The Last Night - Part 8 (The World)

For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened. Matthew 24:21, 22

The last night of the world, let me set the scene. The world has rejected God’s last warning. His law has been invalidated. The Lord removes His protective spirit from this world. The angels are given the order to release the four winds.

When the third angel's message closes, mercy no longer pleads for the guilty inhabitants of the earth. The people of God have accomplished their work. They have received "the latter rain," "the refreshing from the presence of the Lord," and they are prepared for the trying hour before them. Angels are hastening to and fro in heaven. An angel returning from the earth announces that his work is done; the final test has been brought upon the world, and all who have proved themselves loyal to the divine precepts have received "the seal of the living God." Then Jesus ceases His intercession in the sanctuary above. He lifts His hands and with a loud voice says, "It is done;" and all the angelic host lay off their crowns… * 1

The signs predicted by Jesus have been fulfilled. Natural disasters, rumors of wars, evil, violence, false prophets, diseases, poverty, hunger, all have been increasing.
He who is unjust, let him be unjust still; he who is filthy, let him be filthy still; he who is righteous, let him be righteous still; he who is holy, let him be holy still.” Revelation 22:11

This allows the wicked to be under the direction of Satan. The enemy awakens a spirit of persecution in them. The world is experiencing a time of great tribulation that has never been seen before. Probation closes; therefore, Jesus is no longer mediating on behalf of man before the Father.

When He leaves the sanctuary, darkness covers the inhabitants of the earth. In that fearful time the righteous must live in the sight of a holy God without an intercessor. The restraint which has been upon the wicked is removed, and Satan has entire control of the finally impenitent. God's long-suffering has ended. The world has rejected His mercy, despised His love, and trampled upon His law. The wicked have passed the boundary of their probation; the Spirit of God, persistently resisted, has been at last withdrawn. Unsheltered by divine grace, they have no protection from the wicked one. Satan will then plunge the inhabitants of the earth into one great, final trouble. As the angels of God cease to hold in check the fierce winds of human passion, all the elements of strife will be let loose. The whole world will be involved in ruin more terrible than that which came upon Jerusalem of old. *1

This will be the most terrible time for the wicked. The destruction of the world will be worse than that of Sodom, Gomorrah, and Jerusalem. The inhabitants of this world will continue to believe that God is with them just as Jerusalem of old believed so. However, they will actually be under the guidance of Satan.

When God's presence was finally withdrawn from the Jewish nation, priests and people knew it not. Though under the control of Satan, and swayed by the most horrible and malignant passions, they still regarded themselves as the chosen of God. The ministration in the temple continued; sacrifices were offered upon its polluted altars, and daily the divine blessing was invoked upon a people guilty of the blood of God's dear Son and seeking to slay His ministers and apostles. So when the irrevocable decision of the sanctuary has been pronounced and the destiny of the world has been forever fixed, the inhabitants of the earth will know it not. The forms of religion will be continued by a people from whom the Spirit of God has been finally withdrawn; and the satanic zeal with which the prince of evil will inspire them for the accomplishment of his malignant designs, will bear the semblance of zeal for God. *1

What will happen to those who knew the truth but did not make the necessary preparations, those who did not repent from their sins and went before Jesus to receive forgiveness while He was still interceding? What will happen to those who did not receive seal of God on their foreheads?

Satan leads many to believe that God will overlook their unfaithfulness in the minor affairs of life; but the Lord shows in His dealings with Jacob that He will in no wise sanction or tolerate evil. All who endeavor to excuse or conceal their sins, and permit them to remain upon the books of heaven, unconfessed and unforgiven, will be overcome by Satan. The more exalted their profession and the more honorable the position which they hold, the more grievous is their course in the sight of God and the more sure the triumph of their great adversary. Those who delay a preparation for the day of God cannot obtain it in the time of trouble or at any subsequent time. The case of all such is hopeless. *1

Perhaps this is the group that will suffer the most because they will know that they had the opportunity to prepare themselves but refused to do so.

Those professed Christians who come up to that last fearful conflict unprepared will, in their despair, confess their sins in words of burning anguish, while the wicked exult over their distress. These confessions are of the same character as was that of Esau or of Judas. Those who make them, lament the result of transgression, but not its guilt. They feel no true contrition, no abhorrence of evil. They acknowledge their sin, through fear of punishment; but, like Pharaoh of old, they would return to their defiance of Heaven should the judgments be removed. *1

Those who exercise but little faith now, are in the greatest danger of falling under the power of satanic delusions and the decree to compel the conscience. And even if they endure the test they will be plunged into deeper distress and anguish in the time of trouble, because they have never made it a habit to trust in God. The lessons of faith which they have neglected they will be forced to learn under a terrible pressure of discouragement. *1

It will really be a desperate situation for these individuals. They will look back and think of all the opportunities they wasted.

What will God’s people face? In this part we will see what the righteous shall face and in subsequent studies we will look at the special protection and the final reward that all those who are faithful to God, even though the heavens may fall, will receive.

The people of God will then be plunged into those scenes of affliction and distress described by the prophet as the time of Jacob's trouble. "Thus saith the Lord: We have heard a voice of trembling, of fear, and not of peace…All faces are turned into paleness. Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob's trouble; but he shall be saved out of it." Jeremiah 30:5-7. *1

What the enemy be allowed to do?

As Satan accuses the people of God on account of their sins, the Lord permits him to try them to the uttermost. Their confidence in God, their faith and firmness, will be severely tested. As they review the past, their hopes sink; for in their whole lives they can see little good. They are fully conscious of their weakness and unworthiness. Satan endeavors to terrify them with the thought that their cases are hopeless, that the stain of their defilement will never be washed away. He hopes so to destroy their faith that they will yield to his temptations and turn from their allegiance to God. *1

What will be the actual cause of our distress?

Though God's people will be surrounded by enemies who are bent upon their destruction, yet the anguish which they suffer is not a dread of persecution for the truth's sake; they fear that every sin has not been repented of, and that through some fault in themselves they will fail to realize the fulfillment of the Saviour's promise: I "will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world." Revelation 3:10. If they could have the assurance of pardon they would not shrink from torture or death; but should they prove unworthy, and lose their lives because of their own defects of character, then God's holy name would be reproached. *1

But the people of God have been sealed. The chosen have bee filled with the power of the Holy Spirit and are prepared to face this time of trouble. How can we prepare now?

The season of distress and anguish before us will require a faith that can endure weariness, delay, and hunger--a faith that will not faint though severely tried. The period of probation is granted to all to prepare for that time. Jacob prevailed because he was persevering and determined. His victory is an evidence of the power of importunate prayer. All who will lay hold of God's promises, as he did, and be as earnest and persevering as he was, will succeed as he succeeded. Those who are unwilling to deny self, to agonize before God, to pray long and earnestly for His blessing, will not obtain it. Wrestling with God--how few know what it is! How few have ever had their souls drawn out after God with intensity of desire until every power is on the stretch. When waves of despair which no language can express sweep over the suppliant, how few cling with unyielding faith to the promises of God. *1

For He says: “In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you.” Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2

We should now acquaint ourselves with God by proving His promises. Angels record every prayer that is earnest and sincere. We should rather dispense with selfish gratifications than neglect communion with God. The deepest poverty, the greatest self-denial, with His approval, is better than riches, honors, ease, and friendship without it. We must take time to pray. *1

If the messengers who bear the last solemn warning to the world would pray for the blessing of God, not in a cold, listless, lazy manner, but fervently and in faith, as did Jacob, they would find many places where they could say: "I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved." Genesis 32:30. They would be accounted of heaven as princes, having power to prevail with God and with men. *1

We should now learn to wrestle with God. We must lay hold of His promises and take hold of his hand. Today is the day of salvation. Tomorrow may be too late.

