Interpretation, Prophecy

THE LITERAL FULFILLMENT OF PROPHECY

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Prophecy is prediction; something spoken by God, which is intended to fulfill at a time future from when it was given.

To test and distinguish the careful reader from the careless, God has hidden the meaning of many elements of prophecy in figures or symbols. And some words connected with these are given in plain language, and should be understood just as they read. That makes reading prophecy like reading something written in two languages mixed together. It is difficult to understand in that form, so before a prophecy can be understood, the symbolic language needs to be translated into its literal meaning by a careful comparison of scripture with scripture. All needs to be interpreted into its plain meaning.

William Miller’s Rules 6 through 12 help us to distinguish the figurative language from the plain language, and shows how to handle the figurative elements.

Once a prophecy is understood in its plain meaning, the fulfillment can be searched for. Although often containing figurative language or symbols, prophecy fulfills literally.

DEFINITION OF LITERAL:

Webster’s 1828 Dictionary

1) according to the letter; primitive; real; not figurative or metaphorical; as the literal meaning of a phrase.

2) following the letter or exact words; not free; as a literal translation.

FULFILLED LITERALLY

Prophecy fulfills “according to the letter”; it fulfills literally, as opposed to figuratively. William Miller saw that prophecy fulfills literally.

“He [Miller] saw that the prophecies, so far as they had been fulfilled, had been fulfilled literally; that all the various figures, metaphors, parables, similitudes, etc., were either explained in their immediate connection, or the terms in which they were expressed were defined in other scriptures, and when thus explained, were to be literally understood.” The Great Controversy, GC 320.2

Rule 13 defines how we are to look for a literal fulfillment of prophecy; watching for literal events, as the “letter” of prophecy describes.

WILLIAM MILLER’S RULE NO. 13:

To know whether we have the true historical event for the fulfilment of a prophecy. If you find every word of the prophecy (after the figures are understood) is literally fulfilled, then you may know that your history is the true event. But if one word lacks a fulfilment, then you must look for another event, or wait its future development. For God takes care that history and prophecy doth agree, so that the true believing children of God may never be ashamed. Psalm 22:5; Isaiah 45:17-19; 1 Peter 2:6; Revelation 17:17; Acts 3:18.

For they shall not be ashamed that wait for Me. Isaiah 49:23

The Millerite-Adventists recognized that prophecy delineates (puts in line) events expressed in figurative language, and that prophecy fulfills with literal historical events.

Historical events, showing the direct fulfillment of prophecy, were set before the people, and the prophecy was seen to be a figurative delineation of events leading down to the close of this earth’s history.” Selected Messages, book 2, 2SM 102.1

Here are some quotes explaining that prophecy fulfills literally, with literal events.

“The prophecies of Moses were literally fulfilled. The chosen nation was scattered among heathen nations.” The Review and Herald, RH April 25, 1907, par. 10

“‘Thus saith the Lord, Forasmuch as thou hast disobeyed the mouth of the Lord, and hast not kept the commandment which the Lord thy God commanded thee, …thy carcass shall not come unto the sepulcher of thy fathers.’ Verses 18-22.

“This prophecy of doom was soon literally fulfilled. ‘It came to pass, after he had eaten bread…'” Prophets and Kings, PK 106.2-3.

“Three centuries had passed. During the reformation wrought by Josiah, the king found himself in Bethel, where stood this ancient altar. The prophecy uttered so many years before in the presence of Jeroboam, was now to be literally fulfilled.” Prophets and Kings, PK 402.2

“The promise, ‘The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house; his hands shall also finish it,’ was literally fulfilled. Verse 9. ‘The elders of the Jews builded, and they prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. And they builded, and finished it, according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the commandment of Cyrus, and Darius, and Artaxerxes king of Persia. …’ Ezra 6:14, 15.” Prophets and Kings, PK 596.1

“In the Sermon on the Mount Christ plainly declared His mission. ‘Think not,’ He said, ‘that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil’ (Matthew 5:17). He came to carry out literally every specification concerning which the prophets had borne testimony. He who existed with the Father before the creation of the world, Himself gave the prophecies recorded by holy men—the prophecies that He came afterward to fulfill….” That I May Know Him, TMK 292.3

“The scenes of the crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension of Christ were a living reality to them. They saw that the prophecies had been literally fulfilled.” The Desire of Ages, DA 667.1

As events foretold have been and will be fulfilled, we can expect to find them written in the pages of history, either in sacred history of Scripture and the Spirit of Prophecy, or in the pages of secular history.

FULFILLMENT OF PROPHECY IN SECULAR HISTORY

“All that prophecy has foretold as coming to pass, until the present time, has been traced on the pages of history, and we may be assured that all which is yet to come will be fulfilled in its order.” Education, Ed 178.3

In the history of nations the student of God’s word may behold the literal fulfillment of divine prophecy.” Conflict and Courage, CC 250.4

Referring to Revelation 11, “This prophecy has received a most exact and striking fulfillment in the history of France.” The Great Controversy, GC 269.4

FULFILLMENT OF PROPHECY IN SACRED HISTORY

“There is a study of history that is not to be condemned. Sacred history was one of the studies in the schools of the prophets. In the record of His dealings with the nations were traced the footsteps of Jehovah. So today we are to consider the dealings of God with the nations of the earth. We are to see in history the fulfillment of prophecy, to study the workings of Providence in the great reformatory movements, and to understand the progress of events in the marshaling of the nations for the final conflict of the great controversy.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, CT 379.3

A PURPOSE FOR LITERAL FULFILLMENT

One important reason that prophecy points to literal, real, or tangible events is to help us find our location in time; to be able to know where we are in relation to the end of time. Therefore, if a prophecy does not fulfill with a real event, it fails to fulfill one of its main purposes, to show us our position in history.

“Every child of God should be intelligent in the Scriptures, and able, by tracing the fulfillment of prophecy, to show our position in this world’s history.” Counsels on Sabbath School Work, CSW 23.1

“By a thorough investigation of the prophecies we understand where we are in this world’s history; and we know for a certainty that the second coming of Christ is near.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, 4T 592.1

“The history which the great I AM has marked out in His word, uniting link after link in the prophetic chain, from eternity in the past to eternity in the future, tells us where we are today in the procession of the ages, and what may be expected in the time to come. All that prophecy has foretold as coming to pass, until the present time, has been traced on the pages of history, and we may be assured that all which is yet to come will be fulfilled in its order.” Education, Ed 178.3

FULFILLED TO THE LETTER

Another definition of the word LITERAL is “following the letter or exact words”. When referring to prophecy, it can be said that it fulfills exactly according to what is stated by God. In the Spirit of Prophecy, Ellen White uses the phrases “every particular” or “every specification”, and “to the letter” to say the same thing.

“But they would not believe the message, and they laughed at Noah. They would not turn from their wickedness to obey the commands of God, and as the result the word of God was fulfilled to the letter.” Manuscript 40, 13LtMs, Ms 40, 1898, par. 1

Speaking of the fall of Babylon, “Thus was the prophecy of Isaiah and Jeremiah fulfilled to the letter.” The Signs of the Times, ST December 29, 1890, par. 3

“All the predictions given by Christ concerning the destruction of Jerusalem were fulfilled to the letter.” The Great Controversy, GC 29.2

“Forty years after Christ uttered His prediction respecting Jerusalem and the temple, His words were fulfilled to the letter.” The Signs of the Times, ST December 19, 1900, par. 15

“…as we stand this side of the cross, we see clearly how the predictions of prophets were fulfilled to the letter.” The Signs of the Times, ST July 9, 1896, par. 3

In the next two quotes, notice how Ellen White uses interchangeably “literally fulfilled” with “fulfilled to the very letter”.

