above: but there was no breath in + them.</span></span>—As a result of Ezekiel's prophesying among the + Hebrews captive in Babylon, hope grew strong and positive, and the + protection of Jehovah (skin) was seen to be upon it, but yet there + was no vitality to it. The time was not ripe for the fruition of + hope. <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page554">[pg 554]</span><a name= + "Pg554" id="Pg554" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> Pastor Russell, too, + preached to the Jews about their Zionist hopes, and pointed them to + the Hebrew Bible to understand the proper fulfillment of their + hopes; and while he was preaching Zionism grew into a strong + movement. There is a due time also for Christendom's hopes to be + strengthened by the books of Pastor Russell in millions of homes + throughout Christendom. The surviving people of Christendom will + read the <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Studies in the Scriptures</span></span> during + and after the time of the ruination of their hopes. But even then + something will be lacking—the Spirit, power, to cause the + fulfillment of hope.—E. <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">341</span></span>, 316.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + said He unto me, Prophesy unto the wind, prophesy, son of man, and + say to the wind, Thus saith the Lord God; Come from the four winds, + O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may + live.</span></span>—Ezekiel was commissioned to say, as the Word of + God Himself, concerning the operation of the Holy Spirit (wind, + <span lang="he" class="tei tei-foreign" xml:lang="he"><span style= + "font-style: italic">ruach</span></span>) or power of God, that the + whole power (four winds) of God as concerned the Hebrew nation in + captivity in literal Babylon should be exercised to cause the + revival of their national and Messianic hopes. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The words that I speak, they are Spirit.”</span> The + whole Word of God (four winds, the whole Spirit) foretold the + regathering of the willing and obedient of the Hebrews from Babylon + to Jerusalem, after seventy years' captivity. Pastor Russell, as + Ezekiel's antitype, was commissioned to say to the Hebrews, + scattered throughout the world in captivity in Mystic Babylon, + Christendom, that the whole Word of God pointed to two great + blessings: (1) the revival of their Zionist hope and its + realization in the regathering of many Hebrews to Jerusalem, and + the founding there of the world-wide Hebrew dominion over the whole + world, into which should be gathered, out of Mystic Babylon, all + the Hebrews in the world, wherever they might remain; and (2) the + regathering of the Hebrews of all ages from the captivity of + death—the tomb—to live on earth again in the earthly phase of the + Kingdom of God, under the invisible spiritual dominion of Christ, + Head and Body, and under the visible earthly rulership of the + resurrected Ancient Worthies. Beginning in October, 1910, Pastor + Russell called the attention of Hebrews by thousands, throughout + the world, to the fact that the whole Old Testament foretold this + as the legitimate aspiration of the Hebrews. For the Christian + people of the world Pastor Russell has a similar message:</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(1) For + believing Christians having the Holy Spirit, he revived their hopes + and pointed out clearly their gathering out from captivity in + Mystic Babylon and in death, unto the glorious spirit phase of the + Kingdom of God. (2) For the <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page555">[pg 555]</span><a name="Pg555" id="Pg555" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> mass of professing Christians, who through + some measure of unbelief or of unfaithfulness are not begotten of + the Spirit to a change of nature from human to spiritual, He has a + Divine message, which in due time will bring strong hope and + comfort. As the Time of Trouble progresses, professing Christians + by the millions, losing faith, as did the Apostles when, on the + arrest of Christ they all forsook Him and fled, will forsake + Christianity and all profession of being Christians. They will lose + all the hopes they had as Christians. Then Pastor Russell's message + will preach to Christendom the necessity of receiving the Holy + Spirit in its entirety, in order to realize their hopes; will turn + the people to the whole Truth of the Word of God (the four Winds, + all the Truth), all the witness of the Spirit for them, that + <span class="tei tei-q">“salvation cometh of the Jew”</span> (John + 4:22), and that they must connect themselves with the Ancient + Worthies, resurrected and reigning at Jerusalem; for without these + Worthies their hopes must remain inactive—through them alone hope + can be vitalized. Then Christendom will pray to God, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“We submit ourselves wholly to Thee in heartfelt + consecration. Come, O Spirit, all the Spirit, in the appointed way, + and breathe life into our hopes, that they may live at + last!”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So I + prophesied as He commanded me, and the breath came into them, and + they lived, and stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great + army.</span></span>—From paying attention to Ezekiel's message, the + Hebrews captive in Babylon realized their hopes at the end of the + seventy years captivity. As a result of Pastor Russell's teaching, + Zionistic hopes have gained new vitality; and in due time the + Hebrew dead will come forth from the Adamic death in multitudes. + From his teachings to the true Church, captive in Mystic Babylon, + Christendom, the Scriptural hopes of the Church were clearly seen, + and vitalized for those in Present Truth. From his teachings hope + will grow afresh in the hearts of the survivors of desolated + Christendom; and as a result of their prayers the dead of + Christendom will come forth, an exceeding great army.—E. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">341</span></span>, 316.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + He said unto me, Son of man, these bones are the whole house of + Israel: behold, they say, Our bones are dried, and our hope is + lost: we are cut off for our parts.</span></span>—The dried bones + represent all the Hebrews, Fleshly Israel, and all the professing + Christians, Spiritual Israel. As outlined foregoing, they say that + their hopes are lost, and that they are cut off from Divine favors + for their evil course in life.—Isa. 49:14; Z'99-191.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore prophesy and say unto them, + Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, O My people, I will open + your</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page556">[pg + 556]</span><a name="Pg556" id="Pg556" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">graves, + and cause you to come up out of your graves, and bring you into the + land of Israel.</span></span>—The various classes mentioned were to + be brought up from their condition—dead as to their hopes—and + brought, the Hebrews into Palestine; the true Christians, into the + Spirit phase of the Kingdom; and the nominal Christians, into a + place of favor in the earthly phase of the Kingdom.—Isa. 60:21; Z. + '99-196.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:13, 14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + ye shall know that I am the Lord, when I have opened your graves, O + My people, and brought you up out of your graves, And shall put My + Spirit in you, and ye shall live, and I shall place you in your own + land: then shall ye know that I the Lord have spoken it, and + performed it, saith the Lord.</span></span>—They shall all know + that God is the Jehovah of infinite Justice, Wisdom, Love and + Power, when the wonderful power of God has thus wrought in them for + their blessing.—E. <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">341</span></span>, 316; Z. '99-190.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Word of the Lord came again unto me, saying.</span></span>—Verses + 15-28 recount the separation of the Hebrews into two distinct + kingdoms; Israel, the corrupt ten tribes; and Judah, the less + corrupt two tribes. In antitype it represents corrupt Catholicism, + the larger branch of Christendom, and Protestantism, the smaller + and less corrupt.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:16, 17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover, thou son of man, take thee one + stick, and write upon it, For Judah, and for the children of Israel + his companions: then take another stick, and write upon it, For + Joseph, the stick of Ephraim, and for all the house of Israel and + his companions: And join them one to another into one stick; and + they shall become one in thine hand.</span></span>—By the power of + God the two were to be made one nation in the return of the Hebrews + from Babylonia, and again will be made one in their return from + Mystic Babylon, Christendom, to Palestine. Likewise the + denominational divisions of Christian people have been obliterated + among those gathered out of Mystic Babylon into Present Truth, as + they will yet be in the regathering of the dead of Christendom in + the resurrection, and in the unifying influences that will work + among the survivors of Christendom's trouble. All these are to have + as their Prince forever, the Beloved (David, beloved) of God, The + Christ in glory.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + when the children of thy people shall speak unto thee, saying, Wilt + Thou not show what Thou meanest by these?</span></span>—Both Jews + and Christians have long inquired what God has signified by this + prophecy.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page557">[pg + 557]</span><a name="Pg557" id="Pg557" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Say + unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold I will take the stick of + Joseph, which is in the hand of Ephraim, and the tribes of Israel + his fellows, and will put them with him, even with the stick of + Judah, and make them one stick, and they shall be one in Mine + hand.</span></span>—The reuniting of the Hebrews and of the + divisions of Christians will be by the power of God, and they shall + remain one.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the sticks whereon thou writest shall be in thine hand before their + eyes.</span></span>—The uniting of the Hebrews was apparently due + to the prophecy of Ezekiel. That to come—of the Hebrews and of the + Christians—will be in accordance with the teachings of Pastor + Russell.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:21, 22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I will take the + children of Israel from among the heathen, whither they be gone, + and will gather them on every side, and bring them into their own + land: And I will make them one nation in the land upon the + mountains of Israel; and one king shall be king to them all; and + they shall be no more two nations, neither shall they be divided + into two kingdoms any more at all.</span></span>—In 536 B. C. God + regathered the Natural Israelites into Palestine as one nation, and + will soon regather them out from all the nations of the world. He + will gather true Spiritual Israel into the Heavenly phase of the + Kingdom, where they shall ever be one people in mind in Christ, no + longer separated as Little Flock, loving Heavenly things, and Great + Company, loving the earthly. He will regather nominal Spiritual + Israel from the dead and from their hopeless earthly condition, + into the earthly phase of the Kingdom, no longer divided as + Catholic and Protestant.—Jer. 50:4-6.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Neither shall they defile themselves any + more with their idols, nor with their detestable things, nor with + any of their transgressions; but I will save them out of all their + dwelling places, wherein they have sinned, and will cleanse them: + so shall they be My people, and I will be their + God.</span></span>—God will cleanse them all from everything + relating to this present evil age and will save them out of their + dwelling-places—the spirit children from their corrupt bodies; the + Great Company from their spiritual bondage; the nominal Christians + from their sects; and the Jews from their domiciles in all nations; + and all classes from the sleep of death. They shall all be truly + God's people; and Jehovah, Just, Wise, Loving and Powerful, their + God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + David My servant shall be king over them; and they shall all have + One Shepherd: they shall also walk</span> <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page558">[pg 558]</span><a name="Pg558" id="Pg558" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif">in My + judgments, and observe My statutes, and do them.</span></span>—Over + them as King shall be Christ Jesus, the Beloved Head of His Body + the Church, and the whole Beloved Christ, Head and Body, for all + the other classes. Christ Jesus the Head shall be the Shepherd of + the Spirit classes; and The Christ, Head and Body, the Shepherd and + Pastor of all the others. All classes in Heaven and on earth shall + walk in the royal Law of Love.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall dwell in the land that I have given unto Jacob My + servant, wherein your fathers have dwelt; and they shall dwell + therein, even they and their children, and their children's + children for ever: and My servant David shall be their prince for + ever.</span></span>—The promise to Jacob is to be understood as + both spiritual and earthly, a place spiritually typifying a + condition. The Jews, living and resurrected dead, shall dwell + forever in Palestine, given by God to Jacob, wherein their fathers, + Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, dwelt. The Little Flock and the Great + Company will dwell forever in the Heavenly condition, where their + great Father dwells. The nominal Christians will dwell in the whole + earth, wherein their then Father. The Christ, Head and Body, dwelt + in bodies of humiliation and sacrifice. The Christ shall forever be + their King.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Moreover I will make a covenant of peace + with them; it shall be an everlasting Covenant with them: and I + will place them, and multiply them, and will set My Sanctuary in + the midst of them for evermore.</span></span>—God will make + effective with the Jews the everlasting New Covenant, guaranteeing + eternal earthly blessings to the willing and obedient; and the + nominal professing Christians will come under the benefits of the + Covenant. He will make effective the complete fulfillment of the + Covenant of Grace for the Church in the spirit phase of the + Kingdom. He will set both classes up in power—the Church as + spiritual Kings and Priests unto God; and the Jews as the rulers of + the earth. He will multiply their numbers by the resurrection. He + will dwell in the spiritual class, making them His Sanctuary to the + earthly class.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">My + tabernacle also shall be with them: yea, I will be their God, and + they shall be My people.</span></span>—God's abode will be in the + spiritual class; and they will be God's Temple or Dwelling-place, + from which the Law of Love shall proceed for the earthly class.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">37:28. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the heathen shall know that I the Lord do sanctify Israel, when My + Sanctuary shall be in the midst of them for + evermore.</span></span>—Then will follow the conversion of the + heathen peoples of the earth—<span class="tei tei-q">“the residue + of men, even all the Gentiles.”</span>—Acts 15:17.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page559">[pg 559]</span><a name= + "Pg559" id="Pg559" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc133" id="toc133"></a> <a name="pdf134" id="pdf134"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 38—Final Overthrow Of + Pride</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:1, 2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the Word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, set thy face + against Gog, the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and + Tubal, and prophesy against him.</span></span>—The Truth people, + the reformers, are to set themselves against the proud, lofty + rulers (Gog, high, mountain, D. 554) of the revolutionary republics + after the war and the fall of Christendom, and of the ignorant, + degraded revolutionists. (Magog was Scythia, a rude, ignorant, + degraded people, including the savages of Europe [D. 556], savage + by nature and made doubly so in the most barbarous wars of history. + Meshech, north of Armenia, and Tubal, south of the Black Sea, and + also Spain, represented the remotest and rudest nations of the + world.) The prophecy is to have a double fulfillment, for it refers + also to the gathering, at the close of the 1,000 years, of Satan, + and the deceivable among restored mankind against the camp of the + saints.—Rev. 20:7-10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + say, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I am against thee, O Gog, the + chief prince of Meshech and Tubal.</span></span>—God will be + against the rulers of the worst of earth's peoples.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will turn thee back, and put hooks into thy jaws, and I will + bring thee forth, and all thine army, horses and horsemen, all of + them clothed with all sorts of armour, even a great company with + bucklers and shields, all of them handling + swords.</span></span>—God will lead them on (Revised Version) and + bring them forth to do this deed, them and all their multitude, + equipped with every conceivable weapon of destruction.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Persia, Ethiopia, and Libya with them; + all of them with shield and helmet.</span></span>—The dark peoples + of Africa (descendants of Ham, typical of sinful, degraded + peoples), trained and equipped in the European war.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Gomer, and all his bands; the house of + Togarmah of the north quarters, and all his bands; and many people + with thee.</span></span>—The remotest peoples of Europe (D. 556) + (Gomer was ancestor of the Celts, Scotch, etc.; Togarmah was north + of Armenia) and their armies, and a multitude with them; and, a + thousand years later, all whose heart attitude answers this + description.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page560">[pg + 560]</span><a name="Pg560" id="Pg560" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Be + thou prepared, and prepare for thyself, thou, and all thy company + that are assembled unto thee, and be thou a guard unto + them.</span></span>—The foregoing and their savage multitudes of + revolutionists are to be the vanguard of the evil host. These + people symbolize also those after the 1,000 years whose heart + condition will be like the actual state of these savages.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">After many days thou shalt be visited: in + the latter years thou shalt come into the land that is brought back + from the sword, and is gathered out of many people, against the + mountains of Israel, which have been always waste: but it is + brought forth out of the nations, and they shall dwell safely all + of them.