The Great
Slaughter of Matthew 22:7 Before the Completion of
the Loud Cry— Part I
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Dear Reader, I asked the Lord to show me the resolution between the erroneous SDA teaching that Ezekiel occurs only against Babylon per the church’s false teaching of The Great Controversy, pp. 653-656, and the Bible truth concerning Ezekiel 9 and Matthew 22:1-10. This document is what God showed me concerning the implication of the professing Seventh-day Adventist new movement church in the fulfillment of Ezekiel 9. The SDA church has taught that Ezekiel 9 applies only to Babylon and the world per the Great Controversy reference above. And indeed, that reference is the second aspect of the twofold application of Ezekiel 9, while the first of that twofold application applies to the professing SDA new movement omega of apostasy church as Jerusalem, modern-Israel, as this document will prove. The
Twofold Meaning of Ezekiel 9 One of the cherished errors of professing Seventh-day Adventism is the mistaken belief that Ezekiel 9 as it applies to Jerusalem, does not apply to modern day Jerusalem, or modern day Israel. It could be interpreted as applying only to ancient Jerusalem (Israel) if Ellen White had not applied it directly to modern Israel. “Massive blocks of white marble, of almost fabulous size, forwarded from Rome for this purpose, formed a part of its structure; and to these the disciples had called the attention of their Master, saying: "See what manner of stones and what buildings are here!" Mark 13:1. To these words, Jesus made the solemn and startling reply: "Verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down." Matthew 24:2. With the overthrow of Jerusalem the disciples associated the events of Christ's personal coming in temporal glory to take the throne of universal empire, to punish the impenitent Jews, and to break from off the nation the Roman yoke. The Lord had told them that He would come the second time. Hence at the mention of judgments upon Jerusalem, their minds reverted to that coming; and as they were gathered about the Saviour upon the Mount of Olives, they asked: "When shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of Thy coming, and of the end of the world?" Verse 3. The future was mercifully veiled from the disciples. Had they at that time fully comprehend the two awful facts-- the Redeemer's sufferings and death, and the destruction of their city and temple--they would have been overwhelmed with horror. Christ presented before them an outline of the prominent events to take place before the close of time. His words were not then fully understood; but their meaning was to be unfolded as His people should need the instruction therein given. The prophecy which He uttered was twofold in its meaning; while foreshadowing the destruction of Jerusalem, it prefigured also the terrors of the last great day. Jesus declared to the listening disciples the judgments that were to fall upon apostate Israel, and especially the retributive vengeance that would come upon them for their rejection and crucifixion of the Messiah. Unmistakable signs would precede the awful climax. The dreaded hour would come Page 26“And the Saviour warned His followers: "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." Matthew 24:15, 16; Luke 21:20, 21. When the idolatrous standards of the Romans should be set up in the holy ground, which extended some furlongs outside the city walls, then the followers of Christ were to find safety in flight. When the warning sign should be seen, those who would escape must make no delay. Throughout the land of Judea, as well as in Jerusalem itself, the signal for flight must be immediately obeyed. He who chanced to be upon the housetop must not go down into his house, even to save his most valued treasures. Those who were working in the fields or vineyards must not take time to return for the outer garment laid aside while they should be toiling in the heat of the day. They must not hesitate a moment, lest they be involved in the general destruction.” The Great Controversy, pp. 25-27. So the words of Jesus to His disciples concerning the future of Jerusalem, were twofold: · They applied to the destruction of Jerusalem (A.D. 70) by the Romans. · That destruction of Jerusalem symbolized the destruction of the world at the end-time. So where does modern-day Israel (Adventism) fit into this picture? Here is the important data you need: “Modern Israel
are in greater danger of forgetting God and being led into idolatry than were
His ancient people. Many idols are worshiped, even by professed
Sabbathkeepers. Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 609. “It
was not the will of God that the coming of Christ should be thus delayed. God
did not design that His people, Israel, should wander forty years in the
wilderness. He promised to lead them directly to the land of Canaan, and
establish them there a holy, healthy, happy people. But those to whom it was
first preached, went not in because of unbelief (Heb. 3:19). Their hearts
were filled with murmuring, rebellion, and hatred, and He could not fulfill
His covenant with them. For forty years did unbelief, murmuring, and
rebellion shut out ancient Israel from the land of Canaan. The same sins
have delayed the entrance of modern Israel into the heavenly Canaan. In neither case were the promises of God
at fault. It is the unbelief, the worldliness, unconsecration, and strife
among the Lord's professed people that have kept us in this world of sin and
sorrow so many years.” Selected Messages, vol. 1, pp. 68-69. We
will prove that the “same sins” meet with the same penalty, Ezekiel 9
destruction which SDA’s like to attribute ONLY to Babylon and the world. "The sin of ancient
Israel was in disregarding the expressed will of God and following their own
way according to the leadings of unsanctified hearts. Modern Israel are fast following
in their footsteps, and the displeasure of the Lord is as surely resting upon
them." Testimonies,
Vol. 5, p. 94.
