Armageddon –
Spiritual and/or Literal? The Serious
Implications
“I was shown the
inhabitants of the earth in the utmost confusion. War, bloodshed, privation,
want, famine, and pestilence were abroad in the land. As these things surrounded
God's people, they began to press together, and to cast aside their little
difficulties. Self-dignity no longer controlled them; deep humility took its
place. Suffering, perplexity, and privation caused reason to resume its
throne, and the passionate and unreasonable man became sane, and acted with
discretion and wisdom. {Mar 259.2}
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Civil War in time of trouble In India, China, Russia, and the cities of
America, thousands of men and women are dying of starvation. The monied men, because they have the power, control the
market. They purchase at low rates all they can obtain, and then sell at
greatly increased prices. This means starvation to the poorer classes, and will result in a civil war. There
will be a time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation.
"And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which
standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble
such as never was since there was a nation, even to that same time; and at
that time thy people shall be delivered, everyone that shall be found written
in the book. . . . Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the
wicked shall do wickedly, and none of the wicked shall understand, but the
wise shall understand."--Ms 114, 1899. (General manuscript, untitled,
typed August 13, 1899.) {5MR 305.4} Does this
sound like literal warfare to you
as well as spiritual? “I was
shown the inhabitants of the earth in the utmost confusion. War, bloodshed, privation,
want, famine, and pestilence were abroad in the land. As these things surrounded God's people,
they began to press together, and to cast aside their little difficulties.
Self-dignity no longer controlled them; deep humility took its place. Suffering,
perplexity, and privation caused reason to resume its throne, and the
passionate and unreasonable man became sane, and acted with discretion and
wisdom. {Mar 259.2} Many Seventh-day Adventists believe that Armageddon is only a
spiritual battle wherein all who are saved will not die. For example, here
(below) is a recent (Sep. 23, 2011) statement by Ulicia Unruh, an SDA ministers wife, to her internet discussion group. Ulicia
obliquely refers to physical threat to our well being and she is correct in
stating that the most important element is the spiritual. But she mentions
nothing about martyrs and even the article below by Ellen White, found by
searching the word Armageddon, implies that all believers (saints) will not
die in the battle. That is not the case. It is just as dangerous to minimize
the physical as the spiritual which will be proven in this article. “There's no doubt that financial, health care, food supply
etc. is all being First, create monumental problems. Ellen White’s view on
Armageddon The Nations in Conflict Four mighty angels hold back
the powers of this earth till the servants of God are sealed in their
foreheads. The nations of the world are eager for conflict, but they are held
in check by the angels. When this restraining power is removed there will
come a time of trouble and anguish. Deadly instruments of warfare will be
invented. Vessels with their living cargo will be entombed in the great deep.
All who have not the spirit of truth will unite under the leadership of
Satanic agencies, but they are to be kept under control till the time shall
come for the great battle of Armageddon.—The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 7:967
(1900). {LDE 238.3} The Whole World Will Be Involved in Ruin Angels are now restraining the
winds of strife that they may not blow until the world shall be warned of its
coming doom, but a storm is gathering, ready to burst upon the earth, and
when God shall bid His angels loose the winds there will be such a scene of
strife as no pen can picture.—Education, 179, 180 (1903). {LDE 239.1} The Saviour’s prophecy
concerning the visitation of judgments upon Jerusalem is to have another
fulfillment, of which that terrible desolation was but a faint shadow. In the
fate of the chosen city we may behold the doom of a world that has rejected
God’s mercy and trampled upon His law.—The Great Controversy, 36 (1911). {LDE 239.2} Satan will then plunge the
inhabitants of the earth into one great, final trouble. As the angels of God
cease to hold in check the fierce winds of human passion, all the elements of
strife will be let loose. The whole world will be involved in ruin more
terrible than that which came upon Jerusalem of old.—The Great Controversy,
614 (1911). {LDE 239.3} God Is Just, as Well as Merciful It is the glory of God to be
merciful, full of forbearance, kindness, goodness, and truth. But the justice
shown in punishing the sinner is as verily the glory of the Lord as is the
manifestation of His mercy.—The Review and Herald, March 10, 1904. {LDE 240.1} The Lord God of Israel is to
execute judgment upon the Gods of this world as upon the Gods of Egypt. With
fire and flood, plagues and earthquakes, He will spoil the whole land. Then
His redeemed people will exalt His name and make it glorious in the earth.
Shall not those who are living in the last remnant of this earth’s history
become intelligent in regard to God’s lessons?—Manuscript Releases 10:240,
241 (1899). {LDE 240.2} The One
who has stood as our Intercessor; who hears all penitential prayers and
confessions; who is represented with a rainbow, the symbol of grace and love,
encircling His head, is soon to cease His work in the heavenly sanctuary.
Grace and mercy will then descend from the throne, and justice will take
their place. He for whom His people have looked will assume His right—the
office of Supreme Judge.—The Review and Herald, January 1, 1889. {LDE 240.3} In all the
Bible, God is presented not only as a Being of mercy and benevolence, but as
a God of strict and impartial justice.—The Signs of the Times, March 24,
1881. {LDE 240.4} The Certainty of God’s Judgments God’s love is represented in
our day as being of such a character as would forbid His destroying the
sinner. Men reason from their own low standard of right and justice. “Thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an
one as thyself” (Psalm 50:21). They measure God by themselves. They reason as
to how they would act under the circumstances and decide God would do as they
imagine they would do.... {LDE 240.5} In no kingdom or government is
it left to the lawbreakers to say what punishment is to be executed against
those who have broken the law. All we have, all the bounties of His grace
which we possess, we owe to God. The aggravating character of sin against
such a God cannot be estimated any more than the heavens can be measured with
a span. God is a moral governor as well as a Father. He is the Lawgiver. He
makes and executes His laws. Law that has no penalty is of no force. {LDE 241.1} The plea may be made that a
loving Father would not see His children suffering the punishment of God by
fire while He had the power to relieve them. But God would, for the good of
His subjects and for their safety, punish the transgressor. God does not work
on the plan of man. He can do infinite justice that man has no right to do
before his fellow man. Noah would have displeased God to have drowned one of
the scoffers and mockers that harassed him, but God drowned the vast world.