</span></span>—After the career of the Ezekiel class is + terminated in the flesh, the nations of Europe (and after the + thousand years are finished the hosts of Satan, unbound) shall be + called to do their dreadful work. At the close of the turbulent + revolutionary era Europe shall come against Palestine, then living + in a peace contrasting with their turbulence; and, at the close of + the Millennium Satan shall come against the Millennial order of + things, abounding in holiness and peace.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + shalt ascend and come like a storm, thou shalt be like a cloud to + cover the land, thou, and all thy bands, and many people with + thee.</span></span>—They shall make the attack in vast numbers.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; It shall also come to pass, that at the same + time shall things come into thy mind, and thou shalt think an evil + thought.</span></span>—At the end of the revolutionary era + turbulent Europe and Africa will be obsessed with an idea full of + evil for them and for the Hebrews; and at the close of the + Millennium Satan and the hosts in sympathy with his deceptions will + dream of seizing the established Kingdom of God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + thou shalt say, I will go up to the land of unwalled villages; I + will go to them that are at rest, that dwell safely, all of them + dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor + gates.</span></span>—They shall say that they will go up against + Palestine, against the Hebrews living in unwonted peace in a + turbulent world.—D. 553.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">To + take a spoil, and to take a prey; to turn thine hand upon the + desolate places that are now inhabited, and upon the people that + are gathered out of the nations, which have gotten cattle and + goods, that dwell in the midst of the land.</span></span>—They will + seek to plunder their property, to turn their weapons against once + desolate Palestine, against the regathered Hebrews, enjoying some + measure of prosperity. In like manner the hosts of Satan will seek + to seize the restored Kingdom of God, at the close of the 1,000 + years.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page561">[pg + 561]</span><a name="Pg561" id="Pg561" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Sheba, and Dedan, and the merchants of + Tarshish, with all the young lions thereof, shall say unto thee, + Art thou come to take a spoil? hast thou gathered thy company to + take a prey? to carry away silver and gold, to take away cattle and + goods, to take a great spoil?</span></span>—The people surrounding + Palestine (D. 556), with their soldiers, will join in the plunder. + After the Millennium all classes not in heart harmony with + <span class="tei tei-q">“the camp of the saints,”</span> will seek + to capture the Kingdom, to take captive the power of the Little + Flock and the Great Company (silver and gold), and the masses of + perfect humanity (cattle, etc.).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore, son of man, prophesy and say + unto Gog, Thus saith the Lord God; In that day when My people of + Israel dwelleth safely, shalt thou not know it?</span></span>—When + God's people, the Hebrews, are living peacefully in Palestine, the + fact will be well known by revolutionary Europe and Africa. After + the Millennium Satan and his former associates, the apostate clergy + of Christendom and the Hebrew Pharisees, bound for a thousand + years, and loosed for a short time, will behold the prosperity of + restored mankind.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + thou shalt come from thy place out of the north parts, thou, and + many people with thee, all of them riding upon horses, a great + company, and a mighty army.</span></span>—Europe's hosts shall come + from the countries north (D. 555) of Palestine with many people, + riding on horses, motor cars and railroad trains, a vast and mighty + army. And a thousand years later, Satan will appear, permitted to + come by the spiritual phase of the Kingdom (the north), with many + new, lying doctrines (horses) to deceive the people.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + thou shalt come up against My people of Israel, as a cloud to cover + the land; it shall be in the latter days, and I will bring thee + against My land, that the heathen may know Me, when I shall be + sanctified in thee, O Gog, before their eyes.</span></span>—The + revolutionists will come against the Hebrews in the closing years + of the Time of Trouble, just at the outbreak of anarchy (D. 555). + This invasion will be permitted by God, that the peoples may know + that Jehovah is God, when His mighty power shall perform a dreadful + work upon these wicked peoples, raised up and set apart + (sanctified) for the enhancing of Divine prestige. It will also be + to demonstrate the Divine attributes that the Satanic hosts will be + permitted later to conspire against <span class="tei tei-q">“the + camp of the saints.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + saith the Lord God; Art thou he of whom I have spoken in old time + by My servants the prophets of Israel, which prophesied in those + days many years, that I would bring thee against + them?</span></span>—Jehovah declares that <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page562">[pg 562]</span><a name="Pg562" id="Pg562" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> these evil multitudes, who will shortly + organize a crusade against the Jews, will be the ones of whom, + thousands of years before, the Hebrew Prophets wrote.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + it shall come to pass at the same time when Gog shall come against + the land of Israel, saith the Lord God, that My fury shall come up + in My face.</span></span>—The Divine wrath of furious retribution + will be against these classes.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">For + in My jealousy and in the fire of My wrath have I spoken, Surely In + that day there shall be a great shaking in the land of + Israel.</span></span>—In jealous love for His beloved people and in + jealous destructive (fire) wrath against their assailants (D. 527) + has God foretold a world-shaking holocaust of the hosts of evil in + the land of Palestine, and a thousand years later of the minions of + the Devil.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So + that the fishes of the sea, and the fowls of the heaven, and the + beasts of the field, and all creeping things that creep upon the + earth, and all the men that are upon the face of the earth, shall + shake at My presence, and the mountains shall be thrown down, and + the steep places shall fall, and every wall shall fall to the + ground.</span></span>—The result will be that the men (fishes, C. + 214) not under religious restraint (Z. '86:1), the most execrable + of the people of the world (fowls, C. 162), the revolutionary + governments (beasts, A. 261), and all the lowest of mankind shall + be thrown into revolutionary commotion; and the nations (mountains, + A. 318) shall be overthrown in anarchy, together with all the civil + powers (walls, D. 40) of the world.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will call for a sword against him throughout all My mountains, + saith the Lord God: every man's sword shall be against his + brother.</span></span>—God will do His dreadful work of ending this + present evil world, and will call for the universal arming of + mankind with destroying weapons, so that every man's weapons will + be against every other man.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will plead against him with pestilence and with blood; and I will + rain upon him, and upon his bands, and upon the many people that + are with him, an overflowing rain, and great hailstones, fire, and + brimstone.</span></span>—God will fight miraculously against the + hosts of evil with pestilence and death, and will overwhelm them + with a flood of Truth—with hard facts, to smite their hearts—and + with anarchy, destruction, utter and complete. So also will the + Almighty deal with the rebels of a thousand years later.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">38:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + will I magnify Myself, and sanctify Myself; and I will be known in + the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I am the + Lord.</span></span>—So will God magnify His reputation as the One + to be reverenced, and the fame of His power will spread throughout + the world.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page563">[pg 563]</span><a name= + "Pg563" id="Pg563" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc135" id="toc135"></a> <a name="pdf136" id="pdf136"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 39—Death Of Pride's + Multitude</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:1. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore, thou son of man, prophesy + against Gog, and say, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I am against + thee, O Gog, the chief prince of Meshech and + Tubal.</span></span>—This has a triple fulfillment: (a) the + destruction of the literal armies that will attack the Hebrews at + the beginning of the Millennium; (b) the destruction of their pride + and their sophistries by the Truth; and (c) at the end of the + Millennium the literal annihilation of the hosts that will then be + deceived by Satan, and the destruction of their errors by the loyal + members of the Kingdom. Jehovah is against these evil leaders and + their multitude. The greatest curse of God's people in all times + has been pride.—Matt. 5:3; 1 John 3:12; John 8:44; Isa. 14:14; Psa. + 119:113; Prov. 6:17; Psa. 101:5; Prov. 8:13; Isa. 2:12; Prov. + 16:18; 2 Thes. 2:4; Mal. 3:15; Mark 10:43.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:2. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will turn thee back, and leave but the sixth part of thee, and + will cause thee to come up from the north parts, and will bring + thee upon the mountains of Israel.</span></span>—Jehovah will lead + them on (R. V.), controlled and directed by the spiritual phase of + the Kingdom (north) to (a, b) bring a host against restored Israel; + and (c) a thousand years later another Satanic multitude against + the entire restored Kingdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:3. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will smite thy bow out of thy left hand, and will cause thine + arrows to fall out of thy right hand.</span></span>—God will (a, b) + destroy the weapons and the power of the anti-Hebrew crusade; and + (b, c) He will also end, in those hosts, their hatred (bow) and + their bitter words (arrows).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:4. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + shalt fall upon the mountains of Israel, thou, and all thy bands, + and the people that is with thee: I will give thee unto the + ravenous birds of every sort, and to the beasts of the field, to be + devoured.</span></span>—These evil hosts (a, b, c) shall die; and + God will give the first one to be disorganized, disrupted and + destroyed by the most execrable of mankind (birds and beasts); and + He will deliver (b) both it and (c) the second into the power of + the spiritual phase of His Kingdom, to be wiped out.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:5. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thou + shalt fall upon the open field: for I have spoken it, saith the + Lord God.</span></span>—They shall fall defenseless at the hands of + their destroyers.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page564">[pg + 564]</span><a name="Pg564" id="Pg564" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:6. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will send a fire on Magog, and among them that dwell carelessly + in the isles: and they shall know that I am the + Lord.</span></span>—God will (a, b) send anarchy (fire) among the + peoples of the revolutionary republics (isles); and literal + miraculous annihilation upon the second uprising of Satan and his + deceived followers.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:7. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So + will I make My holy name known in the midst of My people Israel; + and I will not let them pollute My holy name any more: and the + heathen shall know that I am the Lord, the Holy One in + Israel.</span></span>—Through this miraculous deliverance (a) the + Hebrews shall be converted to the Truth, so that they shall never + again be a discredit to God's name; and (b, c) all mankind also + shall thereby learn fully to know God.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:8. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Behold, it is come, and it is done, saith + the Lord God; this is the day whereof I have + spoken.</span></span>—It shall surely come; it shall be done; thus + shall be the day of the end of evil and the final establishment of + right, whereof God has spoken in His Word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:9. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they that dwell in the cities of Israel shall go forth, and shall + set on fire and burn the weapons, both the shields and the + bucklers, the bows and the arrows, and the handstaves, and the + spears, and they shall burn them with fire seven + years.</span></span>—The regathered Hebrews of Palestine (a) shall + be seven years burning and destroying the weapons of war of this + evil rabble, (a) The hosts of heaven and of earth (b, c) shall + eternally (seven years) recount the lesson of the utter end of + Satan's deceptive doctrines, of credulity (shield) of hatred + (bows), evil-speaking (arrows) and other evil character-fruits.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:10. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So + that they shall take no wood out of the field, neither cut down any + out of the forests; for they shall burn the weapons with fire: and + they shall spoil those that spoiled them, and rob those that robbed + them, saith the Lord God.</span></span>—So numerous will be the + weapons of war (a) of those Divinely vanquished armies that the + Hebrews will need no other firewood, but will burn the weapons. + They shall plunder those that plunder them. The innumerable + sophistries (b, c) by which Satan's legions shall seek to grasp the + Kingdom power, and their miraculous overthrow, shall forever + furnish lessons to help the inheritors of the Kingdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:11. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + It shall come to pass in that day, that I will give unto Gog a + place there of graves in Israel, the valley of the passengers on + the east of the sea; and it shall stop the noses of the passengers: + and there shall they bury Gog and all his multitude: and they shall + call it, The valley of Hamon-gog.</span></span>—God will give (a) + the self-exalted anti-Semite <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page565">[pg 565]</span><a name="Pg565" id="Pg565" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> crusaders a place of burial in Palestine. In + the valley used as a highway east of the Dead Sea, the dead shall + be a stench to the passers-by; and there shall they bring the proud + (Gog, high, proud ones) hosts to their end, and they shall call it + the Valley of Pride's Multitude (Hamon, multitude). Then, and a + thousand years later (b, c), the memory of the proud dead shall be + offensive to all that recall it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:12. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + seven months shall the house of Israel be burying of them, that + they may cleanse the land.</span></span>—For seven months (a) the + Hebrews shall be burying the crusaders, that they may cleanse the + land defiled by the dead. And then, and after the Millennium (b, + c), for many years shall the spiritual members of the Kingdom be + neutralizing the sophistries of Satan, that they may thoroughly + cleanse the Kingdom of its spiritual defilement.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:13. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Yea, + all the people of the land shall bury them; and it shall be to them + a renown the day that I shall be glorified, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—Yea (a) all the nations shall bury the dead; and + the day of pride's (Gog's) overthrow shall be a celebrated day + among them. All the people of the Kingdom (b, c) shall loyally + assist in cleansing their beloved Kingdom of the spiritual + defilement. It will always be a day to be remembered.—Mal. 4:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:14. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + they shall sever out men of continual employment, passing through + the land, to bury with the passengers those that remain upon the + face of the earth, to cleanse it: after the end of seven months + shall they search.</span></span>—After the seven months (a) men + shall be hired regularly to search through the land, in cooperation + with any travelers, for any dead remaining on the earth, to + thoroughly cleanse the land. And then, and after the thousand years + (b, c) spiritual teachers shall be detailed to remove any remaining + spiritual defilement, by teaching the Truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:15. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the passengers that pass through the land, when any seeth a man's + bone, then shall he set up a sign by it, till the buriers have + buried it in the valley of Hamon-gog.</span></span>—Any travelers + (a) passing by, that see even a human bone, shall mark it for the + buriers to bury in the Valley of Pride's Multitude. And then, and a + thousand years later (b, c) any one noticing any vestige of + death-dealing error shall mark it for the special teachers to + cleanse away with truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:16. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + also the name of the city shall be Hamonah. Thus shall they cleanse + the land.</span></span>—There shall (a) be a city there named + Multitude (Hamonah, Multitude). Thus shall they cleanse the land; + and then (b, c) and beyond the thousand years there shall be a + perfect government (city)—not <span class="tei tei-pb" id= + "page566">[pg 566]</span><a name="Pg566" id="Pg566" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> such a government as Satan would establish + again, not usurped by the few, Satan and his agents, but a + government, under God—of multitudes of restored and perfect men—a + Divine Republic, called <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Multitude.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:17. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And, + thou son of man, thus saith the Lord God; Speak unto every + feathered fowl, and to every beast of the field, Assemble + yourselves, and come; gather yourselves on every side to My + sacrifice that I do sacrifice for you, even a great sacrifice upon + the mountains of Israel, that ye may eat flesh, and drink + blood.</span></span>—God says: (a) When the proud revolutionists + shall set themselves in array against His people, to call to the + most execrable of men (fowls) and to the revolutionary rulers + (beasts); Come to the great destruction of hosts of rebellious + humanity, where you, in anarchy, shall destroy these people; + symbolically (b, c) a call to the far-sighted spiritual ones + (eagles) and the believing ones of earth (beasts—members of the + Lion of the Tribe of Judah) to gather themselves to feast upon, to + destroy with the weapons of Divine Truth, the evil doctrines + (flesh, as the flesh of Jesus symbolizes true doctrines) and the + corrupting errors (blood) of Satan.