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| author | Roger Frank <rfrank@rfrank.net> | 2025-03-18 07:50:39 -0600 |
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| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@rfrank.net> | 2025-03-18 07:50:39 -0600 |
| commit | 66cba0dd04459a3b58a45633564f2ebf42ff0893 (patch) | |
| tree | 294ddb608f5a432e0a9e5593ce36ada97cc32eb6 /54914-h/54914-h.htm | |
| parent | 11376cf8b02ff42824b13a6b4b00bca46dd86893 (diff) | |
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diff --git a/54914-h/54914-h.htm b/54914-h/54914-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..85dca18 --- /dev/null +++ b/54914-h/54914-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,7094 @@ +<!doctype html> + +<html lang="en"> + <head> + <meta + content="HTML Tidy for Linux (vers 25 March 2009), see www.w3.org" + name="generator" + /> + <meta charset="utf-8" /> + <link href="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" rel="schema.DC" /> + <meta content="James Springer White" name="DC.Creator" /> + <meta content="His Glorious Appearing" name="DC.Title" /> + <meta content="June 15, 2017" name="DC.Date" /> + <meta content="English" name="DC.Language" /> + <meta content="Project Gutenberg" name="DC.Publisher" /> + <meta content="http://www.gutenberg.org/etext/54914" name="DC.Identifier" /> + <meta content="This text is in the public domain." name="DC.Rights" /> + <title> + The Project Gutenberg EBook of His Glorious Appearing by James Springer + White + </title> + <style> + /* + The Gnutenberg Press - default CSS2 stylesheet + + Any generated element will have a class "tei" and a class "tei-elem" + where elem is the element name in TEI. + The order of statements is important !!! + */ + + .tei { + margin: 0; 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+ text-align: right; + } + div.tei-byline { + margin: 1ex 0em; + } + + /* calculate from size of body = 80% */ + div.tei-marginnote { + margin: 0em 0em 0em -12%; + width: 11%; + float: left; + } + + div.tei-sp { + margin: 1em 0em 1em 2em; + } + div.tei-speaker { + margin: 0em 0em 1em -2em; + font-weight: bold; + text-indent: 0em; + } + div.tei-stage { + margin: 1em 0em; + font-weight: normal; + font-style: italic; + } + span.tei-stage { + font-weight: normal; + font-style: italic; + } + + div.tei-eg { + padding: 1em; + color: black; + background-color: #eee; + } + + hr.doublepage { + margin: 4em 0em; + height: 5px; + } + hr.page { + margin: 4em 0em; + height: 2px; + } + + ul.tei-index { + list-style-type: none; + } + + dl.tei { + margin: 1em 0em; + } + + dt.tei-notelabel { + font-weight: normal; + text-align: right; + float: left; + width: 3em; + } + dd.tei-notetext { + margin: 0em 0em 1ex 4em; + } + + span.tei-pb { + position: absolute; + left: 1%; + width: 8%; + font-style: normal; + } + + span.code { + font-family: monospace; + font-size: 110%; + } + + ul.tei-castlist { + margin: 0em; + list-style-type: none; + } + li.tei-castitem { + margin: 0em; + } + table.tei-castgroup { + margin: 0em; + } + ul.tei-castgroup { + margin: 0em; + list-style-type: none; + padding-right: 2em; + border-right: solid black 2px; + } + caption.tei-castgroup-head { + width: 50%; + text-align: left; + vertical-align: middle; + padding-left: 2em; + } + *.tei-roledesc { + font-style: italic; + } + *.tei-set { + font-style: italic; + } + + table.rules { + border-collapse: collapse; + } + table.rules caption, + table.rules th, + table.rules td { + border: 1px solid black; + } + + table.tei { + border-collapse: collapse; + } + table.tei-list { + width: 100%; + } + + th.tei-head-table { + padding: 0.5ex 1em; + } + + th.tei-cell { + padding: 0em 1em; + } + td.tei-cell { + padding: 0em 1em; + } + + td.tei-item { + padding: 0; + font-weight: normal; + vertical-align: top; + text-align: left; + } + th.tei-label, + td.tei-label { + width: 3em; + padding: 0; + font-weight: normal; + vertical-align: top; + text-align: right; + } + + th.tei-label-gloss, + td.tei-label-gloss { + text-align: left; + } + + td.tei-item-gloss, + th.tei-headItem-gloss { + padding-left: 4em; + } + + :link { + border: none; + } + :visited { + border: none; + } + img.tei-formula { + vertical-align: middle; + } + </style> + </head> + <body class="tei"> + <div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 54914 ***</div> + <div + class="tei tei-text" + lang="en" + style="margin-bottom: 2em; margin-top: 2em" + xml:lang="en" + > + <div class="tei tei-front" style="margin-top: 2em; margin-bottom: 6em"> + <div + class="tei tei-div" + style="margin-top: 5em; margin-bottom: 5em" + ></div> + <div + class="tei tei-div" + style="margin-bottom: 5em; margin-top: 5em" + ></div> + <hr class="page" /> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-bottom: 5em; margin-top: 5em"> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="margin-bottom: 1.73em; text-align: center" + > + <span style="font-size: 173%">His Glorious Appearing</span> + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1.2em"> + <span style="font-size: 120%" + >An Exposition of Matthew Twenty-Four</span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1em"> + By + </p> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="margin-bottom: 1.44em; text-align: center" + > + <span style="font-size: 144%">James Springer White</span> + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center"> + Revised and Illustrated + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: center" + >“What shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the + world?”</span + >—<span class="tei tei-hi" style="text-align: center" + ><span style="font-variant: small-caps">Disciples</span></span + >. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: center" + >“When ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even + at the doors.”</span + >—<span class="tei tei-hi" style="text-align: center" + ><span style="font-variant: small-caps">Jesus</span></span + >. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center"> + Eleventh Edition. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center"> + Review and Herald Publishing Co. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1em"> + Battle Creek, Mich. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1em"> + 1895 + </p> + </div> + <hr class="page" /> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-top: 5em; margin-bottom: 5em"> + <h1 + class="tei tei-head" + style="text-align: left; margin-top: 3.46em; margin-bottom: 3.46em" + > + <span style="font-size: 173%">Contents</span> + </h1> + <ul class="tei tei-index tei-index-toc"> + <li><a href="#toc1">Introductory.</a></li> + <li><a href="#toc3">Christ's Prophecy.</a></li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc5">Persecution And False Prophets.</a> + </li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc7">Iniquity Abounds.</a> + </li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"><a href="#toc9">The End.</a></li> + <li><a href="#toc11">When Shall These Things Be?</a></li> + <li><a href="#toc13">What Shall Be The Sign Of Thy Coming?</a></li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc15">Shortened For The Elect's Sake.</a> + </li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc17">Lo, Here, And Lo, There.</a> + </li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc19">The Signs Of Christ's Coming.</a> + </li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc21">“And The Stars Shall Fall.”</a> + </li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc23">“The Powers Of Heaven Shall Be Shaken.”</a> + </li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc25">“Sign Of The Son Of Man.”</a> + </li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc27">Parable Of The Fig-Tree.</a> + </li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc29">“The Day And Hour.”</a> + </li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc31">Noah's Time And Ours.</a> + </li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc33">Peace And Safety.</a> + </li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc35">The Final Separation.</a> + </li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc37">Those Who Watch Will Know The Time.</a> + </li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc39">The Faithful And Wise Servant.</a> + </li> + <li style="margin-left: 2em"> + <a href="#toc41">The Evil Servant.</a> + </li> + <li><a href="#toc43">Conclusion.</a></li> + <li><a href="#toc45">Choice Religious Books.</a></li> + </ul> + </div> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-body" style="margin-top: 6em; margin-bottom: 6em"> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-bottom: 5em; margin-top: 5em"> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/cover.jpg" + ><img alt="Book Cover" src="images/cover.jpg" + /></a> + </div> + </div> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page002">[pg 002]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg002"></a> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-top: 5em; margin-bottom: 5em"> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 50%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/frontis.png" + ><img alt="Illustration" src="images/frontis.png" + /></a> + <div + class="tei tei-head" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center; margin-top: 1em" + > + The Light of the World + </div> + </div> + </div> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page005">[pg 005]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg005"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-bottom: 5em; margin-top: 5em"> + <a id="toc1"></a> <a id="pdf2"></a> + <h1 + class="tei tei-head" + style="margin-top: 3.46em; text-align: left; margin-bottom: 3.46em" + > + <span style="font-size: 173%">Introductory.</span> + </h1> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret + unto his servants the prophets.”</span + > + Amos 3:7. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + No truth of inspiration can be more clearly demonstrated than that + God reveals his designs to his prophets, that men and nations may be + prepared for their accomplishment. Before visiting with judgments, + God has uniformly sent forth warnings sufficient to enable the + believing to escape his wrath, and to condemn those who have not + heeded the warning. This was the case before the flood. The + wickedness of the world had become very great. Every imagination of + the thoughts of the hearts of men was only evil. It would seem that + they had forfeited all claims for consideration. Violence and + corruption filled the earth, and the only way to eradicate evil was + to destroy it with its workers. But before doing so, the world must + be warned of the impending doom; and there was found one man who + would engage in the work. Noah had faith in God, and preached for + one hundred and twenty years the message of + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page006">[pg 006]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg006"></a> warning and salvation. + His work also testified with his words. + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, + moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; + by the which he condemned the world.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Heb. 11:7.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + At a later period, when the nations had again become sunken in + idolatry and crime, and the destruction of wicked Sodom and Gomorrah + was determined, the Lord said,— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do; seeing that + Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all + the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him?</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Gen. 18:17, 18.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + And due notice was given to righteous Lot, who, with his daughters, + was preserved; and none, even in that guilty city, perished without + due warning. Lot evidently warned the people; and in thus communing + with them, was + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked.”</span + > + 2 Peter 2:7, 8. His righteous life had been a rebuke to them; and we + have every reason to believe that the holy example of Abraham in his + worship of the true God was known to them. He had at one time been + their saviour, and rescued their captives and spoil from the + victorious enemy who was carrying them away. But when Lot warned his + friends of the approaching doom, + <span class="tei tei-q">“he seemed as one that mocked.”</span> Gen. + 19:14. They, like the antediluvians, persisted in sin, and drank of + the wrath of God. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + At a subsequent time the sins of Nineveh rose to heaven, and Jonah + was sent to bear to that proud capital the startling message, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Yet forty days and Nineveh shall be destroyed.”</span + > + The consciences of those sinners told them the message was true; and + from the least of them to the greatest they humbled themselves, and + the overhanging judgment was averted. + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page007">[pg 007]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg007"></a> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Before Christ commenced his earthly mission, John the Baptist was + sent as the voice of one crying in the wilderness, + <span class="tei tei-q">“Prepare ye the way of the Lord.”</span> By + this means the expectation of the people was raised, and doubtless + many were through it led to accept of salvation, while the + generation at large was condemned for rejecting the light. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Our Saviour in his time saw the destruction of Jerusalem just in the + future of that generation, and faithfully warned the people, + foretelling signs by which it might be known when the desolation + thereof was nigh. Luke 21:21. Such is the testimony of inspiration + respecting the dealings of God with his people in past ages. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + All who accept the Bible as the inspired word of God acknowledge + that he has been very faithful in warning people in past ages of + impending judgments and other events which affected their eternal + welfare. Such having been the divine plan in relation to past + events, we would certainly be justified in anticipating such + warnings of Christ's second coming as would comport with the + importance of the event. But when we come to regard the future, and + especially our own immediate future, the incredulity of very many is + at once aroused. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + But what are the facts in the case? Can anything be learned from the + Bible relative to the time of the second advent? This is a grave + inquiry; and, from the very nature of the subject, is worthy of + close investigation, and a candid answer. It is a matter of painful + regret that many, under the influence of popular prejudice, have + decided that the period of the second advent is a secret, hidden + with the Lord. While these can scarcely be reached with this + subject, as long as they remain under the influence of those who + denounce all investigation of it as prying into the + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page009">[pg 009]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg009"></a> secrets of the Almighty, + there is still, we believe, a larger class who wait for evidence + before deciding. + </p> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1em" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/i_008.png" + ><img alt="Illustration" src="images/i_008.png" + /></a> + <div + class="tei tei-head" + style="margin-top: 1em; text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1em" + > + Christ Weeping Over Jerusalem + </div> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + We accept the Bible as a revelation from heaven. What God has + revealed in that book, let no man call a mystery, or a secret of the + Almighty. + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“The secret things belong unto the Lord our God; but those things + which are revealed belong unto us and to our children + forever.”</span + > + Deut. 29:29. If the sacred Scriptures, in a most clear and + harmonious manner, point out the signs of the approach of that great + event, and if there is evidence that + <span class="tei tei-q">“it is near, even at the doors,”</span> the + subject at once assumes great importance. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + When the disciples inquired, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“What shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the + world?”</span + > + Jesus did not reprove them for inquiring into this matter, nor tell + them that it was purposely hidden from all men; but he answered + their question in the most definite manner. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The simple fact that the Lord mentions signs of his second advent, + is the best proof possible that his people were not to remain + ignorant of the relative nearness of the event. Add to this his + injunctions to watchfulness, and the blessings which he pronounces + upon those who are awake and watching at his coming, and it becomes + a certainty that he would not leave his people ignorant of the + proximity of that event. Paul also says that + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“unto + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic" + >them that look for him</span + ></em + > + shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.”</span + > + Heb. 9:28. And that a crown of righteousness will be given + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“unto all them also that love his appearing.”</span + > + 2 Tim. 4:8. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + With these assurances we may look for plain and emphatic tokens of + the Saviour's second coming. + </p> + </div> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page011">[pg 011]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg011"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-top: 5em; margin-bottom: 5em"> + <a id="toc3"></a> <a id="pdf4"></a> + <h1 + class="tei tei-head" + style="text-align: left; margin-top: 3.46em; margin-bottom: 3.46em" + > + <span style="font-size: 173%">Christ's Prophecy.</span> + </h1> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1em" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/i_010.png" + ><img alt="Illustration" src="images/i_010.png" + /></a> + <div + class="tei tei-head" + style="margin-top: 1em; text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1em" + > + Jesus on the Mount of Olives + </div> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Probably no other chapter of the Bible speaks more fully, and more + definitely, upon the subject of the second advent, than Matthew 24, + in Christ's own words. We invite the attention of the candid reader + to a brief explanation of the entire chapter. + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps"> + Verse 1</span + ></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple; and his + disciples came to him for to show him the buildings of the + temple.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Jesus had been addressing the multitude, in the presence of his + disciples. He had reproved the scribes and the Pharisees for their + sins, and had declared, in the previous chapter, the doom of the + Jews, their city, and their temple. The disciples supposed that the + temple would stand forever, and they called the attention of Christ + to its magnificence and strength, and to the great stones that + entered into the structure. On this point the historian of those + times, Josephus, says: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Now the temple was built of stones that were white and strong, + and each of their lengths was twenty-five cubits, their height was + eight, and their breadth about twelve.”</span + >—<span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-style: italic">“</span + ><span style="font-style: italic">Antiquities,</span + ><span style="font-style: italic">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-style: italic">book xv, chap. xi.</span></span + > + If we compute a cubit at twenty inches, we shall be able to gain + some idea of the size and <span class="tei tei-q">“manner”</span> of + these stones. + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps"> + Verse 2</span + ></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? Verily + I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon + another, that shall not be thrown down.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verse 3</span + ></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came + unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things + be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end + of the world?</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + This statement from the Master could not but deeply interest the + disciples. And it matters not whether they supposed that the + destruction of the temple, the coming of + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page012">[pg 012]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg012"></a> Christ, and the end of + the age, would all occur at the same time, or at different periods, + since Christ, in his answer in this chapter, has distinctly spoken + of each separately, and has given each its place in the prophetic + history of events. If it were their impression that the overthrow of + the temple and the end of the world would occur at the same time, it + by no means proves that this would be the case. As the Scriptures + show, up to the time of the out-pouring of the Holy Spirit on the + day of Pentecost, their ideas upon many points were crude and + inaccurate. Take as proof of this the parable which the Lord spake + when he was going into Jerusalem. Luke 19. They thought that the + kingdom of God should immediately appear. To correct this + impression, the parable of the nobleman was spoken. If they + understood the parable at the time when it was spoken, it did not + fully eradicate the impression from their minds, as is proved by + what they did when they entered Jerusalem. We cannot believe that + they would have hailed him as the Son of David, and rejoiced before + him as a King in his triumph, if they had realized that he was going + into the city to be condemned and crucified as a malefactor. Palm + branches and shouts of triumph did not attend the steps of the lowly + and the condemned. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + John admits for himself and Peter, after they had seen the empty + sepulcher, that + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the + dead.”</span + > + John 20:9. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Again, after his resurrection, Jesus reproved two of his disciples, + who, though they had trusted that he would redeem Israel, were then + sad and disheartened. They did not then understand that Christ ought + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“to have suffered these things, and to enter into his + glory.”</span + > + The suffering part was still a mystery to them. And some of the + apostles were so slow to realize that which he had spoken to them, + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page013">[pg 013]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg013"></a> that they could hardly be + persuaded that he was indeed risen from the dead. And after he had + been with them full forty days, speaking to them of the things + pertaining to the kingdom, they did not yet understand + <span class="tei tei-q">“the times and the seasons,”</span> and + therefore asked him, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to + Israel?”</span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + However the matter may have been entertained in the minds of the + disciples, it is evident that their query consisted of two distinct + questions in the mind of the Saviour. These questions relate, first, + to the destruction of Jerusalem; and, second, to Christ's second + coming at the end of the world or age. They were distinctly answered + by our Lord; not, however, before the promiscuous multitude; but on + the occasion of a private interview with his disciples. Christ here + speaks to his disciples; hence his words in this prophetic discourse + are addressed especially to the church. + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps"> + Verses 4, 5</span + ></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man + deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am + Christ, and shall deceive many.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Jesus knew the hearts of men, and that many impostors would arise, + and deceive multitudes. He here warns his disciples, and guards them + against the deceptions of corrupt and ambitious men. Such was the + general expectation of the appearance of the Messiah among the Jews, + that many would set up the claim that they were the Christ, to carry + out selfish purposes, or to gain notoriety, and the credulous people + would be easily led into the deception, and then be destroyed for + sedition. We are informed that in the days succeeding those of + Christ, impostors arose in great numbers. Josephus tells us of an + Egyptian false prophet who led 30,000 men into the desert to show + them <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page015">[pg 015]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg015"></a> signs, and then brought + them to Jerusalem as if to attack the city. He caused great pillage + and destruction in Judea, but in the time of battle, ran away, + leaving his followers to the exasperated Romans.—<span + class="tei tei-hi" + ><span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-style: italic">“</span + ><span style="font-style: italic">Wars of the Jews,</span + ><span style="font-style: italic">”</span></span + ><span style="font-style: italic" + >book ii, chap. xiii.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1em" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/i_014.png" + ><img alt="Illustration" src="images/i_014.png" + /></a> + <div + class="tei tei-head" + style="text-align: center; margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em" + > + Ancient Jerusalem + </div> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + In the former part of the second century Cazibee set himself at the + head of the Jewish nation and proclaimed himself their long-expected + Messiah. To facilitate the success of his bold enterprise he changed + his name to that of Barchocheba, alluding to the Star foretold by + Balaam. Adrian raised an army, and sent it against him. He retired + into a town called Bither, where he was besieged. Barchocheba was + killed in the siege, the city was taken, and a dreadful havoc + succeeded. The Jews themselves allow that, during this short war + against the Romans in defense of this false Messiah, they lost five + or six hundred thousand souls.—<span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-style: italic">Buck's Dictionary.</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Dr. A. Clarke says, on the authority of Josephus, that + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“a few years afterward, under the reign of Nero, while Felix was + procurator of Judea, impostors of this stamp were so frequent that + some were taken and killed almost every day.”