"The destruction of Jerusalem stands as a solemn warning before the eyes of modern Israel, that the corrections given through His chosen instruments cannot be disregarded with impunity." Testimonies, Vol.4, p.166-67. 1876.
In the statements below who is modern Israel in your estimation? Jerusalem or BABYLON?
"Study the 9th chapter of Ezekiel. These words will be literally fulfilled yet the time is passing, and the people are asleep. They refuse to humble their souls and to be converted. Not a great while longer will the Lord bear with the people who have such great and important truths revealed to them, but who refuse to bring these truths into their individual experience. The time is short. God is calling will YOU hear? Will YOU receive His message? Will YOU be converted before it is too late? Soon, very soon, every case will be decided for eternity. Letter 106, 1909, pp. 2, 3, 5, 7. (To "The churches in Oakland and Berkeley, September 26, 1909.)" E. G. White Manuscript Releases Volume One, p. 260.
“The
time will soon come when the prophecy of Ezekiel 9 will be fulfilled; that
prophecy should be carefully studied, for it will be fulfilled to the very letter.”— Ellen
G. White 1888 Materials, p. 1303. The Signs of the Times, February 12, 1880:
“The desolation of Jerusalem stands as a solemn warning before the eyes of modern Israel.” “The desolation of Jerusalem in the days of Jeremiah is a solemn warning to modern Israel, that the counsels and admonitions given them through chosen instrumentalities cannot be disregarded with impunity.” Prophets and Kings, 416. According to the following statements, who is modern Israel (below) in your estimation? Is it modern day Jerusalem, the SDA church, or is it BABYLON? Who is Ellen White specifically addressing in the following statements?:
"Study the 9th chapter of Ezekiel. These words will be literally fulfilled yet the time is passing, and the people are asleep. They refuse to humble their souls and to be converted. Not a great while longer will the Lord bear with the people who have such great and important truths revealed to them, but who refuse to bring these truths into their individual experience. The time is short. God is calling will YOU hear? Will YOU receive His message? Will YOU be converted before it is too late? Soon, very soon, every case will be decided for eternity. Letter 106, 1909, pp. 2, 3, 5, 7. (To "The churches in Oakland and Berkeley, September 26, 1909.)" E. G. White Manuscript Releases Volume One, p. 260.
“The
time will soon come when the prophecy of Ezekiel 9 will be fulfilled; that
prophecy should be carefully studied, for it will be fulfilled to the very letter.”— Ellen
G. White 1888 Materials, p. 1303. The Great Slaughter of
Adventists (Good and bad) Before the Close of Probation The
Lord has shown me in no unmistakable terms that Matthew 22:1-10 will be
fulfilled before the completion of the Loud Cry to the world. Matthew 22 1 And Jesus
answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said, 2 The kingdom of
heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, 3 And sent forth his
servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not
come. 4 Again, he sent
forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have
prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all
things are ready: come unto the marriage. 5 But they made
light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his
merchandise: 6 And the remnant
took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them. 7 But when the king heard thereof, he was
wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and
burned up their city. 8 Then saith he to
his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not
worthy. 9 Go ye therefore
into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage. 10 So those servants
went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found,
both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests. 11 And when the king
came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding
garment: 12 And he saith unto
him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he
was speechless. 13 Then said the
king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him
into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 14 For many are
called, but few are chosen. Ellen White
reapplies Matthew 22:1-10 to the end-time in Sermons and Talks, Vol. 1, pp. 4-9, as follows: Matthew 22--Sermons and Talks, Vol. 1, pp. 4-9 Called to the
Wedding Feast (Sermon by Ellen G. White In Washington, Township, Iowa, Cir. 1874.) The words which I have selected as a foundation for a few remarks you will find in the 22nd chapter of Matthew, beginning at the first verse. [Verses 1-10, quoted.] {1SAT 4.1} The portion of Scripture presented before us, which I have referred to and have presented before your minds, is of intense meaning--much more than I am able to explain. It is of great interest to us, and we should consider it, and let it have due weight upon our minds. We find by perusing God's sacred Word of inspiration that when the promised Messiah, the Son of God, came into the world His own people, even His own nation--the Jews--would not and did not receive Him. As we are told in the first chapter of St. John, "He came unto His own, and His own received Him not" (John 1:11). {1SAT 4.2} The provision was made, but they would not receive it. The Father Himself provided a ransom, even a sacrifice. His own dear Son submitted Himself to His Father's requirements, came into this sinful world, became a man of sorrow and acquainted with grief. He went about doing good, speaking in tones of tenderness, saying in the deepest and most fervent and sweetest accents ever uttered, "Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart"; and He assures us we shall find rest to our souls. {1SAT 4.3} "Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage. But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise." -5- {1SAT 4.4} The great King Himself hath made a marriage for His Son. He hath sent forth His servants for many hundreds of years, saying, "Come, for all things are ready." But how little do they [His people] heed the invitation! They make light of it and go their ways to their worldly pursuits and worldly pleasures, the same as they have done for centuries. But the King sendeth forth His armies and destroys those murders and burns up their city [church], and we are told in the ninth chapter of Daniel, the 26th verse, that "the people of the Prince that shall come shall destroy the city...; and the end thereof shall be with a flood." {1SAT 5.1} "Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage." {1SAT 5.2} In the 14th chapter of Luke, verse 16, we find that there was made a great supper and many were bidden. Servants were sent forth to say to those that were bidden, "Come; for all things are now ready" [verse 17]. But they made excuses. {1SAT 5.3} The King of the
kingdom hath made a marriage supper for His Son. He hath sent forth His
servants to say to those which are bidden, "Come to the marriage."