“Study the 9th chapter of Ezekiel. These words will be literally fulfilled…” Manuscript Releases, vol. 1, 1MR 260.2

“…the time will soon come when the prophecy of Ezekiel 9 will be fulfilled; that prophecy should be carefully studied, for it will be fulfilled to the very letter.” 1888 Materials, 1888 1303.1

Prophecies are constructed of specifications; precise requirements which must be fulfilled in the same manner as described. As we saw at the beginning of this study, some of the specifications of prophecy are given in symbols, which point to real events that fulfill in the line of history.

Here are quotes related to fulfillment of prophecy, which speak of the specifications.

“As each related his dream, Joseph made known its import: In three days the butler was to be reinstated in his position, and give the cup into Pharaoh’s hand as before, but the chief baker would be put to death by the king’s command. In both cases the event occurred as foretold.

“…The chief butler saw the dream fulfilled in every particular;” Patriarchs and Prophets, PP 219.1-2

“For forty days Christ remained on the earth, preparing the disciples for the work before them and explaining that which heretofore they had been unable to comprehend. He spoke of the prophecies concerning His advent, His rejection by the Jews, and His death, showing that every specification of these prophecies had been fulfilled.” The Acts of the Apostles, AA 26.2

“Taking 457 B.C., the time when the decree was completed, as the date of the commandment, every specification of the prophecy concerning the seventy weeks was seen to have been fulfilled.” The Great Controversy, GC 326.3

“In the proclamation of the messages, every specification of prophecy has been fulfilled. Those who were privileged to act a part in proclaiming these messages have gained an experience which is of the highest value to them…” Selected Messages, book 2, 2SM 387.3

In Rule 13, William Miller expressed how important it is for every word or specification of prophecy to fulfill as given. He says, “But if one word lacks a fulfillment, then you must look for another event, or wait its future development.”

CONCLUSION

We can see in this study that even though prophecy is given to us in both figurative language and plain language, we should expect it to be fulfilled through literal events which can be found in the record of sacred or secular history. The purpose of being able to find literal events as the fulfillment is to help us understand where we are in time; to locate us in the line of history. As we search for the fulfillment of prophecy, we can expect that it will fulfill according to the letter; fulfilling every specification as it is given.

“We are to show that the specifications of prophecy have been fulfilled in the history of the world.” The Signs of the Times, ST October 14, 1889, par. 7

We can benefit greatly from a study of how the prophecies have been fulfilled and will continue to fulfill literally throughout the history of this earth.

“A careful study of the working out of God’s purpose in the history of nations and in the revelation of things to come, will help us to estimate at their true value things seen and things unseen, and to learn what is the true aim of life. Thus, viewing the things of time in the light of eternity, we may, like Daniel and his fellows, live for that which is true and noble and enduring. And learning in this life the principles of the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour, that blessed kingdom which is to endure for ever and ever, we may be prepared at His coming to enter with Him into its possession.” Prophets and Kings, PK 548.2

May our study of history and prophecy be blessed and profitable, as we allow the Holy Spirit to guide our understanding.

Bible Verses, Prophecy

DANIEL CHAPTER 11

VERSE BY VERSE WITH CHRONOLOGICAL NOTATIONS

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MEDO-PERSIA

Historical context of Daniel, chapters 10-12: Cyrus co-ruled with Darius the Mede from the fall of Babylon in 538 BC, and ruled alone from 536 BC.

The “third year” of Cyrus was 536 BC (reckoned from the fall of Babylon), when Daniel had his last vision (Daniel 10:1). Simultaneously, 536 BC was the “first year of Cyrus” (ruling alone), when he made his decree to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem (Ezra 1:1). This decree marked the end of the 70 years of captivity in Babylon, assigned to the Jewish people (Jeremiah 29:10). Thus, 536 BC is a time of the end.

(1)  Also I in the first year of Darius the Mede [ 538 BC ], even I, stood to confirm and to strengthen him. [ 538 BC was the end of the 70 years assigned to Babylon as an empire (Jeremiah 25:12). Thus, 538 BC is also a time of the end. ]

(2)  And now will I shew thee the truth. Behold, there shall stand up yet three kings in Persia [ Cambyses, Smerdis, Darius Hystaspes ]; and the fourth [ Xerxes, in 486 BC ] shall be far richer than they all: and by his strength through his riches he shall stir up all against the realm of Grecia.

GREECE

(3)  And a mighty king [ Alexander the Great ] shall stand up [ in 336 BC ], that shall rule with great dominion, and do according to his will.

(4)  And when he shall stand up, his kingdom shall be broken [ he died in 323 BC ], and shall be divided [ in the battle of Ipsus, 301 BC ] toward the four winds of heaven [ between 4 of his generals: Cassander-West, Lysimachus-North, Seleucus-East, Ptolemy-South ]; and not to his posterity, nor according to his dominion which he ruled: for his kingdom shall be plucked up, even for others beside those.

(5)  And the king of the south [ Ptolemy I – Soter ] shall be strong, and one of his princes [ Seleucus I Nicator ]; and he [ Seleucus ] shall be strong above him [ Ptolemy ], and have dominion; his dominion shall be a great dominion [ In the Battle of Corupedium, 281 BC, Seleucus consolidated the 3 remaining territories, East, West and North, into the kingdom of the north. ] [ Thus, the king of the north ruled from Babylon, and the king of the south from Egypt. ]

  First Syrian War (274 -271 BC) > Antiochus I Soter vs. Ptolemy II.

  Second Syrian War (260 – 253 BC) > Antiochus II Theos vs. Ptolemy II     

(6)  And in the end of years they shall join themselves together; for the king’s [ Ptolemy II – Philadelphus ] daughter of the south [ Berenice ] shall come to the king of the north [Antiochus II – Theos ] to make an agreement [ marriage-treaty, 252 BC. To marry Berenice, Theos repudiated his wife Laodice ]: but she shall not retain the power of the arm [ Theos ]; neither shall he stand, nor his arm [ seed  ]: but she shall be given up, and they that brought her, and he that begat her [ or whom she brought for, that is, her son ], and he that strengthened her in these times [ they were murdered by Laodice ].

  Third Syrian War (246 – 241 BC), Laodicean War > Ptolemy III vs. Seleucus II, verses 7-9

(7)  But out of a branch of her [ Berenice ] roots shall one stand up [ her brother, Ptolemy III – Euergetes, Benefactor ] in his estate, which shall come with an army, and shall enter into the fortress [ the city of Seleucia ] of the king of the north [ Laodice’s son Seleucus II – Callinicus ], and shall deal against them, and shall prevail:

(8)  And shall also carry captives into Egypt their gods, with their princes, and with their precious vessels of silver and of gold; and he shall continue more years than the king of the north [ Seleucus Callinicus who died in exile, falling from a horse ].

(9)  So the king of the south shall come into his kingdom, and shall return into his own land.

  Fourth Syrian War (219 -217 BC) > Antiochus III Magnus (“the Great”) vs. Ptolemy IV Philopator.

Battle of Raphia (217 BC) Ptolemy IV maintained control over the region of Coele-Syria (which includes the glorious land).