The "time of trouble, such as never was," is soon to open upon us; and we shall need an experience which we do not now possess and which many are too indolent to obtain. It is often the case that trouble is greater in anticipation than in reality; but this is not true of the crisis before us. The most vivid presentation cannot reach the magnitude of the ordeal. In that time of trial, every soul must stand for himself before God. "Though Noah, Daniel, and Job" were in the land, "as I live, saith the Lord God, they shall deliver neither son nor daughter; they shall but deliver their own souls by their righteousness." Ezekiel 14:20. *1

Now there is still time to grow in faith. This can only happen through the daily contemplation of Jesus. His holy law reveals to us our true condition and leads the sinner to genuine repentance. Jesus is still with open arms, accepting the repented sinner.

Now, while our great High Priest is making the atonement for us, we should seek to become perfect in Christ. Not even by a thought could our Saviour be brought to yield to the power of temptation. Satan finds in human hearts some point where he can gain a foothold; some sinful desire is cherished, by means of which his temptations assert their power. But Christ declared of Himself: "The prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in Me." John 14:30. Satan could find nothing in the Son of God that would enable him to gain the victory. He had kept His Father's commandments, and there was no sin in Him that Satan could use to his advantage. This is the condition in which those must be found who shall stand in the time of trouble. *1

I know these are not topics that the world wants to hear. No one wants to know that we will face a time of great distress. But this is the message for our times. Most importantly this is the path to salvation. Amidst all of this is the love of Jesus and His desire for us to reach everlasting life.

It is in this life that we are to separate sin from us, through faith in the atoning blood of Christ. Our precious Saviour invites us to join ourselves to Him, to unite our weakness to His strength, our ignorance to His wisdom, our unworthiness to His merits. God's providence is the school in which we are to learn the meekness and lowliness of Jesus. The Lord is ever setting before us, not the way we would choose, which seems easier and pleasanter to us, but the true aims of life. It rests with us to co-operate with the agencies which Heaven employs in the work of conforming our characters to the divine model. None can neglect or defer this work but at the most fearful peril to their souls. *1

JESUS IS COMING SOON, AMEN, YES, COME LORD JESUS!

1 * The Great Controversy, "39. The Time of Trouble ", Ellen g. White

The Last Night - Part 7 (The World)

“Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place” (whoever reads, let him understand), “then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let him who is on the housetop not go down to take anything out of his house. And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes. Matthew 24:15-18

If you recall, this chapter begins with a question that the disciples made to Jesus. He answers their question, revealing signs of the destruction of Jerusalem and the end of the world.

For the Christians of that time, the sign to leave Jerusalem was when the Roman legions surrounded Jerusalem. They could not delay. Anyone who stayed behind would surely die.

The prophet says: "I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen. . . . And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities." When do her sins reach unto heaven? When the law of God is finally made void by legislation. Then the extremity of God's people is His opportunity to show who is the governor of heaven and earth. As a Satanic power is stirring up the elements from beneath, God will send light and power to His people, that the message of truth may be proclaimed to all the world. *1

We will also be called to leave the cities. When the last night of this world is about to end, sin will have reached unto heaven, and Jesus will prepare to return in the clouds of heaven.

It is time for You to act, O LORD, for they have regarded Your law as void. Psalm 119:126.

When the land which the Lord provided as an asylum for His people, that they might worship Him according to the dictates of their own consciences, the land over which for long years the shield of Omnipotence has been spread, the land which God has favored by making it the depository of the pure religion of Christ--when that land shall, through its legislators, abjure the principles of Protestantism, and give countenance to Romish apostasy in tampering with God's law--it is then that the final work of the man of sin will be revealed. Protestants will throw their whole influence and strength on the side of the Papacy; by a national act enforcing the false sabbath, they will give life and vigor to the corrupt faith of Rome, reviving her tyranny and oppression of conscience. Then it will be time for God to work in mighty power for the vindication of His truth. *1

In the previous study we saw how the United States just as Jerusalem was especially blessed by the Lord. This nation opened the doors to all who were oppressed because of their religion. But this nation will soon reject God and trample His law. We can already see how His holy day, the sabbath, is so easily dismissed by many.

There is cause for alarm in the condition of the religious world today. God's mercy has been trifled with. The multitudes make void the law of Jehovah, "teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." Matthew 15:9. Infidelity prevails in many of the churches in our land; not infidelity in its broadest sense--an open denial of the Bible--but an infidelity that is robed in the garb of Christianity, while it is undermining faith in the Bible as a revelation from God. Fervent devotion and vital piety have given place to hollow formalism. As the result, apostasy and sensualism prevail. Christ declared, "As it was in the days of Lot, . . . even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed." Luke 17:28, 30. The daily record of passing events testifies to the fulfillment of His words. The world is fast becoming ripe for destruction. Soon the judgments of God are to be poured out, and sin and sinners are to be consumed. *2

At what point should we all leave the cities?

The time is not far distant, when, like the early disciples, we shall be forced to seek a refuge in desolate and solitary places. As the siege of Jerusalem by the Roman armies was the signal for flight to the Judean Christians, so the assumption of power on the part of our nation [the United States] in the decree enforcing the papal sabbath will be a warning to us. It will then be time to leave the large cities, preparatory to leaving the smaller ones for retired homes in secluded places among the mountains. *3

This is our sign. When the false day of worship is imposed by force through legislation, we must leave the cities. In the previous study we saw some reasons why we should consider leaving them now. But when this event occurs it will no longer be a suggestion for it will be the only way to save our lives.

Before the destruction of Sodom, God sent a message to Lot, "Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed." The same voice of warning was heard by the disciples of Christ before the destruction of Jerusalem: "When ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. Then let them which are in Judea flee to the mountains." Luke 21:20, 21. They must not tarry to secure anything from their possessions, but must make the most of the opportunity to escape. *2

There was a coming out, a decided separation from the wicked, an escape for life. So it was in the days of Noah; so with Lot; so with the disciples prior to the destruction of Jerusalem; and so it will be in the last days. Again the voice of God is heard in a message of warning, bidding His people separate themselves from the prevailing iniquity. *2

We must abandon the cities before it is too late, otherwise we will partake of the plagues that will be unleashed on them.

Erelong there will be such strife and confusion in the cities, that those who wish to leave them will not be able. *3

Why will there be so much confusion in the cities? To answer this question, we must first understand what Satan’s plan is. Consider the strategies he uses.

"But before proceeding to these extreme measures, we must . . . ensnare those who honor the true Sabbath. We can separate many from Christ by worldliness, lust, and pride. They may think themselves safe because they believe the truth, but indulgence of appetite or the lower passions, which will confuse judgment and destroy discrimination, will cause their fall." *4

"But our principal concern is to silence this sect of Sabbathkeepers. We must excite popular indignation against them. We will enlist great men and worldly-wise men upon our side, and induce those in authority to carry out our purposes. Then the sabbath which I have set up shall be enforced by laws the most severe and exacting. Those who disregard them shall be driven out from the cities and villages, and made to suffer hunger and privation. When once we have the power, we will show what we can do with those who will not swerve from their allegiance to God. . . . Now that we are bringing the Protestant churches and the world into harmony with this right arm of our strength, we will finally have a law to exterminate all who will not submit to our authority. When death shall be made the penalty of violating our sabbath, then many who are now ranked with commandment keepers will come over to our side. *4

Death will be the punishment for those who disobey man-made laws in order to fulfill God’s law. This will lead all those who have not rooted their faith in Jesus and who have not accepted Him wholeheartedly, to leave the church ranks and join the opposition.

But why is this commandment so important?