The Lord is
sending His servants, saying unto all who will hear, "Come,
make ready for the great marriage supper of the Lamb; He is soon coming to
receive all the faithful to the mansions prepared by Him, to partake of the
feast which He hath prepared." He is
sending, and hath been sending His servants for some thirty years past to say
unto His people, "Come, make ready, put on your wedding garments; clothe
yourselves with meekness, humility, and truth, and have yourselves clad in
the righteousness of Christ, that you may be -6- able to appear before Him, and enter into the guest chamber with those who shall sit with Me at the wedding of My Son." {1SAT 5.4} All must be clothed with the wedding garment in order to be accepted, lest we be found speechless. {1SAT 6.1} Is it not of the greatest importance that we be found having on the robe of righteousness, that we be ready when the Bridegroom cometh to enter in to the marriage supper? May we heed the invitation given and make ourselves ready that we may have admittance into the Master's house, that He say not unto us that none which were bidden shall taste of His supper. In the parable, those who were bidden heeded not its invitation, but continued excusing themselves, feasting upon the pleasures of this world as the masses do at the present time. {1SAT 6.2} The servants of God are inviting and entreating them to come away from the alluring scenes of this vain and fleeting world, to make ready for the marriage supper, but they will not come. We hear them saying, There's no danger; tomorrow shall be as this day and much more abundant; no need of being disturbed. We must needs attend to farms and merchandise and the things of this life, lest we lose worldly interests, and become poor and suffer want. They forget that He who careth for the little sparrows and clotheth the lilies of the field, careth for the humble, trusting soul, and will guide and direct all those who are ready to do His will, and bestow upon His dear children such things as they need. To all who through patience and perseverance overcome, He hath promised to give a crown of never fading glory, a robe of righteousness, and an entrance into the beautiful city of our God. {1SAT 6.3} This same King is sending forth His servants today. He is inviting His guests, saying, "Come, for all things are now ready." The Lord of the marriage -7- is soon coming: behold, He is at the door. Delay not to open the door, lest He turn away from receiving you and you enter not into the marriage feast. Open the door and receive the Master, that you may enter into the mansions of everlasting rest and never fading glory prepared for all those that love Him. Who will make ready for the coming of Him who hath said, "Behold, I come quickly; and My reward is with Me, to give to every man according as his work shall be" [Rev. 22:12]. {1SAT 6.4} If we neglect our spiritual interests, neglect to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable unto God, which is our reasonable duty, we become entangled with the trifling cares of this life. If we even once omit our daily duty of calling upon God for His divine aid, His care and protection, we lose one day's enjoyment. We have not the sweet, melting influence of God's Holy Spirit attending us through the day, but we feel cast down and easily discouraged. The enemy of souls is ready to take advantage [of us] and often does, bringing us into captivity and sin. {1SAT 7.1} We may sometimes be cumbered about much serving, like Martha; but how much more commendable was the act of Mary, who sat and listened to the teachings of Jesus. He says, "Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: but . . . . Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her" (Luke 10:41, 42). {1SAT 7.2} How many times the things of this vain, deceitful world come between us and our eternal interests! Temporal things spring up within our hearts and choke those things which are spiritual. We permit the enemy of righteousness to persuade us that we should attend to the things of this life. We now and then neglect greater duties lest we suffer want. If we faithfully entreat God to -8- give us strength and to perform temporal duties, and at the same time to give us grace and wisdom to overcome evil; if we have our hopes centered above and our conversation in heaven, whence we look for the Son of man who has bidden to the marriage all who will come: who has gone up on high to prepare mansions for all those who love and keep His sayings, and has told us He is coming to receive us, we may enter in to the wedding feast with Him, that where He is there we may be also. If we turn away from those calls and invitations, what will be the consequence? {1SAT 7.3} In the 13th chapter of the Acts of the Apostles, 46th verse, we find that if we put God's work from us, and judge ourselves unworthy of everlasting life, we have no reason to expect an entrance into the kingdom. The 24th verse of the 14th chapter of Luke informs us that "none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper." {1SAT 8.1} The great eternal Father has prepared a marriage feast for His Son. Will we give heed to His servants who have been and are being sent forth to proclaim unto us the solemn invitation? Or shall we make light of it? Oh, why refuse to make ready for the marriage of the Son of God? There is room for all who will accept the invitation. None can say [that] those things were not duly represented. Remember, when the good man returns, those who are ready will go in to the feast and the door will be shut, and there will be no further entrance, for we read that when "the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door" (Luke 13:25), then those who would find admittance will hear the answer, "I know you not. . . ; depart from Me." {1SAT 8.2} May we heed