Lot would have had no right to inflict punishment on his sons-in-law, but God
would do it in strict justice. {LDE
241.2} Who will say God will not do
what He says He will do?—Manuscript Releases 12:207-209; Manuscript Releases
10:265 (1876). {LDE 241.3} Judgments Come When God Removes His Protection I was shown that the judgments
of God would not come directly out from the Lord upon them, but in this way:
They place themselves beyond His protection.
He warns, corrects, reproves, and points out the only path of safety; then,
if those who have been the objects of His special care will follow their own
course, independent of the Spirit of God, after repeated warnings, if they
choose their own way, then He does not commission His angels to prevent
Satan’s decided attacks upon them.
{LDE 242.1} It is Satan’s power that is at
work at sea and on land, bringing calamity and distress and sweeping off
multitudes to make sure of his prey.—Manuscript Releases 14:3 (1883). {LDE 242.2} God will use His enemies as
instruments to punish those who have followed their own pernicious ways whereby
the truth of God has been misrepresented, misjudged, and dishonored.—The Paulson Collection of Ellen G. White Letters, 136
(1894). {LDE 242.3} Already the Spirit of God,
insulted, refused, abused, is being withdrawn from the earth. Just as fast as God’s Spirit is taken away, Satan’s
cruel work will be done upon land and sea.—Ms
134, 1898. {LDE 242.4} The wicked have passed the
boundary of their probation; the Spirit of God, persistently resisted, has
been at last withdrawn. Unsheltered by
divine grace, they have no protection from the wicked one.—The Great Controversy, 614 (1911). {LDE 242.5} At Times Holy Angels Exercise Destructive Power [The sinner must himself bear
full responsibility for the punishment that is meted out to him.] Ellen White
states, “God destroys no one. The sinner
destroys himself by his own impenitence.” 5T 120. See further The Great Controversy, 25-37.] God’s
judgments were awakened against Jericho. It was a stronghold. But the Captain
of the Lord’s host Himself came from heaven to lead the armies of heaven in
an attack upon the city. Angels of God laid hold of the massive walls and
brought them to the ground.—Testimonies for the Church 3:264 (1873). {LDE 243.1} Under God the angels are
all-powerful. On one occasion, in obedience to the command of Christ, they
slew of the Assyrian army in one night one hundred and eighty-five thousand
men.—The Desire of Ages, 700 (1898).
{LDE 243.2} The same angel who had come from
the royal courts to rescue Peter had been the messenger of wrath and judgment
to Herod. The angel smote Peter to arouse him from slumber. It was with a
different stroke that he smote the wicked king, laying low his pride and
bringing upon him the punishment of the Almighty. Herod died in great agony
of mind and body, under the retributive judgment of God.—The Acts of the
Apostles, 152 (1911). {LDE
243.3} A single angel destroyed all
the first-born of the Egyptians and filled the land with mourning. When David
offended against God by numbering the people, one angel caused that terrible
destruction by which his sin was punished. The
same destructive power exercised by holy angels when God commands, will be exercised by
evil angels when He permits. There are
forces now ready, and only waiting the divine permission, to spread
desolation everywhere.—The Great Controversy, 614 (1911). {LDE 243.4} The First Two Plagues When Christ ceases His
intercession in the sanctuary, the unmingled wrath threatened against those
who worship the beast and his image and receive his mark (Revelation 14:9,
10), will be poured out. The plagues upon Egypt when God was about to deliver
Israel, were similar in character to those more terrible and extensive
judgments which are to fall upon the world just before the final deliverance
of God’s people. Says the revelator, in describing those terrific scourges:
“There fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of
the beast, and upon them which worshiped his image.”
The sea “became as the blood of a dead man: and every living soul died in the
sea” [Revelation 16:2, 3].—The Great Controversy, 627, 628 (1911). {LDE 244.1} The plagues were falling upon
the inhabitants of the earth. Some were denouncing God and cursing Him.
Others rushed to the people of God and begged to be taught how they might
escape His judgments. But the saints had nothing for them. The last tear for
sinners had been shed, the last agonizing prayer offered, the last burden
borne, the last warning given.—Early Writings, 281 (1858). {LDE 244.2} The Third Plague I saw that the four angels
would hold the four winds until Jesus’ work was done in the sanctuary, and
then will come the seven last plagues. These plagues enraged the wicked
against the righteous; they thought that we had brought the judgments of God
upon them and that if they could rid the earth of us the plagues would then
be stayed. A decree went forth to slay the saints, which caused them to cry
day and night for deliverance.—Early Writings, 36, 37 (1851). {LDE 245.1} Note by Ron: It is clear from
the above statement that the saints are the 144,000 for they are the only
ones who are delivered without seeing death. End note. And “the rivers and fountains
of waters ... became blood.” Terrible as these inflictions are, God’s justice
stands fully vindicated. The angel of God declares: “Thou art righteous, O Lord, ... because Thou hast judged thus. For they have
shed the blood of saints and prophets, and Thou hast given them blood to
drink; for they are worthy” (Revelation 16:2-6). By condemning the people of
God to death, they have as truly incurred the guilt of their blood as if it
had been shed by their hands.—The Great Controversy, 628 (1911). {LDE 245.2} The Fourth Plague In the plague that follows,
power is given to the sun “to scorch men with fire. And men were scorched
with great heat” (Revelation 16:8, 9). The prophets thus describe the
condition of the earth at this fearful time: “The land mourneth;
... because the harvest of the field is perished.... All the trees of the
field are withered: because joy is withered away from the sons of men.” “The
seed is rotten under their clods, the garners are
laid desolate.... How do the beasts groan! the herds
of cattle are perplexed, because they have no pasture.... The rivers of water
are dried up, and the fire hath devoured the pastures of the wilderness.”
“The songs of the temple shall be howlings in that day, saith the Lord God:
there shall be many dead bodies in every place; they shall cast them forth
with silence” (Joel 1:10-12, 17-20; Amos 8:3). {LDE 245.3} These plagues are not
universal, or the inhabitants of the earth would be wholly cut off. Yet they
will be the most awful scourges that have ever been known to mortals.—The
Great Controversy, 628, 629 (1911).