TIME OF THE END [ 219 BC, parallel to 1989, in verse 40b ]

(10)  But his [ Seleucus Callinicus ] sons [ Seleucus Ceraunus and Antiochus III – Magnus  ] shall be stirred up, and shall assemble a multitude of great forces: and one

[ Antiochus Magnus, who ascended to the throne in 222 BC after the death of his brother ] shall certainly come [ in 219 BC ], and overflow [ H7857 gush ], and pass through [ H5674 pass over ]: then shall he return, and be stirred up, even to his fortress [ Egypt ].

(11)  And the king of the south [ Ptolemy IV – Philopater ] shall be moved with choler, and shall come forth and fight with him, even with the king of the north [ Antiochus III Magnus ]: and he [ Antiochus ] shall set forth a great multitude; but the multitude shall be given into his [ Ptolemy’s ] hand. [ Battle of Raphia, 217 BC ]

(12)  And when he hath taken away the multitude, his [ Ptolemy Philopater ] heart shall be lifted up (H7311, exalted) [ he entered Jerusalem to offer sacrifices in the temple, but was restrained, which made him furious ]; and he shall cast down many ten thousands [ in revenge, killed 40,000 Jews in Alexandria, in his own country ]: but he shall not be strengthened by it. [ Died of his intemperance. ]

(13)  For the king of the north [ Antiochus Magnus ] shall return [ after 14 years of consolidation ], and shall set forth a multitude greater than the former, and shall certainly come after certain years with a great army and with much riches [ against the 4-5 yr. old heir, Ptolemy V – Epiphanes, ruling since 201 BC ].

(14)  And in those times there shall many stand up against the king of the south [ child, Ptolemy ]: also the robbers of thy people [ Rome ] shall exalt themselves to establish the vision; but they shall fall. [ In 201 BC, guardians asked Rome for protection for child Ptolemy from Magnus and Philip. ]

  Fifth Syrian War (202 – 195 BC) > Antiochus III vs Ptolemy V – Epiphanes.

Battle of Panium (200 BC), near the River Jordan, Antiochus III conquered the port of Sydon and Coele-Syria. The Ptolemaic kingdom never recovered from this defeat and ceased to be an independent great power.

(15)  So the king of the north [ Antiochus Magnus, confederated with Philip of Macedon ] shall come [ to recover Palestine and Coele-Syria from Egyptians, in 203 BC ], and cast up a mount, and take the most fenced cities [ Sidon, Tyre ]: and the arms of the south [ led by the General Scopas ] shall not withstand, neither his chosen [ select, best ] people, neither shall there be any strength to withstand.

Treaty of Apamea (188 BC) between the Roman Republic and Antiochus Magnus after the Roman victories in the Battles of Thermopylae 191 BC, and Magnesia 190 BC.

  Sixth Syrian war (170-168 BC)

League of the Jews: in 158 BC (or possibly 161 BC) the Jews made a league with the Romans, soliciting protection from the Seleucid king Demetrius I Soter.

PAGAN ROME

FOUR ROMAN LEADERS

Pompey

(16)  But he [ Pompey, representing Rome ] that cometh against him [ Antiochus XIII Asiaticus, until that point the king of the North, in 65 BC ] shall do according to his own will, and none shall stand before him: and he shall stand in the glorious land [ Jerusalem 63 BC, Judea ], which by his hand shall be consumed.

Julius Caesar v. 17-19

(17)  He [ Julius Caesar ] shall also set his face to enter [ into Egypt, after 51 BC ] with the strength of his whole kingdom [ original kingdom of Alexander ], and upright ones

[ Jews, who helped Caesar ] with him; thus shall he do: and he shall give him the daughter of women [ Cleopatra VII, around 48 BC ], corrupting her: but she [ Cleopatra ] shall not stand on his side, neither be for him [ she later joined Mark Antony ].

(18)  After this shall he [ Caesar ] turn his face unto the isles [ war with Pharnaces, king of Cimmerian Bosporus, in Asia minor ], and shall take many: but a prince for his own behalf shall cause the reproach offered by him to cease; without his own reproach he shall cause it to turn upon him.

(19)  Then he shall turn his face toward the fort of his own land [ Rome ]: but he [ Caesar ] shall stumble and fall [ he was suddenly murdered ], and not be found [ 44 BC ].

Augustus Caesar – Second Triumvirate (Augustus, Mark Antony, Lepidus) to avenge Caesar’s death.

(20)  Then shall stand up in his [ Julius Caesar’s ] estate a raiser of taxes [ Augustus Caesar, see Luke 2:1 ] in the glory of the kingdom [ during the pinnacle of Rome’s greatness ]: but within few days he shall be destroyed, neither in anger, nor in battle [ died in his bed at age 76, AD 14 ].

Tiberius Caesar v. 21-22

(21)  And in his estate shall stand up a vile [ tyrannical, hypocritical, debaucherous, and continuously intoxicated ] person [ Tiberius Caesar, 14 AD ], to whom they shall not give the honour of the kingdom: but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain the kingdom by flatteries [ at the insistence of his mother, he was finally placed on the throne ].

(22)  And with the arms of a flood [ revolution ] shall they be overflown from before him [ or Tiberius would be overflown ], and shall be broken [ he died of a violent death at age78, in AD 37 ]; yea, also the prince of the covenant [ Christ crucified in AD 31 ]. [ See Luke 3:1-3 ]

REPEAT AND ENLARGE

League with the Jews v. 23-29, in 158 (or 161) BC

(23)  And after the league [ of the Jews, 158 BC (or possibly 161 BC) ] made with him [ Pagan Rome ] he shall work deceitfully: for he [ Pagan Rome ] shall come up, and shall become strong with a small people.

(24)  He [ Pagan Rome ] shall enter peaceably even upon the fattest places of the province; and he shall do that which his fathers have not done, nor his fathers’ fathers [ acquire territory through peaceful means, such as alliances and treaties ]; he shall scatter among them the prey, and spoil, and riches: yea, and he shall forecast his devices against [ or from ] the strong holds [ Rome ], even for a time [ 360 years, 31 BC – AD 330 ].

Battle of Actium (September 2, 31 BC) > Augustus Caesar (N) vs. Mark Antony and Cleopatra (S).

Beginning of the “time” assigned to Pagan Rome.

(25)  And he [ Augustus Caesar ] shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the south [ Mark Antony and Cleopatra ] with a great army; and the king of the south shall be stirred up to battle [ Actium ] with a very great and mighty army; but he shall not stand: for they [ Pagan Rome ] shall forecast devices against him [ from Rome ].

(26)  Yea, they that feed of the portion of his [ Antony’s ] meat shall destroy him [ desertion of allies and friends ], and his army shall overflow and many shall fall down slain.

(27)  And both these kings’ hearts [ Antony and Augustus ] shall be to do mischief, and they shall speak lies at one table [ under the garb of friendship they were both aspiring and intriguing for universal dominion ]; but it shall not prosper: for yet the end shall be at the time appointed.

(28)  Then shall he [ Augustus ] return into his land with great riches [ after Actium ]; and his [ Vespasian, followed by Titus ] heart shall be against the holy covenant; and he shall do exploits [ destruction of Jerusalem, AD 70 ], and return to his own land [ Rome ].