</span + > + And at intervals since then the Jews who are all the time expecting + the appearance of the Messiah have been repeatedly the victims of + cruel deception. + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps"> + Verse 6</span + ></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that ye be + not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the + end is not yet.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + It is proper that we should consider what is meant by the term + <span class="tei tei-q">“the end,”</span> used in this verse; in + verse 14, + <span class="tei tei-q">“then shall the end come;”</span> and in + verse 3, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“the sign of thy coming, and the end of the world.”</span + > + In the first place, it may be unhesitatingly claimed that the term + does not refer to the end of the Jewish dispensation, which + terminated at <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page016">[pg 016]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg016"></a> the crucifixion, nor to + the destruction of Jerusalem, which occurred about forty years + later. Because, first, Jesus treated the question concerning the + destruction of the temple and that referring to his coming and the + end of the world as relating to two distinct events, widely + separated in time. Second, the signs which were to be premonitory of + the end did not transpire before the destruction of the temple. + Third, the second coming of Christ, the close of probation, the + judgment, the resurrection, and the end of sin, death, and + mortality, are frequently and prominently associated together in the + Bible as constituting the most important epoch in human history. To + limit this thrilling discourse to the local and long past + destruction of Jerusalem would be to rob it of its force and + grandeur. Not only would the twenty-fourth of Matthew which we are + now studying be stultified, but very much of the life and power of + the Scriptures would be sacrificed by such a course. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + As to the meaning of the phrase, + <span class="tei tei-q">“the end of the world,”</span> it may + consistently be translated + <span class="tei tei-q">“the end of the age,”</span> and in the + margin of the Revised Bible it is rendered + <span class="tei tei-q">“the consummation of the age.”</span> For an + inspired definition of the term, let the reader turn to Matt. + 13:38-40 and its context, where the same words are used and repeated + in the original:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >The tares are the children of the wicked one; the enemy that + sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; + and the reapers are the angels. As therefore the tares are + gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of + this world. The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and + they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, + and them that do iniquity; and shall cast them into a furnace + of fire: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + From Rev. 14:14-16 we learn that the harvest of the earth and the + second coming of Christ are identical. + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page017">[pg 017]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg017"></a> So that by no possible + means could it be established that the + <span class="tei tei-q">“end of the world”</span> means the + destruction of Jerusalem. Further evidence is found in Matt. 28:20 + where the same expression, both in the original and in the + translation, is used: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Lo I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.”</span + > + But no one would have the audacity to claim that this promise + expired in + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-variant: small-caps">a. d.</span></span + > + 70, as it must have done if those questions of the disciples and the + subsequent discourse of Christ related only to the impending doom of + the temple and city. + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps"> + Verses</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">7, 8:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against + kingdom; and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and + earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of + sorrows.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Wars, famines, pestilences, and earthquakes have occurred all along + since these words were spoken. Therefore, these, as they have ever + existed, cannot be regarded as the especial signs of the end. It may + be claimed, however, with a good degree of consistency, that the + Scriptures teach that these calamities would abound in the last days + to such an extent as to constitute a sign of the approaching + Judgment. We wish to keep the important fact distinctly before the + mind, that the sacred Scriptures do teach when men may not, and when + they may, look for the second appearing of Christ. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The sacred writers have so uniformly associated such judgments as + war, famine, pestilence, and earthquake, with the last Judgment, + that the disciples would be in danger of concluding that the end + would immediately follow the first appearance of these calamities; + hence the caution given: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“These things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.”</span + > + Here the disciples were clearly taught that they should not expect + the end in their day. This fact is worthy of the + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page018">[pg 018]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg018"></a> candid attention of those + who object to the proclamation of the second advent of Christ in the + form of an especial message. These sometimes assert that it was + right for the disciples to look for Christ in their day, and that it + has been scriptural and right for all Christians to look for the + second appearing of Christ in their time, from the days of the + chosen twelve to the present time. And they decide that no more can + be learned and believed upon this subject in our time than by the + Christians of past generations, and that the public mind should not + now be moved upon this great question, any more than in all past + time since the first advent of Christ. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + We have seen that this position is incorrect so far as the early + disciples were concerned. They are directed to the distant future as + the time when their Lord should come. They are assured that they + need not be troubled at hearing of wars and rumors of wars; + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not + yet.”</span + > + Our Lord then guides the minds of his disciples, as we shall see in + the examination of this chapter, down over the time of the great + apostasy, and the long period of the rule of papal Rome, before + mentioning a sign of his second advent. He does not intimate that + his people during these long periods may expect the end. No, not + once. But when he comes to a later time, the Lord names signs in the + sun, in the moon, and in the stars, and adds: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“When ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even + at the doors.”</span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Mark this: Our Lord does not mention wars, famines, pestilences, and + earthquakes as signs of his second advent; but rather as events of + common occurrence all the way through the Christian age, which must + exist before the end. And history attests the fact that these + calamities have <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page019">[pg 019]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg019"></a> covered at least + seventeen centuries. The following is from a work of Noah Webster, + LL. D., published in 1799:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >By famine and sword, 580,000 Jews were destroyed + between</span + > + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">96 and</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi"> + <span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">180.</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In Antioch, from</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">96 to</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >180, earthquakes destroyed 13 cities and over 100,000 + lives.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In Rome,</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >169, pestilence destroyed 10,000 daily.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In Rome,</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >187, pestilence appeared and continued three years.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In London,</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >310, by famine, 40,000 died.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >446, September 17, an earthquake shook down the walls of + Constantinople, and 57 towers fell.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In Rome,</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >539, in one district 50,000 died.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In Antioch,</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >588, an earthquake killed 60,000.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >542, the plague killed 10,000 in one day in Turkey.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >679, a severe famine in England, three years.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >717, in Constantinople, 300,000 died of plague.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >1005, earthquakes three months, followed by pestilence, by + which it is said one third of the human race died.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >1077, in Constantinople, so many died by plague and famine + the living could not bury them.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >1124, in Italy, there was such famine that the dead lay in + the streets not buried; and in England one third of the people + died of plague.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >1294, in England thousands died of famine.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >1346, in London, 50,000 died of plague and famine, and were + buried in one grave-yard; in Norwich, 50,000; in Venice, + 100,000; in Florence, 100,000; in Eastern nations, 20,000,000. + It was called the black death.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >1352, in China, 900,000 died of famine.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >1427 in Dantzic, 80,000 died of plague.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >1570, in Moscow, 200,000 died of plague.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >1572, in Lyons, 50,000 died of plague.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >1625, in London, 35,000 died of plague.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >1656, in Naples, 300,000 died of plague.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >1665, in London, 68,000 died of plague.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">In</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >a. d.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >1755, an earthquake destroyed the city of Lisbon, killing + 50,000. In Mitylene, and the Archipelago, it shook down 2000 + houses. It shook all the Spanish coast. The plague followed, + which destroyed 150,000 persons in Constantinople.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page021">[pg 021]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg021"></a> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Doubtless the figures in the above list should in some instances be + corrected to correspond with facts. But, taken as a whole, they do + not nearly represent the ravages of death in their enormity. For + instance, the Encyclopedia Britannica states that Hecker estimates + the celebrated <span class="tei tei-q">“black death”</span> of the + fourteenth century in the different epidemics, to have swept away + one fourth of the inhabitants of Europe, or 25,000,000 people! + </p> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-top: 4em; margin-bottom: 4em"> + <a id="toc5"></a> <a id="pdf6"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + text-align: left; + margin-top: 2.88em; + " + > + <span style="font-size: 144%" + >Persecution And False Prophets.</span + > + </h2> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/i_020.png" + ><img alt="Illustration" src="images/i_020.png" + /></a> + <div + class="tei tei-head" + style="text-align: center; margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em" + > + Martyrdom of Huss + </div> + </div> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verses</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">9, 10:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall + kill you; and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's + sake. And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one + another, and shall hate one another.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Here is a brief description of the afflictions and martyrdom of + the church of Christ. Thousands of the faithful followers of Jesus + were most cruelly put to death by pagan Rome; yet the prophecy + doubtless applies more particularly to the long period of papal + persecutions, in which not less than fifty millions of Christians + were put to death in the most cruel manner that wicked men and + demons could devise. In these verses we are brought down over the + long period of the martyrdom of the church of Jesus Christ, to + near the present generation. These verses being parallel with + verses 21 and 22, this subject will be noticed again. + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verse</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">11:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive + many.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + A true prophet is one who speaks for God. The spirit of prophecy + is the testimony of Jesus. Rev. 19:10. It is Jesus Christ speaking + through human lips or pen to his people. + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-style: italic">Pseudo</span></span + >, or false prophets, speak through the agency of wicked spirits + and the power of Satan. Their work is to deceive. And while this + is true of those who are under + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page023">[pg 023]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg023"></a> the direct inspiration + of superior beings, good or evil, it is true in a more restricted + sense that consecrated teachers of divine truth may be regarded as + God's prophets; and teachers of error may properly be called false + prophets. True and false prophets may be known. + </p> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/i_022.png" + ><img alt="Illustration" src="images/i_022.png" + /></a> + <div + class="tei tei-head" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; text-align: center" + > + The Crucifixion + </div> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The prophets of God are teachers of purity, reprovers of sin, and + faithful in warning the people of coming dangers. The duties of + those whom God calls to speak in his great name are clearly + expressed by the sacred writers. We here quote from three of + them:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Isa.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">58:1:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and + show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob + their sins.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Joel</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">2:1:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy + mountain. Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble; for + the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >2 Tim.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">4:1, 2:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus + Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his + appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in + season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all + long-suffering and doctrine.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + False prophets do not reprove the people for their sins, and do + not warn them of coming danger; but they proclaim peace to the + sinner. Their teachings lead from God and his word, and are such + as please the unconverted mind. The inspired writers have also + spoken definitely of the testimony and work of false prophets. We + here give several for example:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Eze.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">13:9, 10:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >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. + 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 style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page024">[pg 024]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg024"></a> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Jer.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">6:13, 14:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >For from the least of them even unto the greatest of them, + every one is given to covetousness; and from the prophet + even unto the priest, every one dealeth falsely. They have + healed also the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, + saying, Peace, peace, when there is no peace.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Jer.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">14:13, 14:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Then said I, Ah, Lord God! behold, the prophets say unto + them, Ye shall not see the sword, neither shall ye have + famine; but I will give you assured peace in this place. + Then the Lord said unto me, The prophets prophesy lies in my + name. I sent them not, neither spake unto them.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + After stating the duty of the faithful servant of God to preach + the word, to reprove, to rebuke, and exhort with all + long-suffering and doctrine, the apostle says:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >For the time will come when they will not endure sound + doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to + themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall + turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned + unto fables.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">2 Tim. 4:3, 4.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + That time has now fully come. The people choose pleasing fables, + which do not disturb them in their sins, rather than the + reproving, searching declarations of the word of God. They love to + be deceived by the teachings of false prophets, and + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not + unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy + deceits.”</span + > + Isa. 30:10. + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Shall I not visit for these things? saith the Lord. Shall + not my soul be avenged on such a nation as this? A wonderful + and horrible thing is committed in the land; the prophets + prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; + and my people love to have it so; and what will ye do in the + end thereof?</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Jer. 5:29-31.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The ears of the people are filled with the pleasing fables of the + world's conversion, a good time coming, and that we are just + entering the golden age. The threatenings of God's word on the + proud, the haughty, the vain, the rich, the sinners in Zion, and + those out of Zion, are kept back by + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page025">[pg 025]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg025"></a> the false teachers of + these times. Many of them even dare to teach that the moral code + of the ten commandments is abrogated. And as the result of such a + course, and of such teaching, we see in the professed church of + Jesus Christ, that + </p> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-top: 4em; margin-bottom: 4em"> + <a id="toc7"></a> <a id="pdf8"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + text-align: left; + margin-top: 2.88em; + " + > + <span style="font-size: 144%">Iniquity Abounds.</span> + </h2> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verse</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">12:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall + wax cold.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + It is evident that both the abounding of iniquity and the waxing + cold of the love of many, are fulfilled in the professed church of + Jesus Christ. Men must first experience the love of God and of + heavenly things before that love can grow cold. Hence, common, + unconverted sinners are not here referred to as apostatizing. And, + again, the prevalence of iniquity in the unconverted world alone, + would stimulate the church to greater diligence, and more + godliness, instead of being a cause of apostasy. Hence, the + iniquity here mentioned is in the very heart of the professed + church, diffusing its chilling influence through the whole body. + As the result, the love of many has grown cold. With this, agree + the words of the apostle:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall + come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, + boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, + unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, + truce-breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, + despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, + high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; + having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof; + from such turn away.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">2 Tim. 3:1-5.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Here is a catalogue of eighteen sins, all resting upon those + having a form of godliness. These are not infidels and common + worldly sinners, for they have not a form of godliness; but they + are men and women professing to be + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page027">[pg 027]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg027"></a> followers of Jesus + Christ. And although they make a profession of piety as high as + heaven, these very sins lie at their doors. And by reason of their + example, and their chilling influence, many are led from the + humble path to heaven, and their love waxes cold. + </p> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/i_026.png" + ><img alt="Illustration" src="images/i_026.png" + /></a> + <div + class="tei tei-head" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center; margin-top: 1em" + > + The Ascension + </div> + </div> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-bottom: 4em; margin-top: 4em"> + <a id="toc9"></a> <a id="pdf10"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + text-align: left; + margin-top: 2.88em; + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + " + > + <span style="font-size: 144%">The End.</span> + </h2> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verse</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">13:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be + saved.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + As before noted, the word + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">end</span></em + >, whenever used in this chapter, refers to the end of the age, + and to nothing else. It is the end associated in the New Testament + with the second appearing of Jesus Christ. If it be urged that the + word <span class="tei tei-q">“end”</span> has reference to the + close of mortal life, then we reply that the disciples did not ask + their Lord (see verse 3) when they should die; but + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the + world?”</span + > + Neither does the Lord speak of death, when he says (see verse 6), + <span class="tei tei-q">“But the end is not yet.”</span> And it + would be strange indeed to suppose that the word + <span class="tei tei-q">“end”</span> (verse 14) meant death. If + any think such a position admissible, let them read it into the + text, as follows: And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached + in all the world, for a witness unto all nations, and then shall + death come. Absurdity! + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verse</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">14:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached In all the + world for a witness unto all nations, and then shall the end + come.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + This is the first sign of the end given by our Lord in answer to + the question, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“What shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the + world?”</span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + But it is robbed of its distinct power by that interpretation, + sometimes given, by which it is assumed that all men will receive + the gospel and be converted, and that then + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page028">[pg 028]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg028"></a> instead of the end, + there will ensue a thousand years in which all shall know the + Lord. After this long period of peace and safety, the end will + come. How much is assumed on this text will appear when we + consider that the text does not say that every individual will + even hear this gospel of the kingdom. It does not state that any + one will be converted and made holy by it. And we find it far from + intimating that the world will be converted and remain so one + thousand years. We have no reason to conclude that greater measure + of success is implied in this text than that which has always + attended the preaching of the gospel. While a few have believed + and received it, the great mass of men have passed it by + unheedingly. The text simply states: First, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the + world;”</span + > + second, + <span class="tei tei-q">“For a witness unto all nations;”</span> + third, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“And + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">then</span></em + > + [not one thousand years later, but + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-variant: small-caps">then</span></span + >] shall the end come.”</span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + But to what does the term + <span class="tei tei-q">“gospel of the kingdom”</span> refer? The + query sometimes rises as to whether the gospel in the common + acceptation of the word, or a gospel peculiarly related to the + second coming of Christ is here meant. No such distinction is to + be drawn. There neither is, has been, nor will be more than one + gospel. + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other + gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let + him be accursed.”