{LDE 246.1} The Fifth Plague With shouts of triumph,
jeering, and imprecation, throngs of evil men are about to rush upon their
prey, when, lo, a dense blackness, deeper than the darkness of the night,
falls upon the earth. Then a rainbow, shining with the glory from the throne
of God, spans the heavens, and seems to encircle each praying company. The
angry multitudes are suddenly arrested. Their mocking cries die away. The
objects of their murderous rage are forgotten. With fearful forebodings they
gaze upon the symbol of God’s covenant, and long to be shielded from its
overpowering brightness.... {LDE
246.2} It is at midnight that God
manifests His power for the deliverance of His people. The sun appears, shining
in its strength. Signs and wonders follow in quick succession. The wicked
look with terror and amazement on the scene, while the righteous behold with
solemn joy the tokens of their deliverance.—The Great Controversy, 635, 636
(1911). {LDE 246.3} God’s Law Appears in the Sky There appears against the sky
a hand holding two tables of stone folded together. Says the prophet, “The
heavens shall declare His righteousness: for God is judge Himself” (Psalm
50:6). That holy law, God’s righteousness, that amid
thunder and flame was proclaimed from Sinai as the guide of life, is
now revealed to men as the rule of judgment. The hand opens the tables, and
there are seen the precepts of the Decalogue, traced as with a pen of fire.
The words are so plain that all can read them. Memory is aroused, the
darkness of superstition and heresy is swept from every mind, and God’s ten
words, brief, comprehensive, and authoritative, are presented to the view of
all the inhabitants of the earth.—The Great Controversy, 639 (1911). {LDE 247.1} The Lost Condemn Their False Shepherds Church members who have seen
the light and been convicted, but who
have trusted the salvation of their souls to the minister, will learn in
the day of God that no other soul can pay the ransom for their transgression. A terrible cry will be raised, “I am lost, eternally
lost.” Men will feel as though they could rend in pieces the ministers who
have preached falsehoods and condemned the truth.—The S.D.A. Bible Commentary
4:1157 (1900). {LDE 247.2} All unite in heaping their
bitterest condemnation upon the ministers. Unfaithful pastors have prophesied
smooth things; they have led their hearers to make void the law of God and to
persecute those who would keep it holy. Now, in their despair, these teachers
confess before the world their work of deception. The multitudes are filled
with fury. “We are lost!” they cry, “and you are the cause of our ruin”; and
they turn upon the false shepherds. The very ones that once admired them most, will pronounce the most dreadful curses upon them.
The very hands that once crowned them with laurels,
will be raised for their destruction. The swords which were to slay God’s
people, are now employed to destroy their enemies.—The Great Controversy,
655, 656 (1911). {LDE 247.3} Here we see that the
church—the Lord’s sanctuary—was the first to feel the stroke of the wrath of
God. The ancient men [Ezekiel 9:6], those to whom God had given great light
and who had stood as guardians of the spiritual interests of the people, had
betrayed their trust.—Testimonies for the
Church 5:211 (1882). {LDE 248.1} God’s Word is made of none
effect by false shepherds.... Their work will soon react upon themselves.
Then will be witnessed the scenes described in Revelation 18 when the judgments
of God shall fall upon mystical Babylon.—Ms 60, 1900. {LDE 248.2} The Sixth Plague The spirits of devils will go
forth to the kings of the earth and to the whole world, to fasten them in
deception, and urge them on to unite with Satan in his last struggle against
the government of heaven.—The Great Controversy, 624 (1911). {LDE 248.3} The Spirit of God is gradually
withdrawing from the world. Satan is also mustering his forces of evil, going
forth “unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world,” to gather them
under his banner, to be trained for “the battle of that great day of God
Almighty” [Revelation 16:14].—The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 7:983 (1890). {LDE 249.1} After John’s description in
Revelation 16 of that miracle-working power which was to gather the world to
the last great conflict, the symbols are dropped and the trumpet voice once
more gives a certain sound: “Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his
garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame” [Revelation 16:15].
After the transgression of Adam and Eve they were naked, for the garment of
light and security had departed from them.
{LDE 249.2} The world will have forgotten
the admonition and warnings of God as did the inhabitants of the Noatic world, as did also the dwellers in Sodom. They
awoke with all their plans and inventions of iniquity, but suddenly the
shower of fire came from heaven and consumed the godless inhabitants. “Thus
shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed” [Luke 17:30].—14MR
96, 97 (1896). {LDE 249.3} The Last Great Battle Between Good and Evil Two great opposing powers are
revealed in the last great battle. On one side stands the Creator of heaven
and earth. All on His side bear His signet. They are obedient to His
commands. On the other side stands the prince of darkness, with those who
have chosen apostasy and rebellion.—The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 7:982, 983
(1901). {LDE 249.4} A terrible conflict is before us.
We are nearing the battle of the great day of God Almighty. That which has
been held in control is to be let loose. The angel of mercy is folding her
wings, preparing to step down from the throne and leave the world to the
control of Satan. The principalities and powers of earth are in bitter revolt
against the God of heaven. They are filled with hatred against those who
serve Him, and soon, very soon, will be fought the last great battle between
good and evil. The earth is to be the battle field—the scene of the final
contest and the final victory. Here, where for so long Satan has led men
against God, rebellion is to be forever suppressed.—The Review and Herald,
May 13, 1902. {LDE 250.1} The battles waging between the
two armies are as real as those fought by the armies of this world, and on
the issue of the spiritual conflict eternal destinies depend.—Prophets and
Kings, 176 (c. 1914). {LDE 250.2} All the World Will Be Gathered on One Side or the Other All the world will be on one side or the other of the
question. The battle of Armageddon will be fought. And that day must find
none of us sleeping. Wide awake we must be, as wise virgins having oil in our
vessels with our lamps. The power of the Holy Ghost must be upon us and the
Captain of the Lord’s host will stand at the head of the angels of heaven to
direct the battle.—Selected Messages 3:426 (1890). {LDE 250.3} The enmity of Satan against
good will be manifested more and more as he brings his forces into activity
in his last work of rebellion, and every soul that is not fully surrendered
to God and kept by divine power will form an alliance with Satan against
heaven and join in battle against the Ruler of the universe.—Testimonies to
Ministers and Gospel Workers, 465 (1892).