The Sabbath will be the great test of loyalty; for it is the point of truth especially controverted. When the final test shall be brought to bear upon men, then the line of distinction will be drawn between those who serve God and those who serve Him not. While the observance of the false sabbath in compliance with the law of the state, contrary to the fourth commandment, will be an avowal of an allegiance to a power that is in opposition to God, the keeping of the true Sabbath, in obedience to God's law, is an evidence of loyalty to the Creator. While one class, by accepting the sign of submission to earthly powers, receive the mark of the beast, the other, choosing the token of allegiance to divine authority, receive the seal of God. *5

The Sabbath is a monument that celebrates our Creator. It is a reminder for us, as created creatures, that all worship is owed to Him who created the heavens and the earth in six days and hallowed, blessed and rested on the seventh.

Furthermore, the last night of this world will end the great cosmic conflict that began in heaven. The battle against the government of God and His holy law will once and for all be resolved.

From the very beginning of the great controversy in heaven it has been Satan's purpose to overthrow the law of God. It was to accomplish this that he entered upon his rebellion against the Creator, and though he was cast out of heaven he has continued the same warfare upon the earth. To deceive men, and thus lead them to transgress God's law, is the object which he has steadfastly pursued. Whether this be accomplished by casting aside the law altogether, or by rejecting one of its precepts, the result will be ultimately the same. He that offends "in one point," manifests contempt for the whole law; his influence and example are on the side of transgression; he becomes "guilty of all." James 2:10. *6

In seeking to cast contempt upon the divine statutes, Satan has perverted the doctrines of the Bible, and errors have thus become incorporated into the faith of thousands who profess to believe the Scriptures. The last great conflict between truth and error is but the final struggle of the long-standing controversy concerning the law of God. Upon this battle we are now entering--a battle between the laws of men and the precepts of Jehovah, between the religion of the Bible and the religion of fable and tradition. *6

It makes perfect sense that the last battle of this world will focus on the point of controversy that caused the rebellion of the angels in heaven and the fall of man on earth.

Political corruption is destroying love of justice and regard for truth; and even in free America, rulers and legislators, in order to secure public favor, will yield to the popular demand for a law enforcing Sunday observance. Liberty of conscience, which has cost so great a sacrifice, will no longer be respected. In the soon-coming conflict we shall see exemplified the prophet's words: "The dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." Revelation 12:17. *6

We must fight the good fight together with the Lord and always stand in the side of justice. Always remember the words of Jesus.

“Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. Matthew 5:17, 18

JESUS IS COMING SOON, AMEN, YES, COME LORD JESUS YES!

1 * Maranatha, "171. God’s Law Made Void In the America”, Ellen g. White
2 * Patriarchs and Prophets, "14. The Destruction of Sodom", Ellen g. White
3 * Maranatha, "172. The Sign To Leave Large Cities ", Ellen g. White
4 * Maranatha, "155. The Devil’s Strategy Against Sabbath Keepers", Ellen g. White
5 * Maranatha, "207. The Beginning Of The End ", Ellen g. White
6 * The Great Controversy, "36. The Impending Conflict ", Ellen g. White

The Last Night - Part 6 (The World)

And I heard another voice from heaven saying, “Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues; Revelation 18:4

Soon, after the third angel's message becomes the loud cry, we shall be given instruction to leave the cities. But before this occurs we are given advice on what we should do now.

Let’s return for a moment to Sodom and Gomorrah.

When Lot entered Sodom he fully intended to keep himself free from iniquity and to command his household after him. But he signally failed. The corrupting influences about him had an effect upon his own faith, and his children's connection with the inhabitants of Sodom bound up his interest in a measure with theirs. The result is before us. *1

Perhaps many of us have thought the same. But the corrupting influences around us make us lose sight of the reality of the time in which we live.

"The sun was risen upon the earth when Lot entered into Zoar." The bright rays of the morning seemed to speak only prosperity and peace to the cities of the plain. The stir of active life began in the streets; men were going their various ways, intent on the business or the pleasures of the day. The sons-in law of Lot were making merry at the fears and warnings of the weak-minded old man. *1

Are these not the words we hear? Are the leaders of nations not claiming that everything will get better? The routine of life, the commotion of the cities and the control displayed by the hosts of darkness are all reasons why we analyzed the place in which we live.

It was not God's purpose that His people should be crowded into cities, huddled together in terraces and tenements. In the beginning He placed our first parents in a garden amidst the beautiful sights and attractive sounds of nature, and these sights and sounds He desires men to rejoice in today. *2

What better than nature to speak to us about creation and keep us focused on our God, creator of the heavens and earth.

The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork. Psalms 19:1

I urge our people to make it their lifework to seek for spirituality. Christ is at the door. This is why I say to our people, "Do not consider it a privation when you are called to leave the cities and move out into the country places. Here there await rich blessings for those who will grasp them. By beholding the scenes of nature, the works of the Creator, by studying God's handiwork, imperceptibly you will be changed into the same image." *3

There are other reasons why we should consider leaving the cities.

Light has been given me that the cities will be filled with confusion, violence, and crime, and that these things will increase till the end of this earth's history. *2

It is time for our people to take their families from the cities into more retired localities, else many of the youth, and many also of those older in years, will be ensnared and taken by the enemy. *2

The things to which people, especially youth, are exposed in the cities are alarming. Lot’s experience provides us a great lesson will be repeated. That city of the plain had encouraged in his daughters love for earthly possessions and when the warning was given to them they mocked their own father.

"Out of the cities; out of the cities!"--this is the message the Lord has been giving me. *2

As a people who keep the commandments of God, we leave the cities. As did Enoch, we must work in the cities but live in them. *5

These warnings are not given so that the faithful in one day sell everything they own and go and live in the mountains. Enoch lived away from the city because he maintained a close relationship with God. We must do the same.

More and more, as time advances, our people will have to leave the cities. For years we have been instructed that our brethren and sisters, and especially families with children, should plan to leave the cities as the way opens before them to do so. Many will have to labor earnestly to help open the way. But until it is possible for them to leave, so long as they remain, they should be most active in doing missionary work, however limited their sphere of influence may be *4

Do not forget that as children of God, we have been promised a Comforter, a guide which will help us when considering these issues. If the Lord gives us the opportunity and we receive instruction from the Holy Spirit then we should move away from cities while continuing our proclamation of the last warning.

I saw that if any held on to their property and did not inquire of the Lord as to their duty, He would not make duty known, and they would be permitted to keep their property, and in the time of trouble it would come up before them like a mountain to crush them, and they would try to dispose of it, but would not be able. I heard some mourn like this: "The cause was languishing, God's people were starving for the truth, and we made no effort to supply the lack; now our property is useless. Oh, that we had let it go, and laid up treasure in heaven!" I saw that a sacrifice did not increase, but it decreased and was consumed. I also saw that God had not required all of His people to dispose of their property at the same time; but if they desired to be taught, He would teach them, in a time of need, when to sell and how much to sell. Some have been required to dispose of their property in times past to sustain the Advent cause, while others have been permitted to keep theirs until a time of need. Then, as the cause needs it, their duty is to sell. *6

The objective is to remove all that binds us to this world from our hearts, so that we focus on earning treasures in heaven. That way when the call is made for all to leave the cities we will do so without delay.

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21

The cities are to be worked from outposts. Said the messenger of God, "Shall not the cities be warned? Yes; not by God's people living in them, but by their visiting them, to warn them of what is coming upon the earth." *5

As noted, we should not completely abandon the city dwellers. The angels came to Sodom to affirm if at least 10 righteous could be found there. But in deciding where you will live these warnings should be considered under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Houses and lands will be of no use to the saints in the time of trouble, for they will then have to flee before infuriated mobs, and at that time their possessions cannot be disposed of to advance the cause of present truth. I was shown that it is the will of God that the saints should cut loose from every encumbrance before the time of trouble comes, and make a covenant with God through sacrifice. If they have their property on the altar and earnestly inquire of God for duty, He will teach them when to dispose of these things. Then they will be free in the time of trouble and have no clogs to weigh them down. *6

Why is this important? Remember what happened to Lot’s wife.