</span + > + Gal. 1:8. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The gospel, then, in this instance, is the same as Paul preached, + which was the + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“power of God unto salvation to every one that + believeth.”</span + > + But in Rev. 14:6 and 7 we read:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having + the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the + earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and + people, saying with a loud</span + > + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page029">[pg 029]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg029"></a + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his + judgment is come; and worship him that made heaven, and + earth, and the sea, and the fountain of waters.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The gospel is here called the + <span class="tei tei-q">“everlasting gospel,”</span> and must + necessarily be referred to the gospel of Christ. In connection + with the preaching of that gospel, was the proclamation that the + judgment hour had come. Not that this message was appended to the + gospel, but the angel who had the everlasting gospel to preach + said, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Fear God ... for the hour of his judgment is come.”</span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The gospel of Jesus Christ embraces all truth relating to + salvation. The warnings, counsel, invitations, promises, precepts, + prophecies, or whatever the Lord would have the people hear,—the + gospel embraces them all. In the days of Noah, the gospel included + repentance, faith, obedience, with the promises of grace and + mercy; it also included the warning of the impending judgment. And + the only way to escape that judgment was through the gospel. So + here in Revelation we have the gospel with all it implies, + including the message of Christ's second coming and kingdom and + the judgment. Closely associated with this message are two others + as given in Rev. 14:8-12. The first is merged into these. Then + immediately following their proclamation we have the following + scene:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And I looked and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud + one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a + golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle.... And he that + sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the + earth was reaped.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Rev. 14:14-16.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + In Rev. 14:6-16, then, we learn what is the meaning of the term + <span class="tei tei-q">“gospel of the kingdom.”</span> It is + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">the</span></em + > + gospel, and it embraces the admonitions and instructions relative + to the second coming of Christ. And now that we have reached that + time, the complete gospel embraces the good + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page030">[pg 030]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg030"></a> news of the coming + kingdom with appropriate warnings and teachings. Our Saviour says + it + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all + nations.”</span + > + The Revelator says the message is to be preached + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people.”</span + > + When this shall be done, the end will come. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The world-wide proclamation of the soon coming of Christ was + inaugurated about 1832. Since that time, the work of extending its + warning voice has gone on. A most remarkable feature of this + movement is the fact that in different countries individuals were + moved upon, almost simultaneously, to study the prophecies and + proclaim the nearness of the end, although they knew nothing of + what was being done by others. In the United States and Canada, in + Great Britain, Norway, Sweden, Germany, and in Asia, a profound + interest in this subject was created, and people were led to + expect the early appearance of Jesus. Since that time clearer + light has appeared in connection with the other messages of + Revelation 14, and still the work is onward. Wherever the light of + the Bible has penetrated, the good news of the coming Saviour is + now going. Not only so, but messengers bearing this gracious + warning are rapidly finding their way into the dark portions of + the earth. Evidence of its extent and progress might be expressed + in facts and figures, but the rapid development of the work would + soon leave these in the rear. Let it suffice to say that at + present the everlasting gospel is being preached and published in + all the leading languages and countries of the world. The work has + encircled the globe. It is rapidly reaching every nation. We now + wait for the approaching end; for when the purpose of God in the + proclamation of the coming reign of Christ shall be fully + accomplished, then the end will come. + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page031">[pg 031]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg031"></a> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Thus far in this discourse Jesus has passed over the entire + Christian dispensation. Beginning with a warning against the + deceptions that were to succeed his own times, he next describes + wars and disasters, persecutions, apostasy, the perils of the last + days, and closes with a distinct sign of the end. + </p> + </div> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-top: 5em; margin-bottom: 5em"> + <a id="toc11"></a> <a id="pdf12"></a> + <h1 + class="tei tei-head" + style="text-align: left; margin-top: 3.46em; margin-bottom: 3.46em" + > + <span style="font-size: 173%">When Shall These Things Be?</span> + </h1> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps"> + Verses</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">15-20:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >When ye, therefore, shall see the abomination of desolation, + spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place + (whoso readeth, let him understand); then let them which be in + Judea flee into the mountains; let him which is on the + housetop not come down to take anything out of his house; + neither let him which is in the field return back to take his + clothes. And woe unto them that are with child, and to them + that give suck in those days! But pray ye that your flight be + not in the winter, neither on the Sabbath day.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Our Lord having in verses 5-14, passed over the important events in + the Christian age down to the end, goes back and introduces in verse + 15 the destruction of Jerusalem, in answer to the inquiry, + <span class="tei tei-q">“When shall these things be?”</span> Luke's + version of this language is, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“When ye shall see Jerusalem encompassed with armies, then know + that the desolation thereof is nigh.”</span + > + Luke 21:20. By this we know that the term + <span class="tei tei-q">“abomination of desolation”</span> refers to + the Roman army. This desolating power is spoken of by Daniel as + follows:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy + the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with + a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are + determined.... And for the over-spreading of abominations he + shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that + determined shall be poured upon the desolate.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">Margin,</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">desolator.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Dan. 9:26, 27.</span> + </p> + </div> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page032">[pg 032]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg032"></a> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1em" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/i_032.png" + ><img alt="Illustration" src="images/i_032.png" + /></a> + <div + class="tei tei-head" + style="text-align: center; margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em" + > + Destruction of Jerusalem by Titus + </div> + </div> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page033">[pg 033]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg033"></a> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Here is a clear prophecy of the destruction of Jerusalem by the + Roman armies. Our Lord referred to the book of Daniel, and taught + his disciples to read and understand it; and when they should see + take place what was there predicted, they must make their escape. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + It would seem to be impracticable to flee from a city after it was + encompassed with armies; but our Saviour did not speak at random. + Josephus tells us that Cestius, the Roman general who first led the + attack upon Jerusalem, became dismayed at the apparent forces and + strength of the city, and after having surrounded the city raised + the siege. The historian says: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“He retired from the city, without any reason in the + world.”</span + >—<span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-style: italic">“</span + ><span style="font-style: italic">Wars,</span + ><span style="font-style: italic">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-style: italic">book ii, chap. xix.</span></span + > + And in the first words of the succeeding chapter he further states: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“After this calamity had befallen Cestius, many of the most + eminent Jews swam away from the city, as from a ship when it was + going to sink.”</span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Dr. A. Clarke, commenting on verse 16, says:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >This counsel was remembered and wisely followed by the + Christians afterwards. Eusebius and Epiphanius say, that at + this juncture, after Cestius Gallus had raised the siege, all + who believed in Christ left Jerusalem and fled to Pella, and + other places beyond Jordan.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The flight of the Christians of Judea to the mountains would be + attended with difficulties. And their subsequent condition would be + that of hardship and suffering. The Lord knew this, and gave them + the instructions and warnings necessary. The statement of verse 19 + was given to save them from the sorrows of unnecessary woe. That was + a time of trouble. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Jesus recognizes the existence of the Sabbath, in verse 20, as late + as the destruction of Jerusalem, as verily as he does the seasons of + the year. + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-style: italic">The Sabbath</span></span + >, is the uniform + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page034">[pg 034]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg034"></a> term of both Testaments + to designate the very day on which Jehovah rested after the + creation, the day upon which he put his blessing, and which he set + apart for man. Not only in this instance does our Saviour show his + regard for the sacred day of rest, but in his life he kept it (see + Luke 4:16); in his teaching he upheld it, and taught its true + character (Matt. 12:12); and when he lay in the tomb, the devout + women reverently rested + <span class="tei tei-q">“according to the commandment.”</span> He + himself is Lord of the Sabbath, and he declares that it was made for + man. Mark 2:27, 28. Jesus does not speak of the Sabbath as being + only a seventh part of time, or one day in seven, and no day in + particular. The Sabbath is the term used, referring to the last day + of the first week of time, and to the last day of each subsequent + week. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + It is thus that Jesus answered the question, + <span class="tei tei-q">“When shall these things be?”</span> He now + proceeds to answer the second great question. + </p> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-top: 5em; margin-bottom: 5em"> + <a id="toc13"></a> <a id="pdf14"></a> + <h1 + class="tei tei-head" + style="margin-bottom: 3.46em; text-align: left; margin-top: 3.46em" + > + <span style="font-size: 173%" + >What Shall Be The Sign Of Thy Coming?</span + > + </h1> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps"> + Verse</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">21:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since + the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall + be.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + It is not surprising, perhaps, that upon a casual reading some + should conclude that this verse had its fulfillment at the siege of + Jerusalem by Titus. It was a time of great suffering, and the verse + follows so closely those which relate to the destruction of the + city, that this explanation suggests itself readily enough. But for + good reasons we cannot accept that application of this verse. Jesus + is giving a <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page035">[pg 035]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg035"></a> continuous prophecy. The + narrative proceeds from verse to verse along the line of the entire + dispensation. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The <span class="tei tei-q">“great tribulation”</span> mentioned in + verse 21 is that of the church of Christ, and not the tribulation of + the Jews at the destruction of Jerusalem. We offer the following + reasons for so deciding:— + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + 1. It is a fact that the tribulation of the Christian church, + especially under the reign of the papacy, was greater than God's + people had suffered before + <span class="tei tei-q">“since the beginning of the world.”</span> + The tribulation of the Christian church has been greater than it + will ever be again. True, a time of trouble + <span class="tei tei-q">“such as never was,”</span> spoken of in + Dan. 12:1, is coming + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">upon the wicked</span></em + >; but we find in the same verse this blessed promise, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“And at that time thy people shall be delivered.”</span + > + The tribulation of the Jews at the destruction of Jerusalem was not + greater than the world will ever witness. The vials of Jehovah's + unmingled wrath are yet to be poured out, not upon the people of one + nation only, but upon the guilty people of all nations. + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >The slain of the Lord shall be at that day from one end of + the earth even unto the other end of the earth; they shall not + be lamented, neither gathered, nor buried.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Jer. 25:33.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + 2. If the tribulation be applied to the Jews, or to any other class + of unbelieving men, it cannot be harmonized with Dan. 12:1, which + speaks of the time of trouble such as never was, when Michael shall + stand up. Certainly there cannot be two times of trouble at + different periods, greater than ever was or ever would be. Therefore + the <span class="tei tei-q">“tribulation”</span> spoken of in Matt. + 24:21, 29, applies not to the Jews, but to the church of Christ, + extending through the 1260 years of papal persecution; and the + <span class="tei tei-q">“trouble”</span> mentioned in Dan. 12:1, to + the unbelieving world, to be experienced by them in the future. + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page036">[pg 036]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg036"></a> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 60%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/i_036.png" + ><img alt="Illustration" src="images/i_036.png" + /></a> + <div + class="tei tei-head" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center; margin-top: 1em" + > + St. Bartholomew Massacre. + </div> + </div> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page037">[pg 037]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg037"></a> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + 3. The period of tribulation was shortened for the elect's sake. + This cannot refer to the Jews, for their house had been pronounced + desolate. They were left of God in their hardness of heart and + blindness of mind. Says Paul, + <span class="tei tei-q">“Lo, we turn to the Gentiles.”</span> The + elect were the followers of our Lord Jesus Christ. And where were + they when tribulation was upon the Jews?—They had fled to the + mountains. It is absurd, then, to say that the days of tribulation + of the Jews in the city of Jerusalem, were shortened for the sake of + the elect, who had fled from the place of tribulation. Moreover the + tribulation that came upon Jerusalem was not restrained or modified, + but continued until the city was destroyed and its people were given + to the sword and to captivity. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + 4. The connection between verses 20 and 21 shows that the + tribulation was to commence with those Christians who were to flee + out of the city. + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on + the Sabbath-day; for then shall be great tribulation.”</span + > + Our Lord here speaks of the tribulation which his people would + suffer from the time of their flight onward. We follow them in their + flight to the mountains, and then pass along down through the noted + persecutions of the church of God under pagan Rome, and we see, + indeed, + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">tribulation</span></em + >. And when we come to the period of papal persecutions, we see them + suffering the most cruel tortures, and dying the most dreadful + deaths that wicked men and demons could inflict. This last period is + especially noted in prophecy. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The prophet Daniel saw the papacy, its blasphemy, its ignorance, its + work of death on the saints, and its duration as a persecuting + power, under the symbol of the little horn. + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page038">[pg 038]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg038"></a> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1em" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/i_038.png" + ><img alt="Illustration" src="images/i_038.png" + /></a> + <div + class="tei tei-head" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center; margin-top: 1em" + > + Taking the Pope Prisoner. 1798. + </div> + </div> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page039">[pg 039]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg039"></a> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And he shall speak great words against the Most High, and + shall wear out the saints of the Most High, and think to + change times and laws; and they shall be given into his hand + until a time and times and the dividing of time.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Dan. 7:25.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + It is generally admitted that + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“a time and times and the dividing of time”</span + > + is 1260 years. The proof of it may readily be seen by comparing Rev. + 12:14, 6; 13:5, with the scripture just quoted. In these passages we + learn that + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“time, times, and the dividing of time”</span + > + is equivalent to a thousand two hundred and threescore days, which + equals three and one half Biblical years, or + <span class="tei tei-q">“forty and two months.”</span> Applying the + scriptural rule of interpretation, a day for a year (Eze. 4:6), we + have 1260 years. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + This period is to cover the supremacy of the papacy. The beginning + of it will be the point of the establishment of the power of the + papacy. This was the year 538 + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-variant: small-caps">a. d.</span></span + > + Justinian, emperor of Rome, with his capital at Constantinople, + espoused the cause of the bishop of Rome; and in 533 + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-variant: small-caps">a. d.</span></span + > + issued a decree which constituted that prelate head of all the + churches. But the Arian Ostrogoths had possession of Rome, and it + was not until they had been rooted up that the city was accessible + to the bishop. This was accomplished in 538, by Belisarius, + Justinian's celebrated general. For a concise and clear account of + this occurrence we refer the reader to the + <span class="tei tei-q">“Two Republics,”</span> by A. T. Jones, pp. + 551-553. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Commencing the 1260 years + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-variant: small-caps">a. d.</span></span + > + 538, they reach to + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-variant: small-caps">a. d.</span></span + > + 1798, when Berthier, a French general, took possession of Rome. The + pope was made a prisoner and carried with violence away from his + palace and out of Italy. The papacy was stripped of its civil power. + Here ended the days of tribulation spoken of by our Lord, which + were— + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page040">[pg 040]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg040"></a> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-bottom: 4em; margin-top: 4em"> + <a id="toc15"></a> <a id="pdf16"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + margin-top: 2.88em; + text-align: left; + " + > + <span style="font-size: 144%" + >Shortened For The Elect's Sake.</span + > + </h2> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verse</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">22:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And except those days should be shortened, there should no + flesh be saved; but for the elect's sake those days shall be + shortened.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The papacy was clothed with civil power to punish heretics, which + it held for 1260 years; and had not the period of tribulation of + the elect in the providence of God been shortened, the martyrdom + of the church would have continued to 1798, in which event, no + flesh of the elect would have been saved. But the Reformation + under Martin Luther, and those associated with this great + reformer, modified this tribulation, and continued to restrain the + rage and power of the papacy until the suppression of the Jesuits + in 1773, since which time, there has been no general persecution + waged against the church. Thus we are brought in this prophetic + discourse of our Lord, down into the eighteenth century, very near + the present time. We would naturally expect, then, that the + instructions and warnings which follow would be applicable to this + generation. + </p> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-bottom: 4em; margin-top: 4em"> + <a id="toc17"></a> <a id="pdf18"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + text-align: left; + margin-top: 2.88em; + " + > + <span style="font-size: 144%">Lo, Here, And Lo, There.</span> + </h2> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verses</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">23-27:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or + there; believe it not. For there shall arise false christs, + and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; + insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the + very elect. Behold, I have told you before. Wherefore if + they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not + forth: behold: he is in the secret chambers; believe it not. + For as the lightning cometh out of the east and shineth even + unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man + be.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + In these verses the great theme of Christ's second coming is again + vividly brought forth. Satan is ever on the alert to contravene by + some device or art, the work of God. His most successful plan is + to deceive. By this means he gains ready access to all such as + desire to evade the force of + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page041">[pg 041]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg041"></a> truth. And having + deceived an individual, he not only prevents his salvation, but + gains to himself an adherent if not an active agent. So, as the + time for the second advent draws near, the enemy becomes + particularly active, knowing that he hath but a short time. In the + words last quoted our Lord seeks to prepare the minds of his + people for the deceptions that are to be practiced upon those who + live near the time of his second coming. There will be those who + will cry, + <span class="tei tei-q">“Lo, here; or Lo, there,”</span> some will + even claim to be Christ. They will purport to represent the truth + in regard to Christ's coming in various plausible or fanatical + ways. Others, in order to reach other minds, will present theories + of human device accounting for the advent of Christ in various + so-called rational schemes. Many sincere people will be led to + expect the conversion of the world through a millennium of peace. + Others will be persuaded that the coming of Christ means death. + And even false prophets, showing great signs and wonders, will + appear. All these form an atmosphere of deception, the miasma of + which will stupefy, if it were possible, the elect of God. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + In this fearful work will be engaged the notorious deceiver, the + trained agents of Satan, the worldly philosopher, worldly + preachers, popular ministers, critics of the Bible, and many whose + eyes do not discern the signs of the times. The Mormons call the + people to the desert; Spiritualism invites us to the secret + chamber, where Satanic signs and wonders are wrought to captivate + the mind and divert it from the truth. Of these + <span class="tei tei-q">“false prophets”</span> Paul speaks in 1 + Tim. 4:1:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times + some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing + spirits and doctrines of devils.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page042">[pg 042]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg042"></a> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + In another scripture the apostle places the coming of Christ in + connection with— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >The working of Satan with all power and signs and lying + wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in + them that perish; because they received not the love of the + truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God + shall send them strong delusions, that they should believe a + lie.