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Les diagrammes sulvants iiiustrent la m6thode. >y errata ed to »nt me pelure, aqon d 1 2 3 32X 1 2 3 4 5 6 3 o Cm o O T- S 2. o en ^WUl sY,(ivt. ♦*«>i*^*.»sa^^«-.i^ i I THi; Great Controversy i Between Christ and Satan o H DURING The Christian Dispensation. BY MRS. E. G. WHITE, Ain'HOR OF ••the life OF CHRIST," '•SKETCHES FROM THE LIFE OF PAUL," "BIBLE SANCTIFICATION," AND VARIOUS OTHER WORKS. REVISED AND ENLARGED. TORONTO, ONTARIO. REVIEW AND HERALD PUBLISHING CO. 1893. , »i<>»rt«.cJisT'.* iy* Entered accordimj to Act of Congress, in the year 1S88, hy In the office of the Librarian of Congress, Washington, D. C. ALL JilGIlTS RESERVED. WARWICK & SONS. PRINTERS AND BOOKBINDERS, TORONTO, f PUBLISHER'S PREFACE. "When the leader of tliose "nngels wbioh kept not their first estate" (Ju the many sons whom he is bringing unto glory. Heb. ? : 10. Aside from the great volume of inspiration — the Bible — no other booV presents a more wonderful and intensely interesting history of the present dispensation, to the complete restitution of all things, tban the volume here offered to the public. And as the closing scenes of this world's history are of the most thrilling and momentous nature, these are more particularly dwelt upon in this work. The reader, as he follows the narrative, beginning with a sketch of our Lord's great prophecy in Matthew 24, will find himself entering into new sympathy with the church in her warfare and her sufferings, as she passes on to her promised redemption ; and the soul of every believer will kindle at the vivid description of the final triumph of the people of Gcd, the de- struction of Satan and all his followers, the total and eternal extirpa- tion of evil from the universe, and the renovation of the earth as the everlasting inheritance of the saints, when this great controversy Is concluded. While the subjects here presented involve the loftiest imagery, and most wonderful depth, even as the apostle declares, "the deep things of God," which the Spirit alone ?3 capable of i^earching into (Cor. 3 : 10), yet they are treated in language cLaste, simple, and easy to be under- stood. And we rejoice to know thiit the reading of tliis work leads to greater confidence in, and love for, the Holy Scriptures, to greater sympathy with Christ, in his mai'^elous work for the redemption of (6) PREFACE. men, nnd to greater ri'veronco for tli»> God of all gr-'ce, in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowlcdgo. Numoroiis oditioMit of this work having already hi'cn exiiaiirtted, \70 feel a peculiar gratit!'calion in Hcnding f(/rth this edition, enlarged and improved, and adapted to circulate in varioiiH tongues The illuH- trationa will jidd to the intereHt and value of the work. ^' 'ly it still prove a bleaaiug to all who read, and redound to the glory oi the Moat High. -o-:- AUTHOR'S PREFACE. Befork the entrance of sin, Adam enjoyed open communion with his Maker; but since man separated liimaelf from (Jod by transgres- sion, the human race has been out oit from this high privilege. By the plan of redemption, however, a way has been opened whereby the inhabitants of the earth may still have connection with Heaven. God has communicated with men by his Spirit, and divine light has been imparted to the world by revelations to his chosen servants. *' Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost." 2 Pet. 1 :21. During the first twenty -five hundred years of human history, there was no written revelation. Those who had been taught of God, com- municated their knowledge to others, and it was handed down from father to son, through successive generations, The preparation of the written word began in the time of Moses. Inspired revelations were then embodiea in an inspired book. This work continued during the long period of sixteen hundred years, from Moses, the historian of creation and the law, to John, the recorder of the most sublime truths of the gospel. The Bible points to God as its author; yet it was written by human hands; and in the varied style of its different books it presents the char- acteristics of the several writers. The truths revealed are all "given by inspiration of God" (2 Tim. 3 : 16); yet they are expressed in the w ards of men. The Infinite One by his Holy Spirit has shed light into the minds and hearts of his servants. Ho has given dreams and visions, symbols and figures; and those to whom the truth was thus re- vealed, have themselves embodied the thought in human language. The ten commandments were spoken by God himself, and were written by his own hand. They are of divine, and not human com- position. But the Bible, with its God-given truths expressed in the language of men, presents a union of the divine and the human. Such a union existed in the nature of Christ, who was the Son of God and (c) PRKFA CK. the Son of miiri. Thim it id true of tho Bible, hh it wiih of Christ, that " tlie Word wurt miidu tlesh, uiid dwolt among U8." Jolin 1 : 14. Written it; ditferont agea, by men wlio ditfeij^d widely in rank and occupation, and in mental und apiritual ondowmontM, tho booka of the liible preaetit u wide contraHt in stylo, aa well aa a divoraity in the nature of tlio aubjocta unfolded. Difterent forma of exprcaaion are employi'(l by different writers; often the same truth ia more strikingly preaentel by one than by another. And as aevoral writers present a subject under varied aspects and relations, there nuiy appear, to the superficial, careleaa, or prejudiced reader, to bo discrepancy or contra- diction, where the thoughtful, reverent student, with clearer insight, discerns the underlying harmony. As presented through different individuals, the truth is brought out in its varied aspects. One writer ia more strongly imprcased with one phase of a subject; lio grasps thodo points that harmonize with his experience or with his power of perception and appreciation; another seizes upon a different phase; and each, under tho guidance of the Holy Spirit, presents what is most forcibly impressed upon his own mind; a different aspect of tho truth in each, but a perfect harmony through all. And tho truths thus revealed unite to form a perfect whole, adapted to meet the wants of men in all the circumatances and experiences of life. God has been pleased to communicate his truth to the world by human agencies, and ho himself, by his Holy Spirit, qualified men and enabled them to do this work. He guided tho mind in tho selec- tion of what to speak and what to write. The treasure was intrusted to earthen vessels, yet it is, none tho less, from Heaven. The testimony is conveyed through the imperfect expression of human language; yet it is the testimony of God; and the obedient, believing child of God beholds in it the glory of a divine power, full of grace and truth. In his Word, God has committed to men the knowledge necessary for salvation. The Holy Scriptures are to be accepted aa an authorita- tive, infallible revelation of his will. They are the standard of char- acter, the revealer of doctrines, and the teat of experience. " Every scripture inspired of God is also profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for instruction which is in righteousness; that the man of God may be complete, furnished completely unto every good work." 2 Tim. 3 ; 16, 17, Reviaed Version. Yet the fact that God haa revealed hia will to men through his Word, has not rendered needless the continued presence and guiding of the Holy Spirit. On the contrary, the Spirit was promised by our Saviour, to open the Word to his servants, to illuminate and apply its teach- ings, i.nd since it was the Spirit of God that inspired the Bible, it is (d) i PRKFA CK. ». itnfKMHible that ihu teaching of tht* spirit Hhould ever \w contrary to that «)f the Word. The Spirit wa« not ^^iven — nor can It ovor be bcHtowod — toHuporHodo the Bible; for the ScripturcH explicitly state that tliu Word of (iod in the Htandurd by wliieh all teaching and cxperiunco nitiHt bu tented. .Saya the apostle John, " Helievo not every Hpirit, but try the spirits whether they are of (tod; because many false prophets are gone out into the world." I John 4 : 1. And Isaiah declares, "To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." Isa. K : L'O. Great reproach has been cast upon the work of the ][oly Spirit, by the errors of a class that, claiming its enlightenment, profess to have uo further need of guit In the church *' fur tlut portrctiti^r of tlio Hiiirits. for tlm work of the iiiiiiiMtry, for tlio edifying of thu body of ChriHt; till wo all coiiiu in thu unity of tho faith, anirU (tf tvindom and n eclat inn in tho knowhdno of him; the cye» of j/onr iiikU rstanilhiy bfituj inl'Kjhtrnnl; that yo nuiy know what is tho ]i()po of liid culling, and wiiat ... is t\n) cjceedinf/ ffrc( if ncsH it( his |)owcr to us-ward who holievc" Kph. 1:17-19. Th(» miniMtry of tho dlvinu Hpirit in enlightening tho uiidorstanding and opening to tli(^ miinl tho deej) things of (lod's holy Word, was tho blosning which l*uul tluw boHought for tho KpheHian church. After tho wonderful manifestation of tho IFoly Spirit on tho day of Pentecortt, Peter exhorted the people to repentance and baptinni in tho name of Christ, for tho remission of their sins; and hitsaid, " Yo shall receive tho gift of tho Holy (thost. For tho promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that areufar oH'^ even as many as the Lord our Ood shall call." Acts 2 : .38, 30. In immediate connection with the scenes of the great day of Ood, tho Lord by the prophet Joel has promised a special manifestation of his Spirit. Joel 2 : 28. Thisproph(>cy received a partial fulfillment in the outpouring of tho Spirit on tho day of Pentecost; but it will reach its full accomj/lishment in tho manifestation of divine grace which will attend the closing work of tho gospel. The great controversy between good and evil will increase in in- tensity to the very close of time. In all ages tho wrath of Satan lias been manifested against tho church of Christ; and God has bestowed his grace and Spirit upon his people to strengthen them to stand against the power of tho evil one. When tho ai)ostles of Christ were to bear his gospel to the world and to record it for all future ages, they were especially endowed with tho enlightenment of the Spirit. But as tho church approaches her final deliverance, Satan is to work with greater power. He comes down "having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time." Rev. 12 : 12. He will work "with all power and signs and lying wonders." 2 Thess. 2 :9. For six thousand years that master-mind that once was highest among the angels of God, has been wholly bent to the work of deception and ruin. And all the depths of Satanic skill and subtlety acquired, all tho cruelty developed, during these struggles of the ages, will be brought to bear against God's people in the final conflict. And in this time of PRKFA CE. peril the follnworH of rhriat arc to bt-iir to tin* world the wuriiiti)i(of tho Lord'tt Mi'coixl udvetit; iiiitl h pvoplo art^ to he prr|>ar«>A lleinarkable Confession. — The Church of Abyssinia.— Rome's Enmity toward the Law of God. — History of the Past to be Repeated. — Purpose of the Romanists 563-C81 CHAPTER XXXVI. THE IMPENDING CONFLICT— ITS CAUSES. The Great Controversy and the Law of God. — The Last Battle between Truth and Error. — Rejection of the Bible. — Philosophical Idolatry. — Results of Setting .1. ide God's Law. — Temperance Reform and the Sunday Move- ment. — Spiritualism. — Satan Appears as a Benefactor. — He Controls the Elements. — Terrible Calamities. — God's People will be Accused as Troublers of the Nation. — Liberty of Conscience Disregarded. — Last War upon the Church 582-592 CHAPTER XXXVn. THE SCRIPTURES A SAFEGUARD. The Detector of Error. — An Understanding of the Prophecies Essential. — Danger of Following Human Leaders. — How to Understand the Script- ures. — Why Theologians so Often Err. — Necessity of r*rayer. — Every Character to be Tested 693-602 CHAPTER XXXVni, THE FINAL WARNING. The Mighty Angel. — Application of his Message. — "The Seal of God." — Light lor All who Seek It. — The Experience of Reformers. — God's Provi- dence.in the National Councils. — The Closing Work. — World-wide Ex- tent.— Power and Glory.— Fruits of Missionary Efforts G03-612 CHAPTER XXXIX. "THE TIMi: OF TROUBLE." Christ's Ministration Closes. — The Wrath of Satan.— The Whole World against God's Servants. — The Decree of Outlawry. — In Peril and Dis- tress. — Illu8tr.ition from the Time of Jacob's Trouble. — Power of Im- portunate Prayer. — The Prophetic Woe. — Supernatural Sights and Sounds. — The Crowning Deception. — God's People Forced to Flee. — The Mountains a Hiding-place. — Imprisonment and Bondage. — The Righteous not Forsaken. — The Unmingled Wrath. — Guardian Angels.- Their Ap- pearance in Human Form. — The Promise of Deliverance 613-634 M XIV CONTENTS. CHAPTER XL. GOD'S PEOPLE DELIVERED. A Movement for their Dr ' .. — The Night Attack.— SupernatunJ Darkneas. — The llainho\« .jd'a Glory.— Cclcatial Voices.— The Suu lit Midnight.— The Voice of Gotl.— A Mighty Karth(|uake. — A Spucicl Itcaurreotiou. — Prophetic Portrayal. The Star of Hope. — Revelations in the Heavens.— ^Tlie Everlasting Covenant. — "The Sign of the Son of Man." — Christ'c Coming in Glory.— Resurrection of tho Just. —The Re- ward of the Righteous. — Before tho Throne. — "The Joy of their Lord."— Meeting of the Two Adams. — Eden Kestorod. — Tho "Now Song."— T'ne Theme of Redemption 635-052 CHAPTER XLI. DESOLATION OF THE EARTH. Gop'a Judgments upon tho Wicked. — Their Treasures Swept Away. — False Teachers Exposed. — Fury of the Multitudes.— Strife and Carnage. — The Earth Made Waste. — The Prison-house of Satan. — A Work of Judg- ment U53-6til CHAPTER XLTI. THE CONTROVERSY ENDED. Christ's Return to the Earth. — Tho Resurrection of the Wicked. — Tho Mount of Olives. — Descent of the New Jerusalem. — Satan's Last Struggle. — Christ upon the Throne of his Glory. — The Final Coronation.