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:18. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Ye + shall eat the flesh of the mighty, and drink the blood of the + princes of the earth, of rams, of lambs, and of goats, of bullocks, + all of them fatlings of Bashan.</span></span>—They shall (b, c) + consume the sophistries of Satan (the mighty), and annihilate the + errors of earth's great false teachers and rulers—New Thought + doctrines of devils relating to the attainment of perfection, to + whatever kind and degree desired—to be as mature leaders (rams), + among the sheep, as tender-charactered lambs, as self-willed, + self-masters through thought-power (goats), or as perfect human + beings (bullocks), all imagining themselves actually, fully + developed (fatlings), under the delusions of Satan's fruitful mind + (Bashan, fruitful).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:19. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + ye shall eat fat till ye be full, and drink blood till ye be + drunken, of My sacrifice which I have sacrificed for + you.</span></span>—They shall (b, c) with the Truth consume and + destroy these false philosophies, until satiated with the glorious + witness for God's Truth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:20. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Thus + ye shall be filled at My table with horses and chariots, with + mighty men, and with all men of war, saith the Lord + God.</span></span>—Thus (b, c) at God's table of spiritual food, + His people shall have an abundant feeding upon the truths which + shall destroy the errors of the Time of Trouble, the doctrines and + the organizations actuated by these doctrines and the rulers, + philosophies, teachers and workers in the cause of + evil.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page567">[pg + 567]</span><a name="Pg567" id="Pg567" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:21. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + I will set My glory among the heathen, and all the heathen shall + see My judgment that I have executed, and My hand that I have laid + upon them.</span></span>—God will (a, b, c) make Himself renowned + among all nations; and they shall realize that He shall have + executed judgment upon them, and that it is His hand of Justice + that has been laid upon them for their misdeeds.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:22. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">So + the house of Israel shall know that I am the Lord their God from + that day and forward.</span></span>—Thus shall (a) the Hebrews and + (b, c) all professing Christians know Jehovah as their God, from + that time on forever.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:23. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">And + the heathen shall know that the house of Israel went into captivity + for their iniquity: because they trespassed against Me, therefore + hid I My face from them, and gave them into the hand of their + enemies; so fell they all by the sword.</span></span>—The whole + world shall know that the Hebrews (a) went into captivity to + literal Babylon and to Mystic Babylon, and that the unfaithful + professing Christians went into captivity (b) to Mystic Babylon and + (c) to Satan's deceptions, because they sinned against God. For + this reason He disfavored them and gave them over into the power of + their enemies. So shall they fall, by literal weapons of + destruction and (b, c) be slain by the Sword of the Spirit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:24. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">According to their uncleanness and + according to their transgressions have I done unto them, and hid My + face from them.</span></span>—According to their physical, mental, + moral and spiritual pollution, and to their sinfulness, God will + recompense and disfavor them.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:25. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Therefore thus saith the Lord God; Now + will I bring again the captivity of Jacob, and have mercy upon the + whole house of Israel, and will be jealous for My holy + name.</span></span>—Then when the punishment is over (D. 557), will + God (a) release the Hebrews (A. 300) from their captivity in Mystic + Babylon and in the tomb, and antitypically that of Christendom. He + will show His mercy and love toward all the Hebrews, living and + dead (D. 557), and (b, c), toward all of Christendom, the quick and + the dead, and will vindicate His reputation for righteousness.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:26. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">After that they have borne their shame, + and all their trespasses whereby they have trespassed against Me, + when they dwelt safely in their land, and none made them + afraid.</span></span>—After they (a) have thus (D. 558) endured + their shame and the punishment for all their sins, wherein they + have erred against the Lord, while the Jews were peacefully + dwelling in Palestine (b, c) and the professing Christians in + Christendom, and while no one made them afraid, the sure results + shall follow.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page568">[pg + 568]</span><a name="Pg568" id="Pg568" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:27. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">When + I have brought them again from the people, and gathered them out of + their enemies' lands, and am sanctified in them in the sight of + many nations.</span></span>—In Zionism (a) God shall regather the + Jews and (b, c) bring Jews and Christians alike back from the great + enemy, death, and by their holy, consecrated lives, He will be + hallowed in the regard of the whole world.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:28. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Then + shall they know that I am the Lord their God, which caused them to + be led into captivity among the heathen: but I have gathered them + unto their own land, and have left none of them any more + there.</span></span>—Then shall they in humble thankfulness + appreciate that God is the beloved Jehovah, the Just One, who shall + have punished them with captivity among the nations, and then in + infinite Wisdom, Power and Love shall have gathered all of them, + living and dead, (a) back to their former homes in Palestine (b, c) + and in Christendom, and shall have left not one in captivity any + more.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">39:29. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Neither will I hide My face any more from + them: for I have poured out My Spirit upon the house of Israel, + saith the Lord God.</span></span>—God will not disfavor them any + more: for He will pour out upon them (a) Jews and (b, c) Christians + together, His Holy Spirit, the Comforter, to abide in them + forever.</p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Great truths are dearly bought. + The common truth,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Such as men give and take from + day to day,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Comes in the common walk of easy + life,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Blown by the careless wind + across our way.</span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Great truths are dearly won; not + found by chance,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Nor wafted on the breath of + summer dream;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">But grasped in the great + struggle of the soul,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Hard buffeting with adverse wind + and stream.</span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Not in the general clash of + human creeds,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Nor in the merchandise 'twixt + church and world,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Is truth's fair treasure found, + 'mongst tares and weeds;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Nor her fair banner in their + midst unfurled.</span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Truth springs like harvest from + the well-ploughed fields,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Rewarding patient toll, and + faith, and zeal.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">To those thus seeking her, she + ever yields</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 3.60em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Her richest treasures for their + lasting weal.</span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page569">[pg 569]</span><a name= + "Pg569" id="Pg569" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc137" id="toc137"></a> <a name="pdf138" id="pdf138"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Ezekiel 40-48—God's Temple And River + Of Truth</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">This vision of + the prophet Ezekiel depicts the established theocratic Kingdom of + God on earth, civil and religious, spiritual and earthly. While the + Temple is an architectural possibility, as shown in the + accompanying illustrations, (and may be erected at Jerusalem), it, + in its various parts, surroundings, rites and worshippers, is a + type and symbol of <span class="tei tei-q">“better things to + come,”</span> after the wars, revolutions and anarchy of the period + from 1914 to 1925 have passed.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Time</span></span> of the establishment of the Kingdom in power is + indicated as <span class="tei tei-q">“in the fourteenth year after + that the city (Christendom) was smitten”</span>—or thirteen years + after 1918, viz., in 1931.—Ezek. 40:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Place.</span></span>—The Temple was seen + in the <span class="tei tei-q">“land of Israel”</span>—in + Palestine. As a place types a condition, the land of Israel is + typical of the condition of the whole world of mankind; and the + city, at the south side of a very high mountain, is symbolic of the + established earthly phase (south) of the Divine Government + overshadowed by the autocratic (very high) spiritual phase of the + Kingdom (mountain).—Ezek. 40:2.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">By + Whom.</span></span>—The one who showed the Temple to the Church, + the Elijah class, was <span class="tei tei-q">“the man in + linen”</span>—Pastor Russell. The brass (copper) of vs. 3 + represents his justification. In his power (hand) were the Divine + standards of measurement—the reed (Word of God) and the + <span class="tei tei-q">“line of flax”</span> (linen, + righteousness). His standing was in the east gate of the + Sanctuary—in Christ (gate). With the Word he measured the Temple + (the Church, and the subsidiary classes) and with the standard of + perfect Divine righteousness (flax, linen) he measured the progress + of the life-giving River of Truth.—Ezek. 40:3; 43:6; 44:4; + 47:1-3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Purpose.</span></span>—The vision is + important. Those that have eyes to see and ears to hear, must set + their heart upon all that the Laodicean steward shows them, + <span class="tei tei-q">“for to the intent that I might show them + unto thee, art thou brought hither.”</span> (40:4.) The hearers are + to declare all that they see, to professing Christians (house of + Israel), that they may be ashamed of former beliefs and practices, + and in complete consecration seek to conform themselves to all the + Divine standards.—Ezek. 43:10-12; 44:4-6; 47:6.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page570">[pg 570]</span><a name="Pg570" id="Pg570" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Measures.</span></span>—The standards of the Kingdom will be the + fulness of the Word of God (the reed of 9 feet of six <span class= + "tei tei-q">“great cubits,”</span> each about 18 inches, or of a + 15-inch cubit and a handbreadth) (Ezek. 40:3, 5), and the standard + of Divine righteousness.—Ezek. 40:3, 47:3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">An + interchangeable decimal system of dry and liquid measures is given, + symbolic of just and righteous dealing. An ephah (dry measure) + equals a bath (liquid measure), and ten of either is a homer or + cor. The homer is about 75 gallons and the ephah and the bath, one + tenth of a homer, or 7-½ gallons each. (Ezek. 45:10-11).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The measures of + volume are to be used chiefly in connection with the sacrifices—so + many ephahs of wheat or baths of oil as a meat or drink offering + with a bullock, etc.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Symbolisms of + Numbers.</span></span>—Numbers are used as symbols of completeness + or perfection, or their opposite. The common conception of the + symbolisms of numbers is:</p> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">One—Unity, self-sufficiency.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Two—Duality, couples.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Three—That in itself complete, invisible, + infinite.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Four—That in which God reveals Himself + completely, as the four cherubim, the four-sided altar, and the + cubic shaped Most Holy.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Five—Used in connection with ten, completeness + in the stage, degree, or power attained or ordained; a symbol of + Divinity.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Six—Secular completeness, or completeness + according to man; imperfection; also full measure of the + Word.—Ezek. 40:5.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Seven—The sum of three and four; religious or + Divine completeness or perfection; the covenant number. The half + of seven (3-½), the broken number, appears in connection with + suffering.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Ten—The natural symbol of perfection, + completeness, complete development, a complete and perfect + whole.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Twelve—Three times four; the number of the + covenant people; completeness of organization; national + completeness.</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.90em"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">Multiples or powers of these numbers combine or + intensify their symbolism.</span></p> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img587.png"><img src="images/img587.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page572">[pg 572]</span><a name= + "Pg572" id="Pg572" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Symbolism of + Directions.</span></span>—The north points to spiritual things, the + south to earthly things, the east to Christ and His ransom + sacrifice. The right is the side of favor, the left of less favor, + or of disfavor. Higher elevations represent higher planes of being + or of power; lower planes the opposite.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img588.png"><img src="images/img588.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Figure 1. The Division Of The Land + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The Land and Its + Divisions.</span></span>—As places typify conditions, the land of + Canaan, of the children of Israel, types the whole world of + mankind. Its division among the twelve tribes, in equal parts + varying in nearness to the central sacred portion, suggests, among + restored humanity, twelve conditions or degrees of honor in the + Kingdom, each individual being accorded a place befitting his + loyalty and love during his trial or judgment period. The meaning + of the names of the tribes is suggestive, the names being in + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page573">[pg 573]</span><a name= + "Pg573" id="Pg573" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> order of nearness to + the central sacred portion. (See Figure 1.)—See Rev. 7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">To the north of + the sacred portion: Judah (praise, Gen. 49:8-12); Reuben (behold a + son, Gen. 49:3-4); Ephraim (doubly fruitful, Gen. 48:15-20); + Manasseh (causing forgetfulness, Gen. 48:15-20); Naphtali + (wrestling, Gen. 49:21); Asher (happy, Gen. 49:20); and at the + extreme north, Dan (judge, Gen. 49:16-18).—Ezek. 48:1-7.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">To the south of + the central sacred portion: Benjamin (son of the right hand, Gen. + 49:27); Simeon (hearing, Gen. 49:5-7); Issachar (bearing reward, + Gen. 49:14-15); Zebulun (dwelling, Gen. 49:13); and at the extreme + south, Gad (seer, lot, fortune, Gen. 49:19). (Ezek. 48:23-29.) The + name meanings and Jacob's prophetic blessings are significant of + Kingdom conditions.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Figure 1 shows + the division of Palestine into the strips assigned to the tribes + and the central sacred portion.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The Boundaries + of the Land</span></span> (Ezek. 47:13-21) are through places whose + name-meanings are suggestive of Kingdom conditions. On the north + side: Hethlon (stronghold), Hamath (defended, walled), Berotha + (food), Sibraim (double hill), Hazar-Hatticon (middle court), + Hauran (cave district), Hazar-enan (court of the fountains) and + Damascus (similitude of burning). On the east side: Gilead (strong, + rocky), Israel (ruling with God), and Jordan (descender). On the + south side: Tamar (palm), and Kadesh (holy). On the west: the Great + Sea (peoples and nations).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The land is to + be apportioned by lot, symbolizing that the station of Kingdom + honor of individuals in the Times of Restitution is not + predestinated but the result of the degree of effort and of + consecration. (Ezek. 45:1.) Whatever the honor attained, it cannot + be taken away. (Ezek. 46:18.) All are to have an equal chance. + (Ezek. 47:14.) Former pagan and heathen persons (strangers) are to + have the same chance as God's chosen people, the Jews, as though + born to the same honored favor.—Ezek. 47:22-23.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The Holy + Offering of Land.</span></span>—(Figure 2.) The people are not to + occupy all the land, but are to devote as a sacred offering, or + <span class="tei tei-q">“oblation,”</span> a central strip across + Palestine, 25,000 reeds or about 42.6 miles wide, to sacred and + governmental uses. Figure 2 shows the holy offering of land and its + divisions. The two ends of the strip will be for the Prince, typing + the condition of the Prince, or Ancient Worthy class. The + 25,000-reeds-square dimensions of the central section—as powers and + multiples of ten and five—combined with the full measure (reed) of + the Divine Word as applying to the classes therein represented, + suggest the exalted degree of perfection of these classes. The + conditions <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page574">[pg + 574]</span><a name="Pg574" id="Pg574" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + represented are: at the north (spiritual) the Divine nature of the + Little Flock (priests); in the middle, the intermediate, lower + spirit nature of the Great Company (Levites); at the south, of half + the width, of a lesser degree of honor (secular), the perfect human + nature of those engaged in the actual government of the world. As + in many other types the same antitypes are presented repeatedly in + their several phases.—Ezek. 45:1, 4, 7; 48:20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Land of the + Priests.