well the solemn warning and make ready to enter into the wedding, that His
house may be filled. God's Word informs us, "Blessed are they that do
His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter
in through the gates into the city" (Rev. 22:14). May we be found
faithful, and give diligence to our calling, and possess the promised reward
of the faithful, is my prayer.--Ms 8, 1874. (MR 900.56) {1SAT 8.3}End of
Matthew 22 Parable from Sermon and
Talks. The
Lord has shown this writer that Ezekiel 9 and Matthew 22:7 are one and the
same event in historical and future fulfillment. The Great Controversy,
Chapter 1, is a prefigure of the end-time destruction of the apostate SDA
church and a symbol of the destruction of the world. Ellen White said that
Ezekiel 9 will be literally fulfilled at the end-time. If the A.D. 70
destruction was a TYPE of the end-time destruction, and the end-time
destruction is Ezekiel 9, then they TYPE had to be a fulfillment of Ezekiel 9
as well, for prefigure (TYPE) must agree with antitype. The Great
Slaughter During the Final Loud Cry The
following statement is God’s answer to my prayer as to when Ezekiel 9 will
begin with apostate Adventists per Matthew 22:7. SDA leaders have erroneously
interpreted Ellen White’s description of the fulfillment of Ezekiel 9 upon
Babylon and the world, (Great Controversy, pp. 653-656), as being the only
fulfillment of Ezekiel 9 and they don’t even factor in Matthew 22:1-10, with
emphasis on verse 7, which is the same event as Ezekiel 9:6 as it applies to
Jerusalem, rather than the final application to Babylon and the world. The
reason Ezekiel 9 and Matthew 22:7 will have an end-time fulfillment, is
because of the omega apostasy of the new movement described in Selected Messages,
Book 1, pp. 204-5. That new movement has removed God. It has committed the
same evils as mentioned in Jeremiah 11:9-15, and Ellen White prophesied a
modern-day Israel COUNTERPART to the Jews of that age, and only professing
SDA’s could qualify as a counterpart to the Jews because both make the
following claims: · Claim to be God’s chosen
people. · Claim to keep the
commandment of God. · Claim to be a remnant. "The
Lord commanded one of his ancient servants, 'Pray not thou for this people
[Jer. 7:16 and 11:14], neither lift up cry nor prayer for them neither make
intercession to me for I will not hear thee.' The prophet thus describes the
sins which had called forth this fearful denunciation: '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?' '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.' The apostles
declare that this state of things will find its COUNTERPART in the last days.
Many have a form of godliness, but in their daily life deny the power
thereof. They have ceased to be convicted of their sins or alarmed at their
state. They say in their hearts, 'The church is flourishing. Peace and
spiritual prosperity are within her borders.' The words of the prophet may
well apply to these self-deceivers, 'They have chosen their own ways, and
their soul delighteth in their abominations. I also will choose their
delusions, and will bring their fears upon them." E. G. White, Second
Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, 11-07-82. The Great Slaughter While the Banner
is Still Being Held Aloft It should be unmistakeable to
those with spiritual discernment that the below statement applies to the
FUTURE—FORWARD, and the time of trouble. It describes that time perfectly! The apostate SDA church will
be involved as well in the slaughter because it will infuriate Babylon
(Fallen Rome and her daughters) when it instructs its members to keep Sunday,
after teaching since 1844 that desecration of the Seventh day Sabbath and the
acceptance of Sunday as a sacred day of worship is the Mark of the Beast. The Lord has shown this writer
that Rome and her other apostate daughters will have no respect for the SDA
leaders when they instruct their members to keep Sunday sacred in order to
keep the church going. It will be ecumenically minded New Movement SDA
leaders who will tell the people that they can go ahead and keep Sunday in an
effort to convert the idolaters. But that will only infuriate Rome and the
other fallen churches, and they will look upon this act of the new movement
SDA church as an opportunistic, sheep-stealing harlot for so altering her
stand taken since 1844! And that assessment will obviously be correct! When the SDA church leaders
begin opening their churches for Sunday worship services (and some already
have done so), folk that would otherwise attend one of Babylon’s churches on
Sunday will go to the nearest Adventist brothel. That will enrage Babylon’s
ministers. Will SDA leaders tell their
members to hold sacred worship services on Sunday? Ellen White said yes!
Ezekiel 8, says yes! The SDA church General Conference has a committee of 25
men just as Ezekiel speaks of. “The enemy knows that if the church can be
controlled by political enactments, if she can be led to unite with the
world, she virtually acknowledges him as her head. Then the authority of
man-made commandments will work to oppose the rule of the government of
heaven. Under the leadership of Satan men will
dispense with the righteous, holy enactments of God concerning the Sabbath,
the observance of which is to be a sign between God and His people forever.