If Lot himself had manifested no hesitancy to obey the angels' warning, but had earnestly fled toward the mountains, without one word of pleading or remonstrance, his wife also would have made her escape. The influence of his example would have saved her from the sin that sealed her doom. But his hesitancy and delay caused her to lightly regard the divine warning. While her body was upon the plain, her heart clung to Sodom, and she perished with it. *1

Furthermore, the judgments of God will be poured especially over the cities.

The end is near and every city is to be turned upside down every way. There will be confusion in every city. Everything that can be shaken is to be shaken and we do not know what will come next. The judgments will be according to the wickedness of the people and the light of truth that they have had. *4

O that God's people had a sense of the impending destruction of thousands of cities, now almost given to idolatry. *4

These things happen because just as God withdrew his protection from Jerusalem, He shall also do with our cities.

God is withdrawing His Spirit from the wicked cities, which have become as the cities of the antediluvian world and as Sodom and Gomorrah…Costly mansions, marvels of architectural skill, will be destroyed without a moment's notice when the Lord sees that the owners have passed the boundaries of forgiveness. The destruction by fire of the stately buildings, supposed to be fireproof, is an illustration of how in a short time earth's architecture will lie in ruins. *4

When God's restraining hand is removed, the destroyer begins his work. Then in our cities the greatest calamities will come. *4

The time is near when large cities will be swept away, and all should be warned of these coming judgments. *4

Allow Jesus to dwell in your heart and direct your eyes to the heavenly things. The Kingdom of God is near and soon we will dwell in heaven for all eternity.

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Matthew 6:33

JESUS IS COMING SOON, AMEN, YES, COME LORD JESUS!

1* Patriarchs and Prophets, "14. The Destruction of Sodom ", Ellen g. White
2* Maranatha, "133. Turmoil In The Cities", Ellen g. White
3* Last Day Events “7. Country Living”, Ellen g. White
4* Last Day Events, "8. Cities", Ellen g. White
5* Maranatha, "176. Work The Cities From Outposts, "Ellen g. White
6* Early Writings "The duties In the Time of Trouble", Ellen g. White

The Last Night - Part 5 (The World)

And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Romans 13:11, 12.

Our world is reaching the end of its last night. For a long time the inhabitants of this planet have ignored the invitations and warnings that we have been giving.

Nevertheless, we have been given a little more time to reach those who have not yet been given the opportunity to be saved.

The perils of the last days are upon us, and in our work we are to warn the people of the danger they are in. Let not the solemn scenes which prophecy has revealed be left untouched. If our people were half awake, if they realized the nearness of the events portrayed in the Revelation, a reformation would be wrought in our churches, and many more would believe the message. We have no time to lose; God calls upon us to watch for souls as they that must give an account. *1

We must call all those souls whom Jesus loved so much, that He died on the cross to redeem. It is his wish that everyone may obtain eternal life. We cannot let others discourage us. Let us sound the trumpet announcing that Christ is coming.

Men are putting afar off the coming of the Lord. They laugh at warnings. The proud boast is made, "All things continue as they were from the beginning." "Tomorrow shall be as this day and much more abundant." 2 Peter 3:4; Isa. 56:12. We will go deeper into pleasure loving. But Christ says, "Behold, I come as a thief." Rev. 16:15. At the very time when the world is asking in scorn, "Where is the promise of his coming?" the signs are fulfilling. While they cry, "Peace and safety," sudden destruction is coming. When the scorner, the rejecter of truth, has become presumptuous; when the routine of work in the various money-making lines is carried on without regard to principle; when the student is eagerly seeking knowledge of everything but his Bible, Christ comes as a thief. *2

This call is also made to us, so that we may prepare for what is to come very soon.

Transgression has almost reached its limit. Confusion fills the world, and a great terror is soon to come upon human beings. The end is very near. We who know the truth should be preparing for what is soon to break upon the world as an overwhelming surprise. *3

The Lord has provided sufficient light so that His coming does not take us by surprise.

The advent of Christ will surprise the false teachers. They are saying, "Peace and safety." Like the priests and teachers before the fall of Jerusalem, they look for the church to enjoy earthly prosperity and glory. The signs of the times they interpret as foreshadowing this. But what saith the Word of Inspiration? "Sudden destruction cometh upon them." 1 Thessalonians 5:3… *2

Jerusalem’s leaders ignored the signs and prophecies that had fulfilled. Similarly, today’s leaders have also have ignored the prophecies and signs of the end. Therefore, sudden destruction comes upon them.

The Lord has done more for the United States than for any other country upon which the sun shines. Here He provided an asylum for His people, where they could worship Him according to the dictates of conscience. Here Christianity has progressed in its purity. The life-giving doctrine of the one Mediator between God and man has been freely taught. God designed that this country should ever remain free for all people to worship Him in accordance with the dictates of conscience. He designed that its civil institutions, in their expansive productions, should represent the freedom of gospel privileges. *4

Interestingly, just as Jerusalem has long been favored by God, so has the United States. Here, we obtained religious freedom which allowed the preaching of the gospel and the opportunity to worship God.

But the enemy of all righteousness has designs upon God's purpose for this country. He will bring in enterprises that will lead men to forget that there is a God. Worldliness and covetousness, which is idolatry, will prevail through the working of the archdeceiver, till the law of God, in all its bearings, shall be made void. *4

Unfortunately, as was the case with Jerusalem will repeat this nation. We already see the effects by means of evil, violence and moral decay. The love of riches and earthly things has led people to forget God. Such is the condition of the world.

The restraining Spirit of God is even now being withdrawn from the world. Hurricanes, storms, tempests, disasters by sea and by land, follow one another in quick succession. The signs thickening around us, telling of the near approach of the Son of God, are attributed to any other than the true cause. *5

We see the beginnings of God’s judgments because the Lord is gradually removing His protection. Therefore, the enemy is allowed to cause major disasters and loss of life. But there will come a time when this nation will completely separate itself from God.

By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation [the United States] will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. *6

As the approach of the Roman armies was a sign to the disciples of the impending destruction of Jerusalem, so may this apostasy be a sign to us that the limit of God's forbearance is reached, that the measure of our nation's iniquity is full, and that the angel of mercy is about to take her flight, never to return. The people of God will then be plunged into those scenes of affliction and distress which prophets have described as the time of Jacob's trouble. The cries of the faithful, persecuted ones ascend to heaven. And as the blood of Abel cried from the ground, there are voices also crying to God from martyrs' graves, from the sepulchers of the sea, from mountain caverns, from convents vaults: "How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? Revelation 6:10. *6

Therefore, indeed, I send you prophets, wise men, and scribes: some of them you will kill and crucify, and some of them you will scourge in your synagogues and persecute from city to city, that on you may come all the righteous blood shed on the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah, son of Berechiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. Assuredly, I say to you, all these things will come upon this generation. Matthew 23:34-36

If we recall the words of Jesus, the blood of the saints from Abel to Zechariah would come over Jerusalem. But the blood of all the saints of all times will be come over this nation and the world. The Lord will soon take off the robes of justice and mercy and will put on the garments of vengeance.

But the faithful, those who have remained on the side justice, those who have looked to the heaven and Jesus to transform their hearts will be welcomed with open arms when the Lord returns. Finally, the blood of the righteous shall be avenged.

Christ will restore the life taken; for He is the Life-giver: He will beautify the righteous with immortal life. *6

Do you desire to be beautified with immortal life?

JESUS IS COMING SOON, AMEN, YES, COME LORD JESUS!