</span></span>—The northern section, 10,000 reeds wide, of + the holy central square, typifies the condition of the Little + Flock, of the highest spirit nature, the Divine, (northernmost). + This is a <span class="tei tei-q">“most holy”</span> condition. + (Ezek. 48:9-12.) In it, as appertains to the inheritors of the + nature of God, will be the Sanctuary—the entire Temple and its + courts—typing the spiritual domain of the ruling Christ over all + the affairs of the coming Kingdom of Heaven on earth.—Ezek. 44:28; + 45:3-4; 48:8-12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img590.png"><img src="images/img590.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Figure 2. The Holy Offering Of Land + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Land of the + Levites.</span></span>—Inferior as to direction, toward the south + (toward earthly things), the spiritual condition (land) of the + Great Company (Levites) will be, as have been their religious + lives—trending from heavenly to earthly throughout the Gospel Age + of Divine opportunity. This will be their condition throughout + eternity, unchangeable, inalienable—but <span class= + "tei tei-q">“holy unto Jehovah.”</span> There will be among them + twenty grades of honor—<span class="tei tei-q">“twenty + chambers.”</span>—Ezek. 45:5; 48:13-14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Secular Land for + the City.</span></span>—At the extreme south (earthly) of the holy + square will be a 5,000-reed-wide section which will be <span class= + "tei tei-q">“secular for the city.”</span> This represents in + miniature the perfect human condition of the visible rulers (city) + of the earthly phase of the Kingdom and of all those <span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page575">[pg 575]</span><a name="Pg575" id="Pg575" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> under that Divine government—the whole + world of mankind (Israel). The city will be in the middle of this + section, a 4,500-reed square, which, with a border or suburb 250 + reeds wide all around, reaches across the secular land, symbolizing + the dominance of the coming world government over the human race. + (Ezek. 45:6, 7; 48:15-20, 35.) So extraordinary and + heart-satisfying will be the methods of and the blessings from the + Divine government (city) that it will appropriately be called + <span class="tei tei-q">“The Wonder of Jehovah.”</span>—E. + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">46</span></span>, 43.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Land for + Sanctuary.</span></span>—In the center of the priests' land will be + the land for the Sanctuary, an area 500 cubits, or 750 feet square, + surrounded by a 50-cubit, or 75-foot, border or <span class= + "tei tei-q">“suburb.”</span> In this square will be the walls, + courts and structures of the sanctuary. It will type again in + miniature, in detail, the conditions of all classes in the Kingdom + from the Christ (priests) down, as regards their religious + relationship to one another and to God.—Ezek. 45:2-3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Land for the + Prince.</span></span>—Both of the ends of the 25,000-reed-wide + offering of land, east and west of the central holy square, will be + given to <span class="tei tei-q">“the Prince,”</span> typing the + perfect human condition of the Ancient Worthies, or overcomers + before the Gospel Age, who shall be <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Princes in all the earth.”</span> As the Prince's land + will not be inalienable but may be given away by the Prince, so to + certain classes it will be given to share in the perfected + condition of the Ancient Worthies.—Ezek. 45:7-8; 46:16-18; + 48:21-22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Classes.</span></span>—In the Kingdom there will be several + distinct classes, according to opportunity and degree of + faithfulness in ages preceding establishment of the Kingdom.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The priests will + be the glorified Little Flock, faithful unto death, sons of God, + the Righteous One (Zadok, righteous), who during the Gospel Age + <span class="tei tei-q">“kept the charge of God's + Sanctuary,”</span> by faithfulness to the Word of God at any cost. + They will be <span class="tei tei-q">“of the Divine + nature.”</span>—Ezek. 40:44-46; 43:18-27; 44:15-31; 45:4; + 48:10-12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The antitypical + Levites (Great Company), will have spirit nature akin to the + angelic, because though during the Gospel Age they were also + begotten of the Spirit, sons of God (Zadok, righteous), they + <span class="tei tei-q">“went astray from God, after their + idols;”</span> they ministered unto the people before their idols + and caused the house of Israel (Christendom) to fall into iniquity. + They shall bear their iniquity.—Ezek. 44:10-14; 45:5; 48:13-14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The Ancient + Worthies (the Prince), who in the Jewish Age were faithful unto + death amid incredible trials of faith (Heb. 11), will during the + 1,000 years be of the perfect human nature, and will be on earth + the visible leaders <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page576">[pg + 576]</span><a name="Pg576" id="Pg576" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + and rulers of mankind.—Ezek. 44:1-3; 45:7-17, 21-25; 46:16-18; + 48:21-22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The servants of + the city will be of the perfect human nature, and engaged in the + multifarious duties of a world wide government. They will be taken + from amongst mankind. Some are spoken of as servants and some as + sons of the Ancient Worthies.—Ezek. 48:18-19; 46:16-18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The people of + the Kingdom will be first the resurrected Hebrews, making progress + during the 1,000 years toward human perfection, but who in previous + ages had not been consecrated to God and had been far astray from + Him. (Romans 1.)—Ezek. 43:7-9; 44:6-12, 15, 19, 23-30; 45:6-21; + 46:1-3, 9-10; 47:13-14; 48:11, 18-19, 23-29.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The <span class= + "tei tei-q">“strangers”</span> will be the resurrected billions of + humanity, not Jews, who gaining the heart circumcision of a + conscience cleansed by the blood of Jesus, shall be as though born + to the same conditions as the Hebrews. None of them shall have part + in the direct service of God.—Ezek. 44:9; 47:22-23; Zech. 14:20-21; + Numbers 31:47; Joel 3:17; Joshua 9:22-27; Rev. 21:27.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Sanctuary and + Outer Court.</span></span>—The Sanctuary will be the entire + enclosure devoted to the Divine service. According to Ezekiel 45:2 + the exterior wall is around a square of 500 cubits, and by 42:16-20 + it is 500 <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">reeds</span></span>, or 3,000 cubits square; + but the latter is translated <span class= + "tei tei-q">“cubits”</span> in the Septuagint, and the former + agrees minutely with the internal measurements. About the outer + court of 500 cubits square will be a border or suburb 50 cubits + wide to separate the Sanctuary from the surrounding land. (Ezek. + 42:20.) The outer court types the condition of the Ancient Worthies + and of the Hebrews and the world of mankind, the former of actually + perfect humanity, and the latter of a perfect heart condition and + striving toward human perfection. This court will be at an + elevation above the surrounding land and will be reached by seven + steps, symbolizing the human perfection, actual or heart, of those + that enter the court. It will be surrounded by a wall one reed high + and a reed thick. The wall types Christ in the Ancient Worthies, + who will constitute the embodiment of the Divinely appointed wall + of faith about the Sanctuary. The reed indicates the full measure + of the Divine Word as regards the human nature.—Ezek. 40:6, 17-19, + 22-23, 27, 34; 42:1, 7-9, 14-20; 43:1-5; 44:1-3, 19; 45:1-2; + 46:19-24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img593a.png"><img src="images/img593a.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Figure 3. The Sanctuary + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img593b.png"><img src="images/img593b.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Figure 4. The Temple + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img594b.png"><img src="images/img594b.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Figure 5. + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img594c.png"><img src="images/img594c.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Figure 6. One Of The Outer Court Gates + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em"></p> + + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/img594a.png"><img src="images/img594a.png" alt= + "Illustration" /></a> + + <div class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + Figure 7. Section Through Most Holy Across The Sanctuary + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Inner + Court.</span></span>—The inner court will be an enclosure toward + the rear or west of the outer court, 200 cubits wide by 300 deep. + It types the spirit-born condition of the Great Company (Levites), + and is at an elevation of eight steps, symbolizing by one step the + change to spirit nature <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page579">[pg + 579]</span><a name="Pg579" id="Pg579" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + and by seven steps the perfection of that nature—perfect, though + not the highest nature. Its wall represents Christ in the Great + Company, and the absence of dimensions for the wall represents that + <span class="tei tei-q">“it doth not yet appear”</span> what the + spirit nature is like. Both inner and outer courts will be adorned + with colonnades of pillars, probably along the inner border of the + pavements, typing those on each plane of being who shall be + <span class="tei tei-q">“pillars in the house of + Jehovah.”</span>—Ezekiel 40:27, 28, 34, 37, 39-47; 42:2-4; 43:4-5; + 44:17-18, 21, 25-27; 46:19-24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Temple.</span></span>—The Temple building (Figure 4) will be toward + the rear and reaching to within 50 cubits of the rear of the inner + court. It will be on a platform 60 cubits wide by 100 deep. This + types the condition of the Little Flock, born from the dead to the + nature of God. It will be elevated one reed above the inner court, + representing that the Divine nature is the full measure of the Word + of God above any other spirit nature, <span class="tei tei-q">“far + above angels, principalities and powers.”</span> Its infinite + height above other natures is indicated by the fact that the number + of steps up to it is not stated, for it is an immeasurable, + infinite elevation. (41:8-11.) The Temple will be entered by a + porch, and will contain <span class="tei tei-q">“the holy”</span> + twenty by forty cubits, and the <span class="tei tei-q">“Most + Holy”</span> or <span class="tei tei-q">“oracle”</span> twenty + cubits square, inside measurement. These rooms type the glorious + condition of the Christ, Head and Body, of the nature of God. That + the person being shown tills did not enter the Most Holy (Ez. 41:3, + 4) suggests that it is not given to know yet <span class= + "tei tei-q">“what we shall be,”</span> in that condition where + <span class="tei tei-q">“the glory of Jehovah filled the + house.”</span>—Ezek. 41:1-2, 43:5.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Pavements and + Open Ways.</span></span>—The outer and inner courts will not be + simple inclosures, as was the Tabernacle court, but each will + include a bordering space, or pavement, 50 cubits wide, occupied by + gates, buildings, and passage ways, typing conditions and + activities in the condition typed by the inclosure. That embraced + by the outer court will be the <span class="tei tei-q">“lower + pavement.”</span> (40:17-18.) This will contain the east, north and + south gates of the outer court, and four corner courts where the + Levites will bake and boil the sacrifices of the people. It will + also contain 30 chambers, typing that number of conditions or + activities among those resurrected and perfected or progressing + toward human perfection. Each of the four corner courts upon the + lower pavement will be 30 by 40 cubits in size and will be + surrounded by a row of structures under which will be the boiling + places for the preparation of their sacrifices to be eaten by the + people. (Ezek. 46:21-24.) At the center of the east, north and + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page580">[pg 580]</span><a name= + "Pg580" id="Pg580" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> south lower + pavements will be the outer gates, like covered corridors or + lobbies extending entirely across the 50-cubit pavement to the + outer court proper, as shown in Figure 3.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The + corresponding 50-cubit pavement of the inner court is not + definitely termed a pavement, but the name is inferred from the + designation <span class="tei tei-q">“lower pavement”</span> for the + outer court pavement. It will contain the inner court gate, and + buildings for certain activities of the priests and the Levites. + The inner court 50-cubit pavement leaves an inner space of 100 + cubits square—the inner court proper—facing the Temple and with the + brazen altar in the middle. This 100-cubit-wide area will extend + west about the Temple platform, surrounding it on the north, west + and south, with an open space 20 cubits wide, called <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the separate place.”</span> On the upper pavement, + flanking the Temple north and south, and of the same length—100 + cubits—as the Temple, will be two buildings on each side for the + priests, called the <span class="tei tei-q">“priests' + chambers.”</span> These buildings will be separated from each other + by a 10-cubit walk along the center line of the upper pavement. The + outer of each of the two pairs of <span class="tei tei-q">“priests' + chambers”</span> will be 50 cubits long, half the length of the + inner buildings. These are located on the upper pavement. At the + rear or west end of the upper pavement will be little square + courts, similar to the corner courts of the lower pavement, and + used by the priests for boiling and baking the sacrifices eaten by + the priests.—Ezek. 40:17-18; 41:10-15; 42:1-14; 45:2; 46:19-24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The lesser + elevation of the plane of these pavements, courts and ways, types + the lower plane of Spiritual being of the persons, and their + activities type things to be done on that plane.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Chambers and + Galleries for Priests.</span></span>—In the inner court near the + north gate will be a chamber (Fig 3, D) with a door looking toward + the south, and one near the east gate with its door looking toward + the north. These will be for the Priestly singers, the sweet + singers in Israel, the Little Flock, singing to God and to the + people concerning the Kingdom blessings. These immortal ones will + sing the praises of God for His goodness to those in the spirit + phase (north) of the Kingdom, and for the blessings flowing from + Christ's ransom altar (east gate) through restitution to those in + the earthly (south) phase of the Kingdom.—Ezek. 40:44-46.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">On the north and + on the south pavements of the inner court flanking the Temple will + be the two pairs of parallel priests' chambers (Figures 3 and 5), + in each pair the inner <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page581">[pg + 581]</span><a name="Pg581" id="Pg581" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + building 100 cubits long and the outer 50 cubits. They will be + three stories high, the top story narrower than the others and + leaving galleries facing each other across the 10-cubit way between + them, into which their doors will open one on each side of the way. + In these chambers, lighted by narrow windows the priests will lay + the most holy things, and eat the most holy things, including the + meat, sin and trespass offerings of prince and people in the + Millennial Age; humanity having been bought by Christ will make the + consecration of themselves and their all to Christ, Head and Body. + The Christ (priest) will accept their consecrations (lay them in + the priests' chambers) and appropriate them to themselves (eat the + offerings). In the sacred conditions represented by the priests' + chambers the priests will have their feasts of love, as they + rejoice over the consecrated efforts of earth's billions in their + progress toward human perfection, and thereafter. When the priests + come out to the outer court with the people they will change the + holy garments they wore in the priest's chambers and put on other + garments. The holy garments type the promises and Word of God as + concerns the Divine immortal nature, and the other garments will be + the Word and covenant of God as respects things concerning the + people and their restitution hopes and blessings.—Ezek. 42:1-14; + 44:19, 29-30; 46:19 20.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The Temple will + be built with double walls all around, except the porch in front + (Figures 3, 4 and 5). This will leave a space within the walls + termed the <span class="tei tei-q">“side chambers,”</span> in three + stories reached by winding stairs, and reaching up set quite to the + top of the Temple inner wall. Each story will be divided into 30 + rooms. The second story rooms will be wider than the first, and the + third story wider than the second. This will be accomplished by + making the thick walls thinner each story up. The floor beams will + rest, not in the walls, but on the recessions of thickness with + each story. No function is stated by Ezekiel, but the similar side + chambers in Solomon's Temple were utilized for keeping Temple + treasures and vessels. In antitype the Temple is the Church, the + Christ, Head and Body, and in the chambers of memory of the Divine + Christ will be stored up not only the character treasures of oil + and incense and of gold and silver and precious stones laid up in + Heaven during the Gospel Age, but also the like treasures offered + by mankind throughout the Millennial Age. Only the priests will + have access to these treasures and the Little Flock will forever + guard these most precious offerings. The three stories, each wider, + suggest the character treasures laid up by those on the three + planes, <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page582">[pg + 582]</span><a name="Pg582" id="Pg582" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + Human, Spirit, and Divine.—Ezek. 41:5-9; 1 Kings 6:5-10; 2 Chron. + 3:9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The Ezekiel + Temple represents God's finished work. The Holy does not type the + spirit-begotten condition, but rather the <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">memory of + it</span></em> as a Divinely accomplished work—for the experiences + of the spirit-begotten condition will never be lost. The Most Holy + types the accomplished Divine nature. No furniture appears in + either of these sacred chambers, except in the Holy, an altar of a + kind of wood not stated—an altar designated as <span class= + "tei tei-q">“This is the table that is before Jehovah.”