— The Judgment of the Wicked. — Tho Books of Record. — A Panoramic Por- trayal. — The Scenes of Redemption. — The Cross of Calvary. — Results of Rebellion. — Gods Justice Made Manifest.— The Firo of Destruction. — Evil Annihilated.— The Home of the Saved.— Tho City of God.— The Universal Authem 062-078 General Notes 679-691 Biographical Notes 692-704 LIST OF ILLrSTRATIOXS. I'Aril. jKUfSAI.KM KIIOM TIIK Moi'NT »)K OmVKS FnnitinjHKte TlIK lU.'HNINO (tK TIIK TkMIM.K 17 TlIK TkMIM.K AM) ITS CuL'UTM 24 The Colihkim 80 Chiiistianm WousiiijMNd IN THK Catacomiw . 40 H r. Pktkh's Ciiriicii. at Uomk ... 49 rENANCi: OK IIknuy IV. at Canosha 68 ■\VaLUKNSIAN MlHHIONAIlIMS 70 Pass of Pha del Tor in Wai.densian Vai.i.kys 78 WyCUFFE, IIl'SS, JeHOME, ZwINUKK, OCcOLAMI-ADIfS 70 WyCLIFFK and tub FltlAKS 88 Luttekwohtii Cmnicii 96 Huss IN Puison 106 Jerome Led to Martyrdom 114 Luther, Calvin, Farel, Melancthon, Frkderk k of Saxony. . 120 Luther's Protest acsainst Induuiencp.s 180 Luther Before the Diet 156 View op Worms 170 Swiss Heformers Preaching in the Fields 171 View in Zurich 184 Luther at the Wartihtro 185 Reading the Protest at the Diet ov Sri res 203 Francis L as a Penitent 228 Tyndale, Knox, Latimer, Ridley, \Visi'-'?t, Cranmer 245 Wesley, Baxter, Bunyan, Miller, Wiik '•:field 256 Pope Pius VL Taken Prisoner in 1798 266 The St. Bartholomew Massacre 273 The Goddess of Reason 276 Street Scene in the French Revolution 283 The Signs of His Coming 808 Diagram of the 70 Weeks and the 23U0 Days 828 The Disappointment of the Disciples 844 Joseph Wolff among the Arabs 800 Child preaching ix i^weden 803 On the Day of Ato; EMi:NT 420 Christ Healing the Demoniac 514 Proclaiming the Dogma ok Papal Inkalliuility at Rome 503 Interior of the Church of St. John Lateran 566 Catholic Churches and Schools 573 Beforis. the Inquisitors 680 Elements of Destruction 690 The Great Earthquake 636 The Dominion Restored 676 :xv) '^}.V^.^H M _ > M '^" ^ u ' ;> ..'i* «•« .* •.,1 n /-. ; ^ ^?^JEl ^1 H H u II S The Great Controversy. CHAPTER I. U H U H ^ o s. l-l pa u X H 11 3 DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM. "If thou hadat knov/n, oven thou, at leuwt in tliis tliy day, tho things wliich belong unto thy peace I but now they are liid from thino eyes. For the days sliall come upon thee, that tliine enemies shall cast a trencii al)Out thee, and com- I)ass thee round, and keep thee iu on every side, and shall lay theo even with tho ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in theo one stono upon another; because thou knewest not tho time of thy visitation.'" From the crtst of Olivet, Jesus looked upon Jerusalem. Fair and peacelul was tho scene spread out before him. It was tho season of the Passover, and from all lands the chil- dren of Jacob had gathered there to celebrate the great na- tional festival. In tho midst of gardens and vineyards, and green slopes studded with pilgrims* tents, rose tho terraced hills, the stately palaces, and massive bulwarks of Israel's capital. Tho daughter of Zion seemed in her pride to say, ** I sit a queen, and shall see no sorrow; " as lovely then, and deeming herself as secure in Heaven's favor, as when, ages before, the royal minstrel sung, " Beautiful for situation, the joy of tho whole earth, is Mount Zion," "the city of the great King."^ In full view were the magnificent buildings of the temple. The rays of the setting sun lighted up the snowy ^ Luke 19 : 42-44 » Pa. 48 : 2. (17) 18 THE GREAT CONTROVERSY, whiteness of its marble walls, and gleamed from golden gate and tower and pinnacle. " The perfection of beauty " it stood, the pride of the Jewish nation. What child of Israel could gaze upon the scene without a thrill of joy and admiration I But far other thoughts occupied the mind of Jesus. " When he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it." * Amid the universal rejoicing of the triumphal entry, while palm branches waved, while glad hosannns awoke the echoes of the hills, and thousands of voices declared him king, the world's Redeemer was overwhelmed with a sudden and mys- terious sorrow. He, the Son of God, the Promised One of Israel, whose power had conquered death, and called its captives from the grave, was in tears, not of ordinary grief, but of intense, irrepressible agony. His tears were not for himself, though he well knew whither his feet were tending. Before him lay Gethsemane, the scene of his approaching agony. The sheep gate also was in sight, through which for centuries the victims for sacrifice had been led, and which was to open for him when he should be " brought as a lamb to the slaughter." '' Not far distant was Calvary, the place of crucifixion. Upon the path which Christ was soon to tread must ftill the horror of great dark- ness as he should make his soul an offering for sin. Yet it was not the contemplation of these scenes that cast the shadow upon him in this hour of gladness. No foreboding of his own superhuman anguish clouded that unselfish spirit. He wept for the doomed thousands of Jerusalem — because of the blindness and impenitence of those whom he came to bless and to save. The history of more than a thousand years of God's spe- cial favor and guardian care, manifested to the chosen peo- ple, was open to the eye of Jesus. There was Mount Moriah, where the son of promise, an unresisting victim, had been bound to the altar, — emblem of the offering of the Son of God.* There, the covenant of blessing, the glorious Messianic 1 Luke 19 : 41 2 Isa. 53 : 7. 8 q^^^ 22 : a J)ESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM. la promise, had been confirmed to the father of the faithful.^ There the flames of the sacrifice ascending to heaven from the threshing-floor of Oman had turned aside the sword of the destroying angel * — fitting symbol of the Saviour's sacri- fice and mediation for guilty men. Jerusalem had been honored of God above all the earth. The Lord had " chosen Zion," he had "desired it for his habitation."* There, for ages, holy prophets had uttered their messages of warning. There, priests had waved their censers, and the cloud of incense, with the prayers of the worshipers, had ascended before God. There daily the blood of slain lambs had been, offered, pointing forward to the Lamb of God. There, Je- hovah had revealed his presence in the cloud of glory above the mercy-seat. There rested the base of that mystic ladder connecting earth with Heaven,* — that ladder upon which angels of God descended and ascended, and which opened to the world the way into the holiest of all. Had Israel as a nation preserved her allegiance to Heaven, Jerusalem would have stood forever, the elect of God.* But the history of that favored people was a record of backsliding and re- bellion. They had resisted Heaven's grace, abused their privileges, and slighted their opportunities. Although Israel had " mocked the messengers of God, and despised his words, and misused his prophets," " he had still manifested himself to them, as "the Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth;"' notwithstanding repeated rejections, his mercy had continued its pleadings. With more than a father's pitying love for the son of his care, God had " sent to them by his messengers, rising up betimes, and sending; because he had compassion on his people, and on his dwelling-place."" When remonstrance, entreaty, and rebuke had failed, he sent to them the best gift of Heaven; nay, he poured out all Heaven in that one gift. 'Gen. 23 ^ John 1 : :1G-18. n Chron. 21. U^s. 1^3 : 51. 5 Jer. 17:21-25. «3 Cbron. 36 10. ♦Gen. 28:12; 15, 16. 'Ex. 34:6. _ o 20 THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. The Son of God liimsclf was sent to plead with the im- penitent city. It was Christ that had brought Israel as a goodly vine out of Egypt,* His own hand had cast out the heathen before it. He had jilantcd it "in a very fruitful hill," '■' His guardian care had hedged it about. His serv- ants had been sent to nurture it. " What could have been done more to my vineyard," he exclaims, " that I have not done in it ? " ^ Though when he " looked that it should bring forth grapes, it brought forth wild grapes," ' yet with a still yearning hope of fruitfulness he came in person to his vineyard, if haply it might be saved from destruction. He digged about his vine; he pruned and cherished it. He was unwearied in his efforts to save this vine of his own planting. For three years the Lord of light and glory had gone in and out among his people. " He went about doing good," " healing all that were oppressed of the devil," * binding up the broken-hearted, setting at liberty them that were bound, restoring sight to the blind, causing the lame to walk and the deaf to hear, cleansing the lepers, raising the dead, and preaching the gospel to the poor.* To all classes alike was addressed the gracious call, " Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest." * Though rewarded with evil for good, and hatred for his love,^ he had steadfastly pursued his mission of mercy. Never were those repelled that sought his grace. A home- less wanderer, reproach and penury his daily lot, he lived to minister to the needs and lighten the woes of men, to plead with them to accept the gift of life. The waves of mercy, beaten back by those stubborn hearts, returned in a stronger tide of pitying, inexpressible love. But Israel had turned from her b-^st friend and only helper. The pleadings of his love had been despised, his counsels spurned, his warn- ings ridiculed. ips. 80:8. 2Isa. 5:1-4. "Matt. 11:28. 'Acts 10 :3S; Luke 4 : 18; Matt. 11 :6. 6 Pa. 109:5. i DESTRUCTION' OF JERUSALEM. 21 The hour of hope and pardon was fast passing ; the cup of God's long-deforrcd wrath was ahnost fuU. The ch)ud that liad boen gatliering through ages of apostasy and rebellion, now black with woe, was about to burst upon a guilty people, and lie who alone could save them from their impending fate had been slighted, abused, rejected, and was soon tc be crucified. When Christ should hang upon the cross of Calvary, Israel's day as a nation favored and blessed of God would be ended. The loss of even one sold is a calam- ity, infinitely outweighing the gains and treasures of a world ; but as Christ looked upon Jerusalem, the doom of a whole city, a whole nation, was before him ; that city, that nation which had once been the chosen of God, — his peculiar treasure. Prophets had wept over the apostasy of Israel, and the terrible desolations by which their sins were visited. Jere- miah wished that his eycrf were a fountain of tears, that he might weep day and night for the slain of the daughter of hi« people, for the Lord's flock that w'as carried away cap- tive.^ Wiiat, then, was the grief of Ilim whose prophetic glance took in, not years, but ages ! lie beheld the destroy- ing angel with sword uplifted against the city which had so long been J^jhovah's dwelling-place. From the ridge of Olivet, the very spot afterward occupied by Titus and his army, he looked across the valley upon the sacred courts and porticoes, and with tear-dimmed eyes hv. saw, in awful perspective, the v»^alls surrounded by alien hosts. lie heard the tread of armies marshaling for war. He heard the voice of mothers and children crying for bread in the besieged city. He saw her holy and beautiful house, her palace; and towers, given to the flames, and where once they stood, only a heap of smouldering ruins. Looking down the ages, he saw the covenant people scat- tered in every land, '' like wrecks on a desert shore.*' In the temporal retribution about to fall ujwn her children, he saw iJer. 9:1 ; 13 , 17. IT oo THE GREAT CONTROrERSY. but tho first draught from tliat cup of 'wrath "svhich 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 tlio prophets, and stonest them which arc sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered tliy cliihlrcn together, even as a hen gather- f th her chickens under her wings, and ye would not ! ' ^ Oh that thou, a nation favored above every other, hadst known the time of thy visitation, and tlie things tluit belong unto thy peace ! I have stayed the angel of justice, I have called tliee to repentance, but in vain. It is not merely servants, delegates, and prophets, whom thou hast refused and re- jected, but the Holy One of Israel, tliy Redeemer. If tliou art destroyed, thou alone art responsible. * Ye will not come to mc, that ye might have life.' " " Christ saw in Jerusalem a symbol of the world hardened in unbelief and rebellion, and hastening on to meet the retributive judgments of God. The woes of a fallen race, pressing upon his soul, forced from his lips that exceeding bitter cry. He saw the record of sin traced in human mis- ery, tears, and blood ; his heart was moved with infinite pity for tho afilicted and suffering ones of earth ; he yearned to relieve them all. But even his hand might not turn back the tide of imman woe; few would seek their only source of help. Ho was willing to pour out his soul unto death, to bring salvation within tlieir reach ; but few would come to him that they might have life. The Majesty of Heaven in tears ! the Son of the infinite God troubled in spirit, bowed down with anguish ! The scene filled all Heaven with wonder. That scene reveals to us the exceeding sinfulness of sin ; it shows how hard a task it is, even for infinite power, to save the guilty from the consequences of transgressing the law of God. Jesus, look- ing down to the last generation, saw the world involved in a deception similar to that which caused the destruction of »Matt. 23:37. "John 5: 40. \ DESTRUCTION' OF JERUSALEM. 