(29)  At the time appointed [ AD 330 ] he shall return, and come toward the south; but it shall not be as the former [ Egypt ], or as the latter [ Jerusalem ]. [ By removing the seat of the empire to Constantinople, it facilitated  the downfall of Rome ]

Rome afflicted by the first four trumpets

(30)  For the ships of Chittim [ from Carthage, in the Mediterranean coast, the Vandals led by Genseric (428 – 468) ] shall come against him [ Pagan Rome ]: therefore he [ Pagan Rome ] shall be grieved, and return [ to dispossess Genseric ], and have indignation against the holy covenant [ Scriptures ]: so shall he do; he [ Eastern Rome ] shall even return, and have intelligence with them [ the church of Rome ] that forsake the holy covenant. [ In 533, emperor Justinian decreed the pope the head of churches & corrector of heretics. In 538 the Goths were driven out of the city of Rome, leaving the see vacant for the pope. ]

PAPAL ROME

(31)  And arms shall stand on his part, and they [ two possible options: 1. Goths, Vandals or 2. rulers supporting the Papacy ] shall pollute the sanctuary of strength [ Rome ] [ 1. by sacking the city of Rome or 2. by removing the seat of the empire to Constantinople ], and shall take away the daily [ H8548 continuance ] sacrifice [ Paganism, in 508 AD ], and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate [ Papacy, in 538 AD ].

(32)  And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he [ the Papacy ] corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.

(33)  And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: yet they shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, many days [ 1260 years ].

(34)  Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but many shall cleave to them with flatteries.

(35)  And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is yet for a time appointed. [ The time appointed for Papal Rome was 1260 years (538 – 1798). ]

(36)  And the king [ Papal Rome ] shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvellous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation be accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done. [ Compare with Daniel 7:25; 2 Thessalonians 2:4; Revelation 13:5. ]

(37)  Neither shall he regard the God of his fathers, nor the desire of women, nor regard any god: for he shall magnify himself above all.

(38)  But in his estate shall he honour the God of forces: [ the romans represented their goddess Diana with a fortress upon her head. This pagan worship to a female deity was converted into veneration of Mary ] and a god whom his fathers knew not shall he honour with gold, and silver, and with precious stones, and pleasant things.

(39)  Thus shall he do in the most strong holds with a strange god [ veneration of Mary ], whom he shall acknowledge and increase with glory: and he shall cause them to rule over many, and shall divide the land for gain.

TIME OF THE END

(40)

[ Part A: 1798 ]And at the time of the end shall the king of the south [ atheistic France ] push at him [ Papal Rome ]:

[ Part B: 1989 ] and the king of the north [ modern Rome ] shall come against [ retaliation ] him [ king of the South, atheistic Soviet Union ] like a whirlwind [ as a revolution ], with chariots, and with horsemen [ military strength, American ], and with many ships [ economic strength, American ]; and he shall enter into the countries [ of the former Soviet Union ], and shall overflow [ H7857 gush ] and pass over [ H5674 ].

(Parallel to verse 10)

(41)  He [ the papacy ] shall enter also into the glorious [ in the sense of prominence ] land [ the United States of America, through a national Sunday law ], and many countries [ unprepared Adventist ] shall be overthrown: but these shall escape out of his hand, even Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon [ those who escape from this false religious system ].

(42)  He [ the papacy ] shall stretch forth his hand [ through the universal Sunday law ] also upon the countries: and the land of Egypt [ the rest of the world, represented by the UN ] shall not escape.

(43)  But he [ the papacy ] shall have power over the treasures of gold and of silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt [ world economy ]: and the Libyans [ poor countries ] and the Ethiopians [ rich countries ] shall be at his steps. [ See Revelation 13:16 ]

(44)  But tidings out of the east and out of the north [ the loud cry ] shall trouble him: therefore he [ the papacy ] shall go forth with great fury to destroy, and utterly to make away many.

(45)  And he [ the papacy ] shall plant the tabernacles [ religious power ] of his palace [ civil power ] between the seas [ multitudes ] in [ and ] the glorious holy mountain [ the remnant church ]; yet he [ the papacy ] shall come to his end, and none shall help him.

“We have no time to lose. Troublous times are before us. The world is stirred with the spirit of war. Soon the scenes of trouble spoken of in the prophecies will take place. The prophecy in the eleventh of Daniel has nearly reached its complete fulfillment. Much of the history that has taken place in fulfillment of this prophecy will be repeated. In the thirtieth verse a power is spoken of that ‘shall be grieved, and return, and have indignation against the holy covenant: so shall he do; he shall even return, and have intelligence with them that forsake the holy covenant.’ [Verses 31-36, quoted.]

Scenes similar to those described in these words will take place. We see evidence that Satan is fast obtaining the control of human minds who have not the fear of God before them. Let all read and understand the prophecies of this book, for we are now entering upon the time of trouble spoken of: [Daniel 12:1-4, quoted.]” Manuscript Releases, vol. 13, 394

Health, Spirituality

SPIRITUAL LIFE

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“Spiritual life yields to its possessor that which all the world is seeking but which can never be obtained without an entire surrender to God.–Lt 121, 1904.” Mind, Character, and Personality 2, 404 {2MCP 404.1}

“Spiritual life–what is it? It is the contemplation of Him who loved us and gave Himself for us, that our lives might be sweet and fragrant, that we might have power to perfect an unselfish Christian experience, and that from us others might learn to do good.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 8, 332 {8MR 332.4}

How do we know if we are spiritually healthy?

“‘Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves’ (2 Corinthians 13:5). Closely criticize the temper, the disposition, the thoughts, words, inclinations, purposes, and deeds. How can we ask intelligently for the things we need unless we prove by the Scriptures the condition of our spiritual health?” Selected Messages, book 1, 89 {1SM 89.1}

THE RECIPE FOR LIFE

The way to have spiritual life is similar to the way to have physical life.

“For the health and vitality of the soul the divine Physician has prescribed communion with Christ. Spiritual health is dependent on the food which is given to the heart and mind, and on the atmosphere which is breathed. The soul needs food, and in order to get this food, the Word of God must be studied. Christ declares:–

“‘I am the bread of life; he that cometh to Me shall never hunger, and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst. . . . I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever; and the bread that I will give is My flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. . . . Whoso eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For My flesh is meat indeed, and My blood is drink indeed. He that eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, dwelleth in Me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father; so he that eateth Me, even he shall live by Me. . . . It is the spirit that quickeneth, the flesh profiteth nothing; the words that I speak unto you, they are Spirit, and they are life.’

“The breathing of pure air is essential for physical health. And it is no less true that the air we breathe in the spiritual life must be pure if we would make healthy growth in grace. Breathe the atmosphere which produces pure thoughts and noble words. Choose Christian society. The Christian will not be spiritually healthy unless he carefully guards his associations.

Exercise is essential to growth in grace. When the spiritually diseased are given exercise in spiritual things, there is seen a transformation of character. But spirituality can not grow while the heart is full of the corrupting sores of selfishness. The soul must be cleansed and purified by the refining grace of God. The channel of communication between earth and heaven must be kept free from all obstruction, that the soul may receive from Christ a supply of living water. Every spiritual muscle and sinew must be put to the test. God has given us many opportunities to work for Him. Unless we improve these opportunities, we can not be growing Christians. When Christ is formed within, the hope of glory, a decided change will be seen in the religious experience of professing Christians.” The Signs of the Times {ST, September 18, 1901 par. 4-7}

To be spiritually healthy, the following ingredients need to be incorporated daily:

PROPER DIET, LIGHT, AIR, EXERCISE, WATER, REST, TRUST IN GOD, ABSTEMIOUSNESS

PROPER DIET

In order to have spiritual health, we need to provide our mind and heart with spiritual food. We need to eat the spiritual bread that is available to us through the Word of God.