</span> If + it is to be the same as is in Solomon's Temple it will be + cedar—type of immortality, the Divine nature. No mention is made of + offerings at this altar, for the time of the Christ's sacrifice + will be past. The interior of both chambers will be sheathed with + wood—presumably cedar, type of immortality—up to the narrow windows + at the top of the inner wall of the Temple. The interior + decorations of palm trees, alternating with two-faced cherubim, + with the faces of a lion and of a man, type that the purpose and + concern of God's glorious Temple will be the administration of the + affairs of perfect righteous men (palm trees) under the joint + auspices of Divine Justice and Love. If the two-leaved doors into + the Holy and the Most Holy are to be of the same wood as in + Solomon's Temple, they will be of olive, type of the peace of God + that passeth understanding for those privileged to enter through + the door of Christ.—Ezek. 41:13-25.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Back of, or west + of the rear of the Temple, and separated from it by the twenty + cubits of the separate place will be the western building, a + structure of inside dimensions 70 by 90 cubits and with walls 5 + cubits thick, making the outside dimensions 80 by 100, or including + the 20-cubit separate place, 100 cubits square, indicating the + Divine perfection of the class represented by it. This is not + connected in any way with the altar or the Holy or Most Holy, and + its use is not stated. It answers the description of such a class + of beings as the angels.—Ezek. 41:12-13.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Chambers for the + Levites.</span></span>—Certain chambers will be set apart for the + activities of the Levites. Near the outer door of the north gate of + the inner court (a work done by the spirit phase of the Kingdom) on + the upper pavement will be a chamber where the Levite will wash the + burnt offerings of the people. In the porch or lobby of the same + gate will be four tables of hewn stone, each 1-½ cubits square by a + cubit high, on which will be laid the instruments for slaying the + sacrifices, and whereon the sacrifices will be slain and their + flesh laid out. In the outer court outside the inner court gate and + beside the steps <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page583">[pg + 583]</span><a name="Pg583" id="Pg583" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + leading up to the gate, will be the four more tables for slaying + the sacrifices, two on each side of the steps. In antitype, the + offerers will make or renew the consecration of themselves, under + the various required conditions, and will be accepted by the Great + Company (Levites) who will act between the people and the Little + Flock (priests). The utter consecration of the persons, typed by + the death of the animals, will be supervised and directed by the + Great Company, and the offerers will endeavor to conform themselves + to the character pattern, suggested by the cut stone of the tables + and the resting of the flesh and the slaughter instruments upon the + tables. Those offering themselves in heartfelt consecration as an + expression of their thankfulness to God (burnt offering) will be + cleansed in character by the teachings of the Word of God (washed + with water) imparted by the Great Company (Levites).—Ezek. + 40:39-43.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Certain of their + offerings the people are to eat, figuring their assimilation in + their very beings of the consecrations made. This process will not + be without fiery trials, ameliorated by the Word of God (hot + water), chastenings at the hands of the Great Company + (Levites)—typed by the boiling of the sacrifices by the Levites + preparatory to their being eaten by the people. This activity of + the Great Company is typed in the boiling places at the courts in + the corners of the lower pavement.—Ezek. 46:21-24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Further + activities by the Levites of thirty kinds in behalf of or in + cooperation with the people, may be typed in the thirty chambers + along the lower pavement of the outer court.—Ezek. 40:17-18.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Gates, Doors, + Porches, etc.</span></span>—In the Tabernacle the gate, the door + and the veil, all facing the east, typed Christ and in a certain + sense those in Him. None might enter these holy entrances except + those having to do, as actual or probationary, participants in the + sin offering. So in the Ezekiel Temple, in connection with the east + gate of the outer and inner courts is pictured the entrance of + those in previous ages having to do with the fiery sufferings + connected with the sin offering—the Little Flock and the Ancient + Worthies. The Little Flock is depicted as the glory of God entering + by the east gate of the outer court and the east gate of the inner + court, and finally into the Temple (Ezek. 43:1-5), typing the + progress of the Christ Body through Christ Jesus, as the way (gate) + into imputed human perfection (outer court) through the + <span class="tei tei-q">“change”</span> to the Spirit plane (inner + court) and up to the immeasurable exaltation of the nature of God + (Temple). After the full entrance of the Body of Christ the outer + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page584">[pg 584]</span><a name= + "Pg584" id="Pg584" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> gate shall be shut, + and no one shall enter except the Ancient Worthies, who were + privileged to enter their honorable estate by the door of + self-sacrifice unto death. (Ezek. 44:1-3.) In the condition of + being in Christ, in the mind of Christ, the Ancient Worthies shall + <span class="tei tei-q">“sit”</span>, communing with Christ and + with God, assimilating the Word of God (eating), which shall + strengthen them for their stupendous task of the government and + regeneration of the whole world of mankind.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The eastern gate + of the inner court, the way to the Divine nature through sacrifice, + will be closed after the entrance of the glory of God, the Body of + Christ, in whom God dwells, and no one shall ever enter therein, as + pictured in the parable of the foolish virgins. (Z. '05-267; Ezek. + 46:1). In this gate, in Christ, at the very inner door of the gate, + having met all the conditions qualifying for entrance upon the + spirit nature, throughout the Millennium, God's seventh day (the + Sabbath), and the day of the New Covenant (new moon), the Ancient + Worthies will have their standing. There in intimate communion with + the glorified Christ they will make their thankful consecrations of + themselves and their vows fulfill (burnt and peace offerings), + having their standing in Him Whom they preceded in suffering, and + Whom they follow in time and place.—Ezek. 46:1-8, 12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Entrance at the + north or south gates of the inner or outer courts signifies, not + participation in, but benefit from the Sin Offering. The gate + looking toward the north (spirit phase) types the looking toward + the Divinely provided ransom. It will be where the people will + present their sacrifices, and figures their consecrations and their + acknowledgment of the altar, the blood of Jesus Christ. The gate + looking toward the south will look figuratively toward restitution. + Those entering it, too, will acknowledge the blood, for in entering + it they will face directly toward the altar. On the solemn feast + days, the people and the Prince entering the north gate must not go + out by the same gate, but by the south gate, and vice versa. This + types that every one entering the plane of actual or heart + perfection on the human plane must acknowledge that the restitution + (south) blessings were brought by the spiritually (north) provided + blood of the Redeemer.—Ezek. 40:20-31; 44:4-6; 46:9-10.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The typical + importance of the gates, doors and porches is emphasized in Ezekiel + 44:5 <span class="tei tei-q">“Mark well, and behold with thine eyes + (of understanding), and hear with thine ears (of spiritual + hearing), all that I shall say (write) unto thee concerning all the + ordinances of the house of Jehovah, and <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page585">[pg 585]</span><a name="Pg585" id="Pg585" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> the laws thereof, and mark well the entering + in of the house, with every going forth of the + Sanctuary.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The court gates + (Figure 6) will be hallways crossing the 50-cubit pavements. The + size will be 50 by 25 cubits. The outer court gate will be entered + from a flight of seven steps over the outer threshold through a + door. The narrow hallway will be flanked by six little chambers + projecting out one cubit into the hallway, three in a side, and + will end over an inner threshold in a porch or lobby, frequently + translated <span class="tei tei-q">“arch”</span>, from which an + inner door will open into the court. The inner court gate will be + of identical but reversed construction, the porch or lobby coming + first. The interior will be dimly lighted by narrow windows. The + walls along the hallway—the posts—will be adorned with palm trees, + reminders, antitypically, that the purpose of the entire sanctuary + is to promote the glory of God by the restoration of mankind to + perfection (palms). The six little chambers type six conditions to + be complied with by those actually or at heart on the perfect human + plane, the size of the chambers—one reed square—signifying that + each of these conditions embraces the full measure of the Word of + God (reed)—perfect requirement in that respect.—Ezek. 40:6-43; + 43:1-4; 44:1-5; 46:1-12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The porch of + each gate and of the Temple types Christ, as the + resurrection—<span class="tei tei-q">“I am the + resurrection.”</span> In the outer court gates the person entering + will pass the little chambers first and the porch afterward, typing + that during the Times of Restitution the world of mankind will meet + the conditions before being fully resurrected to perfection. In the + inner court gates the porch will come first, signifying that the + person is first raised to the spirit condition and then is + developed. In connection with the Temple porch there will be no + little chambers, typing that the Little Flock will have met all the + conditions before their exaltation.—Ezek. 40:8-9, 16, 20-22, 24-26, + 33-36, 39-43, 48-49; 41:23-26.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The entrance to + the Temple will be through a lofty porch, flanked by two great + pillars. These pillars will be suggestively named, as in Solomon's + Temple, the right one, Jachin (He shall establish) and the left + one, Boaz (In it is strength). In these inspiring reminders are + seen the mighty strength of The Christ, possessors of all power in + Heaven and in earth, with which God through them will establish His + Kingdom.—1 Kings 7:13-22.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The priests' + chambers on the upper pavement of the Inner court will be entered + by a separate gate and separate stairs from the outer court, + suggesting that the <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page586">[pg + 586]</span><a name="Pg586" id="Pg586" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + entree to the love feasts of the Little Flock will be exclusively + for them alone. (Ezek. 46:19). The gates of the city will be twelve + in number, three on a side, and each named for one of the twelve + tribes.—Ezek. 48:31-34.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Altars.</span></span>—As the entire Plan of salvation centers about + the ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ, so at the mathematical center + of the Ezekiel Temple will be the great brazen altar, with its + rites, and offerings, and the blood, typing the ransom and the + antitypical sin offering. It will be at the center of both the + outer court and of the inner court, and of the priests' land and of + the land divided among the tribes, typical of the world. The court + gates will all point toward it, and facing it will be the steps, + porch, and outer and inner doors of the Temple. The construction + and dimensions of the altar are given in Fig. 7. The brazen altar + will be 4x12x12 cubits; it will be reached by stairsteps from the + east, and will rest upon two borders or <span class= + "tei tei-q">“settles,”</span> respectively, 4x14x14 cubits and + 2x16x16 cubits, the lower of which will rest upon a bottom or + foundation 1x18x18 cubits. The Tabernacle altar was 3x5x5 cubits, + the dimensions suggesting incompleteness, as compared with the + numerical symbolism of the Ezekiel altar. This altar types the + completed work of the Sin Offering and will be seen to be of far + greater magnitude and importance than even the eye of faith can now + perceive while the suffering work is in process. Its elevation by + the bottom and two settles suggests the lofty exaltation of The + Christ who participated in the Sin Offering far above the + beneficiaries from the blood—the Great Company and the perfected + world of humanity. It will be approached by stairs to the height of + the base of the altar proper, typing that the evidence of the + sacrifices by the offerers will be carried into Heaven + itself.—Ezek. 40:44-47; 43:13-27; 45:18-20; 47:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The + Offerings.</span></span>—The various offerings typify the + following:</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">A burnt offering + will be a thankful prayer to God, acknowledging His mercy, wisdom + and love as manifested in the broken Body of the offerer's great + Ransomer.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">A peace offering + will be the fulfilment of a vow or a willing thank offering; the + offerer eating the sacrifice will be his appropriation to himself + of the consecration; with it he will eat certain things such as + unleavened cakes, oil and anointed wafers, signifying his faith in + Christ's character which he will copy.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">A trespass + offering signifies reconsecration in connection with restoration + for wrong, with recognition of the offerer's imperfection and the + value of the ransom.</p><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page587">[pg + 587]</span><a name="Pg587" id="Pg587" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">A meat offering + of fine flour, unleavened cakes, oil, etc., signifies the + consecration of the offerer's all, the sample burned on the altar + meaning the consecration's approval and acceptance by Jehovah.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The sin offering + will be an acknowledgment of past sins and of the application of + the merit of the Ransom, with repentance and reconsecration of the + offerer.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Defilement and + Cleansing.</span></span>—There will be defilement of individuals + and the past defilement of the whole world. The general defilements + involving all—referring in part to the typical location of the + palace of Solomon and the kings, close to the Temple—are + Christendom's defilement of God's holy name by their erroneous + teachings about Him and by the lives of those evil clergy and laity + who presumed to bear His name; their <span class= + "tei tei-q">“whoredoms,”</span> or unhallowed union of church and + state; their permitting of prominent persons—clergy and laity—who + were dead in trespasses and sins, to assume elevated places in the + worship of God; their conjoining the entrance into the Temple class + (a church) with entrance into places of influence; their + establishing the same wall of living members of the churches as the + wall of business and the state; their encouraging unconsecrated + persons, not spirit-begotten, to serve in the holy things in the + church as teachers and clergy; their breaking their covenant, made + solemnly with God in their consecrations; and their not keeping the + charge of the Divine Word of truth but hiring paid clergymen to + look after it for them. The great mass of the Spirit begotten + (Levites) had gone astray from God after their man-made idols of + earthly honor, power and wealth; and they had served the evil + tendencies of church members in their idol worship. Between the + people and the clergy every conceivable abomination in the sight of + God had been practiced, and will require cleansing and a wholesome + memory of it, to safeguard against future outbreaks and to manifest + continual appreciation of the holiness of any service of God.—Ezek. + 43:7-9; 44:6-14.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Times for + Offerings.</span></span>—The times of certain offerings, as on the + sabbaths and new moons, type that the Jews and the world might not + effectively consecrate themselves until the Millennial Age—God's + seventh Day and the time of the New Covenant. (Ezek. 44:24; 45:17.) + The sacrifices by the prince for all the people on the first month, + first day, type the universal consecrations during the first + 1,000-year Day of blessing for mankind, when all consciences will + be cleansed by the application of Christ's merit. Those on the + Seventh day type the same consecration during the Millennium + regarded as God's great seventh Sabbatical <span class="tei tei-pb" + id="page588">[pg 588]</span><a name="Pg588" id="Pg588" class= + "tei tei-anchor"></a> thousand year Day, when sinners and the + simple minded will be cleansed from sin and set right. (Ezek. + 45:20.) On the fourteenth day the celebration of the passover + memorial, and the seven-day feast thereafter, picture the memorial + of the Lamb of God and the feast of thankfulness and consecration + for the fulness of the New Covenant forever (Ezek. 45:21-24); that + on the fifteenth of the seventh month, and for seven days, type the + application of Christ's merit through the Sin Offering and the + thankfulness and consecration of the people in the Spirit, + eternally thereafter. (Ezek. 45:25.) The sacrifices and worship of + prince and people at the east gate, on the sabbaths and the new + moons, figure the consecrations and reconsecrations of Ancient + Worthies and people throughout the 1,000-year Day of + Restitution.—Ezek. 46:1-11.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">At any time the + Ancient Worthies representing the people also may, of their own + free will express their thankfulness and celebrate the fulfilment + of their consecration vows, signifying this as their continuing + state of mind. (Ezek. 46:12). The daily burnt and meat offering for + the nation, morning and evening, signify the continued thankful + consecrating of all classes on all planes of being in memory of and + through, <span class="tei tei-q">“the Lamb of God which taketh away + the sin of the world.”</span> (Ezek. 46:13-15). Throughout the + Millennial Age this Little Flock will necessarily be in contact + with defiling and death-dealing error in some, with whom they are + intimately connected, in process of restoration to human + perfection; by the close of the great seventh Day, before the + eighth Day the application of the merit of the Sin Offering will + have cleansed or destroyed, all such cases and The Christ will no + more have to be in touch with such defilements. (Ezek. 44:25-27). + Offerings to cleanse the altar with blood type the memory that the + altar class—The Christ, Head and Body—were cleansed by the blood, + and that all offerings are sanctified by the blood. (Ezek. + 43:18-27). Salt cast upon the offerings types the preserving power + of the Word.—Ezek. 43:23-44.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Throughout the + Millennium the world of mankind are to regard the perfect human + condition toward which they are progressing, as their inalienable + possession, <span class="tei tei-q">“bought by the blood.”