23 Jerusalem. The great sin of the Jews was their rejection of Christ; the great sin of the Christian world would bo tlieir rejection of the law of God, the foundatio.i of his govern- ment in Heaven and earth. The i)recepts of Jehovah would be despised and set at naught. Millions in bondage to sin, slaves of Satan, doomed to suffer the second death, would refuse to listen to the words of truth in their dav of visit- ation. Terrible blindness ! strange infatuation ! Two davs before tlio Passover, when Christ had for the last time departed from the temple, after denouncing the hypocrisy of the Jewish rulers, lie again went out with his disciples to the Mount of Olives, and seated himself with them upon a grassy slope overlooking the city. Once mor"i he gazed upon its walls, its towers, and its i)alaces. Once more he beheld the temple in its dazzling splendor, a dia- dem of beauty crowning the sacred mount. A thousand years before, the psalmist had magnified God's favor to Israel in making her holy house his dwell- ing-place : " In Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwell- ing-place in Zion." ^ He " chose the tribe of Judah, the Mount Zion which he loved. And he built his sanctuary like high palaces."'* The first temple had been erected during the most prosperous period of Israel's history. Vast stores of treasure for this purpose had been collected by King David, and the plans for its construction were made by divine inspiration.^ Solomon, the wisest of Israel's moii- archs, had completed the work. This temple was the most magnificent building which the world ever saw. Yet the Lord had declared by the prophet Plaggai, concerning the second temple, "The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former." " I will shake all nations, and the Desire of all nations shall come ; and I will fill this house with glory, saith the Lord of hosts." ^ After the destruction of the temple by Nebuchadnezzar, it >Ps. 76 : 2. aPs. 78 : 68, 69. 3 1 Chron. 28 : 12, 19. *Hag. 2 :9, 7. 24 THE GREAT COSTROVERSY. I • was rebuilt about five hundred years before the birtli of Christ, by a peojjlo wlio from a Hfe-long ca[)tivity liad re- turned to a wasted and almost deserted country. There were then among them aged men who liad seen the glory of Solomon's temple, and who wept at the foundation of the new building, that it must be so inferior to the former. Tlie feeling that prevailed is forcibly deseribed by the prophet: "Who is left among you that saw this house in her first glory? and how do ye see it now? is it not in your eyes in comparison of it as nothing?'" Then was given the promise that the glory of this latter house should be greater than that of the former. But the second temple hud not equaled the first m mag- nificence; nor was it hallowed by those visil)le tokens of the divine presence which pertained to the first temple. There was no manifestation of supernatural power to mark its dedication. No cloud of glory was seen to fill the newly erected sanctuary. No tire from Heaven descended to con- sume the sacrifice upon its altar. The shekinah no longer abode between the cherubim in the most holy place; the ark, the mercy-seat, and the tables of the testimony were not to be found therein. No voice sounded from Heaven to make known to the inquiring priest the will of Jehovah. For centuries the Jews had vainlv endeavored to show wherein the promise of God given by Haggai, had been fulfilled; yet pride and unbelief blinded their minds to the true meaning of the prophet's words. The second temple was not honored with the cloud of Jehovah's glory, but with the living presence of One in whom dwelt the fullness of the Godhead bodily, — who was God himself manifest in the flesh. The "Desire of all nations" had indeed come to his temple when the Man of Nazareth taught and healed in the sacred courts. In the presence of Christ, and in this only, did the second temple exceed the first in glory. But Israel had put from her the proffered gift of Heaven. With the iHag. 2:3. he birth of 'itv luul re- t. try. There 1 tlie glory it ion of tlie riaer. The le i)rophet: in lier first L your eyes given the 1 be greater •st m mag- kens of tlie [)le. There mark its the newly (led to con- i no longer place; the iiony were Heaven to hovah. I to show had been nds to the lid temple , but with ullncss of fest ill the me to his led in the [this only, ut Israel With the '^ ftttr TiiK first tt'iupli', erected by Soloiuoii, w.iS r/coini)lete(l u. v. 1(1(14. In !!. c. ")>al gateways in the outer inelosure were on the west. This tem- ple was destroyed a. d. 70. THE TEMPLE AND ITS COURTS. DES TR UCTION OF JER USALEM. 25 huinl)lo Teacher who luid that day passed out from its golden gate, the glory had forever departed from the temple. Airea Mark 13:1. SMatt24:2. *Matt. 23:38. « Matt. 24: 3. I I 2G THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. prominent events to take pluce before the close of time. His words were not then fully understood; but their meaning was to bo 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 })refigured also the terrors of the last groat day. Jesus declared to the listening disci[»les the judgments that were to fall upon apostate Israel, and especially the retrib- utive vengeance that would come upon them for their re- jection and crucifixion of the Messiah. Unmistakable signs would precede the awful climax. The dresxled hour would come suddenly and swiftly. And the Saviour warned his followers: "When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, s})oken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place (wIkjso readeth, let him understand), then let them which be in Judea flee into the mountains."' 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. In the reign of Herod, Jerusalem had not only been greatly beautified, but by the erection of towers, walls, and fortresses, adding to the natural strength of its situation, it had been rendered apparently impregnable. He who would at this time have foretold publicly its destruction, would^ like Noah in his day, have been called a crazed alarmist » Matt. 24 : 15, 16 ; Luke 21 : CO. DESTRUCTION- OF JERFSALKM. I. His 'uction Avofold lion of at y Christ liimself, the I.onl dclayiMl his jud^Miu'iittt upon tlie eity anet rayed one an(»ther. I'arenis slew their children, ami children their ])arents. The rulers of the peoph^ had no power to rule themselves. Utieontrolled passions made them tyrants. The Jews had acceiited false testimony to condemn the inno- cent Hon of (lod. Now false accusations made their own lives uncertain. Hy their actions they had lon^ heen say- ing, "Cause the Holy One of Israel to cease from hefore us,"' Now their desire was granted. The fear of (lod no longer disturhed them. ISatan was at the head of the nation, and the highest civil and religious authorities were under his sway. The leaders of the opposing factions at times united to plunder and torture their wretched victims, and again they fell upon each other's forces, and slaughtered without mercy. Even the sanctity of tho temple could not restrain their hor- rible ferocity. The worshipers were stricken down before the altar, and the sanctuary was polluted with the bodies of the slain. Yet iii their blind and blasphemous presumption tne instigators of this hellish work publicly declared that they had no fear that Jerusalem would be destroyed, for it was God's own city. To establish their power more firmly, they bribed false prophets to proclaim, even while Roman legions were besieging the temple, that the people were to wait for deliverance from God. To the last, multitudes held fast to the belief that the Most High would interpose for the defeat of their adversaries. But Israel had spurned the divine protection, and now she had no defense. Unhappy Jerusalem! rent by internal dissensions, the blood of her children slain by one another's hands crimsoning her streets, while alien armies beat down her fortifications and slew her men of war! » 180.30:11. '60 THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. All the predictions given by Christ concerning the de- struction of Jerusalem were fulfilled to the letter. The Jews experienced the truth of his words of warning, " With what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again." ' Signs and wonders appeared, foreboding disaster and doom. In the midst of the night an unnatural light shone over the temple and the altar. Upon the clouds at sunset were pict- ured chariots and men of war gathering for battle. The priests ministering by night in the sanctuary were terrified by mysterious sounds ; the earth trembled, and a multitude of voices were heard crying, "Let us depart hence." The great eastern gate, which was so heavy that it could hardly be shut by a score of men, and which was secured by im- mense bars of iron fastened deep in the pavement of solid stone, opened at midnight, without visible agency. For seven years a man continued to go up and down the streets of Jerusalem, declaring the woes that were to come upon the city. By day and by night he chanted the wild dirge, "A voice from the east; a voice from the west; a voice from the four winds; a voice against Jerusalem and the temple ; a voice against the bridegroom and the bride ; and a voice against all the people." This strange being was imprisoned and scourged; but no complaint escaped his lips. To insult and abuse he answered only, "Woe to Jerusalem 1 woe, woe to the inhabitants thereof I" His warning cry ceased not until he was slain in the siege he had foretold. Not one Christian perished in the destruction of Jerusalem. Christ had given his disciples warning, and all who believed his words watched for the promised sign. " AVhen ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies," said Jesus, "then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. Then let them which are in Judea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out."'' After the Romans under Cestius had surrounded the city, they unexpectedly abandoned the siege when everything seemed favorable for » Matt. 7:2. « Luke 21 : 20, 21 . DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM. 31 an iiiiinediate attack. The besieged, despairing of successful resistance, were on tlie point of surrender, wlien the lionian general withdrew his forces, without the least apparent reason. But God's merciful providence was directing events for the good of his own people. The promised sign had been given to the waiting Christians, and now an oppor- tunity was afforded for all who would to obey the Saviour's warning. Events were so overruled that neither Jews nor Romans should hinder the flight of the Christians. Upon the retreat of Cestius, the Jews, sallying from Jerusalem, pursued after his retiring army, and while both forces were thus fully engaged, the Christians had an opportunity to leave the city. At this time the country also had been cleared of enemies who might have endeavored to intercept them. At the time of the siege, the Jews were assembled at Jerusalem to keep the Feast of Tabernacles, and thus the Christians throughout the land were able to make their escape unmolested. Without delay they fled to a place of safety, — the city of Pella, in the land of l*erea, beyond Jordan. The Jewish forces, pursuing after Cestius and his army, fell ui)on their rear with such fierceness as to threaten them with total destruction. It was with great difficulty that the Ilomans succeeded in making their retreat. The Jews es- caped almost without loss, and with their spoils returned in triumph to Jerusalem. Yet this apparent success brought them only evil. It inspired them with that spirit of stub- born resistance to the Romans which speedily brought un- utterable woe upon the doomed city. Terrible were the calamities that fell upon Jerusalem when the siege was resumed by Titus. The city was invested at the time of the Passover, when millions of Jews were as- sembled within its walls. Their stores of provision, which if carefully preserved would have supplied the inhabitants for years, had previously been destroyed through the jealousy and revenge of the contending factions, and now all the hor- 32 TIIK GREAT CONTROVERSY. rors of starvation wero oxi)oricnced. A measure of wheat was sold for u talent. So liorco wore the pangs of hunger that men would gnaAV the leather of their helts and sandals and the covering of their shields, CJreat numbers of tlio peoj)lo would steal out at night to gather wihl jjlants grow- ing outside the city walls, though numy were seized and put to death with eru(>l torture, and often those who rc^turned in safety wero robbed of what they luid gleaned at so great peril. The most inhiuuan tortures wero inflicted by those in power, to force from tho want-stricken people the last scanty supplies which they might have concealed. And these cruelties were not infrequ(Mitly practiced by men who wero themselves well fed, and who were merely desirous of laying up a store of ])rovision for tho future. Thousands perished from famine and pestilence. Natural affection seemed to have been destroyed. Husbands robbed their wives, and wives their Inisbands. . C'lnldren would be seen snatching the food from the mouths of their aged par- ents. Tho question of the ]>rophet, "Can a woman forget her sucking child?"' received the answer within the walls of that doomed city, "The hands of the pitiful womeii have sodden their own children; they were their meat in the destruction of tho daughter of my people."'' Again was fulfilled the warning prophecy given fourteen centuries be- fore: "Tho tender and delicate woman among you, which would not adventure to set tho solo of Iut foot upon the ground for delicateness and t(>nderness, her eye shall bo evil toward tho husband ot Jier bosom, and toward her son, and toward her daughter; . . . nnd toward her children which she shall bear; for she shall eat them for want of all things secretly in the si(^ge and straitness, wherewith thine enemy shall distress theo in thy gates."' The Roman lead( rs endeavored to strike terror to the Jews, and thus cause them to surrender. Those prisoners who resisted when taken, were scourged, tortured, and cruci- > Isa. 49 : 15. > Lam. 4:10. » Deut. 