As our physical life is sustained by food, so our spiritual life is sustained by the word of God. And every soul is to receive life from God’s word for himself. As we must eat for ourselves in order to receive nourishment, so we must receive the word for ourselves. We are not to obtain it merely through the medium of another’s mind. We should carefully study the Bible, asking God for the aid of the Holy Spirit, that we may understand His word. We should take one verse, and concentrate the mind on the task of ascertaining the thought which God has put in that verse for us. We should dwell upon the thought until it becomes our own, and we know ‘what saith the Lord.’” The Desire of Ages, 390 {DA 390.4}

Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts. Jeremiah 15:16

And he said unto me, Son of man, cause thy belly to eat, and fill thy bowels with this roll that I give thee. Then did I eat it; and it was in my mouth as honey for sweetness. Ezekiel 3:3

And I took the little book out of the angel’s hand, and ate it up; and it was in my mouth sweet as honey: and as soon as I had eaten it, my belly was bitter. Revelation 10:10

My son, eat thou honey, because it is good; and the honeycomb, which is sweet to thy taste: So shall the knowledge of wisdom be unto thy soul: when thou hast found it, then there shall be a reward, and thy expectation shall not be cut off. Proverbs 24:13-14

And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every [word] that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.  Deuteronomy 8:3

Hear my words, O ye wise men; and give ear unto me, ye that have knowledge. For the ear trieth words, as the mouth tasteth meat. Let us choose to us judgment: let us know among ourselves what is good. Job 34:2-4

See also Psalm 104:27, 28, 145; Malachi 3:10-12; Psalm 34:8-9

He who would have spiritual life and vigor must eat the flesh and drink of the blood of the Son of God. Christ declares, ‘I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.’ ‘Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me’ (John 6:35, 54-57).” The Upward Look, 258 {UL 258.4}

“To eat the flesh and drink the blood of Christ is to receive Him as a personal Saviour, believing that He forgives our sins, and that we are complete in Him. It is by beholding His love, by dwelling upon it, by drinking it in, that we are to become partakers of His nature. What food is to the body, Christ must be to the soul. Food cannot benefit us unless we eat it, unless it becomes a part of our being. So Christ is of no value to us if we do not know Him as a personal Saviour. A theoretical knowledge will do us no good. We must feed upon Him, receive Him into the heart, so that His life becomes our life. His love, His grace, must be assimilated.” The Desire of Ages, 389 {DA 389.3} 

“We should eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God; that is, carefully study the Word, eat it, digest it, make it a part of our being. We are to live the Word, not keep it apart from our lives. The character of Christ is to be our character. We are to be transformed by the renewing of our hearts. Here is our only safety. Nothing can separate a living Christian from God.” The Review and Herald {RH, November 27, 1900 par. 16}

“The Word of God must be read and studied with an earnest desire to gain from it spiritual power.” Selected Messages, book 3, 203  {3SM 203.2}

“We must eat and drink the word of life, which is represented as eating and drinking of the flesh and  blood of Christ. Those who know the truth must be educated to receive it from their own shepherds, and pray over it, and practice it. Then souls will grow in faith and in intelligent knowledge. They would receive the bread of life and digest it. The entrance of Thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.’ The truth needs to enter into heart and mind. More, much more praying, and less long sermonizing will be for the health of the body and soul.” Testimonies to Ministers, 345 {TM 345.2} 

Our physical being is composed of what we eat, and our spiritual nature is also composed of what it feeds upon. If you allow the mind to dwell upon common things, it will be of a common order.” The Signs of the Times {ST, September 16, 1889 par. 8}

“Our religious experience is of exactly the same quality as the food we give our minds.” Pamphlets 140, 40 {PH140 40.1}

“The Word of God is not half comprehended. If each one would proclaim a fast for his own soul, studying the Word of God with earnest prayer, and reading only those books which would help him to gain a clearer knowledge of the Word, God’s people would have much more spiritual health and strength, much more spiritual knowledge and understanding, than they now reveal. We need to seek God, that we may find Him precious to our souls. We need to keep Him as our abiding guest and companion, never parting from Him.” This Day with God, 150  {TDG 150.6}

MEMORIZING SCRIPTURE

“Let the more important passages of Scripture connected with the lesson be committed to memory, not as a task, but as a privilege. Though at first the memory be defective, it will gain strength by exercise, so that after a time you will delight thus to treasure up the words of truth. And the habit will prove a most valuable aid to spiritual growth.” Child Guidance, 511 {CG 511.4}

LIGHT

But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall. Malachi 4:2

“The Lord has made every provision so that we may have a rich, abundant, joyful experience. John writes concerning Christ, saying, ‘In him was life; and the life was the light of men.’ Life is associated with light, and if we have no light from the Sun of Righteousness, we can have no life in Him. But this light has been provided for every soul, and it is only as we withdraw from the light that darkness comes upon us. Jesus said, ‘He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.’ In the world about us there can be no life without light. Were the sun to withdraw his shining, all vegetation, all animal life, would have an end. This illustrates the fact that we cannot have spiritual life unless we place ourselves under the beams of the Sun of Righteousness. If we put a flowering plant in a dark room, it will soon wither and die; and so we may have some spiritual life, and yet lose it by dwelling in an atmosphere of doubt and gloom. . . .” Sons and Daughters of God, 281 {SD 281.2}

AIR

“We need continually to breathe the vitalizing atmosphere of heaven that we may have spiritual health and strength.” The Review and Herald {RH, May 4, 1886 par. 5}

COMMUNION WITH GOD

If we would have spiritual life and energy, we must commune with God. We can speak to him of our real wants; and our earnest petitions will show that we realize our needs, and will do what we can to answer our own prayers. We must obey the injunction of Paul, ‘Arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light,’ [Ephesians 5:14.]” Gospel Workers 92, 428 {GW92 428.1}

“Prayer is the breath of the soul. It is the secret of spiritual power. No other means of grace can be substituted and the health of the soul be preserved. Prayer brings the heart into immediate contact with the Wellspring of life, and strengthens the sinew and muscle of the religious experience. Neglect the exercise of prayer, or engage in prayer spasmodically, now and then, as seems convenient, and you lose your hold on God. The spiritual faculties lose their vitality, the religious experience lacks health and vigor. . . .” Messages to Young People, 249 {MYP 249.3}

“…Several times each day precious, golden moments should be consecrated to prayer and the study of the Scriptures, if it is only to commit a text to memory, that spiritual life may exist in the soul. The varied interests of the cause furnish us with food for reflection and inspiration for our prayers. Communion with God is highly essential for spiritual health, and here only may be obtained that wisdom and correct judgment so necessary in the performance of every duty.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, 459 {4T 459.1}

“If we would develop a character which God can accept, we must form correct habits in our religious life. Daily prayer is as essential to growth in grace, and even to spiritual life itself, as is temporal food to physical well-being. We should accustom ourselves to often lift the thoughts to God in prayer. If the mind wanders, we must bring it back; by persevering effort, habit will finally make it easy. We cannot for one moment separate ourselves from Christ with safety. We may have His presence to attend us at every step, but only by observing the conditions which He has Himself laid down.–RH, May 3, 1881.” Daughters of God, 81 {DG 81.3}

Communion with God is highly essential for spiritual health, and here only may be obtained that wisdom and correct judgment so necessary in the performance of every duty.–4T 459 (1880).” Daughters of God, 82 {DG 82.2}

“As we try to become acquainted with our heavenly Father through His word, angels will draw near, our minds will be strengthened, our characters will be elevated and refined. We shall become more like our Saviour. And as we behold the beautiful and grand in nature, our affections go out after God. While the spirit is awed, the soul is invigorated by coming in contact with the Infinite through His works. Communion with God through prayer develops the mental and moral faculties, and the spiritual powers strengthen as we cultivate thoughts upon spiritual things.” The Desire of Ages, 70 {DA 70.4}