</span> + No ruler, or other power, is to interfere with this right, nor + teach them otherwise. (Ezek. 46:13; 48:29.) The Hebrews, the + original beneficiaries, are to welcome the rest of mankind and + treat them as of their own number.—Ezek. 47:22-23.</p><span class= + "tei tei-pb" id="page589">[pg 589]</span><a name="Pg589" id="Pg589" + class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">They are to + submit loyally to the rulership of The Christ, Head and body, and + to that of the Divinely appointed earthly phase of government. + (Ezek. 44:24; 45:6.) They are to receive the instructions of the + Christ.—Ezek. 44:23.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Through the + Ancient Worthies, the rulers of the earthly phase, the people are + at heart to consecrate their all, typed by offerings of tenths or + multiple thereof. (Ezek. 45:13-25.) To The Christ they are to + consecrate their hearts' best endeavors, their firstfruits, and + everything which they dedicate by vow or consecration. (Ezek. + 44:29-30.) The Great Company they are to love, and to them they + must be loyal.—Deut. 14:27-29.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The people must + be thoroughly cleansed in conscience. (Ezek. 44:9). They are to put + away all their former defilements and abominations and are to + worship and serve God throughout the Times of Restitution and + thereafter, observing that holy period as a solemn feast to the + Lord. (Ezek. 43:6-7; 46:1-3, 9-10; 45:17.) They are to consecrate + themselves daily, with thankfulness, with repentance and + restitution for sin, and with vows fulfilled.—Ezek. 44:29-30; 45:1, + 13-25; 46:19-24; Zech. 14:20-21.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Duties of + Prince.</span></span>—The duties of the ruling Ancient Worthies + will be: to remove violence and exploitation, execute judgment and + justice and take away all former exactions imposed upon the people. + (Ezek. 45:8-9). They are to see that the commercial intercourse of + the people is on a just and equal basis for all. (Ezek. 45:10-12). + They will receive taxes or offerings from the people, with special + attention to the spiritual offerings symbolized by the things + offered. (Ezek. 45:13-16). The land they are to keep holy, as they + will their own condition of favored perfection, symbolized by the + land. (Ezek. 48:21-22). Certain ones for special merit—such as any + during the Gospel Age who lived up to their consecrations as mere + believers, not being taught the things of the Spirit, and as those + through devoted loyalty making special progress during the + Millennium—they may cause to have the same honored position as + themselves, which will be permanent if the recipients manifest the + spirit of sonship, but lasting only to the close of the 1,000 years + to those failing to show this spirit. (Ezek. 46:16-17). They will + be privileged, as favored participants in the application of the + Sin Offering merit, to go in and out of the outer court east + gate—as in the place of Christ—and there to feed upon the meat in + due season from Christ's bounty. (Ezek. 44:1-3). In all holy things + they are to be the leaders of the people. (Ezek. 46:9-10). They + are, during the entire Millennial Age—God's sabbath—to make + offerings (Ezek. <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page590">[pg + 590]</span><a name="Pg590" id="Pg590" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + 45:17-25) of thankfulness, praise and recognition of the ransom, + directly through the Christ with whom they shall be in intimate + relations.—Ezek. 46:1-12.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Duties and + Privileges of Levites.</span></span>—On account of Gospel Age + disloyalty the Great Company, while enjoying the Spirit nature + (Numb. 18:23-24), will occupy an inferior place as servants—not + priests—in the service of God. (Ezek. 44:10-14). Their lower nature + on the spirit plane will be inalienable and unchangeable. (Ezek. + 48:13-14). Rather than serve in the Temple at all, they are to + render service at the various gates, for whatever functions are + typed at or by the gates. (Ezek. 44:11). Rather than do the direct + service of Jehovah, they will continue as in the Gospel Age when + they courted and served the desires and lusts of the people—to + serve directly and perpetually the people rather than the direct + interests of their God. (Ezek. 44:11-12). They shall not come near + to God nor approach to an appreciation of the things of the Divine + nature, but they shall do whatever menial services there may be + given them by the Little Flock to do. (Ezek. 44:13-14.) It will be + their part to receive and make effective the consecrations of the + people, to cleanse them with the water of the Word, and to + administer the stripes and chastening, many or few, tempered by the + water of the Word, whereby the people may thoroughly assimilate + (eat) the significance of their consecrations. They may possibly + restore the literal sacrifices of animals as object lessons (Z. + '05-269).—Ezek. 40:35-43; 46:21-24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Duties and + Privileges of the Priests.</span></span>—The Little Flock, the + Church, will enjoy the nature of God, who Himself, in His nature, + will be their inheritance and possession. (Ezek. 44:27-28, Numbers + 18:20.) They will serve the Divine purposes in direct and intimate + contact with their Father, Jehovah, and will continue to keep the + charge of God's holy doctrines and truths, as they faithfully kept + it during the Gospel Age. (Ezek. 40:46; 44:15-16; 45:4; 48:10-12.) + They will continue having charge of God's house, His Church, His + people. (40:44-45; 44:8.) They will be in various grades of honor + (houses), as <span class="tei tei-q">“star differeth from star in + glory.”</span> (Ezek. 45:4.) They alone will have the privilege of + entering the Divine Temple, or Christ class. (Ezek. 44:15-16.) They + will forever regard their blessed condition most holy, most + consecrated to Jehovah. (Ezek. 48:12.) They will keep the law of + Divine Love in all its manifestations and judge the people + according to that exalted standard (Ezek. 44:24, Deut. 17:8-13); + teach all mankind to know the pattern of true godliness in all its + particulars and to discern between holy and secular, good + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page591">[pg 591]</span><a name= + "Pg591" id="Pg591" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> and evil (Ezek. + 43:10-12; 44:23); sanctify and bless humanity according to the + Oath-bound Abrahamic Covenant on terms of willing obedience. (Ezek. + 44:19, 30; 46:19-20.) These priests will make union with and make + fruitful the various covenants and promises (wives) by God, + avoiding those not Divinely approved. (Ezek. 44:22; Lev. 21:7, + 13-14.) They will receive tithes of the Levites. (Numbers + 18:25-32.) All dedicated things will belong to them—that is, all + covenants, vows and consecration of the people will be made to the + Christ. (Ezek. 44:29-30; Josh. 6:19; Lev. 27:20-34; Numbers + 18:8-20.) Theirs will be the charge of the altar—of applying the + merit of Christ to the people (Ezek. 40:44-46), and they alone + shall make the offering to God, declare the Divine forgiveness and + approval of the people and of their consecrations.—Ezek. 43:18-27; + 44:15-16, 25-27; 45:18-25; 46:1-7, 11-24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">The Life-Giving + River.</span></span>—The benefits of Divine Love flowing to save + and bless all the willing and obedient of mankind are pictured in + the Life-Giving River. From underneath the threshold, the place of + rulership, the Throne of The Christ (Rev. 22:1), the water of the + Word of Divine Love flows forth. Under the favor of the Church + (right of Temple) the truth about the loving mercy through the + blood of Jesus Christ (altar) is for the restitution of all in the + earthly (south) phase of the Kingdom. (D. 650, 655; Z. '05-269; Z. + '99-196; Ezek. 47:1.) Through Christ, the Gate, with all His loving + favor (right) it flows toward the Sun-rise. (Ezek. 47:2.) The same + one—Pastor Russell—who measured the race for the mark of the prize, + with the line of Divine Righteousness (love, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“the fulfilling of the law”</span>), measured also the + requirements for character attainment of the Millennial Age. One + who will have that degree of love, which is duty love to God and + man, even though reaching the utmost fulness of the measure of + Divine Justice (1,000 cubits), will be as it were, only up to the + ankles in the stream. He who attains the fulness of the Divine + standard as to love for God, for His glorious character, will be in + the stream to his knees. He who shall reach the fulness of love for + the <span class="tei tei-q">“least”</span> brethren of that Age + will be up to the loins; but he who so acquires the spirit of + Divine Love, as to love all, including his enemies, will have + reached the utmost fulness of love. (Ezek. 47:2-5.) Any that + appreciate this, see the full purpose of Divine Love. It is + important—<span class="tei tei-q">“Son of man, hast thou seen + this?”</span> (Ezek. 47:6.) This is the love that will insure the + healing of the sin-sick, anarchistic world lying in a deadness like + the Dead Sea. (A. 318, D. 653, Z. '99-196, Ezek. 47:7-8.) Whoever + becomes immersed in <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page592">[pg + 592]</span><a name="Pg592" id="Pg592" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + the fulness of Divine Love shall thereby gain life; and for + everyone everywhere, to whom the water comes, there shall be life. + (E. <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">357</span></span>, 335; C. 214; Ezek. 47:9.) + In connection with the gospel of the fulness of Divine Love there + shall be a multitude of fishers of men to spread the net of the + gospel of glad tidings of great joy for exceeding many. (C. 215, + Ezek. 47:10.) But the people who are hopelessly polluted with + worldliness (miry places) and those impregnated beyond saving with + miasmas of iniquity (marshes) shall not be healed even when + <span class="tei tei-q">“brought to an accurate knowledge of the + truth.”</span> (Ezek. 47:11.) And the stream of the truth of Divine + Love shall cause many righteous ones to come up (Dan. 12:3) whose + loving teachings shall never be forgotten nor its character + fruitage ever pass away; for they shall bring forth continued + fruitage, because of the Divine Truth of perfect love coming to + them out of Zion, the glorified Church. And the character fruitage + shall forever be for spiritual food (John 4:34) and the teachings + (leaves) for the healing of all the willing and obedient of the + sin-sick world of mankind.—Z. '05-269; Matt. 10:8; Mal. 4:2; Ezek. + 47:12.</p> + + <div class="tei tei-tb"> + <hr style="width: 50%" /> + </div> + + <div class="block tei tei-quote" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.80em; margin-left: 3.60em; margin-top: 1.80em; margin-right: 3.60em"> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">“</span><span style="font-size: 90%">Come + all ye saints to Pisgah's mountain,</span></span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Come view our Home beyond the + tide:</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Millennial Canaan is before + us,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Soon we'll sing on the other + side.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">O there see the 'white Throne of + glory,'</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And crowns which the saints then + shall gain;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And all who shall love Christ's + appearing,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Shall be blessed by His glorious + reign.</span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Thence springs of life will e'er + be flowing,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Robing the earth in living + green.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Visions of beauty rise before + us</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">When the King and the saints + shall reign.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Soon our conflicts and toils + will be ended;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">We'll be tried and tempted no + more,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And mankind of all Ages and + nations</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Shall be blessed in that + triumphant hour.</span> + </div> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 0.90em; margin-top: 0.90em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Faith now beholds salvation's + River,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Gliding from underneath the + Throne,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Bearing its life to + whomsoever</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Will return to his Father's + Home.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">They will walk 'mid the trees by + the rivers,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">With the friends they have loved + by their side;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">They will sing the glad songs of + salvation.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">And be ready to follow their + Guide.</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">O! the prospect! it is so + transporting,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">Reapers, hasten the gath'ring, + we pray;</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">We rejoice in the glory that's + promised,</span> + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style= + "text-align: left; margin-left: 1.80em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 90%">And the dawn of Millennial + Day.</span><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page593">[pg 593]</span><a name= + "Pg593" id="Pg593" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 5.00em; margin-top: 5.00em"> + <a name="toc139" id="toc139"></a> <a name="pdf140" id="pdf140"></a> + + <h1 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 3.46em; margin-top: 3.46em"> + <span style="font-size: 173%">Advertisements</span></h1> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc141" id="toc141"></a> <a name="pdf142" id="pdf142"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 144%">“</span><span style="font-size: 144%">Go Ye Also + Into The Vineyard</span><span style= + "font-size: 144%">”</span></span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">He that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth + fruit.</span></span>”</span> <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">John 4:36.</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">All interested + in the subjects of this volume, and who consider its presentations + to be <span class="tei tei-q">“meat in due season,”</span> will + feel more or less constrained to become servants of the truth, and + to bear the <span class="tei tei-q">“things new and old”</span> to + yet others of the <span class="tei tei-q">“Household of + Faith.”</span> Your measure of zeal for such service will of course + measure your activities in its service, and determine how much of + time, influence, means, etc., you will devote to its spread. We are + glad to cooperate with all, that those who love much may do much, + and that those who love some may do something, in the name of the + great Shepherd and in the interest of His sheep.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">To this end we + wish you to know that special provision has been made whereby you + may be a co-laborer in this work, regardless of whether you have + financial means to invest or not. We have quite a variety of + excellent tracts, which we supply free and in large quantities for + judicious circulation. We also publish twice a month a 16 page + journal, The Watch Tower, and desire that our list should bear your + name, if you are interested. If interested in this volume you will + undoubtedly be interested in the journal, which treats similar + themes, and we are prepared to supply you with it upon your own + terms—you may have it on credit if it is not convenient to pay for + it in advance, and if never able to pay for it we will, upon + application, cancel the indebtedness. If you have no prospect of + being able to pay for it you will be welcome to it free as one of + the <span class="tei tei-q">“Lord's poor,”</span> on application, + and upon renewal of the same yearly. If you can afford to pay, the + price is $1 (4s.) a year.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">We have various + helps for Bible study, which we supply to all who are on our Watch + Tower list at extremely low prices—these include various + translations of the Bible, Concordances, etc., and especially the + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">Scripture + Studies</span></span>—<span class="tei tei-q">“<span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-variant: small-caps">The Bible + Keys.</span></span>”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Colporteuring + And Loaning The <span class="tei tei-q">“Studies.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Some have + numbers of friends to whom they take pleasure in supplying the + Studies <span class="tei tei-foreign"><span style= + "font-style: italic">gratis</span></span>; others keep a quantity + at hand which they constantly loan out amongst their friends, after + the manner of a circulating library; and still others enter the + Colporteur work, as being one of the most favorable opportunities + to them for serving the truth to others, traveling from town to + town introducing the <span class="tei tei-q">“Bible Keys,”</span> + soliciting orders and delivering the books. Our Society does all in + its power to facilitate these various methods of circulating the + truth, encouraging each to serve the cause to the extent of his + zeal and ability, according to his own preference; assisting in the + matter very materially by supplying the books at remarkably low + prices. See page 2 of <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">The Watch Tower</span></span> for + wholesale rates to subscribers, and if the Colporteur work appeals + to you, write for <span class="tei tei-q">“Hints to + Colporteurs.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">We shall be glad + to hear from you, and to coöperate with you, and we assure you that + you will find a blessing in every sacrifice you may make on behalf + of the truth. Very truly, Your fellow-servants,</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Watch Tower + Bible and Tract Society,</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Brooklyn, N. Y., + U. S. A.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"> + Branches:—London, W.; Elberfeld, Melbourne, Copenhagen, Orebro, + Christiana, Geneva, Yokohama.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page594">[pg 594]</span><a name= + "Pg594" id="Pg594" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc143" id="toc143"></a> <a name="pdf144" id="pdf144"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-size: 144%">“</span><span style="font-size: 144%">Both the + Houses of Israel</span><span style= + "font-size: 144%">”</span></span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Correspondencies + Of The Mosaic And Christian Dispensations.