{LDE 251.1} Soon all the inhabitants of
the earth will have taken sides, either for or against the government of
heaven.—Testimonies for the Church 7:141 (1902). {LDE 251.2} The Seventh Plague We need to study the pouring
out of the seventh vial [Revelation 16:17-21]. The powers of evil will not
yield up the conflict without a struggle. But Providence has a part to act in
the battle of Armageddon. When the earth is lighted with the glory of the
angel of Revelation eighteen, the religious elements, good and evil, will awake
from slumber, and the armies of the living God will take the field.—The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 7:983 (1899). {LDE 251.3} The battle of Armageddon is
soon to be fought. He on whose vesture is written the name, King of kings and
Lord of lords, leads forth the armies of heaven on white horses, clothed in
fine linen, clean and white [Revelation 19:11-16].—The S.D.A. Bible
Commentary 7:982 (1899). {LDE 251.4} The whole earth heaves and
swells like the waves of the sea. Its surface is breaking up. Its very foundations seem to be giving way. Mountain
chains are sinking. Inhabited islands disappear. The seaports that have
become like Sodom for wickedness, are swallowed up
by the angry waters.... The proudest cities of the earth are laid low. The
lordly palaces, upon which the world’s great men have lavished their wealth
in order to glorify themselves, are crumbling to ruin before their eyes. Prison walls are rent asunder, and God’s people, who
have been held in bondage for their faith, are set free.—The Great Controversy, 637 (1911). {LDE 251.5} Chapter 18—The Seven Last Plagues and the Righteous
(The Great Time of Trouble, Part 2) The Great Time of Trouble Begins After Probation’s
Close When Christ shall cease His
work as mediator in man’s behalf, then this time of trouble will begin. Then
the case of every soul will have been decided, and there will be no atoning
blood to cleanse from sin. When Jesus leaves His position as man’s
intercessor before God the solemn announcement is made, “He that is unjust, let
him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he
that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him
be holy still” (Revelation 22:11). Then
the restraining Spirit of God is withdrawn from the earth.—Patriarchs and Prophets, 201 (1890). {LDE 253.1} God’s People Are Prepared for the Trying Hour Before
Them When the third angel’s message
closes, mercy no longer pleads for the guilty inhabitants of the earth. The
people of God have accomplished their work. They have received “the latter
rain,” “the refreshing from the presence of the Lord,” and they are prepared
for the trying hour before them. {LDE 253.2} Angels are hastening to and fro
in heaven. An angel returning from the earth announces that his work is done;
the final test has been brought upon the world, and all who have proved themselves loyal to the divine
precepts have received “the seal of the living God.” Then Jesus ceases His intercession in the sanctuary
above.... Christ has made the atonement for His people, and blotted out their
sins. The number of His subjects is made up; “the kingdom and dominion, and
the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven,” is about to be given to
the heirs of salvation, and Jesus is to reign as King of kings, and Lord of
lords.—The Great Controversy, 613, 614 (1911). {LDE 254.1} Terrible Beyond Comprehension The season of distress and
anguish before us will require a faith that can endure weariness, delay, and
hunger—a faith that will not faint, though severely tried.... {LDE
254.2} The
“time of trouble such as never was,” is soon to open upon us; and we shall
need an experience which we do not now possess, and which many are too indolent
to obtain. It is often the case that trouble is greater in
anticipation than in reality; but this is not true of the crisis before us.
The most vivid presentation cannot reach the magnitude of the ordeal.—The Great Controversy, 621, 622 (1911). {LDE 254.3} When Jesus leaves the most
holy His restraining Spirit is withdrawn from rulers and people. They are left to the control of evil angels. Then such laws will
be made by the counsel and direction of Satan that, unless time should be
very short, no flesh could be saved.—Testimonies
For The Church 1:204 (1859).
{LDE 255.1} Many Laid to Rest Before Time of Trouble It is not always safe to ask
for unconditional healing.... He knows whether or not those for whom petitions are
offered would be able to endure the trial and test that would come upon them
if they lived. He knows the end from the beginning. Many will be laid
away to sleep before the fiery ordeal of the time of trouble shall come upon
our world.—Counsels on Health, 375 (1897). {LDE 255.2} The
Lord has often instructed me that many little ones are to be laid away before the time of
trouble. We shall see our children again. We shall meet them and know them in
the heavenly courts.—Selected Messages
2:259 (1899). {LDE 255.3} Satan’s Goal: Destroy All Sabbathkeepers Says the great deceiver: ...
“Our principal concern is to silence this sect of Sabbathkeepers....
We will finally have a law to exterminate all who will not submit to our
authority.”—Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 472, 473 (1884). {LDE 255.4} It is the purpose of Satan to
cause them to be blotted from the earth in order that his supremacy of the
world may not be disputed.—Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 37
(1893). {LDE 255.5} 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.—Testimonies for the
Church 9:231 (1909). {LDE
256.1} Arguments Used Against God’s People I saw that the four angels
would hold the four winds until Jesus’ work was done in the sanctuary, and
then will come the seven last plagues. These plagues enraged the wicked
against the righteous; they thought that we had brought the judgments of God
upon them, and that if they could rid the earth of us, the plagues would then
be stayed.—Early Writings, 36 (1851).
{LDE 256.2} When the angel of mercy
folds her wings and departs Satan will do the evil deeds he has long wished
to do.
Storm and tempest, war and bloodshed—in these things he delights, and thus he
gathers in his harvest. And so completely will men be deceived by him that
they will declare that these calamities are the result of the desecration of
the first day of the week. From the pulpits of the popular churches will be
heard the statement that the world is being punished because Sunday is not
honored as it should be.—The Review and Herald, September 17, 1901. {LDE 256.3} It will be urged that the few
who stand in opposition to an institution of the church and a law of the
state, ought not to be tolerated; that it is better for them to suffer than
for whole nations to be thrown into confusion and lawlessness. The same
argument eighteen hundred years ago was brought against Christ by the “rulers
of the people”.... This argument will appear conclusive.—The Great
Controversy, 615 (1911). {LDE 257.1} Death for All Who Do Not Honor
Sunday A decree went forth to slay
the saints, which caused them to cry day and night for deliverance.—Early Writings, 36, 37 (1851). {LDE 257.2} As Nebuchadnezzar the king of
Babylon issued a decree that all who would not bow down and worship this
image should be killed, so a proclamation will be made that all who will not
reverence the Sunday institution will be punished with imprisonment and
death.... Let all read carefully the thirteenth chapter of Revelation, for it
concerns every human agent, great and small.—Manuscript Releases 14:91
(1896). {LDE 257.3} The time of trouble is about
to come upon the people of God. Then it is that the decree will go forth
forbidding those who keep the Sabbath of the Lord to buy or sell, and
threatening them with punishment, and even death, if they do not observe the
first day of the week as the Sabbath.—In Heavenly Places, 344 (1908). {LDE 257.4} The powers of earth, uniting
to war against the commandments of God, will decree that “all, both small and
great, rich and poor, free and bond” (Revelation 13:16), shall conform to the
customs of the church by the observance of the false sabbath.