ASSOCIATIONS

“We raise our voice and cry to every believer in the present truth: If you would have spiritual health, look to your lungs. Look to your spiritual food. Cultivate a love for the society of those who are pure and good, if you would have Christ formed in you as the life of the soul. The health of the soul depends upon the breathing of a good moral atmosphere.” Our High Calling, 255 {OHC 255.5}

“The breathing of pure air is essential for the cure of disease. And it is no less essential that the atmosphere we breathe in the spiritual life shall be pure. This is essential for a healthy growth in grace. Breathe the pure atmosphere which produces pure thoughts and noble words. Choose Christian society. The Christian will not have spiritual health unless he is guarded in regard to his associations. . . .” The Upward Look, 174 {UL 174.3}

EXERCISE

Spiritual exercise is putting into practice that which we know. When we know what God has told us through His Word, we then need to incorporate it into our habits and actions. Having an intellectual knowledge, good intentions, and the belief that we should do right is only the first step, but we need to go beyond that by practicing and obeying God’s instructions. This will keep us connected to Him and give us life.

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. James 1:22

For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building. 1 Corinthians 3:9

“…let us be doers of his word, and we shall have spiritual life and power.” The Review and Herald {RH, June 28, 1892 par. 5}

OBEDIENCE

“He who does not heed the instruction God has given in His word and in His works, he who does not obey the divine commands, has a defective experience. He is a sickly Christian. His spiritual life is feeble. He lives, but his life is devoid of fragrance. He fritters away precious moments of grace.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, 39 {CD 39.4}

GIVING AND SUPPORTING GOD’S CAUSE

Those churches who are the most systematic and liberal in sustaining the cause of God are the most prosperous spiritually. True liberality in the follower of Christ identifies his interest with that of his Master.… 

“…The spiritual health and prosperity of the church is dependent in a great degree upon her systematic benevolence. It is like the lifeblood which must flow through the whole being, vitalizing every member of the body. It increases love for the souls of our fellow men; for by self-denial and self-sacrifice we are brought into a closer relation to Christ, who for our sakes became poor. The more we invest in the cause of God to aid in the salvation of souls, the closer to our hearts will they be brought.…” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, 405 {3T 405.1-2}

WORKING TO HAVE UNITY

A Song of degrees of David. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! Psalms 133:1

“Then let every one look to Christ and copy the divine Model. Let every worker tax his powers to the utmost to work in harmony with the plan of God. …TSS 76, 77.” Counsels on Sabbath School Work, 106 {CSW 106.1}

Strive earnestly for unity. Pray for it, work for it. It will bring spiritual health, elevation of thought, nobility of character, heavenly-mindedness, enabling you to overcome selfishness and evil surmisings, and to be more than conquerors through Him that loved you and gave Himself for you. Crucify self; esteem others better than yourselves. Thus you will be brought into oneness with Christ. Before the heavenly universe, and before the church and the world, you will bear unmistakable evidence that you are God’s sons and daughters. God will be glorified in the example that you set.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, 188 {9T 188.1}

WATER

Spiritual water is the Holy Spirit, imparting spiritual grace that refreshes the soul.

“When the Holy Spirit controls the minds of our church members, there will be seen in our churches a much higher standard in speech, in ministry, in spirituality, than is now seen. The church members will be refreshed by the water of life, and the laborers, working under one Head, even Christ, will reveal their Master in spirit, in word, in deed, and will encourage one another to press forward in the grand, closing work in which we are engaged. There will be a healthy increase of unity and love, which will bear testimony to the world that God sent His Son to die for the redemption of sinners. Divine truth will be exalted; and as it shines forth as a lamp that burneth, we shall understand it more and still more clearly.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, 211  {8T 211.2}

He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers that water the earth. Psalms 72:6

My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass: Deuteronomy 32:2

“The Saviour made use of this symbolic service to direct the minds of the people to the blessings that He had come to bring them. ‘In the last day, that great day of the feast,’ His voice was heard in tones that rang through the temple courts, ‘If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink. He that believeth on Me, as the Scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.’ ‘This,’ said John, ‘spake He of the Spirit, which they that believe on Him should receive.’ John 7:37-39. The refreshing water, welling up in a parched and barren land, causing the desert place to blossom, and flowing out to give life to the perishing, is an emblem of the divine grace which Christ alone can bestow, and which is as the living water, purifying, refreshing, and invigorating the soul. He in whom Christ is abiding has within him a never-failing fountain of grace and strength. Jesus cheers the life and brightens the path of all who truly seek Him. His love, received into the heart, will spring up in good works unto eternal life. And not only does it bless the soul in which it springs, but the living stream will flow out in words and deeds of righteousness, to refresh the thirsting around him.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 412 {PP 412.2}

“There are today many as ignorant of the Holy Spirit’s work upon the heart as were those believers in Ephesus; yet no truth is more clearly taught in the word of God. Prophets and apostles have dwelt upon this theme. Christ Himself calls our attention to the growth of the vegetable world as an illustration of the agency of His Spirit in sustaining spiritual life. The sap of the vine, ascending from the root, is diffused to the branches, sustaining growth and producing blossoms and fruit. So the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit, proceeding from the Saviour, pervades the soul, renews the motives and affections, and brings even the thoughts into obedience to the will of God, enabling the receiver to bear the precious fruit of holy deeds.” The Acts of the Apostles, 284{AA 284.1}

REST

Spiritual rest can be obtained by learning of the meekness and lowliness of Jesus, and it can also be found in obedience to the Sabbath.

“God made the world in six days and rested on the seventh day, sanctifying it as a day of rest for the performance of spiritual duties. He set it apart from all other days, establishing it as a memorial of the work of creation. It was to be devoted to Him in spiritual service. This day is a day of God’s special appointment. Exodus 31:12-18 gives the charge concerning this day more definitely, and specifies the Sabbath as a sign between God and His people, that they may know by their obedience to the commandments that He is the Lord who sanctifies them.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 19, 263  {19MR 263.1}

“[Hebrews 4:9, 11 quoted.] The rest here spoken of is the rest of grace, obtained by following the prescription, Labor diligently. Those who learn of Jesus His meekness and lowliness find rest in the experience of practicing His lessons. It is not in indolence, in selfish ease and pleasure-seeking, that rest is obtained. Those who are unwilling to give the Lord faithful, earnest, loving service will not find spiritual rest in this life or in the life to come. Only from earnest labor comes peace and joy in the Holy Spirit–happiness on earth and glory hereafter.” SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 928 {7BC 928.7}

TRUST IN GOD

“Throughout the history of God’s people great mountains of difficulty, apparently insurmountable, have loomed up before those who were trying to carry out the purposes of Heaven. Such obstacles are permitted by the Lord as a test of faith. When we are hedged about on every side, this is the time above all  others to trust in God and in the power of His Spirit. The exercise of a living faith means an increase of spiritual strength and the development of an unfaltering trust. It is thus that the soul becomes a conquering power. Before the demand of faith, the obstacles placed by Satan across the pathway of the Christian will disappear; for the powers of heaven will come to his aid. ‘Nothing  shall be impossible unto you.’” Conflict and Courage, 258 {CC 258.3}

ABSTEMIOUSNESS

Abstemiousness primarily means to avoid something that is harmful, yet it also includes the idea of being temperate; to be moderate and avoid excess in things that are not harmful. Many things can be said about abstinence and temperance in the spiritual life, but what it generally means is to have a proper balance in spiritual matters.