</p> + + <table summary="This is a table" cellspacing="0" class= + "tei tei-table" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"> + <colgroup span="2"></colgroup> + + <tbody> + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Israel After the Flesh</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Israel After the Spirit</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">A House of Servants. 1 Cor. 10:18; + Rom. 9:7, 8; 4:16; Heb. 3:5.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">A House of Sons. Gal. 4:5, 6, 7, 30, + 31; 6:15, 16; John 1:12; Rom. 8:15.</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Founded in Jacob's Twelve Sons. 1 + Kings 18:31.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Founded in Jesus' Twelve Apostles. + Rev. 21:14.</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">A Kingdom and Priesthood, A Holy + Nation. Exod. 19:6.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">A Royal Priesthood, A Holy Nation. 1 + Pet. 2:5, 9.</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Aaron, Fleshly High-Priest. Heb. + 9:7.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Jesus, The Spiritual High-Priest. + Heb. 9:11.</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Circumcision of the Flesh. Rom. + 2:28, 29.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Circumcision of the Heart. Rom. + 2:28, 29.</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Law of Sin and Death. Rom. 8:2.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Law of the Spirit of Life in Christ + Jesus. Rom 8:2.</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Earthly Promises. Gen. 13:14-17; + Acts 7:2-5.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell"><span class="tei tei-q">“Better + Promises”</span>. Heb. 9:23; 11:40.</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">In Captivity To Literal Babylon. 2 + Chron. 36:20.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">In Captivity To Mystic Babylon. Rev. + 17:5; 18:4.</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Length of Favor 1845 Years, From + Jacob's Death to Israel's Rejection and the Beginning of + Spiritual Israel, A. D. 33.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Length of Favor 1845 Years, From + Jesus' Death to the Beginning of Christ's Reign and the + Rejection of Babylon, A. D. 1878.</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">The Nominal System Cast Off, A. D. + 33. Matt. 23:38.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">The Nominal System Spewed Out, A. D. + 1878. Rev. 3:16.</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">40 Years in Falling, to A. D. + 73.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">40 Years in Falling, to A. D. + 1918.</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">The end of the age. A harvest of 40 + years. Luke 10:9, 16.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">The end of the age. A harvest of 40 + years, Matt. 13:24-30, 36-43.</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-row"> + <td class="tei tei-cell">Our Lord's Presence and the + Sacrificial Character of His Death, the Stumbling-Stone.</td> + + <td class="tei tei-cell">Our Lord's Presence and the + Sacrificial Character of His Death, the Stumbling-Stone.</td> + </tr> + </tbody> + </table> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page595">[pg 595]</span><a name= + "Pg595" id="Pg595" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc145" id="toc145"></a> <a name="pdf146" id="pdf146"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">The Watch Tower And Herald Of + Christ's Presence</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">This journal, + founded by the author of Scripture Studies, should regularly visit + all who have the slightest interest in the topics discussed in this + and the other volumes of the <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Scripture Studies</span></span> series. It is + issued twice a month, 16 pages, at one dollar (4s.) a year in + advance.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">That <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style="font-style: italic">none</span></em> of + the interested may be without it, the arrangement is that those who + need may have it on credit on application, while those too poor to + pay may receive it regularly <em class="tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">free</span></em> by stating the facts and + making request each December. All new tracts are sent to + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-variant: small-caps">The + Watch Tower</span></span> list which it is desired shall represent + all interested in Present Truth, the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Harvest”</span> message.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Watch Tower + Bible and Tract Society,</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-variant: small-caps">Brooklyn, N. + Y., U. S. A.</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"> + Branches:—London, W.; Elberfeld, Melbourne, Copenhagen, Orebro, + Christiana, Geneva, Yokohama.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">This Society + never solicits donations, but it uses voluntary contributions as + wisely and economically as possible in the propagation of Christian + knowledge along the lines presented in <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span>. It yearly circulates tons of tracts and + papers free, through the mails and through voluntary agents.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">It justifies + that portion of its name which relates to the Bible—(not by + publishing Bibles, nor by circulating them gratuitously, but)—by + supplying Bibles and Bible-study helps at wholesale prices; and + often below the usual wholesale rates. We mention a few of these on + succeeding pages, of course ranking <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span> as the most important helps or <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Bible Keys,”</span> and <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-variant: small-caps">The Watch + Tower</span></span>, semi-monthly, their efficient supplement.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Readers who + desire to coöperate in the circulation of <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">Scripture + Studies</span></span> will be supplied at cost prices, and can have + tracts ad libitum. Write us respecting this!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The Bible + Students Monthly</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Treating Live + Topics, Supplied Free.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Samples will be + sent free to anyone requesting them: and quantities for free + circulation will be supplied free to all subscribers to + <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style="font-variant: small-caps">The + Watch Tower</span></span>, they being considered working members of + the Society, whether they specially contribute to its funds or not. + Send for free samples.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page596">[pg 596]</span><a name= + "Pg596" id="Pg596" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc147" id="toc147"></a> <a name="pdf148" id="pdf148"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">What Say The Scriptures About + Hell?</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">An Examination + Of Every Text Of Scripture In Which The Word <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Hell”</span> Is Found</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">A Correct + understanding of the subject of this booklet is almost a necessity + to Christian steadfastness. For centuries it has been the teaching + of <span class="tei tei-q">“orthodoxy,”</span> of all shades, that + God, before creating man, had created a great abyss of fire and + terrors, capable of containing all the billions of the human family + which He purposed to bring into being; that this abyss He had named + <span class="tei tei-q">“hell;”</span> and that all of the promises + and threatenings of the Bible were designed to deter as many as + possible (a <span class="tei tei-q">“little flock”</span>) from + such wrongdoing as would make this awful place their perpetual + home.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">While glad to + see superstitions fall, and truer ideas of the great, and wise, and + just, and loving Creator prevail, we are alarmed to notice that the + tendency with all who abandon this long revered doctrine is toward + doubt, scepticism, infidelity. Why should this be the case, when + the mind is merely being delivered from an error?—do you ask? + Because Christian people have so long been taught that the + foundation for this awful blasphemy against God's character and + government is deeplaid and firmly fixed in the Word of God—the + Bible—and consequently, to whatever degree their belief in + <span class="tei tei-q">“hell”</span> is shaken, to that extent + their faith in the Bible, as the revelation of the true God, is + shaken also;—so that those who have dropped their belief in a + <span class="tei tei-q">“hell,”</span> of some kind of endless + torment, are often open infidels, and scoffers at God's Word.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Guided by the + Lord's providence to a realization that the Bible has been + slandered, as well as its Divine Author, and that, rightly + understood, it teaches nothing on this subject derogatory to God's + character nor to an intelligent reason, we have attempted in this + booklet to lay bare the Scripture teaching on this subject that + thereby faith in God and His Word may be reëstablished, on a + better, a reasonable foundation. Indeed, it is our opinion that + whoever shall hereby find that his false view rested upon human + misconceptions and misinterpretations will, at the same time, learn + to trust hereafter less to his own and other men's imaginings, and, + by faith, to grasp more firmly the Word of God, which is able to + make wise unto salvation; and on this mission, under God's + providence, it is sent forth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Price 10 Cents + (5d.) Per Copy.—88 Pages.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Special + wholesale rates to colporteurs and those who desire to aid in + circulating these booklets widely.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Address</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Watch Tower + Bible and Tract Society</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-variant: small-caps">Brooklyn, N. + Y., U. S. A.</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"> + Branches:—London, W.; Elberfeld, Melbourne, Copenhagen, Orebro, + Christiana, Geneva, Yokohama.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page597">[pg 597]</span><a name= + "Pg597" id="Pg597" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc149" id="toc149"></a> <a name="pdf150" id="pdf150"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">What Say The Scriptures About + Spiritism?</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Proofs That It + Is Demonism.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Also</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Spirits In Prison”</span> And Why Are They + There!</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The necessity + for this little brochure lies in the fact that Spiritism is showing + an increased activity of late, and meeting with considerable + success in entrapping Christians who are feeling dissatisfied with + their present attainments and craving spiritual food and better + foundation for faith.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The aim is to + show the unscripturalness of Spiritism, and to point those who + hunger and thirst for truth in the direction of God's Word—the + counsel of the Most High. <span class="tei tei-q">“Thou shalt guide + me with Thy counsel, and afterward receive me to + glory.”</span>—Psa. 73:24.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">119 pages; in + paper covers, 10 cents (5d.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Address</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Watch Tower + Bible and Tract Society,</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Brooklyn, N. Y., + U. S. A.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"> + Branches:—London, W.; Elberfeld, Melbourne, Copenhagen, Orebro, + Christiana, Geneva, Yokohama.</p> + </div><span class="tei tei-pb" id="page598">[pg 598]</span><a name= + "Pg598" id="Pg598" class="tei tei-anchor"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <a name="toc151" id="toc151"></a> <a name="pdf152" id="pdf152"></a> + + <h2 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 2.88em; margin-top: 2.88em"> + <span style="font-size: 144%">Miscellaneous + Advertisements</span></h2> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Old MS. + Translations, Concordances, Etc. Recommended as Aids to Bible + Study</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The Emphatic + Diaglott</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">This Greek New + Testament, with interlinear word-for-word rendering, and a free + reading emphasized translation alongside, is based upon the famous + Vatican MS. No. 1209. With each copy sold, we give one year's + subscription to <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">The Watch Tower</span></span>—if a New + subscription. If you already take <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-variant: small-caps">The Watch + Tower</span></span>, your purchase of the <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">Diaglott</span></span> entitles you to + send <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">The Tower</span></span> to a friend who + may want it, but this New Subscription must accompany the order, as + we cannot apply subscriptions on back orders.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Leather bound, + divinity circuit, gilt edges, good Bible paper. Price $3.25 (or + $2.50 without <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-family: sans-serif">Watch Tower</span></span>).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Young's + Analytical Concordance</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">In English, + Hebrew and Greek, by Prof. Young (Presbyterian.) 1240 pages, cloth + binding, price, $6.00 postpaid. As we are not permitted to reduce + the publisher's price, we will, however, send <span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">Free</span></span> with each order any + two volumes of Studies In the Scriptures.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Smith's Bible + Dictionary</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Interesting and + valuable, 1020 pp. Cloth, $1.30 postpaid.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Berean Bible + Helps (<span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">Bound Separate</span></span>)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">These are the + same as in the latest <span class="tei tei-q">“I. B. S. A.”</span> + Bibles described on another page. Full leather, divinity circuit, + $1.15 postpaid. Karatol, red edges, 60c. postpaid. Also carried in + German (leather and cloth), prices same as English.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">International + Bible Students Association</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Brooklyn, N. + Y.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">I. B. S. A. + Berean Bibles</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">These are Common + Version Bibles but their distinguishing feature consists of</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Over 500 Pages + Of Special Berean Helps</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">in Four Sections + as follows:</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Part I. Bible + Teachers' Manual</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Biblical + Comments from Genesis to Revelation explaining the text and + referring to the <span class="tei tei-hi"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">STUDIES IN THE SCRIPTURES</span></span> + and other publications where the subject is more fully treated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Part II. + Instructors' Guide Texts</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Texts relating + to various important subjects topically arranged for ready + reference.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Part III. Berean + Topical Index</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">An alphabetical + arrangement of over 800 subjects of peculiar interest, with + reference to page where treated in our publications.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-family: sans-serif">Part IV. + Spurious Passages Noted</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">A full list of + spurious passages not found in the oldest Greek MSS.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">In Addition To + The Above</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">the Bagster + Concordance, Maps and Students Helps are incorporated in Nos. 1919, + 1939 and 1959.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Descriptions and + Prices</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">No, 1918. Size + 4-1/4 x 6-1/4 India Paper, Minion type, French Seal, divinity + circuit, red under gold edges, Berean Helps, colored maps, marginal + reference. $2.00 postpaid.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">No. 1919. Same + as No. 1918, with Bagster Concordance, Maps, etc., added. $2.25 + postpaid.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">No. 1928. Same + as No. 1918, except bound in Genuine Morocco, leather-lined. $2.85 + postpaid.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Ionic Type, + Self-Pronouncing.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">No. 1939. Size + 5-1/2 x 7-1/2 India Paper, Ionic type, French Seal, divinity + circuit, red under gold edges, Berean Helps, also Bagster + Concordance, Maps, etc. Marginal reference. $3.60 postpaid.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">No. 1959. Same + as No. 1939, except bound in genuine Morocco, calf-lined. $3.95 + postpaid.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Patent Index, + 25c Extra; Registry 10c.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Publishers lists + of other Bibles sent on request.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">International + Bible Students Assn., Brooklyn, N. Y.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Volume I. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Studies in the Scriptures”</span> + Series</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Things You Ought + To Know As</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Christian Bible + Students</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The Satisfactory + Proofs That</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The Bible is a + Divine Revelation—reasonable and trustworthy, revealing a + systematic Plan full of Justice, Wisdom and Love. <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Key of Knowledge”</span> of the Scriptures, long + lost is found, and gives God's faithful people access to the + <span class="tei tei-q">“Hidden Mystery.”</span>—Luke 11:52, Col. + 1:26.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The Lord Jesus + and His faithful are to be not only priests but kings, and will + reign over the earth.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">This Kingdom is + to come at Christ's Second Advent.