1* Maranatha, "132. External Parade of Heathen Power”, Ellen g. White
2* Maranatha, "136. The Criers Of Peace”, Ellen g. White
3* Maranatha "130. A Great Terror Soon To Come", Ellen g. White
4* Maranatha, "185. America in Prophecy, Ellen g. White
5* Maranatha, "167. Troubled Times Right Upon Us", Ellen g. White
6* Maranatha, "191. Martyrs In The Last Days", Ellen g. White

The Last Night - Part 4 (The World)

After these things I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, on the sea, or on any tree. Then I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God. And he cried with a loud voice to the four angels to whom it was granted to harm the earth and the sea, saying, “Do not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees till we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads.” Revelation 7:1-3

Similar to the cities of the past this world has already been condemned. God in his wisdom did not destroy Lucifer allowing sin to run its course. We are all witnesses to the universe of how terrible and painful the consequences of sin are. The worst of all being death.

But Jesus came to this world to provide hope to those who were lost. After 6,000 years of pain and suffering, the entire universe understands that the purpose of Satan was always to deceive and destroy. On the other hand, the universe also understands that God's character is based on love.

Jesus gave his life because he does not want anyone to perish. He desires that we all reach heaven.

The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9

We are upon the last night of this world. There is no other solution for sin and nothing else can be done for the sinner who rejects Christ.

The four angels were ready to release the winds of judgment over this world when an angel stopped them. It was necessary that the faithful of God be sealed. Now we are at the time of sealing. Now is when we must look for God's protection.

Four mighty angels are still holding the four winds of the earth. Terrible destruction is forbidden to come in full. The...winds will be the stirring up of the nations to one deadly combat, while the angels hold the four winds, forbidding the terrible power of Satan to be exercised in its fury until the servants of God are sealed in their foreheads. *1

But every day the Lord withdraws his protecting spirit from this world. The time of probation is closing.

The signs of the times give evidence that the judgments of heaven are being poured out, that the day of the Lord is at hand. The daily papers are full of indications of an intense conflict in the future. Bold robberies are of frequent occurrence. Strikes are common. Thefts and murders are committed on every hand. Men possessed by demons are taking the lives of men, women, and little children. All these things testify that the Lord's coming is near. *1

The Apostle Peter continues:

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up. Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? 2 Peter 3:10-12

Just before the coming of the Lord, the enemy will make a pronounced attack against God’s law. Remember with whom the dragon went to make war.

And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. Revelation 12:17

Which one of the commandments will be specifically targeted?

A time is coming when the law of God is, in a special sense, to be made void in our land [the United States]. The rulers of our nation will, by legislative enactments, enforce the Sunday law, and thus God's people will be brought into great peril. When our nation, in its legislative councils, shall enact laws to bind the consciences of men in regard to their religious privileges, enforcing Sunday observance, and bringing oppressive power to bear against those who keep the seventh-day Sabbath, the law of God will, to all intents and purposes, be made void in our land. *2

Note that the first angel's message states:

Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth—to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people—saying with a loud voice, “Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.” Revelation 14:6, 7

Those who fulfill the commandments of God and praise our God as creator, through His holy day, will be saved through Jesus. The hour of His judgment has come. We cannot ignore this fact. The coming of the Lord is at hand and only those who have sought God with a sincere heart will remain standing in the last days.

JESUS IS COMING SOON, AMEN, YES, COME LORD JESUS!

1 * Maranatha, "167. Troublous Times Right Upon Us", Ellen g. White
2 * Maranatha, "171. God’s Law Made Void In America", Ellen g. White

The Last Night - Part 3 (The World)

“Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” Matthew 24:3.

This was the question that the disciples made to Jesus while they were alone on Mount of Olives. The destruction of Jerusalem had been predicted by Christ. Jesus in His mercy revealed not only signs of the destruction of Jerusalem but also of the end of the world.

The future was mercifully veiled from the disciples. Had they at that time fully comprehend the two awful facts--the Redeemer's sufferings and death, and the destruction of their city and temple--they would have been overwhelmed with horror. Christ presented before them an outline of the prominent events to take place before the close of time. His words were not then fully understood; but their meaning was to be unfolded as His people should need the instruction therein given. The prophecy which He uttered was twofold in its meaning; while foreshadowing the destruction of Jerusalem, it prefigured also the terrors of the last great day. *1

One of the signs of the end time is the false prophets that will arise.

And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. Matthew 24:4, 5.

Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. Matthew 24:11.

“Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There!’ do not believe it. Matthew 24:23.

False messiahs will appear, claiming to work miracles, and declaring that the deliverance of the Jewish nation has come. These will mislead many. Christ's words were fulfilled. Between His death and the siege of Jerusalem, many false messiahs appeared. But this warning is given to those also who live in this age of the world. The same deceptions practised prior to the destruction of Jerusalem will be practised again. The events that took place at the overthrow of Jerusalem will be repeated. *2

It is not in vain that of all the end-time signs, Jesus emphasized this one repeatedly. The danger of the false christs and deceiving prophets is perhaps the greatest we face. It was fulfilled during the time of the disciples and happen again in our days.

In the future, deception of every kind is to arise, and we want solid ground for our feet. We want solid pillars for the building. Not one pin is to be removed from that which the Lord has established. The enemy will bring in false theories, such as the doctrine that there is no sanctuary. This is one of the points on which there will be a departing from the faith. *3

Our faith must be grounded on the Word of God. The Holy Spirit speaks through it. The promises contained within, encourage us to move forward and its doctrines teach us the truth about God.

Before the last developments of the work of apostasy there will be a confusion of faith. There will not be clear and definite ideas concerning the mystery of God. One truth after another will be corrupted. *3

Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, 1 Timothy 4:1.

As we near the end of time, falsehood will be so mingled with truth, that only those who have the guidance of the Holy Spirit will be able to distinguish truth from error. We need to make every effort to keep the way of the Lord. We must in no case turn from His guidance to put our trust in man. The Lord's angels are appointed to keep strict watch over those who put their faith in the Lord, and these angels are to be our special help in every time of need. Every day we are to come to the Lord with full assurance of faith, and to look to Him for wisdom….Those who are guided by the Word of the Lord will discern with certainty between falsehood and truth, between sin and righteousness. *3

As directed by the Holy Spirit, angels of the Lord will protect us. Moreover, the Holy Spirit will help us distinguish between truth and falsehood. Otherwise we would be deceived because Satan's deceptions will be linked to miracles and great displays of power.

For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. Matthew 24:24.

There will be false dreams and false visions, which have some truth, but lead away from the original faith. The Lord has given men a rule by which to detect them: "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. 8:20). *3

Satan attacks will be focused towards God's elect. His purpose is to deceive us. But we have an infallible truth which we must impress upon our mind and heart every day.

After the truth has been proclaimed as a witness to all nations, every conceivable power of evil will be set in operation, and minds will be confused by many voices crying. "Lo, here is Christ; lo, He is there. This is the truth, I have the message from God, He has sent me with great light." Then there will be a removing of the landmarks, and an attempt to tear down the pillars of our faith. A more decided effort will be made to exalt the false sabbath, and to cast contempt upon God Himself by supplanting the day He has blessed and sanctified. This false sabbath is to be enforced by an oppressive law. *3

The work of the enemy will be based on false doctrine.

Through the two great errors, the immortality of the soul and Sunday sacredness, Satan will bring the people under his deceptions. *4

Through spiritualism, the enemy will deceive people regarding the sanctity of Sunday, guiding them to ignore the Sabbath as a memorial of the Creator of the universe.

The miracle-working power manifested through spiritualism will exert its influence against those who choose to obey God rather than men. *4

Communications from the spirits will declare that God has sent them to convince the rejecters of Sunday of their error, affirming that the laws of the land should be obeyed as the law of God. *4

I've already written a series about spiritualism and its captivating power in final days. But I emphasize this last point.