{ST, November 22, 1899 par. 1} Observation by Danny Vierra: One
may ask, "Will Seventh-day Adventists really accept spiritualism and the
false Mary?" To this I ask, "Will the majority of Seventh-day
Adventists worship on Sunday when it is enforced by law?" Here are some
very sobering comments from inspiration bearing on this matter: “And
because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold'... Soon God's
people will be tested by fiery trials, and the great proportion of
those who now appear as genuine and true will prove to be base metal .... They
will cowardly take the side of the opposers. The promise is: 'They that
honor Me I will honor'...To stand in defense of truth and righteousness when
the majority forsake us, to fight the battles of the Lord when champions are
few—this will be our test." Testimonies, vol. 5, 136. "I was
shown the startling fact that but a small portion who now profess the
truth will be sanctified by it and be saved." Testimonies, vol.
1, 608. Here is the proof you need that God
gave to me concerning my prayer as to when Matthew 22:7 will be fulfilled
after two calls to the SDA church by faithful SDA reformers. It is not only
the faithful who are killed. Apostate SDA’s will be killed as well in an
Ezekiel 9, Matthew 22:7 debacle. God has shown me
that though this account spans past ages of persecution, that persecution is
a panorama type of the persecution that Christians will experience in the
time of Jacob’s trouble. Paul of Scripture wrote of the
development of apostasy even in his day. That apostasy has been advancing
through the ages and will wax stronger until Jesus comes. God has shown me
this night (August 13, 08) that the chapter entitled The Great Apostasy, Spiritual Gifts, Vol. 1 p. 104, is a
panoramic view encompassing the persecution before the wound of the papacy,
and functions as a type for the persecution that will occur after its
healing--to the end of time. The same scenario of persecution will occur
after the wound is healed as occurred before it's
power was wounded. Chapter XVII. - The Great Apostasy
Satan exulted over the fall of so many; and then he stirred up the fallen church to force those who would preserve the purity of their religion, to either yield to their ceremonies and image worship, or to put them to death. The fires of persecution were again kindled against the true church of Jesus Christ, and millions were slain without mercy. {1SG 105.1}
It was presented before me in the following manner: A large company of heathen idolaters bore a black banner upon which were figures of the sun, moon and stars. The company seemed to be very fierce and angry. I was then shown another company bearing a pure white banner, and upon it was written Purity, and Holiness unto the Lord [Obviously the true SDA church triumphant]. Their countenances were marked with firmness and heavenly resignation. I saw the heathen idolaters approach them, and there was a great slaughter. The Christians melted away before them; and yet the Christian company pressed the more closely together, and held the banner more firmly. As many fell, others rallied around the banner and filled their places. {1SG 105.2} Note: Clearly, there is a great slaughter by the heathen idolaters and then the true Christian company presses more closely together and holds the banner more firmly. Many still fall but others rally to fill their places--AFTER THE GREAT SLAUGHTER. End note.
I saw the company of idolaters consulting together. They failed to make the Christians yield, and they agreed to another plan. I saw them lower their banner, and they approached that firm Christian company, and made propositions to them. At first their propositions were utterly refused. Then I saw the Christian company consulting together. Some said that they would lower the banner, accept the propositions, and save their lives, and at last they could gain strength to raise their banner among those heathen idolaters. But some would not yield to this plan, but firmly chose to die holding their banner, rather than lower it. Then I saw many of that Christian company lower the banner, and unite with the heathen; while the firm and steadfast seized the banner, and bore it high again. I saw individuals continually leaving the company of those bearing the pure banner, and joining the idolaters, and they united together under the black banner, to persecute those bearing the white banner, and many were slain; yet the white banner was held high, and individuals were raised up to rally around it. {1SG 105.3}
The Jews who first started the
rage of the heathen against Jesus, were not to escape. In the judgment hall
the infuriated Jews cried, as Pilate hesitated to condemn Jesus, His blood be
on us and on our children. The race of the Jews experienced the fulfillment
of this terrible curse which they called down upon
The blood of Christ, and of the disciples, whom they had put to death, was upon them, and in terrible judgments were they visited. The curse of God followed them, and they were a by-word and a derision to the heathen and to Christians. They were shunned, degraded and detested, as though the brand of Cain was upon them. Yet I saw that God marvellously preserved this people, and had scattered them over the world, that they might be looked upon as especially visited by a curse from God. I saw that God has forsaken the Jews as a nation; yet there was a portion of them who would be enabled to tear away the veil from their hearts. Some will yet see that prophecy has been fulfilled concerning them, and they will receive Jesus as the Saviour of the world, and see the great sin of their nation in rejecting Jesus, and crucifying him. Individuals among the Jews will be converted; but as a nation they are forever forsaken of God. {1SG 107.1}
There is a large church of idolaters that profess to be the church of Revelation 12:1. Their banner is black. There is
A large company of heathen idolaters bore a black banner upon which were figures of the sun, moon and stars.
Rev 12:1 And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:
I was then shown another company bearing a pure white banner, and upon it was written Purity, and
Holiness unto the Lord [Obviously the
true SDA church triumphant]. This is the
true church of Revelation 12:1. “That night I dreamed that I was
in Battle Creek looking out from the side glass at the door and saw a company
marching up to the house, two and two. They looked stern and determined. I
knew them well and turned to open the parlor door to receive them, but thought
I would look again. The scene was changed. The company now presented the appearance of a Catholic procession.