'J8 : 56, 57. DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM. 33 fic'd bi'loro the wall of the city. Iliiiulreds wore daily jmt to (Imth in tiiis iiiiuinor, and tho droadt'ul work continued until, alonnj the valley of Jehoshaphat and at Calvary, crosses were erected in so great inimbers that there was scarcely room to move among tlu>m. So terribly was visited that awful imprecation uttered before the judgment-seat of Pilate: "His blood be on us, and on our children.'" Titus would willingly have put an end to the fearful scene, and tlius have si)ared J(>rusalem the full measure of her doom. lie was filled with horn)r as lie saw the bodies of tho dead lying in heaps in the valleys. Like one en- tranced, he looked from tho crest of Olivet upon tho mag- iiilicent temple, and gave command that not one stone of it bo touched. Before attem})ting to gain possession of tliis stronghold, he nuide an earnest ai)peal to the Jewish leaders not to force him to defile the sacred place with blood. If they would come forth and tight in any other place, no Ko- man should violate the sanctity of tho temple. Joseplius himself, in a most elo(iuent aj)})eal, entreated them to sur- render, to save themselves, their city, and their place of worship. But Ids words were answered with bitter curses. Darts were hurled at him, their last lunnan mediator, as lie stood pleading with them. The Jews had rejected tho en- treaties of the Son of God, and riow expostulation and en- treaty ordy made them more determined to resist to the last. In vain were the eilorts of Titus to save the temple; One greater than he had declared that not one stone W'as to be left upon another. Tho blind obstinacy of the Jewish leaders, and the de- testable crimes perpetrated within tho besieged city, excited tho horror and indignation of the Romans, and Titus at last decided to take the temple by storm. lie determined, how- ever, that if possible it should bo saved from destruction. But his connnands were disregarded. After he had retired to his tent at night, the Jews, sallying from the temple, at- » Matt. 27 : 25. 34 THE GREAT CONTROVERSF. tacked the soldiers without. In the struggle, a firebrand was flung by a soldier through an opening in the porch, and immediately the ccdar-lincd chambers about the holy house were in a blaze. Titus rushed to the place, followed by his generals and legionaries, and commanded the soldiers to quench the flames. His words were unheeded. In their fury the soldiers hurled blazing brands into the chambers adjoining the temple, and then with their swords they slaughtered in great numbers those who had found shelter there. Blood flowed down the temple steps like water. Thousands upon thousands of Jews perished. Above the sound of battle, voices were heard shouting, " Tchabod ! " — the glory is departed. " Titus found it impossible to check the rage of the sol- diery; he entered with his officers, and surveyed the interior of the sacred edifice. The splendor filled them with wonder, and as the flames had not yet penetrated to the holy place, he made a last effort, to save it, and springing forth, again exhorted the soldiers to stay the progress of the conflagration. The centurion Liberalis endeavored to enforce obedience with his staff of office ; but even respect for the emperor gave v/ay to the furious animosity against the Jews, to the fierce ex- citement of battle, and to the insatiable hope of plunder. The soldiers saw everything around them radiant with gold, which shone dazzlingly in the wild light of the flames; they supposed that incalculable treasures were laid up in the sanctuary. A soldier, unperceived, thrust a lighted torch between the hinges of the door ; the whole building was in flames in an instant. The blinding smoke and fire forced the officers to retreat, and the noble edifice was left to its fate. " It was an appalling spectacle to the Roman ; what was it to the Jew? The whole summit of the hill which com- manded the city blazed like a volcano. One after another the buildings fell in, with a tremendous crash, and were swallowed up in the fiery abyss. The roofs of cedar were DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM. 85^ like sheets of flame ; the gilded pinnacles shono like spikes of red light; the gate towers sent up tall columns of flame and smoke. The neighboring hills were lighted up; and dark groups of people ■\vero seen watching in horrible anxiety the progress of the destruction; the "walls and heights of the upper city were crowded with faces, some pale with the agony of despair, others scowling unavailing vengeance. The shouts of tlio Iloman soldiery as they ran to and fro, and the bowlings of the insurgents who were perishing in the flames, mingled with the roaring of the conflagration and the thundering sound of falling timbers. The echoes of the mountains replied ov brought back the shrieks of the people on the heights; all along the walls resounded screams and wailings; men who were expiring with famine rallied their remaining strength to utter a cry of anguish and des- olation. " The slaughter within was even more dreadful than the spectacle from without. Men and women, old and young, insurgents and priests, those wdio fought and those Avho en- treated mercy, were hewn down in indiscriminate carnage. The number of the slain exceeded that of the slayers. Tlio legionaries had to clamber over heaps of dead to carry on the work of extermination." After the destruction of the temple, the whole city soon fell into the hands of the Romans. The leaders of the Jews forsook their imjoregnable towers, and Titus found them sol- itary. He gazed upon them with amazement, and declared that God had given them into his hands; for no engines, however powerful, could liave prevailed against those stu- pendous battlements. Both the city and the temple were razed to their foundations, and the ground upon which the holy house had stood was "plowqd like a field." ^ In the siege pnd the slaughter that followed, more than a million of the people perished; the survivors w^ere carried away as captives, sold as slaves, dragged to Rome to grace the con- »Jor. 20:18. m THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. queror's triumph, thrown to wild beasts in the amphithea- ters, or scattered as homeless wanderers throughout the earth. The Jews had forged their own fetters ; they had filled for themselves the cup of vengeance. In the utter destruction that befell them as a nation, and in all the woes that fol- lowed them in their dispersion, they were but reaping the harvest which their own hands had sown. Says the prophet, "O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself;" "for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity." ' Their sufferings are often rep- resented as a punishment visited upon them by the direct ■decree of God. It is thus that the great deceiver seeks to conceal his own work. By stubborn rejection of divine love and mercy, the Jews had caused the protection of God to be withdrawn from them, and Satan was permitted to rule them according to his w'l. The horrible cruelties enacted in the destruction of Jei usalem are a demonstration of Satan's vin- dictive power over those who yield to his control. We cannot know how much we owe to Christ for the peace and protection which we enjoy. It is the restraining power of God that prevents mankind from passing fully binder the control of Satan. The disobedient and unthankful have great reason for gratitude for God's mercy and long-suffering in holding in check the cruel, malignant power of the evil one. But when men pass the limits of divine forbearance, that restraint is removed. God does not stand toward the «inner as an executioner of the sentence against transgres- Bion; but he leaves the rejecters of his mercy to themselves, to reap that which they have sown. Every ray of light rejected, every warning despised or unheeded, every passion indulged, every transgression of the law of God, is a seed sown, which yields its unfailing harvest. The Spirit of God, persistently resisted, is at last withdrawn from the sinner, and then there is left no power to control the evil passions of the soul, and no protection from the malice and enmity •of Satan. The destruction of Jerusalem is a fearful and »Ho8. 13:9; 14:1. DESTRUCTION' OF JERUSALEM. 37 solemn warning to all who are trifling witli tlie offers of divine grace, and resisting the pleadings of divine mercy. Never was there given a more decisive testimony to God's hatred of sin, and to the certain punishment that will fall upon the guilty. The Saviour's prophecy concerning the visitation of judg- ments upon Jerusalem is to have another fulfillment, oi 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. Dark are the records of human misery that earth has witnessed during its long centuries of crime. The heart sickens and the mind grows faint in contemplation. Ter- rible have been the results of rejecting the authority of Heaven. But a scene yet darker is presented in the revela- tions of the future. The records of the past, — tlu long pro- cession of tumults, conflicts, and revolutions, the "battle of the warrior, with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood," ' — what are these, in contrast with the terrors of that day when the restraining Spirit of God shall be wholly with- drawn from the wicked, no longer to hold in check the outburst of human passion and Satanic wrath ! The world will then behold, as never before, the results of Satan's rule. But in that day, as in the time of Jerusalem's destruction, God's people will be delivered, "every one that shall be found written among the living." Christ has declared that he will come the second time, to gathe. his faithful ones to himself: "Then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and the} ^hall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other."* Then shall they that obey not the gospel be consumed with the spirit of his Tuouth, and be destroyed with the brightness of his coming.' Like Israel » Isa. 9:5. » Matt. 24 : 30, 31. » 2 Thess. 2 : 8. 38 THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. of old, the wicked destroy themselves; they fall by their iniquity. By a life of sin, they have placed themselves so out of harmony with God, tlieir natures have become so debased with evil, that th(> manifestation of Ids glory is to them a consuming fire. Let men beware lest they neglect the lesson conveyed to them in the words of Christ. As he warned his disciples of Jerusalem's destruction, giving them a sign of the approach- ing ruin, that they might make their escape, so he has warned the world of the day of final destruction, and has given them tokens of its approach, that all who will may flee from the wrath to come. Jesus declares, " There shall be signs in the sun, anc. m the moon, and in ttio stars; and upon the earth distress of nations."' Those who behold these harbingers of his coming are to "know that it is near, even at the doors." * " Watcli ye therefore,"* are his words of admonition. They tliat heed the warning shall not be left in darkness, that that day should overtake them un- awares. But to them that will not watch, " the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night." * The world is no more ready to credit the message for this time than were the Jews to receive the Saviour's warning concerning Jerusalem. Come when it may, the day of God will come unawares to the ungodly. When life is going on in its unvarying round ; when men are absorbed in pleasure, in business, in traffic, in money-making; when religious leaders are magnifying the world's progress and enlighten- ment, and the people are lulled in a false security, — then, as the midnight thief steals within the unguarded dwelling, so shall sudden destruction come upon the careless and un- godly, " and they shall not escape. V i »Luke 21 : 25 ; Matt. 24 : 29 ; Mark 13 : 24-2(5 ; Rev. G : 12-17. =* Matt. 2-4 : 33. * Mark 13 : 35. * i Thess. 5 : 2-^. ill by their selves so !Conie so iory irf to A'eyed to sciples of [)proach- he has and has ^'iil may jre shall ars; and behold '> i-s near, is words I not be lem un- y of the for this kvarning of God joing on )loasure, 'eligious lighten- then, as lling, so md uii- 17. -5. Gt. C on. OS O CHAPTER II. PERSECUTION IN THE FIRST CENTURIES. When Jesus revealed to his disciples the fate of Jerusalem and the scenes of the second advent, he foretold also the ex- perience of his people from the time when he should be taken from them, to his return in power and glory for their deliverance. From Olivet the Saviour beheld the storms about to fall upon the apostolic clmrch, and, penetrating deeper into the future, his eye discerned the fierce, wasting tempests that were to beat upon his followers in the coming ages of darkness and persecution. In a few brief utterances, of awful significance, he foretold the portion which the rul- ers of this world would mete out to the church of God.* The followers of Christ must tread the same path of humili- ation, reproach, and suffering which their Master trod. The enmity that burst forth against the world's Redeemer, would be manifested against all who should believe on his name. The history of the early church testified to the fulfillment of the Saviour's words. The powers of earth and hell ar- rayed themselves agai ..ist Christ in the person of his follow- ers. Paganism foresaw that should the gospel triumph, her temples and altars would be swept away; therefore she summoned her forces to destroy Christianity. The fires of persecution were kindled. Christians were stripped of their possessions, and driven from their homes. They " endured a great fight of afflictions." * They " had trial of cruel mock- » Matt. 24 : 9, 21, 22. ■' Heb. 10 : 32. (39) 40 Tin: CRKAT COSTROVKliSY. ingfi ami scourj^iiigs, yea, moivovor of ]){)ii(ls and iinj)ris()n. im-nt."' (ircat numl)c'rs seali'd tlu'ir tcstiinoiiy with tlioir blood. Noblo aiul .slave, rich and jmor, luaniwl and igno- rant, wore alike slain without mercy. These persecutions, bejL;innin«; undi'r Nero about the timo of the martyrdom of Paul, continued with greater or less fury for centuries. Christians were ialsely accused of tho most dreadful crimes, and declared to bo tho causo of groat calamities — famine, pestilence, nnd earth([uako. As they became tho objects of po[)ular hatred and sus[)iciou, inform- ers stood ready, for tho sake of gain, to betray tho innocent. They were condemned as rebels against tho empire, as foey of religion, and pests to society. Great numbers were thrown to wild beasts or burned alive in tho amphitheaters. Somci were crucified; others were covered with tho skins of wild animals, and thrust into tho arena to bo torn by dogs. Their punishment was often made tho chief entertainment at public fetes. Vast multitudes assiMiibled to enjoy tlio sight, and greeted their dying agonies with laughter and applause. Wherever they sought refuge, tho followers of Christ were hunted like beasts of prey. They were forced to seek con- realment in desolate and solitary places. " Destitute, af flicted, tormented; of whom the wt)rld was not worthy; they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth."* Tho catacombs afforded shelter foi thousands. Beneath tho hills outside the city of Rome, long galleries had been tunneled through earth and lock; the dark and intricate network of passages extended for miles bej'ond the city walls. In these underground retreats, the followers of Christ buried their dead ; and hero also, when suspected and proscribed, they found a liome. When the Lifegiver shall awaken those who liave fought ihe good fight, many a martyr for Christ's sake will come forth from those gloomy caverns. »Heb. 11 :36, 37.38. o > > n p I 'si >t were k con- ite, af- they and ter foi , long k; the miles ts, the when n the fight, those PERSECUTION IN THE FIRST CENTURIES. 41 Under the fiercest persecution, these witnesses for Jesus kept their faith unsullied. Though deprived of every com- fort, shut away from the light of the sun, making their home in the dark but friendly bosom of the earth, they uttered no complaint. With words of faith, patience, and hope, they encouraged ov.q another to endure privation and distress. The loss of every earthly blessing could not force them to renounce their belief in Christ. Trials and perse- cution were but steps bringing them nearer their rest and their reward. Like God's servants of old, many were " tortured, not ac- €epting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resur- rection." ^ These called to mind the words of their Master, that when persecuted for Christ's sake they were to be ex- ceeding glad ; for great would be their reward in Heaven ; for so the prophets had been persecuted before them. They rejoiced that they were accounted worthy to suffer for the truth, and songs of triumph ascended from the midst of crackling flames. Lookii g upward by faith, they saw Christ and angels leaning over the battlements of Heaven, gazing upon them with the deepest interest, and regarding their steadfastness with approval. A voice came down to them from the throne of God, " Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life." * In vain were Satan's efforts to destroy the church of Christ by violence. The great controversy in which the disciples of Jesus yielded up their lives, did not cease when these faithful standard-bearers fell at their post. By defeat they conquered. God's workmen were slain, but his work went steadily forward. The gospel continued to spread, and the number of its adherents to increase. It penetrated into regions that were inaccessible, even to the eagles of Rome. Said a Christian, expostulating with the heathen rulers who were urging forward the persecution : " You may torment, afflict, and vex us. Your wickedness puts our weakness to »Heb. 11:35. »Itev.2:10. 42 THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. the te^t, but your cruelty is of no avail. It is but a stronger invitation to bring others to our persuasion. The more wo are mowed down, the more we spring up again. The blood of the Christians is seed." Thousands were imprisoned and slain ; but others sprung up to fill their i)laces. And those who were martyred for their faith were secured to Christ, and accounted of him as conquerors. They had fought the good fight, and they were to receive the crown of glory when Christ should come. The sufferings which they endured brought Christians nearer to one another and to their Redeemer. Their living ex- ample and dying testimony were a constant witness for the truth ; and, where least expected, the subjects of Satan were leaving his service, and enlisting under the banner of Christ. Satan therefore laid his plans to war more successfully against the government of God, by planting his banner in the Christian church. If the followers of Christ could be deceived, and led to displease God, then their strength, forti- tude, and firmness would fail, and they would fall an easy prey. The great adversary now endeavored to gain by artifice what he had failed to secure by force. Persecution ceased, and in its stead were substituted the dangerous allurements of temporal prosperity and worldly honor. Idolaters were led to receive a part of the Christian faith, while they re- jected other essential truths. They professed to accept Jesus as the Son of God, and to believe in his death and resurrec- tion; but they had no conviction of sin, and felt no need of rcjicntance or of a change of heart. With some conces- sions on their i^art, they proposed that Christians should make concessions, that all might unite on the platform of belief in Christ. Now the church was in fearful peril. Prison, torture, fire, and sword were blessings in comparison with this. Some of the Christians stood firm, declaring that they could make no compromise. Others were in favor of yielding or modifying >liU, PERSECUTION IN THE FIRST CENTURIES. 43 some features of their faith, and uniting with tl)ose who had accepted a part of Christianity, urging that this might bo the means of their full conversion. Tliat was a time of deep aniruish to the faithful followers of Christ. Under a cloak of pretended Christianity, Satan was insinuating himself into the church, to corrupt their faith, and turn their niiuds from the Word of truth. Most of the Christians at last consented to lower their standard, and a union was formed between Christianity and paganism. Although the woishipers of idols professed to be converted, and united with the church, they still clung to their idolatry, only changing the objects of their worship to images of Jesus, and even of Mary and the saints. The foul leaven of idolatry, thus brought into the church, continued its baleful work. Unsound doctrines, superstitious rites, and idolatrous ceremonies were incorporated into her faith and worship. As the followers of Christ united wdth idolaters, the Christian religion became corrupted, and the church lost her purity and power. There were some, however, who were not misled by these delusions. They still maintained their fidelity to the Author of truth, and worshiped God alone. There have ever been two classes among those who pro- fess to be followers of Christ. While one class study the Saviour's life, and earnestly seek to correct their defects and to conform to the Pattern, the other class shun the plain, practical truths which expose their errors. Even in her best estate, the church was not composed wholly of the true, pure, and sincere. Our Saviour taught that those who willfully indulge in sin are not to be received into the church; yet he connected with himself men who were faulty in character, and granted them the benefits of his teachings and example, that they might have an opportunity to see their errors and correct them. Among the twelve apostles was a traitor. Judas was accepted not because of his defects of character, but notwithstanding them. He was connected with the dis- 44 THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. I -I ciples, that, through the instruction and example of Christ, he might learn what constitutes Christian character, and thus be led to see his errors, to repent, and, by the aid of di- vine grace, to purify his soul "in obeying the truth." But Judas did not walk in the light so graciously permitted to shine upon him. By indulgence in sin, he invited the temp- tations of Satan. His evil traits of character became pre- dominant. He yielded his mind to t^: control of the powers of darkness, he became angry when his faults were reproved, and thus he was led to commit the fearful crime of betraying his Master. So do all who cherish evil under a profession of godliness hate those who disturb their peace by ' ndemn- ing their course of sin. When a favorable opportunity is presented, they will, like Judas, betray those who for their good have sought to reprove them. The apostles encountered those in the church w^ho pro- fessed godliness while they were secretly cherishing iniquity. Ananias and Sapphira acted the part of deceivers, pretend- ing to make an entire sacrifice for God, when they were cov- etously withholding a portion for themselves. The Spirit of truth revealed to the apostles the real character of these pretenders, and the judgments of God rid the church of this foul blot upon its purity. This signal evidence of the discerning Spirit of Christ in the church was a terror to hypocrites and evil-doers. They could not long remain in connection with those who were, in habit and disposition, constant representatives of Christ; and as trials and perse- cution came upon his followers, those only who were willing to forsake all for the truth's sake desired to become his dis- ciples. Thus, as long as persecution continued, the church remained comparatively pure. But as it ceased, converts were added who were less sincere and devoted, and the way was opened for Satan to obtain a foot-hold. But there is no union between the Prince of light and the prince of darkness, and there can be no union between their followers. AVhen Christians consented to unite with those Ml PERSECUTION' IN THE FIRST CENTURIES. 45 who were but half converted from paganism, they entered upon a path which led farther and farther from the truth. Satan exulted that ho had succeeded in deceiving so largo a number of the followers of Christ. He then brought his power to bear more fully upon these, and inspired them to persecute those who remained true to God. None under- stood so well how to oppose the true Christian faith as did those who had once been its defenders; and these apostate Christians, uniting wiih their half-pagan companions, di- rected their warfare against the most essential features of the doctrines of Christ. It required a desperate struggle for those M'ho would be faithful to stand firm against the deceptions and abomina- tions which were disguised in sacerdotal garments and in- troduced into the church. Tho Bible was not accepted as the standard of faith. The doctrine of religious freedom was termed heresy, and its upholders were hated and pro- scribed. After a long and severe conflict, the faithful few decided to dissolve all union with the apostate church if she still refused to free herself from falsehood and idolatry. They saw that separation was an absolute necessity if they would obey the Word of God. They dared not tolerate errors fatal to their own souls, and set an example which would imperil the faith of their children and children's children. To secure peace and unity they were ready to make an}- con- cession consistent with fidelity to God; but they felt that even peace would be too dearly purchased at the sacrifice of principle. If unity could be secured only by the compro- mise of truth and righteousness, then let there be dilTerence, and even war. Well would it be for the church and the world if the prin- ciples that actuated those steadfast souls were revived in the ' -arts of God's professed people. There is an alarming in- difference in regard to the doctrines which are tlie pillars of the Christian faith. The opinion is gaining ground, that, 46 THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. after all, these are not of vital importance. This degeneracy IS strengthening the hands of the agents of Satan, so that false theories and fatal delusions which the faithful in ages past imperiled their lives to resist and expose, are now re- garded with favor by thousands who claim to be followers of Christ. The early Christians wore indeed a peculiar people. Their blameless deportment and unswerving faith were a continual reproof that disturbed the sinner's peace. Though few in numbers, without wealth, position, or honorary titles, they were a terror to evil-doers wherever their character and doc- trines were known. Therefore they were hated by the wicked, even as Abel was hated by the ungodly Cain. For the same reason that Cain slew Abel did those who sought to throw oft' the restraint of the Holy Spirit, put to death God's people. It was for the same reason that the Jews re- jected and crucified the Saviour, — because the purity and holiness of his character was a constant rebuke to their self- ishness and corruption. From the days of Christ until now, his faithful disciples have excited the hatred and opposition of those who love and follow the ways of sin. How, then, can the gospel be called a message of peace ? When Isaiah foretold the birth of the Messiah, he ascribed to him the title, " Prince of peace." When angels announced to the shepherds that Christ was born, they sung above the plains of Bethlehem, " Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." ' There is a seeming contradiction between these jirophctic declarations and the words of Christ, " I came not to send peace, but a sword." ^ But rightly understood, the two are in perfect harmony. The gospel is a message of i)cace. Christianity is a system, which, received and obeyed, would spread peace, harmony, and happiness throughout the earth. The religion of Christ will unite in close brotherhood all who accept its teachings. It was the mission of Jesus to reconcile men to God, and »Lulio2:l-l. »lHatt. 10:34. PERSECUTION IN THE FIRST CENTURIES. 