All who refuse compliance will be visited
with civil penalties, and it will
finally be declared that they are deserving of death.—The Great Controversy, 604 (1911). {LDE 257.5} Especially will the wrath of
man be aroused against those who hallow the Sabbath of the fourth
commandment, and at last a universal decree will denounce these as
deserving of death.—Prophets and
Kings, 512 (c. 1914). {LDE 258.1} Death Decree Similar to That Issued by Ahasuerus The decree that will finally
go forth against the remnant people of God will be very similar to that
issued by Ahasuerus against the Jews. Today the
enemies of the true church see in the little company keeping the Sabbath
commandment, a Mordecai at the gate. The reverence of God’s people for His
law is a constant rebuke to those who have cast off the fear of the Lord and
are trampling on His Sabbath.—Prophets and Kings, 605 (c. 1914). {LDE 258.2} I saw the leading men of the
earth consulting together, and Satan and his angels busy around them. I saw a
writing, copies of which were scattered in different parts of the land,
giving orders that unless the saints should yield their peculiar faith, give
up the Sabbath, and observe the first day of the week, the people were at
liberty after a certain time, to put them to death.—Early Writings, 282, 283
(1858). {LDE 258.3} If the people of God will put
their trust in Him and by faith rely upon His power, the devices of Satan
will be defeated in our time as signally as in the days of Mordecai.—The
Signs of the Times, February 22, 1910.
{LDE 259.1} The Remnant Make God Their Defense “And at that time shall
Michael stand up, the great Prince which standeth for the children of thy
people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there
was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be
delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book” [Daniel 12:1].
When this time of trouble comes, every case is decided; there is no longer
probation, no longer mercy for the impenitent. The seal of the living God is
upon His people. {LDE 259.2} This small
remnant, unable to defend
themselves in the deadly conflict with the powers of earth that are marshaled
by the dragon host, make God their defense. The decree has been passed by the
highest earthly authority that they shall worship the beast and receive his
mark under pain of persecution and death. May God help His people now, for
what can they then do in such a fearful conflict without His
assistance!—Testimonies for the Church 5:212, 213 (1882). {LDE 259.3} God’s People Flee the Cities; Many Imprisoned As the decree issued by the
various rulers of Christendom against commandment keepers shall withdraw the
protection of government, and abandon them to those who desire their
destruction, the people of God will flee from the cities and villages and associate together in companies, dwelling in the
most desolate and solitary places. Many
will find refuge in the strongholds of the mountains.... But many of all nations and of all classes, high and
low, rich and poor, black and white, will be cast into the most unjust and
cruel bondage. The beloved of God pass
weary days bound in chains, shut in by prison bars, sentenced to be slain,
some apparently left to die of starvation in dark and loathsome dungeons.—The
Great Controversy, 626 (1911). {LDE 259.4} Though a general decree has fixed
the time when commandment keepers may be put to death, their enemies will in some cases anticipate the decree,
and before the time specified, will endeavor to take their lives. But none can pass
the mighty guardians stationed about every faithful soul. Some are assailed in their flight from the cities and
villages; but the swords raised against them break and fall powerless as a
straw. Others are defended by angels in the form of men of war.—The Great
Controversy, 631 (1911). {LDE
260.1} The people of God are not at
this time all in one place. They are in different companies and in all parts
of the earth; and they will be tried singly, not in groups. Every one must stand the test for himself.—The S.D.A.
Bible Commentary 4:1143 (1908).
{LDE 260.2} The faith of individual
members of the church will be tested as though there were not another person
in the world.—The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 7:983 (1890). {LDE 260.3} Houses and Lands of No Use Houses and lands will be of no
use to the saints in the time of trouble, for they will then have to flee
before infuriated mobs, and at that time their possessions cannot be disposed
of to advance the cause of present truth....
{LDE 261.1} I saw that if any held on to
their property, and did not inquire of the Lord as to their duty, He would
not make duty known, and they would be permitted to keep their property, and
in the time of trouble it would come up before them like a mountain to crush
them, and they would try to dispose of it, but would not be able.... But if they desired to be taught, He would teach them,
in a time of need, when to sell and how
much to sell.—Early Writings, 56, 57
(1851). {LDE 261.2} It is too late now to cling to
worldly treasures. Soon unnecessary houses and lands will be of no benefit to
anyone, for the curse of God will rest more and more heavily upon the earth.
The call comes, “Sell that ye have, and give alms” [Luke 12:33]. This message
should be faithfully borne—urged home to the hearts of the people—that God’s
own property may be returned to Him in offerings to advance His work in the
world.—Manuscript Releases 16:348 (1901).
{LDE 261.3} Like the Time of Jacob’s Trouble A decree will finally be
issued against those who hallow the Sabbath of the fourth commandment,
denouncing them as deserving of the severest punishment, and giving the
people liberty, after a certain time, to put them to death. Romanism in the Old World, and apostate
Protestantism in the New, will pursue a similar course toward those who honor
all the divine precepts. The people of God will then be plunged into those
scenes of affliction and distress described by the prophet as the time of
Jacob’s trouble.—The Great Controversy, 615, 616 (1911). {LDE 261.4} To human sight it will appear
that the people of God must soon seal their testimony with their blood, as
did the martyrs before them. They themselves begin to fear that the Lord has
left them to fall by the hand of their enemies. It is a time of fearful
agony. Day and night they cry unto God for deliverance.... Like Jacob, all
are wrestling with God. Their countenances express their internal struggle.
Paleness sits upon every face. Yet they cease not their earnest
intercession.—The Great Controversy, 630 (1911). {LDE 262.1} Jacob’s experience during that
night of wrestling and anguish represents the trial through which the people
of God must pass just before Christ’s second coming. The prophet Jeremiah, in
holy vision looking down to this time, said, “We have heard a voice of
trembling, of fear, and not of peace.... All faces are turned into paleness.
Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like
it: it is even the time of Jacob’s trouble; but he shall be saved out of it”
(Jeremiah 30:5-7).—Patriarchs and Prophets, 201 (1890). {LDE 262.2} The Righteous Have No Concealed Wrongs to Reveal In
the time of trouble, if the people of God had unconfessed
sins to appear before them while tortured with fear and anguish, they would
be overwhelmed; despair would cut off their faith, and they could not have
confidence to plead with God for deliverance. But
while they have a deep sense of their unworthiness, they have no concealed
wrongs to reveal. Their sins have gone
beforehand to judgment, and have been blotted out; and they cannot bring them
to remembrance.—The Great Controversy, 620 (1911). {LDE 263.1} God’s people ... will have a
deep sense of their shortcomings, and as
they review their lives their hopes will sink. But remembering the greatness
of God’s mercy, and their own sincere repentance, they will plead His promises
made through Christ to helpless, repenting sinners. Their faith will not fail
because their prayers are not immediately answered. They will lay hold of the
strength of God, as Jacob laid hold of the Angel, and the language of their
souls will be, “I will not let Thee go, except Thou bless me.”—Patriarchs and
Prophets, 202 (1890). {LDE 263.2} The Saints Will Not Lose Their Lives God would not suffer the wicked to destroy those who were
expecting translation, and who would
not bow to the decree of the beast or receive his mark. I saw that if the
wicked were permitted to slay the saints, Satan and all his
evil host, and all who hate God, would be gratified. And oh, what a triumph
it would be for his satanic majesty, to have power, in the last closing
struggle, over those who had so long waited to behold Him whom they loved!
Those who have mocked at the idea of the saints’ going up will witness the
care of God for His people, and behold their glorious deliverance.—Early
Writings, 284 (1858). {LDE 263.3} Note by Ron: Again, it is
clear from the above statement that the saints are the 144,000 only. This
article by Ellen White does not say there will be many martyrs. The SDA
church makes no distinction between the 144,000 and all members who are saved.
So one might erringly conclude from this compilation of statements from the compilation
book Last Day Events, that all the
faithful SDA’s who are saved will not die. That is a serious mistake as the
addendum I have added to this article proves. Some might take the mark
because of this error—thinking that they are lost anyway just before they are
threatened to be martyred. This is why it is just as dangerous to minimize
the physical aspect. Ulicia Unruh does not seem concerned that the apostate
SDA church makes no distinction between the 144,000 and the great multitude,
when if all in the church that are saved are the 144,000, no martyrs to SDA’s
would occur. This is a serious cherished error of the church Ulicia Unruh
defends. End note. The people of God will not be
free from suffering; but while persecuted and distressed, while they endure
privation, and suffer for want of food, they will not be left to perish.—The
Great Controversy, 629 (1911).
{LDE 264.1} If the blood of Christ’s
faithful witnesses were shed at this time, it would not, like the blood of
the martyrs, be as seed sown to yield a harvest for God.—The Great
Controversy, 634 (1911). {LDE
264.2} God Will Provide The Lord has shown me
repeatedly that it is contrary to the Bible to make any provision for our
temporal wants in the time of trouble. I saw that if the saints had food laid up by them or
in the field in the time of trouble, when sword, famine, and pestilence are
in the land, it would be taken from them by violent hands, and strangers
would reap their fields. {LDE
264.3} Then will be the time for us
to trust wholly in God, and He will sustain us. I saw that our bread and
water will be sure at that time, and that we shall not lack or suffer hunger,
for God is able to spread a table for us in the wilderness. If necessary He would
send ravens to feed us, as He did to feed Elijah, or rain manna from heaven,
as He did for the Israelites.—Early Writings, 56 (1851). {LDE 264.4} I saw that a time of trouble
was before us, when stern necessity will compel the people of God to live on bread
and water.... In the time of trouble none
will labor with their hands. Their sufferings will be mental, and God will
provide food for them.—Ms 2, 1858. {LDE 265.1} The time of trouble is just
before us, and then stern necessity will require the people of God to deny self and to eat merely enough to sustain life, but
God will prepare us for that time. In that
fearful hour our necessity will be God’s opportunity to impart His
strengthening power and to sustain His people.—Testimonies For The Church 1:206
(1859). {LDE 265.2} Bread and water is all that is
promised to the remnant in the time of trouble.—The Story of Redemption, 129 (1870). {LDE 265.3} In the time of trouble, just before the coming of Christ, the
righteous will be preserved through the ministration of heavenly
angels.—Patriarchs and Prophets, 256 (1890).
{LDE 265.4} No Intercessor, but Constant
Communion With Christ Christ has made the atonement
for His people and blotted out their sins. The number of His subjects is made
up.... {LDE 265.5} When He leaves the sanctuary,
darkness covers the inhabitants of the earth. In that fearful time the
righteous must live in the sight of a holy God without an intercessor.—The
Great Controversy, 613, 614 (1911). {LDE 265.6} Will the Lord forget His
people in this trying hour? ... Though enemies may thrust them into prison,
yet dungeon walls cannot cut off the communication between their souls and
Christ. One who sees their every weakness, who is acquainted with every
trial, is above all earthly powers, and angels will come to them in lonely
cells, bringing light and peace from heaven. The prison will be as a palace,
for the rich in faith dwell there, and the gloomy walls will be lighted up
with heavenly light as when Paul and Silas prayed and sang praises at
midnight in the Philippian dungeon.—The Great
Controversy, 626, 627 (1911).
{LDE 266.1} Could men see with heavenly
vision, they would behold companies of angels that excel in strength stationed
about those who have kept the word of Christ’s patience. With sympathizing
tenderness, angels have witnessed their distress and have heard their
prayers. They are waiting the word of their Commander to snatch them from
their peril.... The precious Saviour will send help just when we need it.—The
Great Controversy, 630, 633 (1911).
{LDE 266.2} It is impossible to give any
idea of the experience of the people of God who shall be alive upon the earth
when celestial glory and a repetition of the persecutions of the past are
blended. They will walk in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By
means of the angels there will be constant communication between heaven and
earth.... {LDE 266.3} In the midst of the time of
trouble that is coming—a time of trouble
such as has not been since there was a nation—God’s
chosen people will stand unmoved. Satan and his host cannot destroy them, for
angels that excel in strength will protect them.—Testimonies for the Church
9:16, 17 (1909). {LDE 267.1} Note: The above statement
refers to the great time of Jacob’s trouble and only the 144,000 survive that
time. End note. God’s People Cherish No Sinful Desires Now, while our great High
Priest is making the atonement for us, we should seek to become perfect in
Christ. Not even by a thought could our Saviour be brought to yield to the
power of temptation. Satan finds in human hearts some point where he can gain
a foothold; some sinful desire is cherished, by means of which his
temptations assert their power. But Christ declared of Himself: “The prince
of this world cometh, and hath nothing in Me.” (John 14:30). Satan could find
nothing in the Son of God that would enable him to gain the victory. He had
kept His Father’s commandments, and there was no sin in Him that Satan could
use to his advantage. This is the condition in which those must be found who
shall stand in the time of trouble.—The Great Controversy, 623 (1911). {LDE 267.2} The Battle Against Self Continues So long as Satan reigns, we
shall have self to subdue, besetting sins to overcome; so long as life shall
last, there will be no stopping place, no point which we can reach and say, I
have fully attained. Sanctification is the result of lifelong obedience.—The
Acts of the Apostles, 560, 561 (1911).