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">2 Thess. 2:9-11.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + These are some of the deceptions of which Christ is speaking in + the text. It is undoubtedly the work of modern Spiritualism. This + work, in its present form, originated in the year 1848, and + constitutes and is to constitute one of the most prominent signs + of the end. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Let no one be deceived by any means. For these are but + subterfuges. They are not the coming of Christ. He has said, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“I will come again, and receive you unto myself.”</span + > + John 14:3. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The angels said at his ascension,— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >This same Jesus</span + ></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall</span + > + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >so come in like manner</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >as ye have seen him go into heaven.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Acts 1:11.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em">Paul tells us,—</p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >The Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, + with the voice of the archangel and with the trump of + God.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">1 Thess. 4:16.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + And here our Saviour says:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >As the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth, unto + the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man + be.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + He will come literally, personally, the same Jesus who was here + upon the earth. Not in lowly form as an offering for sin, to be + set at naught, abused, and crucified, but in + <span class="tei tei-q">“all his glory”</span> attended with + <span class="tei tei-q">“all the holy angels.”</span> Matt. 25:31. + We shall know when he comes for + <span class="tei tei-q">“every eye shall see him.”</span> Rev. + 1:7. + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page043">[pg 043]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg043"></a> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + None of these evasions of the truth will ever be able to + counterfeit the real event. The Roman army did not come to + Jerusalem in this way. Death does not come in this way. The + deceptive wonders of Spiritualism cannot imitate the glory of + Christ's second coming. He will come in power and great glory + (verse 30); he will come in the glory of his Father (chapter + 16:27); and in the glory of the holy angels (Luke 9:26); all the + holy angels shall come with him. Matt. 25:31. His coming will be + as glorious and resplendent as the lightning. When Jesus revealed + himself to Saul of Tarsus, there was a light above the brightness + of the sun (Acts 26:13); of the angel who appeared at the tomb + after the resurrection of Jesus it is said, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“His countenance was like lightning”</span + > + (Matt. 28:3); and Ezekiel says of the messengers of the Most High, + they + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“ran and returned as the appearance of a flash of + lightning.”</span + > + Eze. 1:14. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + When Jesus comes in the glory of his Father, with so glorious a + train attendant, his coming will indeed be as the lightning coming + out of the east and shining to the west, and no one will have any + more occasion or opportunity to say to his fellow, + <span class="tei tei-q">“See here,”</span> than one would have to + call another to behold a gleam of lightning flashing through the + heavens. The vivid lightning flashing out of the distant east, and + shining even to the west, lights up the whole heavens. What, then, + when the Lord comes in flaming glory, and all the holy angels with + him? The presence of only one holy angel at the sepulcher where + Christ lay dead, caused the Roman guard to shake, and become as + dead men. The light and glory of one angel completely overpowered + those strong sentinels. The Son of man is coming in his own kingly + glory, and in the glory of his Father, attended by all the holy + angels. Then the + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page044">[pg 044]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg044"></a> whole heavens will + blaze with glory, and the whole earth will tremble before him. + </p> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-top: 4em; margin-bottom: 4em"> + <a id="toc19"></a> <a id="pdf20"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + margin-top: 2.88em; + text-align: left; + " + > + <span style="font-size: 144%">The Signs Of Christ's Coming.</span> + </h2> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verses</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">29-31:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the + sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and + the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the + heavens shall be shaken. And then shall appear the sign of + the Son of man in heaven, and then shall all the tribes of + the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in + the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory. And he + shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet; and + they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, + from one end of heaven to the other.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + We have before seen that our Lord speaks in this chapter of the + long period of tribulation that was to come upon his followers, + and we have also seen how those days of tribulation were shortened + for the elect's sake. Christ says that the sun should be darkened + immediately after the tribulation of those days. Mark in his + gospel, gives it as follows:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >In those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be + darkened, and the moon shall not give her light.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Mark 13:24.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + This makes the time in which the sun was to be darkened more + distinct and definite. The days of tribulation were the 1260 years + of papal supremacy, beginning in 538 + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-variant: small-caps">a. d.</span></span + > + and ending with the capture of Rome and the pope by the French in + 1798. But we have already seen that the + <span class="tei tei-q">“tribulation”</span> or persecution of + those days was <span class="tei tei-q">“shortened”</span> for the + elect's sake. That is, the active persecution of the church by + papal power ceased in 1773. Then, according to Mark's statement, + the sun should be darkened between that date and 1798. It was + fulfilled. May 19, 1780, has passed into history as + <span class="tei tei-q">“the dark day.”</span> + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page045">[pg 045]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg045"></a> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + This is a fact of so general knowledge that we need not consume + space in elucidating it. A few references to undoubted authorities + will suffice. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Noah Webster's dictionary, in the edition for 1869, under the head + of Explanatory and Pronouncing Vocabulary of Noted Names, says:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >The dark day</span + ></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >, May 19, 1780—so called on account of a remarkable + darkness on that day extending over all New England. In some + places, persons could not see to read common print in the + open air for several hours together. Birds sang their + evening songs, disappeared, and became silent; fowls went to + roost; cattle sought the barn-yard; and candles were lighted + in the houses. The obscuration began about ten o'clock in + the morning, and continued till the middle of the next + night, but with differences of degree and duration in + different places. For several days previous, the wind had + been variable, but chiefly from the south-west and the + north-east. The true cause of this remarkable phenomenon is + not known.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + From another good authority we quote:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >A solemn gloom of unusual darkness before ten o'clock,—a + still darker cloud rolling under the sable curtain from the + north and west before eleven o'clock,—excluded the light so + that none could see to read or write in the House, even at + either window, or distinguish persons at a small distance, + or perceive any distinction of dress in the circle of + attendants; wherefore, at eleven o'clock adjourned the House + till two in the afternoon.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">—</span + ><span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >Journal of the Connecticut House of Representatives, + Friday, May 19, 1780.</span + ></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Herschel, the great astronomer, says:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >The dark day in Northern America was one of those wonderful + phenomena of nature which will always be read with interest, + but which philosophy is at a loss to explain.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + A contemporary paper contained the following:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >During the whole time a sickly, melancholy gloom overcast + the face of nature. Nor was the darkness of the night less + uncommon and terrifying than that of the day, for + notwithstanding there was almost a</span + > + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page047">[pg 047]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg047"></a + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >full moon, no object was discernible but by the help of + some artificial light, which seen from the neighboring + houses and other places at a distance appeared through a + kind of Egyptian darkness which seemed almost impervious to + its rays. This unusual phenomenon excited the fears and + apprehensions of many people.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">—</span + ><span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >Mass. Spy, Correspondence, 1780.</span + ></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + From another good authority we take the following:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Almost, if not altogether alone as the most mysterious and + as yet unexplained phenomenon of its kind in nature's + diversified range of events during the last century, stands + the dark day of May 19, 1780, a most unaccountable darkening + of the whole visible heavens and atmosphere in New England, + which brought intense alarm and distress to multitudes of + minds, as well as dismay to the brute creation, the fowls + fleeing, bewildered, to their roosts, and the birds to their + nests, and the cattle returning to their stalls. Indeed + thousands of the good people of that day became fully + convinced that the end of all things terrestrial had come; + many gave up, for the time, their secular pursuits, and + betook themselves to religious devotions.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">—</span + ><span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >Our First Century.</span + ></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + An extract from a sermon preached at that time will be of + interest:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >But especially I mention that</span + > + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >wonderful darkness</span + ></em + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >on the 19th of May inst. [1780]. Then, as in our text, the + sun was darkened; such a darkness as probably was never + known before since the crucifixion of our Lord. People left + their work in the house and in the field. Travelers stopped; + schools broke up at eleven o'clock; people lighted candles + at noonday; and the fire shone as at night. Some people, I + have been told, were in dismay, and thought whether the day + of Judgment was not drawing on. A great part of the + following night also was singularly dark. The</span + > + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >moon, though in the full, gave no light</span + ></em + ><span style="font-size: 90%">, as in our text.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">—</span + ><span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >From a manuscript sermon by Rev. Elam Potter, delivered May + 28, 1780.</span + ></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + By the remarkable obscuration of the moon on the following night, + the next sign, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“And the moon shall not give her light,”</span + > + was fulfilled. Concerning this it is only necessary to insert a + few words:— + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page048">[pg 048]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg048"></a> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >The night succeeding that day (May 19, 1780) was of such + pitchy darkness that, in some instances, horses could not be + compelled to leave the stable when wanted for service. About + midnight, the clouds were dispersed, and the moon and stars + appeared with unimpaired brilliancy.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">—</span + ><span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >Stone's History of Beverly.</span + ></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Mr. Tenny, of Exeter, N. H., quoted by Mr. Gage, to the Historical + Society, speaking of the dark day and dark night of May 19, 1780, + says:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >The darkness of the following evening was probably as gross + as has ever been observed since the Almighty first gave + birth to light. I could not help conceiving at the time, + that if every luminous body in the universe had been + shrouded in impenetrable darkness, or struck out of + existence, the darkness could not have been more complete. A + sheet of white paper held within a few inches of the eye was + equally invisible with the blackest velvet.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Concerning a similar phenomenon in the Old World a reliable work + says:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Three years later, and Europe with its teeming millions + went under as mysterious a cloud, which, though not so + dense, yet continued longer and awoke a wonder and fear that + was widely felt. A haze, for which no known cause was then + assigned (though in subsequent years it has been supposed by + some to have been volcanic dust), spread through the entire + breadth of the atmosphere over all the continent far into + Asia. It appeared in Denmark, May 29, reached France, June + 14; Italy, June 16; Norway, June 22; Austria and + Switzerland, June 23; Sweden, June 24; and Russia, June 25. + By the close of the month it had overspread like a pall all + Syria, and on July 18, had penetrated the heart of Asia to + the Altai Mountains. The obscurity prevailed a greater + portion of the summer, imparting to the sun an unnatural + color of a dull, rusty red, and causing both the days and + nights to wear a weird and gloomy aspect. The atmosphere was + highly electric, and nature was greatly convulsed.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Dr. N. Webster in his valuable</span + > + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">‘</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">History of Pestilences,</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">’</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >vol. ii. p. 274, testifies to the general fear. As it was + in America on the occurrence of the</span + > + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">‘</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">dark day,</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">’</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >so the churches in Europe were crowded with alarmed + multitudes supplicating mercy of Heaven. Professor + Lalande,</span + > + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page049">[pg 049]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg049"></a + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >the astronomer of France, attempted to quiet the popular + fear by ascribing the darkened heavens to exhalations + arising out of the earth; but both Webster and Humboldt + (Cosmos IV., p. 75) rejected this solution of the mysterious + obscurity. Protestant England shared in the alarm it + occasioned; and the poet Cowper sang that all the + elements</span + > + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">‘</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >preached the general doom.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">’</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >It was to this unaccountable obscuration of light that he + refers in his</span + > + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">‘</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">Task:</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">’</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">—</span></span + > + </p> + <div + class="tei tei-lg" + style="margin-top: 0.9em; margin-bottom: 0.9em" + > + <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 class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">‘</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Nature seems with dim and sickly eye</span + ></span + ></span + > + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left" + ><span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >To wait the close of all.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">’</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%"> ”</span></span + > + </div> + </div> + <span class="tei tei-ab" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">—</span + ><span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >Great Consummation.</span + ></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + ></span + > + </div> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-bottom: 4em; margin-top: 4em"> + <a id="toc21"></a> <a id="pdf22"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + margin-top: 2.88em; + text-align: left; + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + " + > + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-size: 144%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 144%">And The Stars Shall Fall.</span + ><span style="font-size: 144%">”</span></span + > + </h2> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + How this sign can be fulfilled is a query with some people, who, + perhaps captiously, remark that it would be impossible, since the + earth itself is but a small body compared with many of the vast + worlds of space. But all such queries are out of date now since + the sign itself has already been witnessed. On the night of + November 13, 1833, the grandest display of celestial fireworks + ever beheld took place. From works of accepted authority we take + the following descriptions of this remarkable event:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >But the most sublime phenomenon of shooting stars, of which + the world has furnished any record, was witnessed throughout + the United States on the morning of the 13th of November, + 1833. The entire extent of this astonishing exhibition has + not been precisely ascertained; but it covered no + inconsiderable portion of the earth's surface.... The first + appearance was that of fireworks of the most imposing + grandeur, covering the entire vault of heaven with myriads + of fire-balls, resembling sky-rockets. Their coruscations + were bright, gleaming, and incessant, and they fell thick as + the flakes in the early snows of December. To the splendors + of this celestial exhibition the most brilliant sky-rockets + and fire-works of art bear less relation than the twinkling + of the most tiny star to the broad glare of the sun. The + whole heavens seemed in motion, and suggested to some the + awful grandeur of the image employed in the Apocalypse, upon + the opening of the sixth seal, when</span + > + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">‘</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even</span + > + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page051">[pg 051]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg051"></a + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >as a fig-tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is + shaken of a mighty wind.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">’</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%"> ”</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">—</span + ><span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >Burritt's</span + > + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >Geography of the Heavens,</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >”</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >p. 163, ed. 1854.</span + ></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/i_050.png" + ><img alt="Illustration" src="images/i_050.png" + /></a> + <div + class="tei tei-head" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; text-align: center" + > + The Falling Stars. + </div> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + A celebrated astronomer and meteorologist, says:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Those who were so fortunate as to witness the exhibition of + shooting stars on the morning of Nov. 13, 1833, probably saw + the greatest display of celestial fire-works that has ever + been since the creation of the world, or at least within the + annals covered by the pages of history.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >In nearly all places the meteors began to attract notice by + their unusual frequency as early as eleven o'clock, and + increased in numbers and splendor until about four o'clock, + from which time they gradually declined, but were visible + until lost in the light of day. The meteors did not fly at + random over all parts of the sky, but appeared to emanate + from a point in the constellation Leo, near a star called + Gamma Leonis, in the bend of the Sickle....</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >The extent of the shower of 1833 was such as to cover no + inconsiderable part of the earth's surface, from the middle + of the Atlantic on the east to the Pacific on the west; and + from the northern coast of South America to undefined + regions among the British possessions on the north, the + exhibition was visible, and everywhere presented nearly the + same appearance. This is no longer to be regarded as a + terrestrial but a celestial phenomenon, and shooting stars + are now to be no more viewed as casual productions of the + upper regions of the atmosphere, but as</span + > + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >visitants from other worlds</span + ></em + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >, or from the planetary voids.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">—</span + ><span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >Prof. Olmstead, of Yale College.</span + ></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >No philosopher or scholar has told or recorded an event, I + suppose, like that of yesterday morning. A prophet 1800 + years ago foretold it exactly, if we will be at the trouble + of understanding stars falling to mean falling stars; + or</span + > + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">‘</span + ><span class="tei tei-foreign" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >hoi asteres tou ouranou epesan eis teen geen</span + ></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">,</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">’</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >in the only sense in which it is possible to be literally + true.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">—</span + ><span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >Henry Dana Ward, in Journal of Commerce, Nov. 14, + 1833.</span + ></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Not only here in Matthew 24 is attention directed to these signs + as premonitory of the coming of Christ. The Lord through the + prophet Joel says:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into + blood, before the great and the terrible day of the Lord + come.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page053">[pg 053]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg053"></a> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Under the sixth seal, as given in Rev. 6:12-17, we have the + following language:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, + there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as + sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; and the + stars of heaven fell unto the earth even as a fig tree + casteth her untimely figs when she is shaken of a mighty + wind. And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled + together; and every mountain and island were moved out of + their places.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + That the fourth and fifth seals apply to the papal persecution + there can be no reasonable doubt. If so, then the great earthquake + with which the sixth seal opens would be that of Lisbon, in 1755, + which agitated the greater part of the earth and destroyed many + thousands of lives, 60,000 in Lisbon alone. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The darkening of the sun and moon follows in 1780, and the falling + of the stars in 1833. Consequently the next event which we are to + expect under this seal is the departing of the heavens as a + scroll. This being future, we may say that we are living between + the thirteenth and fourteenth verses of Revelation 6. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + In the gospel as written by Luke, however, we have at this point + some additional specifications given, which are of such interest + at the present juncture. And they rightfully belong to this + exposition, since both Matthew and Luke are giving versions of the + same discourse. The passage from Luke to which reference is made + is the following:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and + in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with + perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; 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 + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Luke 21:25-27.