As spiritualism more closely imitates the nominal Christianity of the day, it has greater power to deceive and ensnare. Satan himself is converted, after the modern order of things. He will appear in the character of an angel of light. *4

The deception of the enemy is also to infiltrate our churches. Thus many believe that Satan himself is converted.

But what will we fear if we take hold of the hand of Jesus and meditate in His Word every day?

... and lo, I am with you always,even to the end of the age.” Amen. Matthew 28:20.

JESUS IS COMING SOON, AMEN, YES, COME LORD JESUS!

1 * The Great Controversy, "The Destruction of Jerusalem", Ellen g. White
2 * Signs Of The Times, "Words of Warming", February 20, 1901, Ellen g. White
3 * Maranatha, “184. The Corruption Of The Truth", Ellen g. White
4 * The Great Controversy, "36. The Impending Conflict", Ellen g. White

The Last Night - Part 2 (The World)

Now as He drew near, He saw the city and wept over it, Luke 19:41

Recall the reason why Jesus wept. The image he saw that moment was not just the destruction of Jerusalem, but the final destruction of this world.

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 misery, tears, and blood; His heart was moved with infinite pity for the afflicted and suffering ones of earth; He yearned to relieve them all. But even His hand might not turn back the tide of human woe; few would seek their only Source of help. He was willing to pour out His soul unto death, to bring salvation within their reach; but few would come to Him that they might have life. *1

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, looking down to the last generation, saw the world involved in a deception similar to that which caused the destruction of Jerusalem. The great sin of the Jews was their rejection of Christ; the great sin of the Christian world would be their rejection of the law of God, the foundation of His government in heaven and earth. The precepts of Jehovah would be despised and set at nought. 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 day of visitation. Terrible blindness! strange infatuation! *1

Jesus desires that we all be saved. But we must also understand that what happened to Sodom, Gomorrah, and Jerusalem will repeat itself. The world ignores the condition in which it is in, it denies the warnings made, and worse still it denies the only way to salvation, it denies Jesus.

The flames that consumed the cities of the plain shed their warning light down even to our time. We are taught the fearful and solemn lesson that while God's mercy bears long with the transgressor, there is a limit beyond which men may not go on in sin. When that limit is reached, then the offers of mercy are withdrawn, and the ministration of judgment begins. *2

The warning has been given. We cannot turn away from God and hope that He will protect us. As the door of grace is still open He continues to plead with us but His mercy has a limit which is being crossed more more each day.

The outlook in our world is indeed alarming. God is withdrawing His Spirit from the wicked cities, which have become as the cities of the antediluvian world, and as Sodom and Gomorrah. The inhabitants of these cities have been tested and tried. We have reached a time when God is about to punish the presumptuous wrongdoers, who refuse to keep His commandments and disregard His messages of warning. He who bears long with evildoers gives everyone an opportunity to seek Him and humble their hearts before Him. *3

And he cried mightily with a loud voice, saying, “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and has become a dwelling place of demons, a prison for every foul spirit, and a cage for every unclean and hated bird! For all the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxury.” Revelation 18:2, 3

The apostle John declares that the earth will be destroyed when the sins reach to heaven. But this time, it will be the coming of Jesus, the brightness of His glory, the consuming fire, which will destroy everything.

How do we know that the sins of this world have reached to heaven? What will be our sign to leave the cities?

The sins of the world will have reached unto heaven when the law of God is made void; when the Sabbath of the Lord is trampled in the dust, and men are compelled to accept in its stead an institution of the papacy through the strong hand of the law of the land. In exalting an institution of man above the institution ordained of God, they show contempt for the great Lawgiver, and refuse his sign or seal. The question of most vital importance for this time is, "Who is on the Lord's side? Who will unite with the angel in giving the message of truth to the world? Who will receive the light that is to fill the whole earth with its glory?" Those who cherish the light that they have, will receive more. Increasing light will shine about the souls who yield to the softening, subduing grace of Christ; and those who love the light, will be saved from the delusions of Satan. He will strive with intense energy to exhibit, through his miracle-working power, signs and wonders that will seem to eclipse the work that God will do in the earth. And all will be deceived except those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life. We need light now at every step, lest we be swept away with the error of the wicked. *4

This is the process we will discuss in the following studies. It is necessary to prepare ourselves each day. We must watch and pray so that as the Christians left the city and God saved their lives, we too, at the right time, will leave the cities and save our lives.

JESUS IS COMING SOON, AMEN, YES, COME LORD JESUS!

1 * The Great Controversy, "1. The Destruction of Jerusalem ", Ellen g. White
2 * Patriarchs and Prophets, "14. The Destruction of Sodom ", Ellen g. White
3 * This Day With God, "144. Securing Our Inheritance ", Ellen g. White
4 * The Review and Herald, "God Warns Men of His Coming Judgments", November 5, 1889, Ellen g. White

The Last Night - Part 1 (The World)

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up. 2 Peter 3:10

We have seen so far that the prophecies foretold about the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah and Jerusalem were fulfilled. On both occasions the wickedness had increased to such an extent that the sins reach heaven. In other words, there existed no choice but to these cities for which God removed all divine protection upon them.

Let's look at the signs the Lord Jesus revealed about the purpose and the warning to leave the cities to escape the judgments of God as was given to Lot, his family and all Christians living in Jerusalem.

The Saviour's prophecy concerning the visitation of judgments upon Jerusalem is to have another fulfillment, of which that terrible desolation was but a faint shadow. In the fate of the chosen city we may behold the doom of a world that has rejected God's mercy and trampled upon His law. 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. Terrible have been the results of rejecting the authority of Heaven. But a scene yet darker is presented in the revelations of the future. The records of the past,--the long procession of tumults, conflicts, and revolutions, the "battle of the warrior…with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood" (Isaiah 9:5),-- what are these, in contrast with the terrors of that day when the restraining Spirit of God shall be wholly withdrawn 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. *1

Making a brief tour of the events through history, we have a better outlook on what will happen in the last days. But remember that the consequences in the end time will be more severe than in the past.

Those who have had living faith in the messages of God for the time in which they have lived, and who have acted out their faith in obedience to his commands, have been accepted of God, and have escaped the judgments that were to fall upon the disobedient and unbelieving. The word came to Noah, "Come thou and all thy house into the ark; for thee have I seen righteous before me." Noah obeyed and was saved. The message came to Lot, "Up, get you out of this place; for the Lord will destroy this city." He placed himself under the guardianship of the heavenly messengers, and was saved. Those who obeyed the warning of Christ in marking the sign of the coming ruin, and in fleeing from Jerusalem, were not involved in her destruction. The message comes in our own time, "Babylon is fallen, is fallen…Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues." Those who obey this message will escape the terrible plagues that will surely be visited upon her. *2

It is important to note first that we have the opportunity to escape the city and prevent the plagues of God fall on us. He will protect and deliver us from His wrath which will be emptied over the whole world pure.

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 under 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 sinner as an executioner of the sentence against transgression; but He leaves the rejectors 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 solemn warning to all who are trifling with the 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. *1

If we have Divine protection in the end we must accept the Lord now. The transformation of character, the sanctification process must happen now. Tomorrow may be too late. Watch and pray is the invitation made to us, because Jesus can come at any time.

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 approaching 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, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations." Luke 21:25; Matthew 24:29; Mark 13:24-26; Revelation 6:12-17. Those who behold these harbingers of His coming are to "know that it is near, even at the doors." Matthew 24:33. "Watch ye therefore," are His words of admonition. Mark 13:35. They that heed the warning shall not be left in darkness, that that day should overtake them unawares. But to them that will not watch, "the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night." 1 Thessalonians 5:2-5. *1

The coming of the Lord is near. The end is near, We must wake up and realize the times we live.