MODERATION IN SPIRITUAL EATING:

“Even as the bodily necessities must be supplied daily, so the word of God must be daily studied–eaten, and digested, and practiced. This sustains the nourishment, to keep the soul in health. The neglect of the word means starvation to the soul. The word describes the blessed man as one meditating day and night upon the truths of God’s word. We all are to feast upon the word of God. The relation of the word to the believer is a vital matter. Appropriating the word to our spiritual necessities is the eating of the leaves of the tree of life that are for the healing of the nations. Study the word, and practice the word, for it is your life.– Ellen G. White Letter 4, 1902.” Counsels on Sabbath School Work, 43 {CSW 43.2}

Although too little spiritual food will starve the soul, too much will also hinder the spiritual health. We need the proper balance.

“It is not reasonable to suppose that the mind can assimilate an oversupply of mental food, and it is as great a sin to overload the mind as it is to overload the digestive organs.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 296 {CT 296.2}

Hast thou found honey? eat so much as is sufficient for thee, lest thou be filled therewith, and vomit it. It is not good to eat much honey: so for men to search their own glory is not glory. He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls. Proverbs 25:16, 27, 28

“It is not essential to our salvation, nor for the glory of God, to keep the mind laboring constantly and excessively, even upon religious themes.” The Adventist Home, 494 {AH 494.1}

“But there is but little benefit derived from a hasty reading of the Scriptures. One may read the whole Bible through and yet fail to see its beauty or comprehend its deep and hidden meaning. One passage studied until its significance is clear to the mind and its relation to the plan of salvation is evident, is of more value than the perusal of many chapters with no definite purpose in view and no positive instruction gained. Keep your Bible with you. As you have opportunity, read it; fix the texts in your memory. Even while you are walking the streets you may read a passage and meditate upon it, thus fixing it in the mind.” Steps to Christ, 90 {SC 90.2}

AVOID EXCESS (EXTREME POSITIONS) AND MAINTAIN BALANCE

Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Sister White had much to say about avoiding extremes in different areas of life; anything from self-perception, and health reform, to balanced activity as we wait for Christ’s return.

Having a proper combination of abstinence and balance will help maintain a good spiritual life.

“There are two extremes, both of which we should avoid.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, 286 {CD 286.2}

“…You should avoid either extreme. Feeling should not control you; circumstances should not affect you. You may form a correct estimate of yourself, one which will prove a safeguard from both extremes. You may be dignified without vain self-confidence; you may be condescending and yielding without sacrificing self-respect or individual independence, and your life may be of great influence with those in the higher as well as the lower walks of life.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, 506 {3T 506.1}

“Those who do not feel that it is a religious duty to discipline the mind to dwell upon cheerful subjects, will usually be found at one of two extremes: they will be elated by a continual round of exciting amusements, indulging in frivolous conversation, laughing and joking, or they will be depressed, having great trials and mental conflicts, which they think but few have ever experienced or can understand. These persons may profess Christianity, but they deceive their own souls. . . .” Counsels on Health, 628  {CH 628.3}

“Care should be exercised by all Christians, to shun the two extremes, of laxness in dealing with sin on the one hand, and harsh judgment and groundless suspicion on the other.” The Signs of the Times  {ST, May 12, 1881 par. 17} 

“The present duty of every true child of God is to wait patiently, to watch vigilantly, to work faithfully, until the coming of the Lord, that we may be prepared for the solemn event. The characteristics of the true follower of Christ, the perfect man in Christ Jesus, will be manifested in working, watching, and waiting for the Lord. He will not be wholly given up to contemplation and meditation, or be so engrossed in some busy works, that he will neglect the exercise of personal piety; but in the symmetrical Christian, personal devotion will be blended with earnest work, and the follower of Christ will be ‘not slothful in business;’ but ‘fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.’” Romans 12:11. The General Conference Bulletin  {GCB, October 1, 1896 par. 1} 

“When we give ourselves unreservedly to the Lord, the simple, commonplace duties of home life will be seen in their true importance, and we shall perform them in accordance with the will of God. We are to be vigilant, watching for the coming of the Son of man; and we must also be diligent; working as well as waiting is required; there must be a union of the two. This will balance the Christian character, making it well developed, symmetrical. We should not feel that we are to neglect everything else, and give ourselves up to meditation, study, or prayer; neither are we to be full of bustle and hurry and work, to the neglect of personal piety. Waiting and watching and working are to be blended. ‘Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.’” The Adventist Home, 23 {AH 23.1}

“If it is possible, Satan will cause that the professors of religion shall be borne off on some tangent of fanaticism, that they may take extreme positions, and bring reproach on the cause of the Master; and then how he exults; for he can present to the world the inconsistency of those who claim to be led by Christ, and charge their wild and inconsistent positions and measures upon the truth which they believe. ‘Here,’ says the enemy, ‘is what results from believing the doctrines of Seventh-day Adventists. See their inconsistency!’ The soul needs to be guarded by the strongest fortifications. The knowledge of the Scriptures must preserve the soul in its balance, by supplying the mind with solid principles of faith and truth.” The General Conference Bulletin  {GCB, October 1, 1896 par. 5}

GROWTH

Growth should be expected in the spiritual life just as physical growth can be expected when the conditions are met; proper diet, light, air, exercise, water, rest, trust in God, and abstemiousness.

Be sure that your spiritual life does not become poor, sickly, inefficient. There are many who have need of the words and example of a Christian. Weakness and indecision provoke the assaults of the enemy, and any one who fails to increase in spiritual growth, in a knowledge of truth and righteousness, will frequently be overcome by the enemy.” God’s Amazing Grace, 292  {AG 292.3}

“Will you have a stinted Christian growth, or will you make healthy progress in the divine life? Where there is spiritual health there is growth. The child of God grows up to the full stature of a man or woman in Christ. There is no limit to his improvement. . . .” God’s Amazing Grace, 312   {AG 312.4}

“The young convert to truth must not always remain a child in spiritual knowledge. A child, however beautiful as a child, is a dwarf if it makes no development as years pass by. And every Christian who is indeed a Christian, must grow. He must constantly increase in wisdom and knowledge. Day by day he must approach more nearly to the full stature of a man in Christ Jesus. He must advance into a deeper appreciation of the love of God, and a clearer knowledge of His will. If his light does not shine more and more brightly, his faith becomes weak, his love grows feeble; and unless he seeks and acknowledges his danger, he is doing the cause of God more harm than an avowed unbeliever. Piety leaves the soul-temple. The man turns carelessly from duties and responsibilities. By him the Son of God is crucified afresh and put to open shame.” The Signs of the Times  {ST, September 18, 1901 par. 8}

“But unless the members of God’s church today have a living connection with the Source of all spiritual growth, they will not be ready for the time of reaping. Unless they keep their lamps trimmed and burning, they will fail of receiving added grace in times of special need.” The Acts of the Apostles, 55 {AA 55.2}

2520, Prophecy

THE 2520 AND TRAMPLING POWERS

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UNDERSTANDING LEVITICUS AND DEUTERONOMY

William Miller’s rule No. 4: To understand doctrine, bring all the scriptures together on the subject you wish to know; then let every word have its proper influence; and if you can form your theory without a contradiction, you cannot be in error.

Scripture is its own expositor, and to have a more complete understanding of the blessings and curses of Leviticus 26, you must bring it together with Deuteronomy 28, which is a parallel chapter dealing with the same subject.