{LDE 267.3} Constant war against the
carnal mind must be maintained; and we must be aided by the refining
influence of the grace of God, which will attract the mind upward and
habituate it to meditate upon pure and holy things.—Testimonies for the
Church 2:479 (1870). {LDE
268.1} We may create an unreal world
in our own mind or picture an ideal church, where the temptations of Satan no
longer prompt to evil; but perfection exists only in our imagination.—The
Review and Herald, August 8, 1893. {LDE
268.2} When human beings receive holy
flesh, they will not remain on the earth, but will be taken to heaven. While
sin is forgiven in this life, its results are not now wholly removed. It is
at His coming that Christ is to “change our vile body, that
it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body.”—Selected Messages 2:33
(1901). {LDE 268.3} The 144,000 They sing “a new song” before
the throne, a song which no man can learn save the hundred and forty and four
thousand. It is the song of Moses and the Lamb—a song of deliverance. None but the hundred and forty-four thousand can learn
that song, for it is the song of their
experience—an experience such as no other company have ever had. “These are
they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth.” These, having been translated
from the earth, from among the living, are counted as “the first fruits
unto God and to the Lamb” (Revelation 15:2, 3; 14:1-5.) “These are they
which came out of great tribulation”; they have passed through the time of
trouble such as never was since there was a nation; they have endured the
anguish of the time of Jacob’s trouble; they have stood without an intercessor
through the final outpouring of God’s judgments.—The Great Controversy, 648, 649 (1911). {LDE 268.4} It is not His will that they
shall get into controversy over questions which will not help them
spiritually, such as, Who is to compose the hundred and forty-four thousand?
This those who are the elect of God will in a short time know without
question.—Selected Messages 1:174 (1901).
{LDE 269.1} God’s People Delivered Satan’s host and wicked men
will surround them and exult over them because there will seem to be no way
of escape for them. But in the midst of their revelry and triumph there is
heard peal upon peal of the loudest thunder. The heavens have gathered
blackness, and are only illuminated by the blazing light and terrible glory
from heaven, as God utters His voice from His holy habitation. {LDE 269.2} The foundations of the earth shake, buildings totter and fall with a terrible crash.
The sea boils like a pot and the whole earth is in terrible commotion. The
captivity of the righteous is turned, and with sweet and solemn whisperings
they say to one another: “We are delivered. It is the voice of
God.”—Testimonies For The Church 1:353, 354 (1862). {LDE 269.3} When the protection of human laws
shall be withdrawn from those who honor the law of God, there will be, in
different lands, a simultaneous movement for their destruction. As the time
appointed in the decree draws near, the people will conspire to root out the
hated sect. It will be determined to strike in one night a decisive blow,
which shall utterly silence the voice of dissent and reproof. {LDE 269.4} The people of God—some in
prison cells, some hidden in solitary retreats in the forests and the
mountains—still plead for divine protection, while in every quarter companies
of armed men, urged on by hosts of evil angels, are preparing for the work of
death.... With shouts of triumph, jeering, and imprecation, throngs of evil
men are about to rush upon their prey when, lo, a dense blackness, deeper
than the darkness of the night, falls upon the earth.... {LDE 270.1} It is at midnight that God
manifests His power for the deliverance of His people.... In the midst of the
angry heavens is one clear space of indescribable glory, whence comes the
voice of God like the sound of many waters, saying, “It is done” (Revelation
16:17). That voice shakes the heavens and the earth.... {LDE 270.2} The proudest cities of the
earth are laid low. The lordly palaces, upon which the world’s great men have
lavished their wealth in order to glorify themselves, are crumbling to ruin
before their eyes. Prison walls are rent asunder, and God’s people, who have
been held in bondage for their faith, are set free.—The Great Controversy,
635-637 (1911). {LDE 270.3} Addendum of Ellen White’s Statements on Martyrs and
Other Matters Regarding the End-time Many Will Be Put
to Death [Many Martyrs] The best thing for us is
to come into close connection with God and, if He would have us be martyrs
for the truth's sake, it may be the means of bringing many more into the
truth.--3SM 420 (1886). {LDE 149.5} Many will be imprisoned,
many will flee for their lives from cities and towns, and many will be martyrs for Christ's sake in standing in defense
of the truth.--3SM 397 (1889). {LDE 150.1} There is a prospect before
us of a continued struggle, at the risk of imprisonment, loss of property and even of life itself, to
defend the law of God.--5T 712 (1889). {LDE 150.2} Men will be required to
render obedience to human edicts in violation of the divine law. Those who
are true to God will be menaced, denounced, proscribed. They will be
"betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks,
and friends," even unto death.--PK
588 (c. 1914). {LDE 150.3} “In some cases, BEFORE the time specified in
the decree, enemies will rush upon the waiting ones to put them to
death.” E.G. White, The 1884 edition
of The Great Controversy, p. 447. We are not to have the courage
and fortitude of martyrs of old until brought into the position they were in.
. . . Should there be a return of persecution there would be grace given to
arouse every energy of the soul to show a true
heroism.--OHC 125 (1889). {LDE 150.4} The disciples were not
endowed with the courage and fortitude of the martyrs until such grace was
needed.--DA 354 (1898). {LDE 150.5} How to Stand Firm Under Persecution We shall find that we must
let loose of all hands except the hand of Jesus Christ. Friends will prove
treacherous and will betray us. Relatives, deceived by the enemy, will think
they do God service in opposing us and putting forth the utmost efforts to
bring us into hard places, hoping we will deny our faith. But we may trust
our hand in the hand of Christ amid darkness and peril.--Mar 197 (1889). {LDE
150.6} The only way in which
men will be able to stand firm in the conflict is to be rooted and grounded
in Christ. They must receive the truth as it is in Jesus. And it is only
as the truth is presented thus that it can meet the wants of the soul. The
preaching of Christ crucified, Christ our righteousness, is what satisfies
the soul's hunger. When we secure the interest of the people in this
great central truth, faith and hope and courage come to the heart.--GCDB Jan.