After these things I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, on the sea, or on any tree. Revelation 7:1

Four mighty angels are still holding the four winds of the earth. Terrible destruction is forbidden to come in full. The…winds will be the stirring up of the nations to one deadly combat, while the angels hold the four winds, forbidding the terrible power of Satan to be exercised in its fury until the servants of God are sealed in their foreheads. *3

The signs of the times give evidence that the judgments of heaven are being poured out, that the day of the Lord is at hand. The daily papers are full of indications of an intense conflict in the future. Bold robberies are of frequent occurrence. Strikes are common. Thefts and murders are committed on every hand. Men possessed by demons are taking the lives of men, women, and little children. All these things testify that the Lord's coming is near. *3

The restraining Spirit of God is even now being withdrawn from the world. Hurricanes, storms, tempests, disasters by sea and by land, follow one another in quick succession. The signs thickening around us, telling of the near approach of the Son of God, are attributed to any other than the true cause. *3

For many are called, but few are chosen. Matthew 22:14

Unfortunately, although all have the opportunity to hear the invitation of Jesus, just to accept it.

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 enlightenment, 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 ungodly, "and they shall not escape." Verse 3. *1

This is the day of the Lord's preparation. He says: "Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame." The great work from which the mind should not be diverted, is the consideration of our safety in the sight of God. The storm is coming, relentless in its fury. Are we prepared to meet it? Are our feet on the Rock of Ages? Are we one with Christ, as he is one with the Father? *4

All we ask these questions. Are we really ready?

And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. Romans 13:11

The great controversy is nearing its end. Every report of calamity by sea or land is a testimony to the fact that the end of all things is at hand. Wars and rumors of wars declare it. Is there a Christian whose pulse does not beat with quickened action as he anticipates the great events opening before us? The Lord is coming. We hear the footsteps of an approaching God. *5

What great hope, the Lord is coming soon!

This knowledge of the nearness of Christ's coming should not be allowed to lose its force, and we become careless and inattentive, and fall into slumber--into an insensibility and indifference to realities. In slumber we are in an unreal world, and not sensible of the things which are taking place around us... *5

The rapidly diminishing space of time between us and eternity should more deeply impress us. Every day that passes makes one less left us to complete our work of perfecting character... *5

As long as there are many asleep, many sporting away the precious hours in careless indifference, as it were, upon the very brink of the eternal world, those who do believe must be sober, must be awake, must be earnest and diligent, and watch unto prayer... *5

Have you, dear youth, your lamps trimmed and burning? *5

JESUS IS COMING SOON, AMEN, YES, COME LORD JESUS!

1 * The Great Controversy, "1. The Destruction of Jerusalem ", Ellen White
2 * The Review and Herald, "Men of God Warns His Coming Judgments", November 5, 1889, Ellen White
3 * Maranatha, "167. Troublous Time Upon Us ", Ellen White
4 * The Review and Herald, "Words of Warning .-- No. 3 ", December 27, 1898, Ellen White
5 * Maranatha, "212. Time Of Awakening ", Ellen White

The Last Night - Part 8 (Jerusalem)

Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and His disciples came up to show Him the buildings of the temple. And Jesus said to them, “Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down.” Matthew 24:1, 2

All the predictions given by Christ concerning the destruction of Jerusalem were fulfilled to the letter… *1

The last night had come for Jerusalem. God's judgments would become a reality. The signs predicted years before by Jesus had occurred and now the final destruction would come upon the city.

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 pictured 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 immense bars of iron fastened deep in the pavement of solid stone, opened at midnight, without visible agency.--Milman, The History of the Jews, book 13. *1

Note that God’s judgments over Jerusalem were manifested through the withdrawal of all Divine protection. Also, remember that the images of the destruction of Jerusalem are but a foreshadow of what will happen in the last days.

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 assembled 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 horrors of starvation were experienced. A measure of wheat was sold for a talent. So fierce were the pangs of hunger that men would gnaw the leather of their belts and sandals and the covering of their shields. Great numbers of the people would steal out at night to gather wild plants growing outside the city walls, though many were seized and put to death with cruel torture, and often those who returned in safety were robbed of what they had gleaned at so great peril. The most inhuman tortures were inflicted by those in power, to force from the want-stricken people the last scanty supplies which they might have concealed. And these cruelties were not infrequently practiced by men who were themselves well fed, and who were merely desirous of laying up a store of provision for the future. *1

To give you an idea of the conditions in which Jerusalem was in, a talent of silver is equivalent to 75 pounds or 34 kilograms of silver *2. The current value for a kilogram of silver is $498.98 *3. This gives us a value of $16,965 for a measure of wheat.

Thousands perished from famine and pestilence. Natural affection seemed to have been destroyed. Husbands robbed their wives, and wives their husbands. Children would be seen snatching the food from the mouths of their aged parents. The question of the prophet, "Can a woman forget her sucking child?" received the answer within the walls of that doomed city: "The hands of the pitiful women have sodden their own children: they were their meat in the destruction of the daughter of my people." Isaiah 49:15; Lamentations 4:10. *1

The holy nation, once favored by God was now receiving the consequences of Satan's rule. As Jesus said:

And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. Matthew 24:12

Can you imagine will happen when God removes his restraining Spirit from this world? Not even family ties are strong enough when the enemy controls a person.

The Roman leaders endeavored to strike terror to the Jews and thus cause them to surrender. Those prisoners who resisted when taken, were scourged, tortured, and crucified before the wall of the city. Hundreds were daily put to death in this manner, and the dreadful work continued until, along the Valley of Jehoshaphat and at Calvary, crosses were erected in so great numbers that there was scarcely room to move among them. So terribly was visited that awful imprecation uttered before the judgment seat of Pilate: "His blood be on us, and on our children." Matthew 27:25. *1

As mentioned in the previous study, the inevitable result of Satan's rule is death. But such a result is always preceded by anguish and suffering. The words referred to by the multitude condemning the innocent Prince of the universe became a reality.

Titus would willingly have put an end to the fearful scene, and thus have spared Jerusalem the full measure of her doom. He was filled with horror as he saw the bodies of the dead lying in heaps in the valleys. Like one entranced, he looked from the crest of Olivet upon the magnificent temple and gave command that not one stone of it be touched. Before attempting to gain possession of this stronghold, he made an earnest appeal to the Jewish leaders not to force him to defile the sacred place with blood. If they would come forth and fight in any other place, no Roman should violate the sanctity of the temple. Josephus himself, in a most eloquent appeal, entreated them to surrender, to save themselves, their city, and their place of worship. But his words were answered with bitter curses. Darts were hurled at him, their last human mediator, as he stood pleading with them. The Jews had rejected the entreaties of the Son of God, and now expostulation and entreaty only made them more determined to resist to the last. In vain were the efforts of Titus to save the temple; One greater than he had declared that not one stone was to be left upon another. *1

Sin makes man blind to reality. The prophetic words of Jesus would become a reality. There would not be one stone left upon another.

The blind obstinacy of the Jewish leaders, and the detestable crimes perpetrated within the besieged city, excited the horror and indignation of the Romans, and Titus at last decided to take the temple by storm. He determined, however, that if possible it should be saved from destruction. But his commands were disregarded. After he had retired to his tent at night, the Jews, sallying from the temple, attacked the soldiers without. In the struggle, a firebrand was flung by a soldier through an opening in the porch, and immediately the cedar-lined 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: "Ichabod!"--the glory is departed. *1

Chilling images. Blood flowed like water. Interestingly, Titus wished to preserve the temple while the Jewish people did nothing to preserve it.