One bore in his hand a cross, another a reed. And as they approached, the one
carrying a reed made a circle around the house, saying three times:
"This house is proscribed. The goods must be confiscated. They have
spoken against our holy order." Terror seized me, and I ran through the
house, out of the north door, and found myself in the midst of a company,
some of whom I knew, but I dared not speak a word to them for fear of being
betrayed. I tried to seek a retired spot where I might weep and pray without
meeting eager, inquisitive eyes wherever I turned. I repeated frequently:
"If I could only understand this! If they will tell me what I have said
or what I have done!" {1T 577.2} I wept and prayed much as I saw our
goods confiscated. I tried to read sympathy or pity for me in the looks of
those around me, and marked the countenances of several whom I thought would
speak to me and comfort me if they did not fear that they would be observed
by others. I made one attempt to escape from the crowd, but seeing that I was
watched, I concealed my intentions. I commenced weeping aloud, and saying:
"If they would only tell me what I have done or what I have said!"
My husband, who was sleeping in a bed in the same room, heard me weeping
aloud and awoke me. My pillow was wet with tears, and a sad depression of
spirits was upon me.” {1T 578.1} Chap. 205 - The Remnant and the Sealing And the Lord said unto Satan, The
Lord rebuke thee, O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke
thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire? Zech. 3:2. The remnant church will be brought into
great trial and distress. Those who keep the commandments of God and the
faith of Jesus, will feel the ire of the dragon and his hosts. Satan numbers
the world as his subjects; he has gained control of the apostate churches.
But here is a little company that are resisting his supremacy. If he could
blot them from the earth, his triumph would be complete. As he influenced the
heathen nations to destroy Israel, so in the near future he will stir up the
wicked powers of earth to destroy the people of God. All will be required to
render obedience to human edicts in violation of the divine law. Those who
will be true to God and to duty will be menaced, denounced, and proscribed.
They will be betrayed "both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and
friends." {Mar 213.1} Their only hope is in the mercy of God;
their only defense will be prayer. As Joshua was pleading before the Angel,
so the remnant church, with brokenness of heart and earnest faith, will plead
for pardon and deliverance through Jesus their Advocate. . . . {Mar 213.2} Satan urges before God his accusations
against them, declaring that they have by their sins forfeited the divine
protection, and claiming the right to destroy them as transgressors. . . .
{Mar 213.3} But while the followers of Christ have
sinned, they have not given themselves to the control of evil. They have put
away their sins, and have sought the Lord in humility and contrition, and the
divine Advocate pleads in their behalf. . . . {Mar 213.4} The people of God are sighing and crying
for the abominations done in the land. With tears they warn the wicked of
their danger in trampling upon the divine law, and with unutterable sorrow
they humble themselves before the Lord on account of their own
transgressions. The wicked mock their sorrow, ridicule their solemn appeals,
and sneer at what they term their weakness. But the anguish and humiliation
of God's people is unmistakable evidence that they are regaining the strength
and nobility of character lost in consequence of sin. . . . {Mar 213.5} While Satan was urging his accusations,
holy angels, unseen, were passing to and fro, placing upon them the seal of
the living God. {Mar 213.6} “The great sin of ancient Israel was in turning from God to idols. This is also the great sin of modern Israel. The apostle Paul said to the Gentile churches that he had raised up, "Ye turned from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from Heaven." He could truly say to many of them, "In Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel." When he saw them becoming indifferent, the ardor of their faith chilled by backslidings, he exclaimed, "I am jealous over you with godly jealousy; for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ." He entreats them to be followers of God as dear children, and to walk worthy of the vocation wherewith they are called, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God. Again, he exhorts them to walk in Christ Jesus, even as they had received him, that they might be rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith. He reminds them, "Ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children, that ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory." To the Thessalonians he writes, "We beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us [the ministers of Christ] how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more." {RH, June 3, 1880 par. 2} Anything that comes between us and love for and obedience to Christ is an idol. Addendum on Modern Israel "We are repeating the history of that people." 5T, p. 160.
Ellen G. White Compiled by Neil C. Livingston
[all emphasis supplied]
The Seventh-day Adventist Church Is Modern Israel
"Satan's snares are laid for us as verily as they were laid for the children of Israel just prior to their entrance into the land of Canaan," Ellen White warned. "We are repeating the history of that people." ((Healthful Living, page 280; ST., No. 31, p. 156).
"The trials of the children of Israel, and their attitude just before the first coming of Christ," Ellen White warned, "illustrate the position of the people of God in their experience before the second coming of Christ." ("The Modern Church Repeating the History of Ancient Israel," (ibid., Healthful Living, page 280; R&H, 1890, No. 7)
Spiritual Condition of Modern Israel
"This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come," the apostle Paul warned. "For [Christian] 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 [modern Adventism], but denying the power thereof: from such turn away." (2 Timothy 3:1-5).
Satan's snares are laid for us as verily as they were laid for the children of Israel just prior to their entrance into the land of Canaan. We are repeating the history of that people. Lightness, vanity, love of ease and pleasure, selfishness, and impurity are increasing among us [1896]. There is need now of men who are firm and fearless in declaring the whole counsel of God [the straight testimony]; men who will not sleep as do others, but watch and be sober. Knowing as I do the great lack of holiness and power with our ministers [1896], I am deeply pained to see the efforts for self-exaltation. If they could but see Jesus as He is, and themselves as they are, so weak, so inefficient, so unlike their Master, they would say: If my name may be written in the obscurest part of the book of life, it is enough for me, so unworthy am I of His notice.
Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, page 160.
"The manifestation of the Lord's glory was needed to quell the mad and blasphemous utterances of the people, and to save the lives of his servants [Joshua and Caleb] from the maddened throng," Ellen White stated, then she asked. "Has there not been seen in modern Israel manifestations similar to this? Has not the loud, boisterous voice of rebellion been heard in your council meetings and in your board meetings? . . ." (Rolling Back the Reproach, page 29).
Modern Israel in Greater Danger of Forgetting God Than Ancient Israel
I was pointed back to ancient Israel. But two of the adults of the vast army that left Egypt entered the land of Canaan. Their dead bodies were strewn in the wilderness because of their transgressions. Modern Israel are in greater danger of forgetting God and being led into idolatry than were His ancient people. Many idols are worshiped, even by professed Sabbathkeepers. God especially charged His ancient people to guard against idolatry, for if they should be led away from serving the living God, His curse would rest upon them, while if they would love Him with all their heart, with all their soul, and with all their might, He would abundantly bless them in basket and in store, and would remove sickness from the midst of them.
Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, page 609.
Modern Israel Fast Following in Footsteps of Ancient Israel
"The sin of ancient Israel was in disregarding the expressed will of God and following their own way according to the leadings of unsanctified hearts," Ellen White wrote. "Modern Israel are fast following in their footsteps, and the displeasure of the Lord is as surely resting upon them." (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, page 94).
Modern Israel's Great Sin - Turning From God to Idols
"The great sin of ancient Israel was in turning from God to idols," Ellen White stated. "This is also the great sin of Modern Israel." (Review and Herald, June 3, 1880).
Modern Israel's Weakness - Neglect to Obey the Divine Law
"The cause of Israel's weakness lay in their departure from God by disobedience to his commandments," Ellen White wrote. "The reason of the weakness and backsliding of modern Israel is their neglect to obey the divine law." (Signs of the Times, June 9, 1881).
Exercising Ecclesiastical Authority Is Repeating History of Jewish Nation
Sometimes the case seems hopeless to me, because you have been treading in the very footsteps of the Jewish nation. You are repeating their history. The whole heavenly universe is astonished at the spiritual condition of things at Battle Creek. Now and then there is a comfortable, easy feeling, but this is not the deep moving of the Spirit of God. All heaven sees that if you had a more correct experimental knowledge of the truth, you would never assume jurisdiction and command over your fellow-men as you have done. You would never think that you could take control of the great interests all over the field, nigh and afar off. It is because of a departure from God that such gross ignorance in regard to the management of his work has come in.
Ellen G. White, "To Those in Responsible Positions in Battle Creek," 1888 Materials, pages 1631, 1632. (December 18, 1896).
Backsliding in Health Reform is Repeating History of Ancient Israel
"In this experience of backsliding from the principles of health reform, our people have been repeating the history of the Children of Israel in the wilderness during their forty years of travel," Ellen White stated -- then warned. "Those who continue to follow their own course in this respect, eating and drinking as they please, will gradually grow careless of the instructions of the Lord regarding other phases of the present truth; they will surely reap as they have sown." (Spalding and Magan Collection, page 428).
Modern Israel and the Testimonies
"There is a limit beyond which the judgments of Jehovah can no longer be delayed," Ellen White warned modern Israel. "The desolation of Jerusalem in the days of Jeremiah is a solemn warning to modern Israel, that the counsels and admonitions given them through chosen instrumentalities cannot be disregarded with impunity." (Prophets and Kings, page 417).
His word will bring as serious consequences upon God's people today as did the same sin upon ancient Israel. There is a limit beyond which He will no longer delay His judgments. The desolation of Jerusalem stands as a solemn warning before the eyes of modern Israel, that the corrections given through His chosen instruments cannot be disregarded with impunity.
Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, page 167; Review and Herald, June 30, 1885; Signs of the Times, February 12, 1880.
Modern Israel and Politics
"This command [2 Corinthians 6:17] is just as valid today as when God gave it to Moses to give to the children of Israel," Ellen White stated. "The sins against which ancient Israel were warned have led modern Israel into byways and forbidden paths. The professed people of God have made those who are trampling under foot His commandments their counselors [Roman Catholic attorney in Perez case]." ("Seventh-day Adventist's and Politics," Manuscript Releases, Vol. 9, page 130; The Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 4, pages 327, 328).
Modern Israel and the Ecumenical Movement
Satan is continually seeking to overcome the people of God by breaking down the barriers which separate them from the world. Ancient Israel were enticed into sin when they ventured into forbidden association with the heathen. In a similar manner are modern Israel led astray. . .. When Christians choose the society of the ungodly and unbelieving, they expose themselves to temptation. Satan conceals himself from view and stealthily draws his deceptive covering over their eyes. They cannot see that such company is calculated to do them harm; and while all the time assimilating to the world in character, words, and actions, they are becoming more and more blinded.
Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy, page 508.
A Babylonish Garment for Modern Israel
The unbelief and sins of ancient Israel were presented before me, and I saw that similar wrongs and iniquity exist among modern Israel. The pen of inspiration recorded their crimes for the benefit of those who live in these last days, that we might shun their evil example. Achan coveted and secreted a wedge of gold and a goodly Babylonish garment that were taken as spoil from the enemy. But the Lord had pronounced the city of Jericho accursed and had commanded the people not to take of the spoil of their enemies for their own use.
Ellen G. White, "Dishonesty in the Church," Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, page 491.
Modern Israel Less Eexcusable Than Ancient Israel
Had not the Lord been slow to anger, and mercifully considerate of the ignorance and weakness of the children of Israel, he would have destroyed them in his wrath. He exercises the same pitying tenderness toward modern Israel. But we are less excusable than was ancient Israel. We have had every opportunity to elevate and ennoble our characters, which they did not have. We also have their history, recorded that we may shun their example of unbelief and impatient murmuring and rebellion.
Ellen G. White, "Journeyings of the Israelites," Signs of the Times, April 15, 1880.
Modern Israel Responsible for Delay of Entrance Into Heavenly Canaan
"For forty years did unbelief, murmuring, and rebellion shut out ancient Israel from the land of Canaan," Ellen White stated. "The same sins have delayed the entrance of modern Israel into the heavenly Canaan." (Evangelism, page 696; Manuscript 4, 1883; Maranatha, page 61; Selected Messages, Bk. 1, page 69)).
"In neither case were the promises of God at fault," Ellen White concluded.. "It is the unbelief, the worldliness, unconsecration, and strife among the Lord's professed people that have kept us in this world of sin and sorrow so many years." (ibid., Evangelism, page 696; Manuscript 4, 1883).
A Lesson for Modern Israel
"Please read the third chapter [of Jeremiah]. This chapter is a lesson for modern Israel," Ellen White counselled. "Let all who claim to be children of God understand that He will not serve with their sins any more than He would with the sins of ancient Israel. God hates hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong." (Letter 34, 1899).
God's people to-day have far greater light than had ancient Israel. They have not only the increased light which has been shining upon them, but the instruction given by God to Moses, to be given to the people. God specified the difference between the sacred and the common, and declared that this difference must be strictly observed. This lesson is given also to modern Israel. That which God has set apart as sacred must ever be respected as sacred. Christ was the foundation of the Jewish economy. When type met antitype in his death, the need for sacrificial offerings ceased. But the lessons regarding practical obedience, given by Christ from the mount of blessing, were still binding.
Ellen G. White, Rolling Back the Reproach, page 28.
God's Requirements of Modern Israel
Conviction and thorough repentance was required of ancient Israel in order to meet the standard of God. No less does God require of his people in our day. There must be genuine heart work in repentance and humiliation, in order to come under this covenant care, and protecting love of God. Unmistakable evidence is given that God is a jealous God, and that he will require of Modern Israel as he did of ancient Israel, that they obey his law. For all who live upon the earth is this sacred history traced by the pen of inspiration.
Ellen G. White, The Signs of the Times, May 27, 1880.
Revival and Reformation in Modern Israel
"Without the grace of Christ the outward forms of religion were valueless to ancient Israel," Ellen White counselled. "They are the same to modern Israel." ("Revival," Conflict and Courage, page 145; Signs of the Times, January 1, 1882.
Modern Israel and Reform Workers
Envy, jealousy, dishonesty, falsehoods, and evil surmisings have ever had to be met. They existed in the time of ancient Israel, and will ever be found in modern Israel. Some one must meet this element, and whoever does will displease some; it cannot be otherwise, for there will ever be those who will sympathize with wrong-doers. Those who have shunned that part of the work which requires anxiety and care, boldness and fortitude, will receive no reward for their silence and their peaceful demeanor; but condemnation will be written against them.
Ellen G. White, The Judgment, pages 10, 11.
God's True Remnant of Modern Israel
"The remnant of Israel shall not do iniquity, nor speak lies," the prophet Zephaniah wrote, "neither shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth: for they shall feed and lie down, and none shall make them afraid." (Zephaniah 3:13).
"I was shown that those who are trying to obey God and purify their souls through obedience to the truth," Ellen White stated, "are God's chosen people, His modern Israel." (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, page 109).
God's Appeal to the Remnant of Modern Israel
All the experience of Israel has a lesson for us, who are living in the last hours of time. We should carefully consider their course of action and the dealings of God with them, and then imitate their virtues, while we shun those acts which brought upon them his displeasure. This mighty God of Israel is our God. In him we may trust, and if we obey his requirements he will work for us in as signal a manner as he did for his ancient people. It should be the most earnest study and continual effort of modern Israel to bring themselves into close and intimate relationship with God. Then with the mind quickened, the perceptions sharpened, they will discern his infinite power and overruling providence in all his dealings with man, and in all his created works. http://hartland.edu/cms/hi/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=55&Itemid=2 |
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