28, 1893. {LDE 151.1} Many, because of their
faith, will be cut off from house and heritage here, but if they will give
their hearts to Christ, receiving the message of His grace, and resting upon
their Substitute and Surety, even the Son of God, they may still be filled
with joy.--ST June 2, 1898. {LDE 151.2} Persecution Scatters God's People As enmity is aroused in
various places against those who observe the Sabbath of the Lord, it may become necessary for God's people
to move from those places to places where they will not be so bitterly
opposed. {LDE 151.3} God does not require His children to remain where, by the course
of wicked men, their influence is made of no effect and their lives
endangered. When liberty and life are imperiled it is not merely our
privilege, it is our positive duty to go to places where the people are
willing to hear the Word of life and where the opportunities for preaching
the Word will be more favorable.--Ms 26, 1904. {LDE 151.4} “The time is soon coming
when God's people, because of persecution, will be scattered in many
countries. Those who have received an all-round education will have the
advantage where they are.”--5MR 280 (1908). {LDE 152.1}
"The time is coming when we shall
be separated and scattered, and each one of us will have to stand without the
privilege of communion with those of like precious faith; and how can you stand unless God is by your side, and
you know that He is leading and guiding you? Whenever we come to investigate
Bible truth, the Master of assemblies is with us. The Lord does not leave the
ship one moment to be steered by ignorant pilots. We may receive our orders
from the Captain of our salvation."--Review and Herald, March 25,
1890. {CW 42.1} "Looking down the ages, He saw
the covenant people scattered in every land, "like wrecks on a desert
shore." In the temporal retribution about to fall upon her children, He
saw but the first draft from that cup of wrath which at the final judgment
she must drain to its dregs. Divine pity, yearning love, found utterance in
the mournful words: "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent
unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a
hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!" O that
thou, a nation favored above every other, hadst known the time of thy
visitation, and the things that belong unto thy peace! I have stayed the
angel of justice, I have called thee to repentance,
but in vain. It is not merely servants, delegates, and prophets, whom thou
hast refused and rejected, but the Holy One of Israel, thy Redeemer. If thou
art destroyed, thou alone art responsible. "Ye will not come to Me, that
ye might have life." Matthew 23:37; John 5:40." The Great
Controversy, pp. 21, 22. Note: 34 And I will bring you out from the people, and will
gather you out of the countries wherein ye are scattered, with a mighty hand,
and with a stretched out arm, and with fury poured out. 35 And I will bring you into the wilderness of the
people, and there will I plead with you face to face. 36 Like as I pleaded with your fathers in the wilderness
of the land of Egypt, so will I plead with you, saith the Lord GOD. 37 And I will cause you to pass under the rod, and I will
bring you into the bond of the covenant: 38 And I will purge out from among you the rebels, and them
that transgress against me: I will bring them forth out of the country where
they sojourn, and they shall not enter into the land of Israel: and ye shall
know that I am the LORD. Ezekiel 20:34-38. End note: Persecution Leads
to Unity Among God's
People When the storm of
persecution really breaks upon us, the true sheep will hear the true
Shepherd's voice. Self-denying efforts will be put forth to save the lost,
and many who have strayed from the fold will come back to follow the great
Shepherd. The people of God will draw together and present to the enemy a
united front. In view of the common peril strife for supremacy will cease,
there will be no disputing as to who shall be accounted greatest.--6T 401
(1900). {LDE 152.2} A Crisis Makes God's Interference More
Marked From time to time the Lord
has made known His manner of working. He is mindful of what is passing upon
the earth. And when a crisis has come, He has revealed Himself and has
interposed to hinder the working of Satan's plans. He has often permitted
matters with nations, with families, and with individuals to come to a crisis
that His interference might become marked. Then He has let the fact be known
that there was a God in Israel who would sustain and vindicate His people.
{LDE 152.3} When the defiance of the
law of Jehovah shall be almost universal, when His people shall be pressed in
affliction by their fellow men, God will interpose. The fervent prayers of
His people will be answered, for He loves to have
His people seek Him with all their heart and depend upon Him as their
Deliverer.--RH June 15, 1897. {LDE 153.1} For a time the oppressors
will be permitted to triumph over those who know God's holy commandments. . .
. To the last, God permits Satan to reveal his character as a liar, an
accuser, and a murderer. Thus the final triumph of His people is made more
marked, more glorious, more full and complete.--3SM 414 (1904). {LDE 153.2} Affliction Purifies God's People Soon there is to be
trouble all over the world. It
becomes everyone to seek to know God. We have no time to delay. . . . {LDE
153.3} God's love for His church is infinite. His
care over His heritage is unceasing. He suffers no affliction to come upon
the church but such as is essential for her purification, her present and
eternal good. He will purify His
church even as He purified the temple at the beginning and close of
His ministry on earth. All that He brings upon the church in test and trial
comes that His people may gain deeper piety and more strength to carry the
triumphs of the cross to all parts of the world.--9T 228 (1909). {LDE 153.4} Note: Did the purification of HIS CHURCH include purification of the
apostate Temple that was destroyed in A.D. 70? Nay! Ezekiel 9 destruction
began at His Sanctuary, Ezekiel 9:6 and Matthew 22:7. This is proof that by
the words “HIS CHURCH,” Ellen White is referring to the following definition
of “church:” "God has a church. It is not the great cathedral, (or the super
mega church), neither is it the national establishment, neither is it the
various denominations; it is the people who love God and keep His commandments.
'Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst
of them.' Where Christ is even among the humble few, THIS IS CHRIST'S CHURCH,
for the presence of the High and Holy One who inhabiteth
eternity can alone constitute a church." Upward Look, p. 315. End note: “Afflictions, crosses,
temptations, adversity, and our varied trials are God's workmen to refine us,
sanctify us, and fit us for the heavenly garner.”--3T 115 (1872). {LDE 154.1} It will require serious spiritual character development to be able to
give one’s life at the end-time in martyrdom and all but the 144,000 saints
will be martyred. So daily study of the Word and much prayer will be required
to obtain the indwelling of the Holy Spirit that we might receive grace power
for obedience and fortitude, Romans 1:5. The End— rwb |