"Titus found it impossible to check the rage of the soldiery; 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 force obedience with his staff of office; but even respect for the emperor gave way to the furious animosity against the Jews, to the fierce excitement of battle, and to the insatiable hope of plunder. *1

"It was an appalling spectacle to the Roman--what was it to the Jew? The whole summit of the hill which commanded 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. *1

"The slaughter within was even more dreadful than the spectacle from without. Men and women, old and young, insurgents and priests, those who fought and those who entreated mercy, were hewn down in indiscriminate carnage. The number of the slain exceeded that of the slayers. The legionaries had to clamber over heaps of dead to carry on the work of extermination."--Milman, The History of the Jews, book 16. *1

Never forget that the forces of evil have always been limited by the Divine power. We owe everything to our God who gives us His protection. Otherwise the enemy would destroy us.

After the destruction of the temple, the whole city soon fell into the hands of the Romans. The leaders of the Jews forsook their impregnable towers, and Titus found them solitary. He gazed upon them with amazement, and declared that God had given them into his hands; for no engines, however powerful, could have prevailed against those stupendous battlements. Both the city and the temple were razed to their foundations, and the ground upon which the holy house had stood was "plowed like a field." Jeremiah 26:18. In the siege and the slaughter that followed, more than a million of the people perished; the survivors were carried away as captives, sold as slaves, dragged to Rome to grace the conqueror's triumph, thrown to wild beasts in the amphitheaters, or scattered as homeless wanderers throughout the earth. *1

The last night came for the Jewish people. Jerusalem was destroyed just as Jesus prophesied. God's judgments were expressed by the removal of all Divine protection thus allowing Satan to complete his work of destruction. History will repeat itself.

Each day that passes, the restraining Spirit of God departs from this world. The sins of an uncaring and indifferent world are reaching heaven. The final judgments are about to fall on this world that more and more falls under the direction of the enemy.

It's time to give ourselves completely to the Lord. We must be transformed by Him and prepare for the glorious encounter with Jesus. He promises protection through His angels but better still, He promises eternal life.

JESUS IS COMING SOON, AMEN, YES, COME LORD JESUS!

1 * The Great Controversy, "The Destruction of Jerusalem" Ellen White.
2 * Unitconversion.org - Talent, http://www.unitconversion.org/weight/talent-biblical-hebrew-conversion.html
3 * Kitco Precious Medals, Silver, http://www.kitco.com/market/us_charts.html

Spirit Of Prophecy – Third Angel Message

Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. Matthew 28:19, 20

Then He said to them, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest. Luke 10:2

It's time to give the sound due to the third angel's message.

Then a third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, “If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of His indignation. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever; and they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name.” Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.” Revelation 14:9-13

Heretofore those who presented the truths of the third angel's message have often been regarded as mere alarmists. Their predictions that religious intolerance would gain control in the United States, that church and state would unite to persecute those who keep the commandments of God, have been pronounced groundless and absurd. It has been confidently declared that this land could never become other than what it has been--the defender of religious freedom. But as the question of enforcing Sunday observance is widely agitated, the event so long doubted and disbelieved is seen to be approaching, and the third message will produce an effect which it could not have had before. *1

And I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, “See that you do not do that! I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” Revelation 19:10

Contained in the pamphlet released by the Ellen G. White Estate:

[S]ome projections say that by 2020, nearly 90% of the Adventist Church’s worldwide membership will have been members for less than twenty years. Unless we edúcate these new members in the guiding principles God gave through [the Bible and] the writings of Ellen White, we can lose not only our Adventist lifestyle, but also our unique prophetic focus. *2

It is time to act—now! All of Ellen White’s published writings, plus information about her life and ministry, besides relevant details about the history of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, must be made available, as quickly as possible. We need it in multiple languages and delivered in creative ways that will meet the needs of people today, regardless of where they live or their socio-economic status. *2

The challenge is great. Regular reading and study of the Bible and the writings of Ellen White are in decline among many church members, both young and old. Likewise, estimates say that in some parts of the world upwards of 70% of Adventist young people currently leave the church. Further, far too many new members apostatize. In the North American Division alone there are thought to be twice as many former Adventists as currently-active members. So the critical need for quick action is clear. *2

Despite the church’s valiant efforts, almost without exception all of the groups mentioned above have felt the impact of criticisms of Ellen White and the Seventh-day Adventist Church, often through hostile Web sites. The same Internet that causes problems we must now harness to help resolve them. Starting immediately, the White Estate is determined to use the Internet more effectively as a primary means of communication and information delivery. Not doing so only increases the potential size of the critical challenge we face. *2

It is time to preach God's Word with power. With the tools at our disposal and with the power of the Holy Spirit we can finish preaching the Gospel.

In every generation God has sent His servants to rebuke sin, both in the world and in the church. But the people desire smooth things spoken to them, and the pure, unvarnished truth is not acceptable. Many reformers, in entering upon their work, determined to exercise great prudence in attacking the sins of the church and the nation. They hoped, by the example of a pure Christian life, to lead the people back to the doctrines of the Bible. But the Spirit of God came upon them as it came upon Elijah, moving him to rebuke the sins of a wicked king and an apostate people; they could not refrain from preaching the plain utterances of the Bible-- doctrines which they had been reluctant to present. They were impelled to zealously declare the truth and the danger which threatened souls. The words which the Lord gave them they uttered, fearless of consequences, and the people were compelled to hear the warning. *1

And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. Revelation 12:17

Under Divine inspiration, we can, not only achieve the spiritual level necessary to complete our story in this world but also to uphold God’s principles. The law of God must be held up high and the everlasting gospel presenting Jesus as our only path to salvation must be proclaimed with great power.

Thus the message of the third angel will be proclaimed. As the time comes for it to be given with greatest power, the Lord will work through humble instruments, leading the minds of those who consecrate themselves to His service. The laborers will be qualified rather by the unction of His Spirit than by the training of literary institutions. Men of faith and prayer will be constrained to go forth with holy zeal, declaring the words which God gives them. *1

The angel who unites in the proclamation of the third angel's message is to lighten the whole earth with his glory. A work of world-wide extent and unwonted power is here foretold. The advent movement of 1840-44 was a glorious manifestation of the power of God; the first angel's message was carried to every missionary station in the world, and in some countries there was the greatest religious interest which has been witnessed in any land since the Reformation of the sixteenth century; but these are to be exceeded by the mighty movement under the last warning of the third angel. *1

The work will be similar to that of the Day of Pentecost. As the "former rain" was given, in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the opening of the gospel, to cause the upspringing of the precious seed, so the "latter rain" will be given at its close for the ripening of the harvest. "Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth." Hosea 6:3. "Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God: for He hath given you the former rain moderately, and He will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain." Joel 2:23. "In the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh." "And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved." Acts 2:17, 21. *1

The great work of the gospel is not to close with less manifestation of the power of God than marked its opening. *1

Servants of God, with their faces lighted up and shining with holy consecration, will hasten from place to place to proclaim the message from heaven. By thousands of voices, all over the earth, the warning will be given. Miracles will be wrought, the sick will be healed, and signs and wonders will follow the believers. Satan also works, with lying wonders, even bringing down fire from heaven in the sight of men. Revelation 13:13. Thus the inhabitants of the earth will be brought to take their stand. *1

The message will be carried not so much by argument as by the deep conviction of the Spirit of God. The arguments have been presented. The seed has been sown, and now it will spring up and bear fruit. The publications distributed by missionary workers have exerted their influence, yet many whose minds were impressed have been prevented from fully comprehending the truth or from yielding obedience. Now the rays of light penetrate everywhere, the truth is seen in its clearness, and the honest children of God sever the bands which have held them. Family connections, church relations, are powerless to stay them now. Truth is more precious than all besides. Notwithstanding the agencies combined against the truth, a large number take their stand upon the Lord's side. *1

And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come. Matthew 24:14

JESUS IS COMING SOON, AMEN, YES, COME LORD JESUS!

1 * The Great Controversy, "The Final Warning", Ellen g. White
2 * Ellen g. White Estate Partners brochure http://www.whiteestate.org/partnerbrochure.pdf