47 thus to one another. But the world at hirgc are undcT the control of Satan, Christ's l)ittorcst foe. The gospel presents to them principles of life Avhich are wholly at variance with their hal)its and desires, and they rise in rebellion against it. They hate the j)urity which reveals and condemns their sins, and they persecute and destroy those who would urgo upon* them its just and holy claims. It is in tliis sense — because the exalted truths it brings, occasion hatred and strife — that tho gospel is called a sword. The mysterious providence which permits the righteous to suffer persecution at the hand of the wicked, has been a cause of great perplexity to many who are weak in faith. Some are even ready to cast away their confidence in God, because he sulTers tho basest of men to prosper, while the best and purest are afllictcd and tormented by their cruel power. How, it is asked, can One who h just and merciful, and who is also infmite in power, tolerate such injustice and oppression? This is a question with which we have nothing to do. God has given us sufncient evidence of his love, and we are not to doubt his goodness because we cannot under- stand the workings o^ his providence. Said the Saviour to his disciples, foreseeing the doubts that would press upon their souls in days of trial and darkness, " Hemember the word that I said unto you. The servant is not greater than liis lord. If they have i)ersecuted me, they will also perse- cute yoa,"' Jesus suffered for us more than any of his followers can be made to suffer through tho cruelty of wicked men. Those v/lio are called to endure torture and martyrdom, are but following in the steps of God's dear Son. "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise."" Ho does not forget or neglect his children; but he permits tho wicked to reveal their truo character, that none who desire to do his will may be deceived concerning them. Again, the righteous are placed in the furnace of affliction, that they themselves may be iDurified; that their example may con- ^ John 15 : 20. ^2 Peter 3 : 0. 48 THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. vince others of tlio reality of faith and godliness ; and also that their consistent course may condemn the ungodly and unbelieving. God permits the wicked to prosper, and to reveal their enmity against him, that when they shall have filled up the measure of their iniquity, all may see his justice and mercy in their utter destruction. The day of his vengeance hastens, when all who have transgressed his law and oppressed his people will meet the just recompense of their deeds; when every act of cruelty or injustice toward God's faithful ones will be punished as though done to Christ himself. There is another and more important question that should engage the attention of the churches of to-day. The apostle Paul declares that " all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." ^ Why is it, then, that persecution seems in a great degree to slumber? — The only reason is, that the church has conformed to the world's standai:d, and therefore awakens no opposition. The religion which is current in our day is not of the pure and holy character that marked the Christian faith in the days of Christ and his apostles. It is only because of the spirit of compromise with sin, because the great truths of the Word of God are so indifferently regarded, because there is so little vital god- liness in the church, that Christianity is apparently so pop- ular with the world. Let there be a revival of the faith and power of the early church, and the spirit of persecution will be revived, and the fires of persecution will be rekindled. »2 Tim. 3:12. nd also dly and al their up the I mercy hastens, ised his ;; when ful ones should apostle t Jesus ecution ason is, i;d, and hich is laracter •ist and promise jrod are tal god- so pop- dth and ion will iled. 73 ai :j*W CHAPTER III. y. < 5?; p. THE APOSTASY. The apostle Paul, in his second letter to the Thessalo- nians, foretold the great apostasy which would result in the establishment of the papal power. He declared that the day of Christ should not come, " except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin bo revealed, the son of per- dition; who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshiped; so that ho as Cfod sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.'" And furthermore, the apostle warns his brethren that "the mystery of iniquity doth already work."^ Even at that early date he saw, creeping into the church, errors that would prepare the way for the development of the papacy. Little by little, at first in stealth and silence, and then more openly as it increased in strength and gained control of the minds of men, the mystery of iniquity carried for- ward its deceptive and blasphemous work. Almost imper- ceptibly the customs of heathenism found their way into the Christian church. The spirit of compromise and con- formity was restrained for a time by the fierce persecutions which the church endured under paganism. But as perse- cution ceased, and Christianity entered the courts and pal- aces of kings, she laid aside the humble simplicity of Christ and his apostles for the pomp and pride of pagan priests and rulers; and in place of the requirements of God, she substituted human theories and traditions. The nominal 5 »2The88. 2:3,4, 7. (49) 80 Tin: GREAT CONTIWVERSY. conversion oi" CoiiHtantine, in the early part of the fourth ccMiturv, caused ^reat rejoiein^'; and the world, eloaked with a foini of righteousness, walke«l into the church. Now the work of corru[>tion ra|>iontih condescend to grant him ])ardon. Even tlien. it was only upon condition that the emperor should await the sanction of the po])e before resuming the insignia or exercising iho power of royalty. And Gregory, elated witii liis triulnph, boasted that it was his duty " to pull down the pride of kings.'' How striking the contrast between the overbearing pride of this haughty i)ontitf and the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who represents himself as pleading at the door of the heart for admittance, that he may come in to bring pardon and peace, and who taught his disciples, " Whosoever will be chief amony: von, let him be vour servant." The advancing centuries witnessed a constant increase of error in the doctrines put forth from Rome. Even before the establishment of the jjapacy, the teachings of heathen philosophers had received attention and exerted an inlluence in the church. Many wlio j^rofessed conversion still clung to the tenets of their pagan philosophy, and not only con-, tinued its study themsidves, but urged it upon otlier.s as a means of extending their inlluence among the heathen. Serious errors were thus introduced into the Christian faith. Prominent among these was the belief in Jiian's natural immortality and his consciousness in death. This doctrine laid the foinidation upon which Rome established the in- vocation of saints and the adoration of the virgin Mary. From this sprung also the heresy of eternal torment for the finally impenitent, which was early incorporated into the papal faith. Then the way was prepared for the introduction of still "Matt. 20:27. ^ he -Vlps in ' tlie iKjpo. A'itlidrawii, niU'V court, vored head wait<^d the )t until Jie coiit'ession. Pi von thou uuld await insignia or slated with 1 down the 'ring priorio(l ofptiiMl siipreimicy, tho liglit of truth could not 1)0 wholly extinguishod. In every ago there wero 'witnesses for God, — men who cherished faith in Christ as tho only mediator between God and man, who held tho Biblo as the onl V rule of life, and who lialh)wed tiie true Sabbath. How iinich tho world owes to these men, posterity will never know. They wero branded as heretics, their motives im- j)Ugned, their characters maligned, their writings suj)pressed, misrepresented, or mutilated. Yet they stood firm, and from age to age maintained their faith in its purity, as u aucred liuritago for tho generations to come. The history of God's i)eople during tiie ages of darkness that followed upon liome's supremacy, is written in Heaven. lUit tliey have little place in human records. Few traces of their existence can l>e found, except in the accusations of their persecutors. It was the policy of Home to obliter- ate every trace of dissent from her doctrines or decrees. Everything heretical, whether persons or writings, was de- i^troyed. A single ex^jression of doubt, a question as to the authority of pajial dogmas, was enough to forfeit the life of rich or poor, high or low. Rome endeavored also to destroy every record of her cruelty toward dissenters. Papal coun- cils decreed that books and writings containing such records should be committed to the flames. Before the invention of printing, books were few in number, and in a form not favorable for preservation ; therefore there was little to pre- vent the Ilomanists from carrying out their purpose. (61) 62 titf: grkat roNTnovmsr, iii ill..!: No church within tho limits of Iloinisli jurisdiction was lon^ left undisturbed in tlio onjoyniciit of freedom of con- science. No sooner luid tho j>iii)acy obtained power than sljo stretched out lier anus to crush all that refused to ac- knowled)^n> her sway; and ono after another, tho churches submitted to her dominion. In Great Britain, primitive Christianity had very early taken root. Tho gospel received by tho Britons in tlie first centuries, was tlien uncorrupted by ilomish apostasy. Ter- secution from jjagan emperors, which extended oven to these far-off shores, was tho only gift that tho first chureiies of Jiritain received from Homo. Many of tlic Christians, flee- ing from persecution in England, found refngo in Scotland; tlienco tho truth was carried to Ireland, and in all these countries it was received with gladness. When the Saxons invaded Britain, heathenism gained control. Tho conquerors disdained to bo instructed by their slaves, and tho Christians wore forced to retreat to the mountains and tho wild moors. Yet the light, hidden for a time, continued to burn. In Scotland, a century later, it shone out with a brightness that extended to far-distant lands. From Ireland came tho pious Columba and his co- laborers, who, gathering about them the scattered believers oa the lonely island of lona, made this tho center of their missionary labors. Among these evangelists was an ob- server of tho Bible Sabbath, and thus this truth was intro- duced among tho people. A school was established at lona, from which missionaries went out, not only to Scotland and England, but to Germany, Switzerland, and even Italy. But Rome had fixed her eyes on Britain, and resolved to bring it under her supremacy. In the sixth century her missionaries undertook the conversion of the heathen Saxons. They were received with favor by the proud bar- barians, and they indu3ed many thousands to profess the Romish faith. As the work progressed, the papal leaders and their converts encountered the primitive Christians. V 1 THE WALDEXSES. es A striking ot)iitniHt was prosnitcd. Tlic liitt«'r wvw Hiiiipl*', limiiblt', ami Hcriptunil in cluiractcr, doctriiu', an«l inaniu'i*s, wliilo (lie former iiianitcslcd the siipcrstitiDii, pomp, and urro tin* supremacy of tiio soverei«rii pontill'. 'i'lie Britons meekly replied that they desired to lov(* all men, hnt that tlu^ po[)o was not en- titled to supremacy in the ehnreh, and they eould render to him only that suhmissicjn which was due to every follower of Ciirist. Roi)oated uttenn)ts were mado to socuro their ulle^ianco to Homo; l)ut theso humhlo Christians, amazed at the })rido displayi'd l)y her emissaries, steadfastly replied that they kiu^w no other master than ("hrist. Now tho triio spirit of tho papacy was reveale(l. Said th(> Ilomish lea(h>r, " If you will not receive brethren who brin^ you peace, you shall receive enemies who will brin^ you war. If you will not unite with us in showin<^ tho fcJaxons the Avay of life, vou shall receive from them the stroke of death." Theso were no idlo threats. War, intrigue, and deception were employed against theso witnc^sses for a Bilde faith, \uitil the churches of Britain were destroyed, or forced to submit to the authority of tho pope. In lands beyond the jurisdiction of Rome, there existed for many centuries bodies of Christians who remained al- most "wholly free from papal corruption. They were sur- rounded by lieathenism, and in tho lapse of ages "were alFected by its errors; but they continued to regard tho Bible as the only rule of faith, and adhered to many of its truths. Tl se Christians believed in the perpetuity of tho law of God, and observed the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. Churclies that held to this faith and practice, existed in Central Africa and among the Armenians of Asia. But of those who resisted tho encroachments of tho papal power, the Waldenses stood foremost. In the very land where popery had fixed its seat, there its falsehood and cor- ruption were most steadfastly resisted. For centuries the 6 64 THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. churches of Piedmont maintamed their independence; bul the time came at last when Rome insisted upon their sub- mission. After ineffectual struggles against her tyranny, the leaders of these churches reluctantly acknowledged the supremacy of the power to which the whole world seemed to pay homage. There were some, liowever, w!io refused to yield to the authority of pope or prelate. They were de- termined to maintain their allegiance to God, and to preserve the purity and simplicity of their faith. A separation took place. Tliose who adhered to the ancient faith now witii- drew; some, forsaking their native Alps, raised the banner of truth in foreign lands; others retreated to tlie secludcMl glens and rocky fastnesses of the mountains, and there pre- served their freedom to worship God. The faith which for many centuries was held and taught by the Waldensian Christians was in marked contrast to the false doctrines i)ut fortli from Rome. Their religious belief was founded upon the written word of God, the true system of Cliristianity. But those huml)le peasants, in tlieir obscure retreats, shut away from tlie world, and bound to daily toil among tlieir flocks and their vineyards, had not themselves arrived at the truth in opposition to the dogmas and heresies of the apostate church. Tlieirs was not a faith newly received. Their religious belief was their inheritance from tlifnr fathers. Tliey contended for the faith of tlie apostolic church, — "the faith which was once delivered to the saints." "The church in the wilderness," and not the proud hierarchy enthroned in the world's great caj>ital, was the true church of Christ, the guardian of the treasures of truth which God has committed to his people to be given to the world. Among the leading causes that had led to the separation of the true church from Rome, was the hatred of the latter toward the Bible Sabbath. Xs foretold by prophecy, the papal power cast down the truth to the ground. The law of God was trampled in the dust, while the traditions and fcl^L'. THE WALDENSES. 