</span> + </p> + </div> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page054">[pg 054]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg054"></a> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1em" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="width: 80%; text-align: center"> + <a href="images/i_054.png" + ><img alt="Illustration" src="images/i_054.png" + /></a> + <div + class="tei tei-head" + style="text-align: center; margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em" + > + Modern Cyclone. + </div> + </div> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page055">[pg 055]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg055"></a> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The signs in the sun, moon, and stars are here spoken of less + specifically than by Matthew, while other features of the times, + which Matthew does not notice, are introduced between those signs + and the shaking of the powers of heaven. These are of peculiar + interest to us because we are living in the very days when the + things that Luke speaks of are coming to pass. The signs here + predicted consist of violent commotions upon earth which cause + anxiety, perplexity, and distress among nations and in the hearts + of men. We may refer the expression, + <span class="tei tei-q">“the sea and the waves roaring,”</span> to + unusual disturbances of the natural elements, and we have the most + abundant evidences of its fulfillment in the storms and + convulsions of nature that are occurring by sea and land, filling + the heart with dread at the sight of every dark cloud that arises. + The tidal waves and volcanic upheavals at sea have, in the last + two or three decades, been marked with extraordinary violence. On + land, cyclones and earthquakes have carried on a fearful work of + destruction. Many instances might be cited to substantiate this + statement, but the events are too familiar to require it. Hardly a + week passes but some great calamity of this kind is recorded. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + But the expression referred to is probably susceptible of another + application in which it will be found to be as forcible and + pertinent to the present state of affairs as in the one just + noticed. This would be to give the term + <span class="tei tei-q">“sea and waves”</span> its symbolic + meaning. The prophet of old said: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“And behold the four winds of heaven strove upon the great + sea.”</span + > + Dan. 7:2. We are told that the sea represents + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.”</span + > + Rev. 17:15. Taking the words in this sense, the meaning and + fulfillment are still as apparent as before; and the expression + joins its force to that of the remainder of the passage—<span + class="tei tei-q" + >“upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page057">[pg 057]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg057"></a> the sea and the waves + roaring; men's hearts failing them for fear and for looking + after those things which are coming on the earth.”</span + > + In this sense the expression in question would indicate commotion + and violent disturbance in the social and political world. In this + meaning all will at once see the vivid force of the text as + applied to our times. + </p> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="text-align: center; width: 80%"> + <a href="images/i_056.png" + ><img alt="Illustration" src="images/i_056.png" + /></a> + <div + class="tei tei-head" + style="margin-top: 1em; text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1em" + > + Assassination of Carnot. + </div> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The times we live in are anomalous to any that have ever preceded + us. For some years there have been universal and active + preparations for war, and almost universal peace. To secure the + greatest efficiency of armed forces for defensive and offensive + purposes, has been the prime consideration of government, + especially so, as far as the Old World nations are concerned. + Europe echoes to the tread of vast hosts of war while the nations + are driven to their wits' end to provide for their support. It is + well known that these costly preparations are not for show; and + the hearts of men quail in view of the culmination which, though + delayed, must soon be reached. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + But while the temple of Janus is closed as far as international + strife is concerned, and angel hands are holding the winds of war + (see Rev. 7:1-3), internal strife and dissension are rending the + vitals of the great nations of earth. Within the confines of its + own border, each of these nations is cherishing elements of the + deadliest nature. Trouble is brewing that has for the people far + more terror than foreign complications. For some time the ominous + mutterings of an oncoming storm have been heard in every land, and + it requires no remarkable acumen to discern the rapid approach of + the crisis. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The apostle James strikes directly at the matter in a prophetic + glance and exhortation in the following language:— + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page058">[pg 058]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg058"></a> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries + that shall come upon you. Your riches are corrupted, and + your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver is + cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against + you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have + heaped treasure together for the last days. Behold, the hire + of the laborers who have reaped down your fields, which is + of you kept back by fraud, crieth; and the cries of them + which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of + Sabaoth. Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been + wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of + slaughter. Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he + doth not resist you.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">James 5:1-6.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The apostle locates the circumstances he here refers to in the + last days. He denounces the rich men who have heaped together + treasures, the rust and canker of which will be a witness against + them. They live in pleasure and wantonness while the cries of + those whose wages they have kept back enter into the ears of the + Lord of Hosts. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + There is a universal cry of hard times in all the world. It is + hard to obtain money; and yet, there never was so much money as at + present. But it is being collected—gathered in heaps—by the + powerful few, while the limited means of the masses are dwindling + lower and lower. The poorer classes witness the absorption of + wealth by the money-kings, with feelings that are being aroused to + the point of desperation by the sense of their inability to secure + what seems to them a more equitable distribution of the things of + this world. The laborers cry, and God hears their cry. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + That these things are taking place to-day as the most prominent + feature of our social life no one will for a moment deny. Such + colossal fortunes the world has heretofore at most but dreamed of. + There are men living to-day who have risen in wealth from obscure + stations to become lords + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page059">[pg 059]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg059"></a> of untold millions. + Their wealth passes the bounds of just computation, for it + includes the power of oppression by which it may be indefinitely + increased. The lavish expenditure of these means for selfish + pleasure often amounts to wantonness. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Well then, what is to be done? It is a difficult and delicate + matter to frame and secure legislation by which this or any other + class of men shall be deprived of the management of their own + business as long as that business is legitimate and is + legitimately conducted. Shall anarchy and violence be resorted to? + Shall the laborer seize the torch and the weapons of death? Shall + the country be devastated by strikes, strife, and civil war? Shall + our communities be rent with murder, arson, treason, and intense + personal hatred and enmity? No one possessing the natural + instincts of humanity could contemplate such a condition of + affairs except with horror. There are ghouls of society who gloat + in blood; but such are not true citizens, they are not neighbors, + they certainly are not Christians. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + But what shall we do as citizens, neighbors, and Christians? This + is a question of great importance just now. Inspiration long ago + foresaw our situation. The pitying Saviour long since anticipated + the sufferings that are to come upon this generation; and having, + through his servant, outlined the present condition of affairs so + closely, he certainly would not leave his followers uninformed as + to the course he would have them pursue. We have to read only two + verses farther in James's letter to find the counsel we need. + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the + Lord.</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of + the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive + the early and latter rain. Be ye</span + > + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page061">[pg 061]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg061"></a + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >also patient; stablish your hearts;</span + > + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh</span + ></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">James 5:7, 8.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="text-align: center; margin-bottom: 1em" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="text-align: center; width: 80%"> + <a href="images/i_060.png" + ><img alt="Illustration" src="images/i_060.png" + /></a> + <div + class="tei tei-head" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; text-align: center" + > + Chicago Riot. + </div> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Oppression and revolt, combination and intrigue, strife and + bloodshed, never will cease until the supreme selfishness, which + in the absence of divine grace controls all men, gives place to + true philanthropy, and a brotherhood that is not outlined by class + or sectional interests. This happy time is coming. When Jesus + comes, he will take to himself his power and reign in + righteousness. Then will the hills be brought low, the valleys + exalted, the crooked be made straight, and the rough places + smooth. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Those who are weary of strife, those who through misfortune or + oppression have been made to feel their need of relief will find + rest to their souls in looking for the coming of the Lord. It is + vain to match evil with evil or to try to cure wrong with wrong. + The gospel of Christ is the only remedy for these ills. And all + that we can really do to counteract the annoyances of this life + must be done through the gospel of peace. In this time of + perplexity, distress, and fear, let every Christian hold up + Christ. Let his patient suffering be exemplified in whatever + circumstances may come. Just a little beyond, there is relief. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Strikes, boycotts, lock-outs, trusts, unions, or any other human + device or demonstration only augments the trouble, as the + experience of the past few years shows. For there never was so + much of these things as now, and never was capital so insecure, + business so uncertain, and labor in such distress as at present. + The employment of arbitrary force provokes greater efforts on the + opposite side, and thus the breach is widened and the strife + becomes more bitter. We do not argue the merits or demerits of the + case. That there is deep wrong involved, the fruits plainly show. + It is our task only to point out the one remedy available alike to + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page062">[pg 062]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg062"></a> either and all. That + remedy is the gospel of Christ, which is soon to close in a + glorious triumph for those who have patiently and faithfully + wrought his will. + </p> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-bottom: 4em; margin-top: 4em"> + <a id="toc23"></a> <a id="pdf24"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + text-align: left; + margin-top: 2.88em; + " + > + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-size: 144%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 144%" + >The Powers Of Heaven Shall Be Shaken.</span + ><span style="font-size: 144%">”</span></span + > + </h2> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + We do not apprehend that this circumstance will occur as a sign of + Christ's coming, but rather that it will constitute one of the + events of his coming, the same as the features mentioned in the + next verse. An evident distinction may be drawn between the + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">signs</span></em + > + of the advent and the circumstances of it. With the falling of the + stars, the former cease; and with the next event the latter + commence. This event, the shaking of the powers of heaven, we must + regard as being future. It holds the same place in the events of + this chapter, that the departing of the heavens as a scroll does + in the events of the sixth seal of Revelation 6. Both follow the + falling stars. The Scriptures plainly teach that, prior to the + resurrection of the just by the voice of the Son of God, the voice + of God the Father will shake the heavens and the earth, when will + be fulfilled the shaking of the powers of the heaven. This is not + the voice of the Son of God as he descends to raise the dead. It + comes from the throne of God in the temple of heaven. + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >The Lord also shall roar out of Zion, and utter his voice + from Jerusalem, and the heavens and the earth shall shake; + but the Lord will be the hope of his people, and the + strength of the children of Israel.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Joel 3:16.</span> + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Therefore will I shake the heavens, and the earth shall + remove out of her place, in the wrath of the Lord of hosts, + and in the day of his fierce anger.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Isa. 13:13.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Paul quotes from the words of the Lord by Haggai and comments as + follows:— + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page063">[pg 063]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg063"></a> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. + And this word, yet once more, signifieth the removing of + those things that are shaken.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Heb. 12:26, 27.</span> + </p> + </div> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-top: 4em; margin-bottom: 4em"> + <a id="toc25"></a> <a id="pdf26"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + text-align: left; + margin-top: 2.88em; + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + " + > + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-size: 144%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 144%">Sign Of The Son Of Man.</span + ><span style="font-size: 144%">”</span></span + > + </h2> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Neither is this one of the signs showing that the coming of the + Son of man is near, but + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“the sign of the Son of man in heaven.”</span + > + It is that which indicates his position. When Christ ascended from + the mount of Olivet, + <span class="tei tei-q">“a cloud received him”</span> from the + sight of his disciples. They still gazed at the cloud as it rolled + upward, bearing the Saviour toward the Father's throne but they + could not see his person. When he comes + <span class="tei tei-q">“in like manner”</span> as he was taken up + to heaven, the cloud will appear, small in the distance, but as it + draws near, it will signify to those who are looking for his + return, that he is there, and soon his presence will fill the + earth with matchless glory. In Rev. 14:14, the holy seer records + his view of the coming Saviour in the following words: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one + sat like unto the Son of man.”</span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + This is not a mass of vapor but a cloud of resplendent glory. He + comes + <span class="tei tei-q">“with power and great glory.”</span> He + will + <span class="tei tei-q">“come in the glory of his Father”</span> + (Matt. 16:27); in his own glory, + <span class="tei tei-q">“and all the holy angels with him.”</span> + Matt. 25:31. The glory of the Father, of the Son, and of all the + holy angels—this glory will comprise the cloud which attends him + on the way. Of its intensity we can form no just conception. In + the presence of one angel the Roman guard + <span class="tei tei-q">“did quake and became as dead men.”</span> + There are ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of + thousands of them in this throng. Above the brightness of their + glory is that of the Father and the Son. + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page064">[pg 064]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg064"></a> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + At first the cloud is only perceptible, but as it approaches, it + attracts attention, and at length every eye is fastened intently + upon the wonderful spectacle. The trumpet resounds, the voice of + the Archangel awakens the dead, and they come forth to share in + the glorious revelation of their Redeemer. All nature is convulsed + with her coming dissolution. Each moment the glory draws nearer, + and soon the wicked can no longer endure the sight. + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they + shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with + power and great glory.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Verse 30.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Again attention is directed to the parallel language of Rev. + 6:15-47:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich + men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every + bond man, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and + in the rocks of the mountains; and said to the mountains and + rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that + sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb. For + the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to + stand?</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The prophet Isaiah describes the same thrilling event from the + other standpoint—that of the waiting people of God:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >He will swallow up death in victory, and the Lord God will + wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his + people shall he take away from off all the earth; for the + Lord hath spoken it. And it shall be said in that day, Lo, + this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save + us: this is the Lord; we have waited for him, we will be + glad and rejoice in his salvation.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Isa. 25:8, 9.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The apostle Paul gives a vivid description of the event with its + attendant circumstances as follows:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, + concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even + as others which have</span + > + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page065">[pg 065]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg065"></a + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, + even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with + him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that + we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord + shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord + himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the + voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the + dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and + remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, + to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we ever be with + the Lord.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">1 Thess. 4:13-17.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The once slighted, insulted, and crucified Saviour, now King of + kings and Lord of lords, is coming near the earth! His glory + blazes everywhere! The saints hope and rejoice with trembling. But + what an hour for the wicked! The tribes of the earth mourn. Amid + the ruins of shivered creation they hold one general + prayer-meeting. Kings and great men, rich men, chief captains and + mighty men, free and bond, all, yes, all unite in the general + wail. As the Son of man in the glory of his Father, attended by + all the holy angels, draws still nearer, consternation fills every + breast. They hide in dens and in the rocks of the mountains. Their + only hope is to be concealed from the glory of that scene. They + know it is too late to pray for mercy, that probation for the + human family has ended forever. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + But rocks cannot shelter them from the burning glory manifested by + the King of kings, attended by the whole heavenly host. When + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“the Son of man shall come in the glory of the Father,”</span + > + <span class="tei tei-q">“and all the holy angels with him,”</span> + no sinner can endure the scene and live. The exceeding brightness + of that vast multitude of angels, brighter than a thousand suns at + noonday, will pierce the sinner's lowest hiding place, and will + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“make even a speedy riddance of all them that dwell in the + land.”</span + > + Zeph. 1:18. The Son + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page066">[pg 066]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg066"></a> of man will be seen + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great + glory.”</span + > + But before his coming a great work will be done for his people. + Should he suddenly burst upon them now, they could not endure + <span class="tei tei-q">“the power and great glory”</span> of the + scene. This subject is well illustrated by the following words of + the prophet:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord; his + going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come + unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the + earth.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Hosea 6:3.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The morning is a beautiful figure of the opening glory of the day + of God. The day-star first appears, then the dawn of day. And as + the light of day increases, the eyes are enabled to endure it, and + view the sun shining in his strength. But should the light of the + sun burst upon the world suddenly at midnight, no human eye could + endure it. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + So will the people of God be prepared to meet their coming King. + They must first break away from the love and cares of this world, + and consecrate all to the Lord. Then will they, in due time, share + the outpouring of the Holy Spirit + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“as the rain, as the latter and former rain upon the + earth.”</span + > + The day-star will arise in their hearts. 2 Peter 1:19. Those who + have taken heed to the sure word of prophecy through the dark, + watching night, then raise their heads in triumph. They are filled + with faith and with the Holy Spirit. Glory is poured upon them + till they can gaze on Christ and angels. The trumpet sounds. The + angels are dispatched to the graves of the righteous. The voice of + the Son of God awakes the sleeping saints of all ages. They come + forth in immortal perfection and, as they leave the earth, the + living saints are changed. The + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“elect from one end of heaven to the other,”</span + > + each with an angel bright and strong to lead the way, are caught + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page067">[pg 067]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg067"></a> up to meet the Lord, + who waits in mid-heaven to receive the purchase of his blood. As + language would fail to describe what follows, we leave the reader + to contemplate it, praying that we may be prepared to participate + in the meeting scene. + </p> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-top: 4em; margin-bottom: 4em"> + <a id="toc27"></a> <a id="pdf28"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + text-align: left; + margin-top: 2.88em; + " + > + <span style="font-size: 144%">Parable Of The Fig-Tree.</span> + </h2> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verses</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">32, 33:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Now learn a parable of the fig-tree; when his branch is yet + tender and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is + nigh. So likewise ye when ye shall see all these things, + know that it [</span + ><span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">‘</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">he,</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">’</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >R. V.] is near, even at the doors.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + This parable is probably the most forcible figure that could be + used with which to illustrate this subject. When the trees of the + field begin to put forth their leaves, and the tender grass + springs up, and the ground is being covered with its green velvet + carpet, we know that summer is nigh. It is a certainty with us + that summer is coming when we see these signs in nature. We know + that summer is nigh + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“<em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">So, likewise</span></em + >,”</span + > + or, with the same certainty, we may + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">know</span></em + > + that Christ's coming is near when the signs in the sun, moon, and + stars are fulfilled. How near?—Even at the doors. How near may + that be? + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verse</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">34:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Verily I say unto you. This generation shall not pass, till + all these things be fulfilled.