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">God's Plan is to + select and save the Church in the Gospel Age, and to use this + Church in blessing the world in the Millennium. A <span class= + "tei tei-q">“ransom for all”</span> implies an <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">opportunity</span></em> to all for + restitution. The Day of Judgment is 1,000 years long—the world's + trial day.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The narrow way”</span> of self-sacrifice will cease + with this Age.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The highway”</span> of righteousness will be open to + all the redeemed race in the Millennium.—Isa. 35:8, 9.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The kingdoms of this world”</span> are but for an + ordained period and must give place to the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Kingdom of Heaven.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">God has + permitted evil for six thousand years for a wise purpose.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">These subjects and + many others of deep interest to all of God's people are discussed + fully and in language easy of comprehension in</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Divine Plan of the Ages”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(In English, + German, Swedish, Dano-Norwegian, Italian, French, Greek, Hungarian, + Spanish, Polish, Hollandish, Finnish, Arabic, Slovak, Roumanian, + Lettish, Ukrainian, Chinese, Japanese and Korean; also Braille, for + the blind).</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">416 Pages—Cloth + Bound. 50 Cents, Postpaid or Delivered by Colporteurs. Magazine + Edition (Eng. and Ger.) 10 Cents Postpaid.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">International + Bible Students Association</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Brooklyn, N. + Y.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Volume II. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Studies in the Scriptures”</span> + Series</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">A Remarkable + Book</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Skeptics Should + Read it . . .</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Christians + Should Study it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Things You Want + To Know As</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Christian Bible + Students</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">There Are + Evidences That</p> + + <div class="tei tei-lg" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Six thousand Years from Adam ended in <span class="tei tei-hi" + style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">A. D.</span></span> 1872. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + The Date of our Lord's Birth was October <span class= + "tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">B. C.</span></span> 2. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + The Date of Annunciation to Mary, Dec 25th, <span class= + "tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">B. C.</span></span> 3. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + The Date of our Lord's Baptism was October <span class= + "tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">A. D.</span></span> 29. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + The Date of our Lord's Crucifixion, April <span class= + "tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">A. D.</span></span> 33. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + The <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left">“Seventy + Weeks”</span> of Israel's favor ended <span class="tei tei-hi" + style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">A. D.</span></span> 36. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + The Jewish Age <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left">“Harvest”</span> was 40 years <span class= + "tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left"><span style= + "font-variant: small-caps">A. D.</span></span> 30 to 70. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + The Christian Age <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left">“Harvest”</span> is its parallel. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + The Jewish Jubilees were typical of the <span class="tei tei-q" + style="text-align: left">“Times of Restitution of all + Things.”</span>—Acts 3:19-21. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + The Typical Jubilees mark the Date of their Antitype. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + The <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left">“Times of + the Gentiles”</span> ended <span class="tei tei-hi" style= + "text-align: left"><span style="font-variant: small-caps">A. + D.</span></span> 1914. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + The Jewish Age, in its Lengths, its Ceremonies, etc., + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Typified the Realities of the Christian Age and its Length. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Elias or <span class="tei tei-q" style= + "text-align: left">“Elijah the prophet”</span> was a Type.—How + fulfilled. + </div> + + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + The Antichrist has come!—What? When? Where? + </div> + </div> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">These subjects and + many others deeply interesting to</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-style: italic">“</span><span style= + "font-style: italic">the Household of Faith,</span><span style= + "font-style: italic">”</span></span> <span style= + "font-style: italic">and</span> <span class= + "tei tei-q"><span style="font-style: italic">“</span><span style= + "font-style: italic">Meat in due season</span><span style= + "font-style: italic">”</span></span> <span style= + "font-style: italic">to all who love and study God's Word, can be + had in</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Time Is At Hand”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(In English, + German, Swedish, Finnish and Dano-Norwegian.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">482 Pages—Cloth + Bound, 50 Cents, Postpaid or Delivered by Colporteurs</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">International + Bible Students Association</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Brooklyn, N. + Y.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Volume III. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Studies in the Scriptures”</span> + Series</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Do You Know + That</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">We are now + living in <span class="tei tei-q">“the Time of the End”</span> of + this Gospel Age?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Our Epoch is + <span class="tei tei-q">“the Day of God's Preparation”</span> for + the Millennial Age?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Days of Waiting”</span> are ended and the <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Cleansing of the Sanctuary”</span>—the Church—the + separating of its Wheat and Tares, is now in progress?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">This the reason + for the beginning of the Return of Divine Favor to Fleshly + Israel—blinded for centuries—to permit the gathering of an Elect + Class from among the Gentiles?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">This favor now + taking shape is known as Zionism?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Immanuel's + Kingdom is now being established?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The Great + Pyramid in Egypt is a Witness to all these events of the past and + present—testifying in symbols? The Pyramid's Downward Passage under + <span class="tei tei-q">“A Draconis”</span> symbolizes the course + of Sin? Its First Ascending Passage symbolizes the Jewish Age? Its + Grand Gallery symbolizes the Gospel Age? Its Upper Step symbolizes + the approaching period of tribulation and anarchy, <span class= + "tei tei-q">“Judgments,”</span> upon Christendom? Its King's + Chamber the Divine Nature, etc., of the Overcoming Church—the + Christ, Head and Body? Its Ante-Chamber the Correction in + Righteousness of the <span class="tei tei-q">“Great Company”</span> + etc.? Its Queen's Chamber symbolizes those of Israel and the world + who eventually attain Restitution?</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">All these interesting + topics with ten Pyramid illustrations can be had + in</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“Thy Kingdom Come”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(English, + German, Swedish, Finnish, Dano-Norwegian)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">482 Pages—Cloth + Bound, 50 Cents, Postpaid or Delivered by Colporteurs</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">International + Bible Students Association</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Brooklyn, N. + Y.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Volume IV. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Studies in the Scriptures”</span> + Series</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“None Of The Wicked Will Understand”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">But <span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Wise Shall Understand”</span> That</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">This Gospel Age + is closing with a <span class="tei tei-q">“Day of + Vengeance.”</span> It will affect the whole world, specially + Christendom. All Political, Social, Financial and Religious systems + will fail.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">These Judgments, + beginning with the House of God, must extend to all.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Our day is noted + by the Prophets as <span class="tei tei-q">“the Day of + Jehovah.”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">It is + symbolically styled <span class="tei tei-q">“a Dark Day,”</span> a + <span class="tei tei-q">“Day of clouds,”</span> etc.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Its trouble is + symbolically likened to a Hurricane, to a Flood, to a Fire, etc., + these strong figures being used to give an appreciation, yet to + hide the real nature, of that <span class="tei tei-q">“Time of + Trouble such as Never Has been since there was a + Nation.”</span>—Dan. 13:1.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Preparations for + this symbolic <span class="tei tei-q">“Fire”</span> and + <span class="tei tei-q">“Tempest”</span> are now well under way and + shortly will rage furiously throughout the world.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">It will be a + contest between Masses and Classes.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Many see it upon + us and trust to various schemes to avert it.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">But all worldly + Schemes and Panaceas will fail utterly. God's Kingdom, the only + hope for Church and world, is sure.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Man's extremity + will prove to be God's opportunity—in the establishment of God's + Kingdom—Christ's Millennial Kingdom which will establish + righteousness by force.—Rev. 2:26, 27; Dan. 2:34, 35, 44, 45.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">All these subjects + are simply yet forcefully treated, and Matthew 24th Chapter + elucidated, in</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The Battle Of Armageddon”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(In English, + German, Swedish, Finnish and Dano-Norwegian.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">720 Pages—Cloth + Bound, 60 Cents. Postpaid or Delivered by Colporteurs</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">International + Bible Students Association</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Brooklyn, N. + Y.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Volume V. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Studies in the Scriptures”</span> + Series</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The At-One-Ment + Is Believed In By All</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Christian Bible + Students</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Nevertheless, + but few could explain its philosophy</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">All Should + Know</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">About the great + Mediator of the At-one-ment, our Lord Jesus Christ.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Respecting the + necessity for the At-one-ment</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">And the + necessity that the <span class="tei tei-q">“Only Begotten”</span> + must be <span class="tei tei-q">“made flesh,”</span> and then die, + and then rise from the dead in order to effect the At-one-ment.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Respecting the + office and work of the Holy Spirit in connection with the + At-one-ment.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">And the + important part of the At-one-ment not yet finished—which awaits the + Second Coming of our Lord in His Kingdom glory.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Respecting the + central doctrine of At-one-ment, namely, the <em class= + "tei tei-emph"><span style= + "font-style: italic">Ransom</span></em>—what is was—why it was and + is the center or <span class="tei tei-q">“hub”</span> around which + and into which all Bible doctrines fit.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">How this + doctrine is the test of the truth or falsity of all doctrines; so + that once understood clearly it is a guard against error in every + form.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Respecting man, + the subject of the great At-one-ment, his nature; his sin; his + penalty; his deliverance through Christ; his future possibilities + through acceptance of the At-one-ment.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">All these interesting + and very important themes are lucidly discussed in simple language, + and corroborated by fourteen hundred Scripture citations, + in</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-q">“The At-One-Ment Between God And Man”</span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(In English, + German, Swedish, Finnish and Dano-Norwegian.)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">600 Pages—Cloth + Bound 60 Cents, Postpaid or Delivered by Colporteurs.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">International + Bible Students Association</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Brooklyn, N. + Y.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Volume VI. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Studies in the Scriptures”</span> + Series</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Things You Ought + To Know As</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Christian Bible + Students</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The Creative + Week of Genesis—its actual length—scientifically corroborated.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The true Church + of Christ, begotten of the Spirit as the New Creation; the steps of + Grace Divine—Justification, Sanctification, and Deliverance in the + First Resurrection.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The duties and + obligations of the New Creation—toward the Lord, toward each other, + toward earthly friends and neighbors, toward parents, children, + husbands, wives, etc.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The Lord's + Memorial Supper or Sacrament: what it is and what it is not should + be clearly discerned by all of God's people.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">True + Baptism—what it is. The many mistakes of nearly all denominations + are pointed out in kindly spirit, and then the true Baptism is set + forth in convincing style—indisputable, incontrovertible.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The foes and + besetments of the New Creation, and the Scriptural method of + overcoming them; also the present and the future inheritance of the + saints.</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em"><span class= + "tei tei-hi"><span style="font-style: italic">These subjects and + many others deeply interesting to all who love and study the Bible + are fully treated in</span></span></p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">The New + Creation</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">(English, + German, Swedish, Dano-Norwegian and Finnish)</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">816 Pages—Cloth + Bound, 60 Cents, Postpaid or Delivered by Colporteurs</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">International + Bible Students Association</p> + + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1.00em">Brooklyn, + N.Y.</p> + </div> + </div> + </div> + <hr class="doublepage" /> + + <div class="tei tei-back" style= + "margin-bottom: 2.00em; margin-top: 6.00em"> + <div id="footnotes" class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 5.00em; margin-top: 5.00em"> + <a name="toc153" id="toc153"></a> <a name="pdf154" id="pdf154"></a> + + <h1 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 3.46em; margin-top: 3.46em"> + <span style="font-size: 173%">Footnotes</span></h1> + + <dl class="tei tei-list-footnotes"> + <dt class="tei tei-notelabel"><a id="note_1" name="note_1" href= + "#noteref_1">1.</a></dt> + + <dd class="tei tei-notetext">Words not In Sinaitic MS. are enclosed + in brackets. The Sinaitic MS. is the oldest known copy of the + Scriptures, having been written, it is believed. In A. D. 331. The + <span class="tei tei-q">“Authorized”</span> Version was made from + MSS. none of which were older than the tenth century.</dd> + + <dt class="tei tei-notelabel"><a id="note_2" name="note_2" href= + "#noteref_2">2.</a></dt> + + <dd class="tei tei-notetext">Words in Sinaitic MS. which do not + appear in <span class="tei tei-q">“Authorized”</span> Version are + printed in capitals.</dd> + </dl> + </div> + <hr class="doublepage" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 5.00em; margin-top: 5.00em"> + <div id="pgfooter" class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 4.00em; margin-top: 4.00em"> + <pre class="pre tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 3.00em; margin-top: 3.00em"> +***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE FINISHED MYSTERY*** +</pre> + <hr class="doublepage" /> + + <div class="tei tei-div" style= + "margin-bottom: 3.00em; margin-top: 3.00em"> + <a name="rightpageheader155" id="rightpageheader155"></a><a name= + "pgtoc156" id="pgtoc156"></a><a name="pdf157" id="pdf157"></a> + + <h1 class="tei tei-head" style= + "text-align: left; margin-bottom: 3.46em; margin-top: 3.46em"> + <span style="font-size: 173%">Credits</span></h1> + + <table summary="This is a list." class="tei tei-list" style= + "margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + <tbody> + <tr> + <th class="tei tei-label tei-label-gloss">June 17, + 2014 </th> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tei tei-item tei-item-gloss"> + <table summary="This is a list." class="tei tei-list" + style="margin-bottom: 1.00em; margin-top: 1.00em"> + <tbody> + <tr class="tei tei-labelitem"> + <th class="tei tei-label"></th> + + <td class="tei tei-item">Project Gutenberg TEI + edition 1</td> + </tr> + + <tr class="tei tei-labelitem"> + <th class="tei tei-label"></th> + + <td class="tei tei-item"><span class= + "tei tei-respStmt"><span class= + "tei tei-name">Produced by Heiko Evermann, David + King, and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team + at <http://www.pgdp.net/>. 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