65 given customs of men were exalted. The churches that were under the rule of the papacy were early compelled to honor the Sunday as a holy day. Amid the prevailing error and superstition, many, even of the true people of God, l)ecamo so bewildered that while they observed the Sabbath they refrained from labor also on the Sunday. But this did not satisfy the papal leaders. They demanded not only that Sunday be hallowed, but that the Sabbath be profaned; and they denounced in the strongest language those who dared to show it honor. It was only by fleeing from the power of Rome that any could obey God's law in peace. The Waldenses were the first of all the peoples of Europe to obtain a translation of the Holy Scriptures. Hundreds of years before the Reformation, they possessed the Bible in manu-cript in their native tongue. They had the truth unadulterated, and this rendered them the special objects of hatred and persecution. They declared the Churcli of Rome to be the apostate Babylon of the Apocalypse, and at the peril of their lives they stood up to resist her corruptions. While, under the pressure of long-continued persecution, some compromised their faith, little by little yielding its distinctive principles, others held fast the truth. Through ages of darkness and apostasy, there were Waldenses who denied the supremacy of Rome, who rejected image worship as idolatry, and who kept the true Sabbath. Under the fiercest tempests of opposition they maintained their faith. Though gashed by the Savoyard spear, and scorched by the Romish fagot, they stood unflinchingly for God's Word and his honor. Behind the lofty bulwarks of the mountains, — in all ages the refuge of the i)ersecuted and oppressed, — the Waldenses found a hiding-place. Here the light of truth was kept burning amid the darkness of the Middle Ages. Here, for a thousand years, witnesses for the truth maintained the ancient faith. God had provided for his people a sanctuary of awful 66 THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. grandeur, befitting tlie mighty truths committed to their trust. To those faithful exiles the mountains were an em- blem of tlie immutable righteousness of Jehovah. They point('(l their children to the heights towering above them in unchanging majesty, and spoke to them of Him with whom there is no variableness nor shadow of turning, whose word is as enduring as the everlasting hills. Cn)d had set fast the mountains, and girded them with strengtli; no arm but tliat of infinite power could move them out of their place. In like manner he had established his law, the foundation of his government in Heaven and upon earth. The arm of man might reach his fellow-men and destroy' their lives; but that arm could as readily uproot the mount- ains from their foundations, and hurl them into the sea, as it could change one precept of the law of Jeliovah, or blot out one of his promises to those who do his will. In their fidelity to his law, God's servants should bo as firm as the unchanging hills. The mountains that girded their lowly valleys were a constant witness to God's creative power, and a never-failing assurance of his protecting care. Those pilgrims learned to love the silent syml)ols of Jehovah's presence. They in- dulged no repining because of the hardships of their lot; they were never lonely amid the mountain solitudes. They thanked God that he had provided for them an asylum from the wrath and cruelty of men. They rejoiced in their freedom to worship before him. Often when pursued by their ene- mies, the strength of the hills proved a >iure defense. From many a lofty cliff they chanted the praise of God, and the armies of Rome could not silence their songs of thanks- giving. Pure, simple, and fervent was the piety of these followers of Christ. The principles of truth the}' valued above houses and lands, friends, kindred, even life itself. These principles they earnestly sought to impress upon the hearts of the young. From earliest childhood the youth were instructed It [■ foii V- THE WALDENSES. 67 ill the Scriptures, and tauglit to sacredly regard the claims of the law of God. Copies of the Bible were rare; therefore its precious words were committed to memory. Many were able to n^peat largo portions of both the Old and the New Tc^stamciit. Thoughts of God wore associated alike with tlic sublime scenery of nature and with tlie huml)le bless- ings of daily life. Little children learned to look with grati- tude to God as the giver of every favor and every comfort. Parents, tender and affectionate as they were, loved their children too wisely to accustom tliem to self-indulgence. Before them was a life of trial and hardship, perhaps a martyr's death. They were educated from childhood to endure hardness, to submit to control, and yet to think and act for themselves. Very early they were taught to bear responsibilities, to bo guarded in speech, and to understand the wisdom of silence. One indiscreet word let fall in the hearing of their enemies, might imperil not only the life of the speaker, but the lives of hundreds of his brethren; for as wolves hunting their prey did the enemies of truth pursue those who dared to claim freedom of religious faith. Tiie AValdenses had sacrificed th(>ir worldly prosperity for the truth's sake, and with persevering patience they toiled for theh bread. Every spot of tillable land among the mountains was carefully improved; the valleys and the less fertile hillsides were made to yield their increase. Economy and severe self-denial formed a part of the education wh." •'> tlu^ children received as their only legacy. They were taught that God designs life to be a discipline, and that their wants could be supplied only l)y personal labor, by forethought, care, and faith. The process was laborious and wearisome, but it was wholesome, just what man needs in his fallen state, the school which God has provided for liis training and development. While the youth were inured to toil and hardship, the culture of the intellect was not neglected. They were taught that all their powers belonged to God, and that all were to be improved and developed for his service. \ 'i A^ 68 TII£ GREAT CONTROVERSY. The Vaudois churches, in their purity and simplicity, resembled the church of apostolic times. Rejecting the supremacy of pope and prelate, they held the Bible as the only supreme, infallible authority. Their pastors, un- like t)ie lordly priests of Rome, followed the example cf their Master, who " came not to be ministered unto, but to minister." They fed the flock of God, leading them to the green pastures and living fountains of his holy Word. Far from the monuments of human pom}) and pride, the people assembled, not in magnificent churches or ^rand cathedrals, but beneath the shadow of the mountains, in the Alpine valleys, or, in time of danger, in some rocky stronghold, to listen to the words of truth from the servants of Christ. The pastors not only preached the gospel, but they visited the sick, catechized the children, admonished the erring, and labored to settle disputes and promote harmony and Ixoth- erly love. In times of peace they were sustained by the free- ■will offerings of the people; but, like Paul the tent-maker, each learned some trade or profession by which, if necessary, to provide for his own support. From their pastors the youth received instruction. ^Vhile attention was given to branches of general learning, the Bible was made the chief stuvly. The Gospels of Matthew and John they committed to mcaory, with many of the Epis- tles. They were employed also in copying the Scriptures. Some manuscripts contained the whole Bible, others only brief selections, to which some simple explanations of the text were adHed by those who were able to expound the Scriptures. Thus were brought forth the treasures of truth so long concealed by those who sought to exalt themselves above God. By patient, untiring labor, sometimes in the deep, dark cav^ns of the earth, by the light of torches, tho sacred Scriptures were written out, verse by verse, chapter by chapter. Thus the work went on, the revealed will of God shilling out like pure gold; how much brighter, clearer, TLE WALDENSES. 69 , dark sacred ^T by )f God ;learer, and more powerful because of the trials undergone for its sake, only those could realize who were engaged in the work. Angels from Heaven surrounded these faithful workers. Satan had urged on the })ai)al priests and prelates to bury the A\'ord of truth beneath the rubbish of error, heresy, and super.stition ; but in a most wonderful manner it was preserved uncorrupted through all the ages of darkness. It bore not the stamp of man, but the impress of God. Men have been unwearied in their efforts to obscure the plain, simple meaning of the Scriptures, and to make them contradict their own testimony ; but, like the ark upon the billowy deej), the Word of God outrides the storms that threaten it with destruction. As the mine has rich veins of gold and silver hidden beneath the surface, so that all must dig who would discover its precious stores, so the Holy Scriptures have treasures of truth that are revealed only to the earnest, humble, prayerful seeker. God designed the Bible to be a lesson-book to all mankind, in childhood, youth, and manhood, and to be studied through all time. He gave his Word to men as a revelation of himself. Ever new truth discertied is a fresh disclosure of the character ot its Author. The study of the Scriptures is the means di- vinely ordained to bring men into closer connection witji their Creator, and to give them a clearer knowledge of his will. It is the medium of communication between God and man. While the Waldenses regarded the fear of the Lord as the beginning of wisdom, they were not blind to the importance of a contact with the world, a knowledge of men and of active life, in expanding the mind and quickening the per- ceptions. From tlieir schools in the mountains some of the youth were sent to institutions of learning in the cities of France or Italy, where was a more extended field for study, thought; and observation than in their native Alps. The youth thus sent forth were exposed to temptation, they wit- nessed vice, they encountered Satan's wily agents, who urged I Ta THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. upon them tlie most subtle iieresies and tlio most danjorer- ous deceptions. But their e(hication from childhood had been of a character to pre])are them for all this. In the scliools whitlicv they went, they were not to make confidants of any. Their j^arments were so i)repared as to conceal tlieir greatest treasure, — the i)recious manuscri[)ts of the Scriptures. These, the fruit of months and years ot toil, tiiey carried witli them, and, whenever they could do so without exciting suspicion, they cautiously placed some portion in the way of those wliose liearts seemed open to receive the truth. From their mother's knee tlie Walden- sian youth had been trained with this purpose in view; they understood their work, and faithfully performed it. Con- verts to the true faith were won in these institutions of learning, and frequently its principles were found to l)e permeating the entire school; yet the papist leaders could not, by the closest inquiry, trace the so-called corrupting heresy to its source. The spirit of Christ is a missionary spirit. The very first impulse of the renewed heart is to bring others also to the Saviour. Such was the spirit of the Vaadois Christians. They felt that God ri'({uired more of them than merely to preserve the truth in its purity in tlieir own churches ; that a solemn responsibility rested upon them to let their light shine forth to those who wa^e in darkness; by the mighty power of God's Word they sought to break the bondage wdiich r.ome had imposed. The Vaudois ministers were trained a& missionaries, every one who expected to enter the mjni.i.tvy being recpiired first to gain an experience as an evangelist. Iv'.cli was to serve three years in some mission field befort taking charge of a church at home. This serv- ice, requiring at the outset self-denial and sacrifice, w^as a fitting introduction to the pastor's life in those times that tried men's souls. The youth who received ordination to the sacred office saw before them, not the prospect of earthly wealth and glory, but a life of toil and danger, and possibly had ry first to the Lstiaiis. ely to that Ught nighty 3iidage were er the as an nission is serv- was a s that tion to arthly ossibly I a J( U: Ik re re ci: lu th of til cli CO! tll( foi vvi jre Hi \va to tli( r val far <'oa pas Ev spi- nes ves Urn lion THE WALDENSES. 