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + It is sometimes claimed that the generation spoken of was the one + then living. If so, it could have been to no greater extent than + referring to the answer of the question relating to the + destruction of Jerusalem. But it would be wholly illogical to + limit the application of the statement to that generation or to + place its principal significance there. + <span class="tei tei-q">“All these things”</span> must include the + signs and circumstances of which Christ has been speaking. In the + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page068">[pg 068]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg068"></a> + preceding verses he gives the parable of the fig-tree, and + addresses those who are to be living at that time directly. + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“So likewise + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">ye</span></em + >, when + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">ye</span></em + > + shall see all these things, + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">know</span></em + > + that it is near.”</span + > + And then, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“<em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">This</span></em + > + generation shall not pass.”</span + > + What generation? Evidently the one which he was addressing, and + which saw + <span class="tei tei-q">“these things come to pass.”</span> Not + only does such an interpretation do no violence to the Saviour's + meaning, but it is obviously the only one that can be reasonably + entertained in regard to it. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Paul speaks in the first person of those who will be living when + Jesus comes, for he says, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a + moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump.”</span + > + 1 Cor. 15:51, 52. Or, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together + with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air.”</span + > + 1 Thess. 4:17. The things here mentioned by the apostle did not + take place in his day. They have not yet taken place. + Notwithstanding, he speaks of them as though they would take place + in his day, and as if he were to have a part in them. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The proclamation of the coming and kingdom of Christ is given to + the last generation. God sent Noah to preach to the last + generation before the flood, not to any preceding one. The very + generation which was destroyed by the waters of the flood saw Noah + build the ark, and heard his warning voice. So God has raised up + men to give the solemn warning to the world at the right time to + give force to the warning. And the very generation of men that + live after the three great signs are fulfilled, and who hear and + reject the warning message of Heaven, will drink the cup of the + unmingled wrath of God. And those of this very generation who + receive the message, suffer disappointments, and endure the trials + of the waiting position, will witness + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page069">[pg 069]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg069"></a> the coming of Christ, + and exclaim, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Lo, this is our God; we have + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">waited</span></em + > + for him, and he will save us.”</span + > + Isa. 25:9. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + With what emphasis our Lord gave utterance to this sentiment! It + is a rebuke upon our unbelief. As we read it, God help us to + believe it: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till + all these things be fulfilled.”</span + > + And as though this were not enough to lead us to unwavering faith, + he adds these forcible words: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Heaven and earth shall pass away but my words shall not pass + away.”</span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The word and promises of men may fail; but Christ has given + assurance that his word, and his word in reference to this solemn + truth, will stand though heaven and earth fail. + </p> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-top: 4em; margin-bottom: 4em"> + <a id="toc29"></a> <a id="pdf30"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + text-align: left; + margin-top: 2.88em; + " + > + <span class="tei tei-q" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-size: 144%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 144%">The Day And Hour.</span + ><span style="font-size: 144%">”</span></span + > + </h2> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verses</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">36, 37:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels + of heaven, but my Father only. But as the days of Noe were, + so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + This has become a very familiar passage of scripture because of + the frequent use that is made of it to prove that nothing can be + known of the proximity of the second coming of Christ. But if we + pause a moment and lay beside this verse those we have just + studied, we shall be able to discover the exact truth at once. + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“When ye shall see these things, know that it is near even at + the doors;”</span + > + and, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“This generation shall not pass, till all these things be + fulfilled;”</span + > + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“But of that day and hour knoweth no man.”</span + > + The line of knowledge, then, lies between the former expressions + and the latter—between + <span class="tei tei-q">“even at the doors”</span> and the + definite day and hour. The former we may know, and every Christian + is commanded to know. The latter no man knoweth. One may + consistently say that he knows an event is + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page071">[pg 071]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg071"></a> near, and yet say that + he does not know the hour nor the day when it will take place. + That this is the scriptural teaching upon this point may be + readily proved by a reference to 1 Thess. 5:1-4:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need + that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that + the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For + when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden + destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with + child; and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, are not + in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a + thief.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + An evident distinction is here drawn between two classes. Upon one + class the day of the Lord will come as a thief. Those of the other + are not in darkness that that day should come as a thief upon + them. The children of God are children of light. Their heavenly + Father knows the end from the beginning, and he has promised to + reveal his secret to his people through his servants the prophets. + Amos 3:7. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The apostle Peter also bears testimony to the same truth. + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do + well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a + dark place, until the day dawn and the day-star arise in + your hearts.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">2 Peter 1:19.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The dark place here spoken of is the future. The past is lighted + up by history, the present is brought to our knowledge by press + and telegraph; but the future no human art or wisdom can + penetrate. Prophecy throws its gleam into those dark regions, yet + unexplored, and marks out the path of human history centuries and + ages before it has echoed to the footsteps of mankind. When at + last we pass along the pathway, we may, if we will, recognize the + waymarks set up here and there, every one of which + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page072">[pg 072]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg072"></a> is a monument to the + wisdom and knowledge of God, and the faithfulness of his word. + Those who have no eyes to discern these things, no ears to hear, + nor hearts to understand their significance, will pass on, and the + final event will come upon them unawares. Not so with those who + take heed to the things God has spoken. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + We would not detract an iota from the force of the verse under + consideration. It means all it says. No man knows the definite + time of Christ's coming. The day and hour, and even the year of + the second advent are purposely hidden. Some of the prophetic + periods reach to the time of the end, while others extend still + farther down, very near to the end itself; yet none of them reach + to the coming of the Son of man. The prophecies clearly point to + the period of the second advent, but do not give the definite time + of that event. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + But with this passage before us we may claim that it would be + transcending its meaning to claim upon its authority that nothing + should or could be known of the approach of Christ's coming. More + than that, it is not inconsistent with the text nor improbable + that prior to that event the Lord will in his own way reveal that + which has hitherto been withheld. Those who claim that the text + proves that nothing may be known of the period of the second + advent, make it prove too much for their own unbelief. As recorded + by Mark, the declaration reads: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the + angels which are in Heaven, neither the Son, but the + Father.”</span + > + If the text proves that men will know nothing of the period of the + second advent, it also proves that angels will know nothing of it, + and also that the Son will know nothing of it, till the event + takes place! This position proves too much, therefore proves + nothing to the point. + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page073">[pg 073]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg073"></a> Christ will know of the + period of his second advent to this world. The holy angels who + wait around the throne of heaven to receive messages relative to + the part they act in the salvation of men, will know of the time + of this closing event of salvation. And so will the waiting, + watching people of God understand. An old English version of the + passage reads, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“But that day and hour no man maketh known, neither the angels + which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.”</span + > + This is the correct reading, according to several of the ablest + critics of the age. The word + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">know</span></em + > + is used in the same sense here that it is by Paul in 1 Cor. 2:2: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“For I determined not to know [make known] anything among you, + save Jesus Christ and him crucified.”</span + > + Men will not make known the day and hour, angels will not make it + known, neither will the Son; but the Father will make it known. + Says Campbell:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Macknight argues that the term</span + > + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >known</span + ></em + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >is here used as a causative, in the Hebrew sense of the + conjugation</span + > + <span class="tei tei-foreign" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >hiphil</span + ></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">, that is,</span> + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >to make known</span + ></em + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >.... His [Christ's] answer is just equivalent to saying, + The Father will make it known when it pleases him; but he + has not authorized man, angel, or the Son to make it known. + Just in this sense, Paul uses the term</span + > + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >know</span + ></em + ><span style="font-size: 90%">, 1 Cor. 2:2:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">‘</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">I came to you</span> + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >making known</span + ></em + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >the testimony of God; for I determined to</span + > + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >make known</span + ></em + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >nothing among you but a crucified Christ.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">’</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%"> ”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Albert Barnes, in his + <span class="tei tei-q">“Notes on the Gospels,”</span> says:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Others have said that the verb rendered</span + > + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >knoweth</span + ></em + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">means sometimes to</span> + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >make</span + ></em + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >known, or to reveal, and that the passage means,</span + > + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">‘</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >that day and hour none maketh known, neither the angels, + nor the Son, but the Father.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">’</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%" + >It is true the word has sometimes that meaning, as 1 Cor. + 2:2.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + When the patriarch's work of warning and building was finished, + God said to him, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Come thou and all thy house into the ark.”</span + > + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“For yet seven days and I will cause it to rain upon the earth + forty days and forty nights.”</span + > + So when <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page074">[pg 074]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg074"></a> the waiting, watching, + weeping, toiling time shall be finished, and the saints shall all + be sealed, and shut in with God, then, we conclude, will the voice + of the Father from heaven make known the definite time. See Rev. + 16:17; Joel 3:16; Jer. 25:30. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The present is emphatically the waiting, watching time. It is the + especial period of the patience of the saints. The Lord appeals to + us thus:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Watch ye, therefore; for ye know not when the Master of the + house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the + cockcrowing, or in the morning; lest coming suddenly he find + you sleeping. And what I say unto you I say unto all, + Watch.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Mark 13:35-37.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + One of the fatal consequences of not watching is distinctly stated + in Rev. 3:3:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a + thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon + thee.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + In consequence of not watching, the people will remain in + ignorance of the approach of that hour. And the unavoidable + inference is that by watching they will be aware of and prepared + for its coming. In answer to the agonizing prayer of the Son of + God, + <span class="tei tei-q">“Father, glorify thy name,”</span> there + came a voice from heaven, saying, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.”</span + > + The disciples understood these words from heaven, while the people + that stood by said it thundered. John 12:27-29. So will the + waiting disciples of Christ understand the voice of God when he + shall speak from on high. But the unbelieving world will not + understand it. In comparing Noah's days and ours, the Lord + continues:— + </p> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-bottom: 4em; margin-top: 4em"> + <a id="toc31"></a> <a id="pdf32"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + margin-top: 2.88em; + text-align: left; + " + > + <span style="font-size: 144%">Noah's Time And Ours.</span> + </h2> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verses</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">38, 39:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >For as in the days that were before the flood, they were + eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, + until</span + > + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page075">[pg 075]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg075"></a + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >the day that Noe entered into the ark, and knew not until + the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the + coming of the Son of man be.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + A picture of the present condition of the mass of mankind is here + drawn. The people of the last generation will be like those before + the flood, while the ark was preparing. While Noah preached, and + warned them of the coming flood, they mocked. He built the ark; + and they scoffed and jeered. He was a preacher of righteousness. + His works were calculated to give edge to, and send home to the + heart, what he preached. Every righteous sermon, and every blow + struck in building the ark, condemned a careless, scoffing world. + As the time drew nearer, the people grew more careless, more + hardened, more bold and impudent, and their condemnation surer. + Noah and his family stood alone. And could one family know more + than all the world? The ark was a matter of ridicule, and Noah was + regarded as a willful bigot. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + But the Lord calls Noah into the ark. And by the hand of + Providence the beasts are led into the ark; and the Lord shuts + Noah in. This is regarded at first by the scoffing multitude as + something wonderful; but it is soon explained away by the wiser + ones, so as to calm their fears, and they breathe easier. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The day of expectation finally arrives. The sun rises as usual, + and the heavens are clear. + <span class="tei tei-q">“Now where is old Noah's flood?”</span> is + heard from a thousand impious lips. The farmer is caring for his + herds and lands, and the mechanic is pursuing his work of + building. On this very day, some are being joined in marriage. + With many it is a day of unusual feasting and sports. And while + all are looking to long years of future prosperity and happiness, + suddenly the heavens gather blackness. Fear fills every heart. The + windows <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page076">[pg 076]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg076"></a> of heaven open, and the + rain descends in torrents. + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“The fountains of the great deep are broken up,”</span + > + and here and there come gushing up rivers of water. The valleys + are fast filling up, and thousands are swept away in death. Awful + death! made still more horrible by being in consequence of + slighted mercy! But where is Noah? Ah! safe in the ark, borne upon + the billows. Safe from the flood, for God + <span class="tei tei-q">“shut him in.”</span> + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + By some people, the evidences of the soon coming of Christ are + considered insufficient to base faith upon. But the testimony and + acts of one man in the case of Noah, condemned the people + destroyed by the flood. The evidences then were sufficient, + otherwise the world would not have been condemned. But a hundred + times more convincing evidences come pouring in upon us that the + day of the Lord is near, and hasteth greatly. We follow down the + several prophetic chains of Daniel and of the Revelation, and we + find ourselves in every instance standing just before the day of + wrath. We see the signs spoken of by prophets, by Christ, and by + the apostles, fulfilling or fulfilled. And at the right time, and + in the right manner, to fulfill certain prophecies, a solemn + message arises in different parts of the world: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy + mountain; let all the inhabitants of the land tremble; for the + day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand.”</span + > + Joel 2:1. Wherever we look, we see prophecy fulfilling. While the + knowledge of God and the spirit of holiness are departing, + spiritual wickedness, like a flood, covers the land. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + But these evidences are considered insufficient to rest faith + upon. Well, what kind of evidence would the unbelieving have? + <span class="tei tei-q">“When the signs of the end,”</span> says + the skeptic, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“are fulfilled, they will be so plain that no one + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page077">[pg 077]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg077"></a> can doubt.”</span + > + But if the signs are of such a nature, and are fulfilled in such a + manner, as to compel all to believe in the coming of Christ, how + can it be as it was in the days of Noah? Men were not then + compelled to believe. But eight believing souls were saved, while + all the world besides sank in their unbelief beneath the waters of + the flood. God has never revealed his truth to man in a manner to + compel him to believe. Those who have wished to doubt his word, + have found a wide field in which to doubt, and a broad road to + perdition; while those who have wished to believe, have ever found + an everlasting rock upon which to rest their faith. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Just before the end, the world will be hardened in sin, and + indifferent to the claims of God. Men will be careless in regard + to the warnings of danger, and blinded by cares, pleasures, and + riches. An unbelieving generation will be eating, drinking, + marrying, building, planting, and sowing. It is right to eat and + drink to sustain nature, but the sin is in excess and gluttony. + The marriage covenant is holy, but God's glory is seldom thought + of. Building, planting, and sowing, necessary for convenient + shelter, food, and clothing, are right; but the world has gone + wholly after these things, so that men have no time nor + disposition to think of God, heaven, Christ's coming, and the + Judgment. This world is their god, and all their energies of body + and mind are made to serve it. And the evil day is put far away. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The faithful watchman who sounds the alarm as he sees destruction + coming, is held up before the people from the pulpits of our land, + and by the religious press, as a fanatic, a teacher of dangerous + heresies; while in contrast is set forth a long period of peace + and prosperity to the church. So the churches are quieted to + sleep. The scoffer + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page079">[pg 079]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg079"></a> continues to scoff, and + the mocker mocks on. But that day is coming. Thus saith the + prophet of God:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Howl ye; for the day of the Lord is at hand; it shall come + as a destruction from the Almighty. Therefore shall all + hands be faint, and every man's heart shall melt. And they + shall be afraid; pangs and sorrows shall take hold of + them.... Behold, the day of the Lord cometh, cruel both with + wrath and fierce anger, to lay the land desolate; and he + shall destroy the sinners thereof out of it.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Isa. 13:6-9.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p + class="tei tei-p" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center" + ></p> + <div class="tei tei-figure" style="text-align: center; width: 80%"> + <a href="images/i_078.png" + ><img alt="Illustration" src="images/i_078.png" + /></a> + <div + class="tei tei-head" + style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; text-align: center" + > + The Day of Wrath. + </div> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Most dreadful day! and is it near?—Yes; it hasteth! It hasteth + greatly! What a description given by the prophet! Read it; and as + you read, try to realize how dreadful will be that day:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >The great day of the Lord is near, it is near, and hasteth + greatly, even the voice of the day of the Lord: the mighty + man shall cry there bitterly. That day is a day of wrath, a + day of trouble and distress, a day of wasteness and + desolation, a day of darkness and gloominess, a day of + clouds and thick darkness, a day of the trumpet and alarm + against the fenced cities, and against the high towers. And + I will bring distress upon men, that they shall walk like + blind men, because they have sinned against the Lord; and + their blood shall be poured out as dust, and their flesh as + the dung. Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able + to deliver them in the day of the Lord's wrath; but the + whole land shall be devoured by the fire of his jealousy; + for he shall make even a speedy riddance of all them that + dwell in the land.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Zeph. 1:14-18.</span> + </p> + </div> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-bottom: 4em; margin-top: 4em"> + <a id="toc33"></a> <a id="pdf34"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + margin-top: 2.88em; + text-align: left; + " + > + <span style="font-size: 144%">Peace And Safety.</span> + </h2> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The attitude of the religious world toward this most important + subject is worthy of more than passing notice both because of its + effect upon the cause of truth and also because it of itself is a + sign of the times. While it is true that many individuals in the + different Christian denominations recognize with more or less + distinctness the fact that we are living in the last days, with + many of these <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page080">[pg 080]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg080"></a> it does not become a + practical truth. Outside of these there are many who ridicule the + idea as preposterous and outlandish; and in opposition to the + message that Christ is soon coming, raise the cry of, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Peace, peace, when there is no peace.”</span + > + Such teaching is alluded to by the prophet in Eze. 13:10, 11. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The groundwork of the peace and safety cry is the doctrine of the + temporal millennium. This teaches that the world is now entering, + or about to enter upon a period of universal peace and good will, + that the moral tone of the world is improving, men and nations are + learning righteousness; and the gospel of Christ is about to + become the controlling principle in public and private life. And, + further, this happy state will continue for one thousand years, + which period of time the word millennium literally signifies. At + the end of that time, perhaps, the Lord will come. However, if + this doctrine be true, it will make but little difference to this + generation or to the one living at the close of the period whether + he does or not. The verses we have just considered which liken the + last days to those of Noah wholly disprove this position. In + addition to what Matthew states, Luke gives a still more forcible + version of our Saviour's words:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in + the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they + married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day + that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and + destroyed them all. Likewise also as it was in the days of + Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they + planted, they builded; but the same day that Lot went out of + Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and + destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when + the Son of man is revealed.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">Luke 17:26-30.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Paul writes in his epistles to Timothy as follows:— + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page081">[pg 081]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg081"></a> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times + some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing + spirits, and doctrines of devils.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">1 Tim. 4:1.</span> + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall + come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, + boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, + unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, + trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, + despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, + highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; + having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: + from such turn away.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">2 Tim. 3:1-5.</span> + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, + deceiving, and being deceived.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Verse 13.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + In very many scriptures it is plainly declared that when Christ + comes, he comes not only to reward and save his people but also to + punish his enemies. Looking upon the last days he exclaims, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith + on the earth?”</span + > + Luke 18:8. The idea of a thousand years of peace and righteousness + before Christ comes might be dismissed as utterly out of the + question. But space will be given to one or two passages supposed + to teach it, which will represent the whole class. The first and + chief is found in Isa. 2:2-4:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the + mountain of the Lord's house shall be established in the top + of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and + all nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go and + say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, + to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of + his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion + shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from + Jerusalem. And he shall judge among the nations, and shall + rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into + ploughshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation + shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they + learn war any more.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Almost the same language is used in Micah 4:1-3. It is enough to + call attention to the authorship of the + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page082">[pg 082]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg082"></a> + propositions contained in the text. They come from the people. + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Many people shall go and say, Come ye,”</span + > + etc. Inspiration asserts that in the last days the mountain or + power of the Lord's house or church shall be established in the + tops of the mountains, or civil power. Undoubtedly it will. + Everything is tending to the union of Church and State and the + professed church of Christ is riding on a high tide to civil power + in all lands. But farewell to godliness and spiritual power. When + this is accomplished, in a general chorus all will proclaim the + dawning millennium. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + How the Lord regards the people who are saying these things is + shown in the succeeding verses:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Therefore thou hast forsaken thy people the house of Jacob, + because they be replenished from the east, and are + soothsayers like the Philistines, and they please themselves + in the children of strangers. Their land also is full of + silver and gold, neither is there any end of their + treasures; their land also is full of horses, neither is + there any end of their chariots: their land also is full of + idols; they worship the work of their own hands, that which + their own fingers have made.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">Isa. 2:6-8.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Now let us see what God says on the same point and concerning the + same time:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Proclaim ye this among the Gentiles; prepare war, wake up + the mighty men, let all the men of war draw near; let them + come up: beat your ploughshares into swords, and your + pruninghooks into spears: let the weak say, I am strong. + Assemble yourselves, and come, all ye heathen, and gather + yourselves together round about: thither cause thy mighty + ones to come down, O Lord. Let the heathen 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 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 the + day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision. The sun + and the moon shall be darkened, and the stars shall + withdraw</span + > + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page083">[pg 083]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg083"></a + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >their shining. The Lord also shall roar out of Zion, and + utter his voice from Jerusalem; and the heavens and the + earth shall shake: but the Lord will be the hope of his + people, and the strength of the children of Israel.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Joel 3:9-16.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Mark, this is not what the people say, but what the Lord says of + the very same time when the people are preaching a good time + coming. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Another verse referred to, and representing quite a numerous class + of similar ones, is found in Num. 14:21. + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >But as truly as I live, all the earth shall be filled with + the glory of the Lord.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + There is no occasion to modify or limit the meaning of those + words; for their utmost significance will be realized. But + when?—When sin and the curse are wiped away. After the purifying + fires of the day of the Lord have burned up the last work and + relic of rebellion, and the earth made new in Edenic glory comes + again from the hand of its Maker, as beautiful, yea, more + beautiful, if possible, than at first. It would not be within the + limits of this pamphlet to follow out this subject, but the reader + is referred to the following scriptures: Isa. 65:17-22; 2 Peter + 3:13; Revelation 21 and 22, and to published works. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + In that state this and all kindred scriptures will meet a + fulfillment that is ample and complete. But for such a condition + of things this side of the coming of Christ neither the Bible nor + the trend of events give any promise whatever. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Judging of the probability of the conversion of the world from the + facts, it would seem to be far from striking. The following table + gives a comparatively accurate showing of the present religious + status of the world:— + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page085">[pg 085]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg085"></a> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style="margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Jews and Parsees 15,470,000 + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Greek Catholics 84,136,000 + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Protestants 114,815,500 + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Brahminical Hindoos 120,000,000 + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Mohammedans 122,400,000 + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Roman Catholics 255,000,000 + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Pagans 227,000,000 + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Buddhists 482,000,000 + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Unclassified 51,050,000 + </div> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Concerning the very small proportion of this number classed in the + list of Christians, Bishop Foster has very aptly said:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >There are some who too fondly anticipate a millennium. + There is a lack of information on the progress of + Christianity. The facts are misstated daily in pulpits all + over the country. Ministers hesitate to present the worst + side for fear of causing discouragement, and they create + hopes that are never realized. We are not at the dawn of a + millennium. Compared with the work to be done, the past is + nothing. Our children's children for ten generations to come + must labor harder than we are doing, to accomplish the + conversion of the world. The world's population is + 1,500,000,000. Of these, Christians number less than a + third; and half of that third belongs to the Roman Catholic + Church. The Protestants number 114,000,000. They are divided + into 500 sects. And this number of their strength includes, + also, all the thieves, ex-convicts, the debased, besotted, + and the speckled and streaked in Christendom.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">—</span + ><span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-style: italic" + >Northwestern Christian Advocate of Dec. 2, 1885.</span + ></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Farther on in the same article the Bishop said:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Before us we have the great problem—the 1,100,000,000 of + pagans to convert to Christianity. That is the solid rock + that looms up in our path. Look at it; see what work has + been done in 1800 years, and how much is yet to be + accomplished. In India, after more than a hundred years of + mission work, we have 600,000 native converts and 2,000,000 + Christians among 260,000,000 heathen. Can we remove that + solid boulder that is as old as the hills?... Our Methodist + Church we think the most divine and ineffable. We boast that + we are going to conquer</span + > + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page086">[pg 086]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg086"></a + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >the world, and come from our palaces and princely farms to + subscribe fifty cents a head for the undertaking! It is a + burning disgrace that excites pity and disgust.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + And as to the prospects for universal peace, the following recent + statement of the armament of Europe does not indicate that the + nations are really contemplating such a happy consummation:— + </p> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Russia: 1,519,810 men, 181,000 horses, 2,084 cannon + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Germany: 835,000 men, 96,000 horses, 2,022 cannon + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Austria: 856,980 men, 58,125 horses, 1,600 cannon + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + England: 478,800 men + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + France: 1,850,000 men + </div> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The remaining states of Europe make up with the above a total of + about 6,000,000 men. + </p> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-bottom: 4em; margin-top: 4em"> + <a id="toc35"></a> <a id="pdf36"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + text-align: left; + margin-top: 2.88em; + " + > + <span style="font-size: 144%">The Final Separation.</span> + </h2> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verses</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">40, 41:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and + the other left. Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the + one shall be taken, and the other left.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + This language shows the final separation between the righteous and + the wicked. There is no elaborate explanation as to how the + circumstances will meet their fulfillment, but that is not the + essential force of the text. The line will in some cases be drawn + between those who are intimately related. Some members of the same + family will be taken away by the judgments of God, while others + will be left to receive their coming Lord. + </p> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-top: 4em; margin-bottom: 4em"> + <a id="toc37"></a> <a id="pdf38"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + margin-top: 2.88em; + text-align: left; + " + > + <span style="font-size: 144%" + >Those Who Watch Will Know The Time.</span + > + </h2> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verses</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">42-44:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Watch therefore, for ye know not what hour your Lord doth + come. But know this, that if the good man of the</span + > + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page087">[pg 087]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg087"></a + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >house had known in what watch the thief would come, he + would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to + be broken up. Therefore be ye also ready; for in such an + hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The injunction to watchfulness is repeatedly given by our Saviour + in connection with his teaching in reference to his second advent. + These injunctions must apply especially to those who live in + proximity to that event. This fact is convincing evidence that the + Lord is not displeased with those who anticipate his coming, and + study the word in reference to it. No one watches for that which + he does not expect, and indifference or aversion toward the coming + of Christ is sure evidence of coldness toward Christ himself. If + we love Jesus, we shall love his appearing and if we love his + appearing, we shall be eagerly watching and waiting for it. But if + we knew the hour when he would come, we should not watch for his + coming, nor could we with eagerness expect his coming if we had no + knowledge of its approach. The course of time has been measured + off in definite periods down to the beginning of the present + generation. The time from the end of the prophetic periods to the + coming of Christ is emphatically the waiting, watching time. Those + who watch, as our Lord commands, will eventually know the time. No + man will make it known, for it is not revealed to man in the + Scriptures. Angels will not make it known, though they may + minister to, and communicate with, the children of men. Neither + will the Son. But the Father will make it known when he speaks + again from heaven. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + It is undoubtedly true that the unscriptural and irrational course + pursued by many so-called Adventists in repeatedly setting a time + of their own for the Lord to come has had the effect to disgust + many with the whole + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page088">[pg 088]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg088"></a> matter. This is the + enemy's work. He will seek thus to obscure each truth by bringing + it into the shadow of reproach. But it is unwise to be thus + misled. Probably there is no prophecy that better describes the + present state of unbelief in the world in regard to the second + advent, caused partly by fanatical time-movements, than the + following:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Son of man, what is that proverb that ye have in the land + of Israel, saying, The days are prolonged, and every vision + faileth? 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. For there shall be + no more any vain vision nor flattering divination within the + house of Israel. 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 style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Eze. 12:22-25.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The burden of this prophecy is time; therefore the word here + mentioned that the Lord will speak, will be the time. Rev. 3:3, is + also to the point:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Remember, therefore, how thou hast received and heard, and + hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I + will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what + hour I will come upon thee.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Those who do not watch, will not know the hour. Those who watch + will know the hour. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The present watching, waiting position requires much faith and + patience. Says Paul:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Cast not away, therefore, your confidence, which hath great + recompense of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, + after ye have done the will of God [in proclaiming the + coming of Christ], ye might receive the promise. For yet a + little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not + tarry. Now the just shall live by faith;</span + > + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page089"> [pg 089]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg089"></a + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in + him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition, + but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Heb. 10:35-39.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Says James: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. + Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the + earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early + and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts; for + the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.”</span + > + James 5:7, 8. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Jesus says: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will + keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all + the world to try them that dwell upon the earth.”</span + > + Rev. 3:10. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The present position and present duty of God's people are defined + in Rev. 14:12: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep + the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.”</span + > + </p> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-bottom: 4em; margin-top: 4em"> + <a id="toc39"></a> <a id="pdf40"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + text-align: left; + margin-top: 2.88em; + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + " + > + <span style="font-size: 144%" + >The Faithful And Wise Servant.</span + > + </h2> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verses</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">45-47:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath + made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due + season? Blessed is that servant whom his lord when he cometh + shall find so doing. Verily I say unto you, that he shall + make him ruler over all his goods.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + In this figure, Christ is represented as the Lord of the household + of faith (see Mark 13:35; Heb. 3:6), leaving his house, and + committing the work of caring for his church to his servants. A + blessing is promised those servants who are found faithfully + discharging this duty when their Lord comes. They are to feed the + flock of God, over whom the Holy Ghost hath made them overseers. + Acts 20:28. They must preach the word. 2 Tim. 4:2. They should + watch for souls as they that must give account. + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page090">[pg 090]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg090"></a> Heb. 13:17. They will + not only give meat to the household, but they will give it in due + season. They will preach the + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">present</span></em + > + truth. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + And meat in due season when Christ's coming draws near, will be + the gospel of the kingdom. Verse 14. It will embrace warnings, + instructions, and encouragements pertaining to a message that is + designed and adapted to prepare the world for so solemn an event. + Suppose, for a moment, that when Noah had received his message of + the coming flood to give to the world, he had reasoned with + worldly wisdom that as such a thing never had occurred, and from + all appearances seemed very unlikely to occur, and hence to preach + it would subject him to reproach, it would be better to avoid any + particular allusion to such an unwelcome subject. His preaching + seemed to excite only ridicule. He could retain his own private + convictions and preach the ordinary principles of righteousness, + saying, + <span class="tei tei-q">“Do not so, my brethren.”</span> And if + the people were only prepared for the flood, that would be all + that would be necessary. Of such a course we can say two things. + He would thus have proved very unfaithful to his trust, and the + blood of his fellow-men would have been upon him; and he would + have done just as thousands are doing now. He certainly would not + have represented the faithful and wise servant. So it is now. A + solemn responsibility is placed upon the watchmen:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >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: if when he seeth the sword come upon the + land, he blow the trumpet, and warn the people; 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</span + > + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page091">[pg 091]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg091"></a + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >he that taketh warning shall deliver his soul. 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. 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.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Eze. 33:2-7.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + When Jesus comes, the faithful servants will be found proclaiming + his coming and teaching the necessary preparation. The Saviour + speaks of such as + <span class="tei tei-q">“faithful and wise.”</span> + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + 1. He is faithful. As a faithful watchman, he will give timely + warning when he sees the sword coming. His work just before the + end, is seen in the following scriptures:— + </p> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy + mountain; let all the inhabitants of the land tremble; for + the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">Joel 2:1.</span> + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and + show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob + their sins.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">Isa. 58:1.</span> + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-q" + ><span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus + Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his + appearing and his kingdom, Preach the word; be instant in + season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all + long-suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when + they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own + lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching + ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, + and shall be turned into fables. But watch thou in all + things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, + make full proof of thy ministry.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">2. Tim. 4:1-5.</span> + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + 2. He is wise. + <span class="tei tei-q">“He that winneth souls is wise.”</span> He + must be wise. He will hold forth the truth in its harmony and + beauty, and thus expose error and win men to the truth. When it + becomes his duty to + <span class="tei tei-q">“reprove and rebuke,”</span> it will be at + a proper time and place, and then with all + <span class="tei tei-q">“long-suffering and doctrine.”</span> He + will study to <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page092">[pg 092]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg092"></a> show himself + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, + rightly dividing the word of truth.”</span + > + 2 Tim. 2:15. + </p> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-top: 4em; margin-bottom: 4em"> + <a id="toc41"></a> <a id="pdf42"></a> + <h2 + class="tei tei-head" + style=" + margin-bottom: 2.88em; + margin-top: 2.88em; + text-align: left; + " + > + <span style="font-size: 144%">The Evil Servant.</span> + </h2> + <div + class="block tei tei-quote" + style=" + margin-top: 1.8em; + margin-left: 3.6em; + margin-bottom: 1.8em; + margin-right: 3.6em; + " + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 0.9em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-size: 90%; font-variant: small-caps" + >Verses</span + ></span + > + <span style="font-size: 90%">48-51:</span> + <span class="tei tei-q"> + <span style="font-size: 90%">“</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%" + >But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My + lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to smite his + fellow-servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; the + lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not + for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of; and shall + cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the + hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of + teeth.