71 a martyr's fate. The missionaries went out two and two, as Jesus sent forth liis disciples. Witli every young man was usually associated a man of age and experience, the youth being under the guidance of his companion, who was held ri'sponsible for his training, and whose instruction he was i('(iuired to heed. These co-laborers were not always to- gether, but often met for prayer and counsel, thus strength- ening each other in the faith. To have made known the object of their mission would have insured its defeat; therefore they carefully concealed their real character. Every minister ]»ossessed a knowledge of some trade or profession, and the missionaries prosecuted their work under cover of a secular calling. Usually they cliose that of merchant or peddler. They dealt in choice and costly articles, such as silks, laces, and jewels, which in those times could not be readily procured, and thus they found entrance where they would otherwise have been re- pulsed. All the while their hearts were uplifted to God for wisdom to present a treasure more precious than gold or gems. They secretly carried about with them copies of the Bible, in whole or in part, and whenever an opportunity was presented, they called the attention of their customers to these manuscripts. Often an interest to read God's Word was thus awakened, and some portion was gladly left with those who desired to receive it. The work of these missionaries began in the plains and vallevs at the foot of their own mountains, but it extended far beyond these limits. With naked feet and in garments coarse and travel-stained as were those of their Master, they j»assed through great cities, and penetrated to distant lands. Everywhere they scattered the precious seed. Churches sprung up in their path, and the blood of martyrs wit- nessed for the truth. The day of God will reveal a rich har- vest of souls garnered by the labors of these faithful men. ^^'iled and silent, the Word of God was making its way through Christendom, and meeting a glad reception in the homes and hearts of men. 72 TIIK GliKAT (U).\TI10VKRSY. \ -A To tlio WaldoiiseH the 8cri{)tun's wfrt not int'ivly u Rruni of God's (k'uliugs with iiioii in tlio past, iiiul ii revelation of the respouHihiHtieH and duties of the present, l»ut an unfold- ing of the perils and glories of the future. They helii'ved that the end of all things was not far distant; and as they studied the Bible with })rayer and tears, they were the more deeply impressed with its j)reeious utterances, and with their duty to make known to otlmrs its saving truths. They saw the plan of salvation clearly revealed in the saer(>d pages, and they found comfort, ho})e, and peace in helieving in Jesus. As the light illuminated their understanding and made glad their hearts, they longed to shed its beams upon those who were in the darkness of papal error. They saw that under the guidance of i)ope and priests^ multitudes were vainly endeavoring to obtain pardon by afflicting their bodies for the sin of their souls. Taught to trust to their good works to save them, they were ever look- ing to themselves, their minds dwelling upon their sinful condition, seeing themselves exposed to the wrath of God, afflicting soul and body, yet finding no relief. Thus con- scientious souls were bound by the doctrines of Rome. Thousands abandoned friends and kindred, and s})ent their lives in convent cells. By oft-repeated fasts and cruel scourg- ings, by midnight vigils, by prostration for weary hours upon the cold, damp stones of their dreary abode, by long pilgrimages, by humiliating penance and fearful torture, thousands vainly sought to obtain peace of conscience. Op- pressed with a sense of sin, and haunted with the fear of God's avenging wrath, many suffered on, until exhausted nature gave way, and without one ray of light or hope, they sank into the tomb. The Waldenses longed to break to these starving souls the bread of life, to open to them the messages of peace in the promises of God, and to point them to Christ as their only hope of salvation. The doctrine that good Avorks can atone for the transgression of God's law, they held to be THE WALDEiSSKS. 73 })aso(l upon falsehood. Ucliaiu'o upon human merit intor- r's only hope. Thus the light of truth penetrated many a darkened mind, rolling back the cloud of gloom, until the Sun of Kighteousness shone into the heart with healing in his beams. It was often the case that some portion of Scripture was read again and again, the hearer desiring it to be re- ])eated, as if he would assure himself that he had heard aright. Especially was the repetition of these words eagerly s^. ^^ "^nO. s^yL"^. % s^ IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) k '■/ ■^A /- t/. ^ ^1^ 1.0 1.1 |so ^^" H^H IL25 HV 1.4 I 1.6 % VQ ^;; 4W o / Photographic Sciences Lorporation 23 WEST MAIN STREET WEBSTER, N.Y. 14S«0 (716) •73-4503 l\ ^ sj ^x ;\ ^^t'^ 74 THE GREAT CONTROVERSY, I 11 n ' I', :i:; 1 desired: "The blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin." ' "As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wil- derness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up, that who- soever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life."' Many were undeceived in regard to the claims of Rome. They saw how vain is the mediation of men or angels in behalf of the sinner. As the true light dawned upon their minds, they exclaimed with rejoicing, " Christ is my priest; his blood is my sacrifice; his altar is my confessional." They cast themselves wholly upon the merits of Jesus, re- peating the words, " Without faith it is impossible to please him."' "There is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." * The assurance of a Saviour's love seemed too miich for some of these poor tempest-tossed sou^s to realize. So great was the relief which it brought, such a flood of light was shed upon them, that they seemed transported to Heaven. Their hand was laid confidingly in the hand of Christ; their feet were planted upon the Rock of Ages. All fear of death was banished. They could now covet the prison and the fagot if they might thereby honor the name of their Re- deemer. In secret places the Word of God was thus brought forth and read, sometimes to a single soul, sometimes to a little company who were longing for light and truth. Often the entire night was spent in this manner. So great would be the wonder and admiration of the listeners that the mes- senger of mercy was not infrequently compelled to cease his reading until tlio understanding could grasp the tidings of salvation. Often would words like these be uttered: "Will God indeed accept my offering? Will he smile upon mef Will he pardon TneJ" The answer was read, " Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest." * »lJohnl:7. "John 3: 14, 15. »Heb. 11:0. * Acts 4: 12. »Matt. 11 :28. THE WALDENSES. 7& Faith grasped the promise, and the glad response was. heard, " No more long pilgrimages to make ; no more pain- ful journeys to holy shrinew. I may come to Jesus just as I am, sinful and unholy, and he will not spurn the penitential l)rayer. *Thy sins be forgiven thee.' Mine, even mine, may^ be forgiven ! " A tide of sacred joy would fill the heart, and the nama of Jesus would be magnified by praise and thanksgiving. Those happy souls returned to their homes to diffuse light,, to repeat to others, as well as they could, their new experi- ence; that they had found the true and living Way. There was a strange and solemn power in the words of Scripture that spoke directly to the hearts of those who were longing^ for the truth. It was the voice of God, and it carried con- viction to those who heard. The messenger of truth went on his way ; but his fippear- ance of humility, his sincerity, his earnestness and deep fervor, were subjects of frequent remark. In many instances his hearers had not asked him whence he came, or whither he went. They had been so overwhelmed, at first with sur- prise, and afterward with gratitude and joy, that tliey had not thought to question him. When they had urged him to accompany them to their homes, he had replied that he must visit the lost sheep of the flock. Could he have been an angel from Heaven? they queried. In many cases the messenger of truth was seen no more. He had made his way to other lands, he was wearing out his life in some unknown dungeon, or perhaps his bonea were whitening on the spot where he had witnessed for the truth. But the words he had left behind could not be de- stroyed. They were doing their work in the hearts of men ; the blessed results will be fully known only in the Judgment. The Waldensian missionaries were invading the kingdom of Satan, and the powers of darkness aroused to greater vigi- lance. Every effort to advance the truth was watched by the prince of evil, and he excited the fears of his agents. 76 THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. I The papal leaders saw a portent of danger to their cause from the labors of these humble itinerants. If the light of truth were allowed to shine unobstructed, it would sweep away the heavy clouds of error that enveloped the people; it would direct the minds of men to God alone, and would eventually destroy the supremacy of Rome. The very existence of tliis people, holding the faith of the ancient church, was a constant testimony to Rome's apostasy, and therefore excited the most bitter hatred and persecution. Their refusal to surrender the Scriptures was also an offense that Rome could not tolerate. She determined to blot them from the earth. Now began the most terrible crusades against God's people in their mountain homes. Inquisitors were put upon their track, and the scene of innocent Abel falling before the murderous Cain was often repeated. Again and again were their fertile lands laid waste, their 80 THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. I struggle which was to result in the emancipation of individ- uals, of churches, and of nations. WyclifFo received a liberal education, and with him the fear of the Lord was the beginning of wisdom. He was noted at college for his fervent piety as well as for his re- markable talents and sound scholarship. In his thirst for knowledge he sought to become acquainted with every branch of learning. lie was educated in the scholastic philosophy, in the canons of the church, and in the civil law, especially that of his own country. In his after-labors the value of this early training was apparent. A thorough acquaintance with the speculative philosophy of his time enabled him to expose its errors; and by his study of na- tional and ecclesiastical law he was prepared to engage in the great struggle for civil and religious liberty. While he could wield the weapons drawn from the Word of God, he had acquired the intellectual discipline of the schools, and he understood the tactics of the schoolmen. Tlie power of his genius and the extent and thoroughness of his knowl- edge commanded the respect of both friends and foes. His adherents saw with satisfaction that their champion stood foremost among the leading minds of the nation; and his enemies were prevented from casting contempt upon the cause of reform by exposing the ignorance or weakness of its supporter. While Wycliffe was still at college, he entered upon the study of the Scriptures. In those early times, when the Bible existed only in the ancient languages, scholars were enabled to find their way to the fountain of truth, which was closed to the uneducated classes. Thus already the way had been prepared for WyclifFe's future work as a reformer. Men of learnihg had studied the Word of God, and had found the great truth of his free grace there revealed. In their teachings they had spread a knowledge of this truth, and had led othe .'s to turn to the Living Oracles. When Wycliffe's attention was directed to the Scriptures, /^-yK y JOHN WYCLIFFE. 81 he entered upon their investigation with tlie sumo thorc.jgh- ness which had enubied liini to nia.ster the learning of the schools. Heretofore he had felt a great want, which neither his scholastic studies nor the teaching of the church could satisfy. In the Word of God he found that which ho had before sought in vain. Hero he saw the })lan of .salvation revealed, and Christ set forth as the only advocate for man. lie gave himself to the service of Christ, and determined to proclaim the truths ho had discovered. Like after-reformers, Wyclifte did not, at the opening of his work, foresee whither it would lead him. Ho did not set himself deliberately in op[)osition to Rome. But devo- tion to truth could not but bring him in conflict with false- hood. The more clearly 1 ) discerned the errors of the papacy, the more earnestly ho presented the teaching of the Bil)le. " Ho saw that Rome had forsaken the Word of God for liuman tradition ; ho fearlessly accused the priesthood of having banished the Scriptures, and demanded that tlie Bible be restored to the people, and that its authority bo again established in the church. He was an hXAq and ear- nest teacher, and an eloquent preacher, and his daily life was a demonstration of the truths he preached. His knowl- edge of the Scriptures, the force of his reasoning, the purity of his life, and his unbending courage and integrity, won for him general esteem and confidence. Many of the people had become dissatisfied with their former faith, as they saw the iniquity that prevailed in the Roman Church, and they hailed with unconcealed joy the truths brought to view by WyclifFe; but the papist leaders were filled with rage when they perceived that this reformer was gaining an in- fluence greater than their own. Wycliffe was a keen detector of error, and he struck fear- lessly against many of the abuses sanctioned by the authority of Rome. While acting as chaplain for the king, he took a bold stand against the payment of tribute claimed by the pope from the English monarch, and showed that the papal 82 THK GRKAT CONTROVERSY. n n8«uni[»tiading minds of tlio nation. Tho king and tiio nohles united in \vu lives, and had hrou^lit Morrow upon their jiarents; but oneo fast in the snarj^ it was inipos- >iihi(' tor tlu'iu to obtain their freeiloin. Many i)arents, li-ar- ing tiie infhienco of tiu^ monivs, ri'fused to send their sons to the universities. Tliero was a inarkcil falling olf in tiie number of stuch'uts in attendance at tho ^reat eenters of learning. Tiie sehools hin;^uishe(l, and ignorance j>revaih'd. The pope lia