</span + ><span style="font-size: 90%">”</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + What the evil servant says and does, shows most clearly the + position and work of the faithful and wise servant. The evil + servant says, + <span class="tei tei-q">“My lord delayeth his coming,”</span> + because the faithful servant is proclaiming the coming of his + lord. The evil servant smites the faithful servant, because he + teaches the soon coming of his Lord. The faithful servant, true to + his commission to preach the + <span class="tei tei-q">“gospel of the kingdom”</span> + to a fallen church and a scoffing world, toils on, and for this + the evil servant smites him. Not with the fist, perhaps, but with + the tongue of obloquy and reproach. That there should be professed + servants of Christ engaged in smiting those who are faithfully + warning the world, need not cause surprise in view of the past, + but must cause sorrow in the heart of every lover of truth. The + wicked servant says in heart, and some are saying with their lips, + The Lord is not coming. The world is now just starting out upon + its career of knowledge and enjoyment. Where is the promise or + indication of his coming? Some say, He may come to-night, he may + not come in a million years, thus neutralizing the truth. Such men + will be found criticising and discounting the Scriptures and + subjecting them to the tests of human philosophy and science. The + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page093">[pg 093]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg093"></a> only safety for the + people is to look beyond such watchmen. Let them take the Bible + for themselves, and there discerning the truth, embrace it, and + live according to it. + </p> + </div> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-bottom: 5em; margin-top: 5em"> + <a id="toc43"></a> <a id="pdf44"></a> + <h1 + class="tei tei-head" + style="margin-bottom: 3.46em; margin-top: 3.46em; text-align: left" + > + <span style="font-size: 173%">Conclusion.</span> + </h1> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The impression prevails to some extent that he who teaches that + Christ is soon coming is acting the + <span class="tei tei-foreign" + ><span style="font-style: italic">rôle</span></span + > + of an alarmist. If so, we have seen that the great Teacher has + placed himself at the head of the class. No one has spoken more + positively upon this point than he has done. He said, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“In my Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I + would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go + and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you + unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”</span + > + John 14:2, 3. There is nothing ambiguous about that language. A + child can understand it. It means that Jesus will come again. In the + remarkable chapter we have here reviewed, the Saviour takes up the + subject specifically, and not only affirms the fact of his coming, + but foretells in explicit language the events which he would have us + recognize as signs of the near approach of his coming and the end of + the world. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + But the message of Christ's second coming is not sensational in its + essential character. It is a solemn, practical truth. It is full of + warning and admonition to sinners and worldly professors, and full + of comfort to the faithful followers of Christ. It is spoken of in + the Scriptures as a fact, established upon the word which never + fails. When speaking + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page095">[pg 095]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg095"></a> of his second advent, the + Saviour said, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my word shall not pass + away.”</span + > + Matt. 24:35. To disbelieve in his coming would be to doubt one of + the two great features of the gospel plan. What the harvest is to + seed-time, Christ's second advent will be to his first. To doubt + that he ever came to earth would be to subvert the gospel. To + disbelieve his second coming would nullify in the mind his first + coming, and rob the sacrifice of its glorious reward. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + The apostle Paul speaks of the second advent as + <span class="tei tei-q">“that blessed hope.”</span> Titus 2:13. + Jesus says: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“And when these things [the signs of his coming] begin to come to + pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption + draweth nigh.”</span + > + The prophet Isaiah anticipates the feelings of God's people who will + witness the event, and expresses them in the following manner: + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have + waited for him, and he will save us: This is the Lord; we have + waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his + salvation.”</span + > + Isa. 25:9. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + At his coming, the dead in Christ will be raised to everlasting + life. The righteous living will be changed to immortality. The hand + of our Saviour will wipe away all tears; + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“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 + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Why should we not rejoice in such a prospect? Who would not welcome + such a friend? Who would not rejoice in the prospect of such a + consummation? + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + But it is true that the grand event will not be attended with joy + alone. There will be dismay and anguish. For while one prophet + records the exclamations of joyful anticipation, another has + foreseen and recorded the cry of despair. + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page096">[pg 096]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg096"></a> + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, + and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and + every freeman, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the + mountains; and said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and + hide us from the face of Him that sitteth on the throne, and from + the wrath of the Lamb: for the great day of his wrath is come; and + who shall be able to stand?”</span + > + Rev. 6:15-17. A vast number will thus lament. All who cannot join + the shout of welcome will unite in the wail of despair. There will + be but two classes in that day. And to one of those classes each one + living will belong. To which shall I belong? Solemn question. To + which party will you belong, reader? No one can + <em class="tei tei-emph" + ><span style="font-style: italic">wait</span></em + > + for Christ who is not prepared for his coming. Only the precious + blood of Jesus that cleanses from sin can prepare us to receive him + and fit us to dwell in his presence. Have you an interest in his + forgiving love? Is your peace made with God? If so, his coming will + have no terror to you, for he comes to save his waiting people. + </p> + </div> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page097">[pg 097]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg097"></a> + <hr class="page" /> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-bottom: 5em; margin-top: 5em"> + <a id="toc45"></a> <a id="pdf46"></a> + <h1 + class="tei tei-head" + style="margin-bottom: 3.46em; text-align: left; margin-top: 3.46em" + > + <span style="font-size: 173%">Choice Religious Books.</span> + </h1> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + Any publication in the following list will be sent post-paid to any + address in the United States and Canada. See directions on the last + page. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">PROPHETIC LIGHTS</span></span + > + treats of some of the leading prophecies both of the Old and New + Testaments, showing the exact fulfillment of the predictions of the + Bible concerning Egypt, Tyre, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and + Rome, also of the prophecies concerning the first advent of Christ, + which prove the inspiration of the Bible, and give assurance that + other prophecies which are noted will as surely and exactly be + fulfilled. Nearly all the illustrations of this book were designed + and engraved especially for this work, at great expense, and are a + study in themselves. The book contains nearly 200 large octavo + pages, and is printed on an extra quality of heavy calendared paper. + It is bound in fine English cloth, with beautiful symbolical side + stamp in brown and gold, and has gilt edges. + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">$1.00</span></span + >. + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">MARVEL OF NATIONS</span></span + >, embracing the past, present, and future of the + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-variant: small-caps">United States</span></span + >, from a historical, political, and religious standpoint; what + great men have predicted; what the Scriptures have foretold. This + book gives a brief but comprehensive historical review of our + country, comparing the past with the present state of religion, + education, and science, and calling special attention to the + advancement that is being made by Spiritualism, Catholicism, and the + National Reform movement, which is rapidly bringing about a union of + Church and State in America. These questions are coming to the + front; and he who prizes current thought on living issues should + give them an examination. The book contains 300 pages, and over 40 + illustrations; and has reached its 200th thousand. It needs no other + indorsement than a careful reading. + </p> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + In plain edges + <span class="tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">$1.00</span></span + > + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Gilt edges + <span class="tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">1.25</span></span + > + </div> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">FROM EDEN TO EDEN.</span></span + >—This book is a most interesting study of the more important + historic and prophetic portions of the Scriptures. The author traces + the world in its career front the time when + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“God saw everything that he had made and behold it was very + good,”</span + > + on through the period while + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“the earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof,”</span + > + to the future glorious time when Christ says to his followers, + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for + you from the foundation of the world.”</span + > + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“<span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-variant: small-caps" + >From Eden to Eden</span + ></span + >”</span + > + is printed from new electrotype plates, on heavy calendared paper + made especially for this book, and contains 264 pages. It is + illustrated with numerous full-page engravings, and furnished in two + very attractive styles of binding, at the following prices:— + </p> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + In a highly ornamental binding + <span class="tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">$1.50</span></span + > + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Plain binding, with marbled edges + <span class="tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">1.00</span></span + > + </div> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">GREAT CONTROVERSY</span></span + > + between Christ and Satan during the Christian Dispensation. A + companion volume to + <span class="tei tei-q">“Patriarchs and Prophets.”</span> By the + same author. This volume presents the most wonderful and intensely + interesting history that has ever been written of the great conflict + between Christianity and the powers of darkness, as illustrated in + the lives of Christian martyrs and reformers on the one hand, and + wicked men and persecuting powers on the other. Beginning with our + Lord's great prophecy given while viewing Jerusalem from the Mount + of Olives, this book outlines the history of the whole dispensation + down to the time when + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“sin and sinners are no more; God's entire universe is clean: and + the great controversy is forever ended.”</span + > + This remarkable book contains over 700 pp., and 26 illustrations. + The work is handsomely printed and bound. + </p> + <span class="tei tei-ab" + >Bound in five styles, varying in price from + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">$4.50 to 2.25</span></span + ></span + > + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page098">[pg 098]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg098"></a> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700" + >PATRIARCHS AND PROPHETS</span + ></span + >; or the Great Conflict between Good and Evil as illustrated in the + Lives of Holy Men of Old. By Mrs. E. G. White, author of + <span class="tei tei-q">“Great Controversy,”</span> + <span class="tei tei-q">“Life of Christ,”</span> and numerous other + works on religious subjects. This book treats upon the themes of + Bible history—themes not in themselves new, but so presented here as + to give them a new significance. Beginning with the rebellion in + heaven, the author shows why sin was permitted, why Satan was not + destroyed, and why man was tested; gives a thrilling description of + man's temptation and fall; and rehearses the plan of redemption + devised for his salvation. This volume traces the great conflict + between good and evil from its inception down through the centuries + to the time of David's death, and shows God's wonderful love for + mankind by his dealings with the + <span class="tei tei-q">“holy men of old.”</span> The book contains + over 760 octavo pages. It is printed from clear, new electrotypes on + a fine quality of tinted paper. Its pages are adorned with more than + 50 engravings, over 30 of which are full-page, and many were + designed and engraved especially for this book by an artist in + Paris, France. + </p> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Furnished in four styles of binding, ranging from + <span class="tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">$4.50 to 2.25</span></span + > + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + In plain binding, with 13 illustrations + <span class="tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">1.75</span></span + > + </div> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">HERE AND HEREAFTER</span></span + >, or Man's Nature and Destiny, The State of the Dead, the Reward of + the Righteous, and the End of the Wicked. By U. Smith. A thorough + canvass of the great question of a future existence, and the nature + of man in the present life. Every text in the Bible which has any + bearing upon these points, is taken up and carefully explained, thus + giving the most comprehensive view of the subject that has yet been + presented. The work contains 444 pages. In cloth covers + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">$1.00</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">CHRISTIAN EDUCATION.</span></span + >—The most complete and comprehensive work on the subject of + Christian Education that has ever been published. Starting from the + period of infancy, it points out the most successful way of + preparing the mind of the child for the work of succeeding years. + The importance of proceeding upon Christian principles in the work + of education, the nature and kind of studies which are best for + children, and the moulding influences of home and associates, are + dwelt upon in the most practical and explicit way. Many of the + problems that perplex parents are cleared up in this book, and every + one who has to deal with children should procure and study it. + </p> + <span class="tei tei-ab" + >256 pages nicely bound in cloth + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">50 cts.</span></span + ></span + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">STEPS TO CHRIST.</span></span + >—This little work by Mrs. E. G. White presents in a simple and + attractive manner the steps by which the sinner may be made complete + in Christ. While the book is an excellent guide for inquirers and + young converts, it also contains a wealth of counsel and + encouragement for those who are laboring with the difficulties that + beset a growing experience. 157 pages. In neat cloth binding + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">75. cts.</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">HELPS TO BIBLE STUDY.</span></span + >—A series of Bible readings, simple and easy, designed as an aid to + the personal study of the Scriptures, and adapted to the use of + individuals or families; also a valuable assistant to Bible workers. + The book contains about forty readings, prepared by practical Bible + workers and teachers, and covering the most important subjects that + pertain to the spiritual welfare of mankind at the present time. 125 + pages. + </p> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + In cloth binding + <span class="tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">50 cts.</span></span + > + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + In paper covers + <span class="tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">25 cts.</span></span + > + </div> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">GOSPEL WORKERS</span></span + > + is a very interesting volume of 480 pages. It outlines the + qualifications that should be possessed by ministers and all others + who would win souls to Christ. It should be in the hands of all + Christian workers. This book can be read and studied by all classes + with edification and profit. + </p> + <span class="tei tei-ab" + >In plain substantial binding + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">$1.00</span></span + ></span + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700" + >MINISTRATION OF ANGELS</span + ></span + >, and the Origin, History, and Destiny of Satan. A work of great + interest upon a subject seldom written upon, yet of great importance + to the Christian. Bound in paper covers + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">20 cts.</span></span + > + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page099">[pg 099]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg099"></a> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">FACTS FOR THE TIMES.</span></span + >—Containing historical extracts, candid admissions from authors, + ancient and modern, on the live questions of the present hour, + political and religious. A book for these times. Revised to 1893. A + compilation of facts that are astounding, by students of Biblical + and historical research. 340 pages. In fine cloth covers + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">75 cts.</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700" + >THE SAINTS' INHERITANCE.</span + ></span + >—The reader will here find a very interesting pamphlet of 82 pages + showing that the future kingdom of Christ, with the family of the + redeemed, will be in this earth, renewed, restored, and regenerated, + according to numerous scriptures in the Old and New Testaments. + </p> + <span class="tei tei-ab" + >In paper covers + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">10 cts.</span></span + ></span + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700" + >THE GOSPEL IN CREATION.</span + ></span + >—A nicely illustrated work setting forth clearly and simply the + relation between God's work in creation and redemption. The signs of + power and greatness that mark the handiwork of God in the visible + universe are shown to be but indications of the unfailing strength + with which he works in the lives of those who submit to his will. + The confirmation of the truths of the gospel drawn from the study of + the creation will make this book a valuable one to all who are + watching with interest the attacks that are now made on the + authority of the Bible. + </p> + <span class="tei tei-ab" + >In cloth covers + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">50 cts.</span></span + ></span + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">SACRED CHRONOLOGY.</span></span + >—A new and revised edition of a little work published by the late + Sylvester Bliss about forty years ago, giving the chronology from + creation to the death of the apostle John. Also + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“The Peopling of the Earth; or, Historical Notes on the Tenth + Chapter of Genesis.”</span + > + By A. T. Jones. A valuable reference book. 298 pp. Cloth covers + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">$1.00</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700" + >LIFE OF CHRIST AND HIS APOSTLES.</span + ></span + >—A series of eight pamphlets, under the general title of + <span class="tei tei-q">“Redemption,”</span> portraying the first + advent of Christ, his temptation, his miracles, his teachings, his + sufferings, and his resurrection, and the teachings and labors of + Peter and Paul. Here are 788 pages of most excellent reading. + </p> + <span class="tei tei-ab" + >In paper covers + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">90 cts.</span></span + ></span + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">SATAN'S FIRST LIE</span></span + >; or Man in Death. A very fascinating poem of 36 pages by a + well-known poet of Michigan. The + <span class="tei tei-q">“Lie”</span> referred to is the one + mentioned in the third chapter of Genesis; and though, as the + Scriptures tell, the devil is a liar and the father of it, none of + his lies have wrought such disastrous consequences to the race as + the one here pointed out. The reader will hardly fail of being alike + interested in both the poetry and theology of this unique poem. In + paper covers + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">15 cts.</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700" + >THE CHRISTIAN'S SECRET OF A HAPPY LIFE.</span + ></span + >—By Hannah Whitall Smith. + <span class="tei tei-q" + >“To commend this work would seem almost superfluous; and yet to + young Christians who may not know it, we cannot refrain from + saying, Buy this book, and keep it with your Bible for constant + study, until you have thoroughly mastered, in your experience, the + secret of which it tells. It will transform the dark days of your + life, as it has transformed those of thousands before you into + days of heavenly light.”</span + >—<span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-style: italic" + >The Evangelist (N. Y.).</span + ></span + > + </p> + <span class="tei tei-ab" + >In cloth covers + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">75 cts.</span></span + ></span + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700" + >HIS GLORIOUS APPEARING.</span + ></span + >—An exposition of Matthew XXIV. This is a verse-by-verse + explanation of the Redeemer's great prophecy concerning the Gospel + Dispensation and his second appearing in glory. 96 pages, with 20 + full-page illustrations. + </p> + <div class="tei tei-lg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em"> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + In paper covers, + <span class="tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">20 cts.</span></span + > + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Board covers, + <span class="tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">25 cts.</span></span + > + </div> + <div class="tei tei-l" style="text-align: left"> + Cloth covers + <span class="tei tei-hi" style="text-align: left" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">40 cts.</span></span + > + </div> + </div> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700" + >THE CHARIOTS OF FIRE AND IRON</span + ></span + >; or, The Modern Railroad System, treated in the light of sacred + prophecy. A very interesting pamphlet of 168 pages. By D. T. Taylor, + the well-known author. + </p> + <span class="tei tei-ab" + >In paper covers + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">25 cts.</span></span + ></span + > + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700" + >THE REJECTED ORDINANCE.</span + ></span + >—A convincing argument to show that our Saviour's remarkable act of + humility recorded in the thirteenth chapter of John, should be + literally perpetuated among Christians + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">10 cts.</span></span + > + </p> + <span class="tei tei-pb" id="page100">[pg 100]</span + ><a class="tei tei-anchor" id="Pg100"></a> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">SCRIPTURE REFERENCES.</span></span + >—A careful compilation of proof-texts on twenty-five different + subjects of great importance at the present time. + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">4 cts.</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700" + >SPIRITUALISM A SATANIC DELUSION.</span + ></span + >—This is a scathing arraignment of the system of necromancy known + under the name of + <span class="tei tei-q">“Modern Spiritualism.”</span> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">4 cts.</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">IS THE END NEAR?</span></span + >—An 8-page tract of great interest, giving numerous reasons for + believing that the Second Coming of Christ is at hand. + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">1 ct.</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">CAN WE KNOW?</span></span + >—A tract of 8 pages which proves most conclusively that the + numerous predictions concerning the signs of the times and the + second advent may be understood. + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">1 ct.</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">THE TWO LAWS.</span></span + >—A clear and scriptural argument showing the difference between the + Ten Commandments and the ceremonial law or the Hebrews. + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">2 cts.</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700" + >THE SUFFERINGS OF CHRIST.</span + ></span + >—This tract dwells with great force on the agonies of our Redeemer + in the garden and on the cross, in order to make the salvation of + sinners possible. + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">4 cts.</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">THE SECOND ADVENT</span></span + >, showing the nature of the Second Coming, and reasons for + believing it near. + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">4 cts.</span></span + > + </p> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">BIBLE CONVERSION.</span></span + >—A tract of 16 pages which sets forth very clearly what it is to be + born again, and that without a change of heart no one can be saved. + <span class="tei tei-hi" + ><span style="font-weight: 700">2 cts.</span></span + > + </p> + </div> + <div class="tei tei-div" style="margin-bottom: 5em; margin-top: 5em"> + <p class="tei tei-p" style="margin-bottom: 1em"> + [Transcriber's Note: Obvious printer's errors have been corrected.] + </p> + </div> + </div> + <hr class="doublepage" /> + <div class="tei tei-back" style="margin-bottom: 2em; margin-top: 6em"> + <hr class="doublepage" /> + </div> + </div> + <div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 54914 ***</div> + </body> +</html> |