DEUTERONOMY IS A REPEAT AND ENLARGE OF LEVITICUS

The same law and covenant as Sinai:

These are the words of the covenant, which the LORD commanded Moses to make with the children of Israel in the land of Moab, beside the covenant which he made with them in Horeb. Deuteronomy 29:1

“With painstaking effort Ezra sought to arrive at the true sense of the Old Testament scriptures, and to revive their original meaning. He became thoroughly conversant with the writings of Moses. His desire to please God led him to strive earnestly to learn the true significance of the ten commandments. He searched for all those statements in sacred history that relate to the giving of the law on Mount Sinai, and to the laws written in books, which the Israelites had been directed to preserve carefully as the commands of God.

     “These laws contained in books were not a new revelation, but a repetition of the ceremonial laws given at Sinai. Before Moses left the children of Israel, at the command of God, to die in the land of Moab, the laws that had formerly been given were repeated and enlarged upon. Some methods for their enforcement were given; some precepts were explained, and the reasons why they had been given were made plain. Upon several occasions the judgments of God had fallen upon transgressors; the commands that had been transgressed at these times were repeated. Transgressors were to know that disobedience would surely bring the punishment of God.”  The Review and Herald, January 30, 1908 par. 5-6

FULFILMENT OF THE CURSES

The curses fulfilled in various ways.

Scattering in Deuteronomy 4:27 (a parallel to Leviticus 26:33) is quoted, “This prophecy, fulfilled in part in the time of the judges…” Prophets and Kings, 296.1

(parallel to Leviticus 26:19) “‘If thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe to do all His commandments and His statutes,’ the Israelites had been warned, ‘thy heaven that is over thy head shall be brass, and the earth that is under thee shall be iron. The Lord shall make the rain of thy land powder and dust: from heaven shall it come down upon thee, until thou be destroyed.’ Deuteronomy 28:15, 23, 24.

“Thus it had come to pass that God was now visiting His people with the severest of His judgments. The prediction of Elijah was meeting with terrible fulfillment. For three years the messenger of woe was sought for in city after city and nation after nation. …” Prophets and Kings, 136-137

PERSONAL APPLICATIONS

“When Herod heard of the works of Christ, he was exceedingly troubled. … Herod was reaping that which God had declared to be the result of a course of sin… [Deuteronomy 28:65-67 quoted].” The Desire of Ages, 223.3

Leviticus 26:19 symbols used, “Satan’s craft is most successfully used against those who are depressed. When discouragement threatens to overwhelm the minister, let him spread out before God his necessities. It was when the heavens were as brass over Paul that he trusted most fully in God. More than most men, he knew the meaning of affliction; but listen to his triumphant cry as, beset by temptation and conflict, his feet press heavenward: …” The Acts of the Apostles, 363.1

In general, fulfillments of various curses extend beyond the 2520 years. The fulfillment of the 2520 years deals with a more specific aspect of the curses.

HOW THE PIONEERS DEFINED THE SEVEN TIMES

The 2520 is a portion of the seven times curses of Leviticus 26, specifically the scattering mentioned in Leviticus 26:33, or the period of time in which the four “gentile” nations “reigned over” (Deut. 15:6, 28:44) God’s chosen people.

SEVEN TIMES AS A SYMBOL FOR TIME

William Miller says, “I, therefore, felt that, in endeavoring to comprehend what God had in his mercy seen fit to reveal to us, I had no right to pass over the prophetic periods. I saw that, as the events predicted to be fulfilled in prophetic days had been extended over about as many literal years; as God, in Num.14:34, and Ezek.4:4-6, had appointed each day for a year; as the seventy weeks to the Messiah were fulfilled in 490 years, and the 1260 prophetic days of the Papal supremacy in 1260 years; and as these prophetical days extending to the advent were given in connection with symbolic prophecy, I could only regard the time as symbolical, and as standing each day for a year, in accordance with the opinions of all the standard Protestant commentators…

     “From a further study of the Scriptures, I concluded that the seven times of Gentile supremacy must commence when the Jews ceased to be an independent nation, at the captivity of Manasseh, which the best chronologers assigned to B. C. 677; that the 2300 days commenced with the seventy weeks, which the best chronologers dated from B. C. 457; and that the 1335 days, commencing with the taking away of the daily, and the setting up of the abomination that maketh desolate, Dan.12:11, were to be dated from the setting up of the Papal supremacy, after the taking away of Pagan abominations, and which, according to the best historians I could consult, should be dated from about A. D. 508. Reckoning all these prophetic periods from the several dates assigned by the best chronologers for the events from which they should evidently be reckoned, they would all terminate together, about A. D. 1843.…” Silvester Bliss, Memoirs of William Miller, 75-76  {1853 SB, MWM 75.2-76.1}

In his memoirs, William Miller calls the 2300 a “continuance” of the seven times, which began with Babylon:

“When, therefore, I found the 2300 prophetic days, which were to mark the length of the vision from the Persian to the end of the fourth kingdom, the seven times’ continuance of the dispersion of God’s people, and the 1335 prophetic days to the standing of Daniel in his lot, all evidently extending to the advent, with other prophetical periods, I could but regard them as ‘the times before appointed,’ which God had revealed ‘unto his servants the prophets.’…” [Acts 17:26, Amos 3:7 quoted] Silvester Bliss, Memoirs of William Miller, 75 {1853 SB, MWM 75.1}

Hiram Edson wrote the following article while James White was editor of the Adventist Review and Sabbath Herald:

“The number seven is a perfect number in the Bible. The seven prophetic times complete the fullness of prophetic times given in the inspired volume. A prophetic time symbolizes 360 years. There is not another prophetic time given or named in the Bible to be fulfilled after the seven prophetic times expire; hence the seven times complete the fullness of times given us in the inspired volume, and hence the seven prophetic times is the appointed period which brings us to, and ushers in, the dispensation of the fullness of times, in which is to be gathered together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth. From this text we learn that the dispensation of the fullness of times is the GATHERING dispensation.

     “The seven times was emphatically the scattering time, in which God’s people were dispersed among all nations; and we have before clearly proved that at the end of the seven times, was the appointed time for God to set his hand again, the second time, to recover the remnant of his people, and to assemble the outcasts of Israel and gather together the dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth; and that the yoke of their cruel and hard bondage was then broken off, and their captivity was then turned, and the latter‑day glory was then ushered in, and we shall hereafter prove that the gathering has been going on from that time to the present.” Hiram Edson, Adventist Review and Sabbath Herald, January 17, 1856, p. 122, par. 14-15  {January 17, 1856 JWe, ARSH 122.14-15}

“The REMNANT were to be saved FROM the land of their captivity. They were to be delivered OUT OF ALL PLACES and countries wherein they had been scattered during the cloudy and dark day, or period of 2520 years captivity. See Isa.11:11,12; Jer.30:10; Eze.34:11 13.

     “The land of their captivity during the 2520 years of Gentile dominion over them embraces the ancient Assyrian, or Babylonian, the Medo Persian, the Grecian, and the Roman empires. These empires embrace all territory East of the Atlantic Ocean; the ancient land of Palestine not excepted; hence we are crowded off from the Eastern Continent, and are necessarily driven to this Western American Continent to find the country into which the Lord has been gathering the remnant of his people since the 2520 years of their captivity ended.

     “We believe that the country, or nation and government of these United States of North America, which we also believe to be symbolized by the two horned beast of Rev.13:11, is the country and place to which the remnant have been gathering….” James White editor, Adventist Review and Sabbath Herald, February 14, 1856, 154, par. 19-21 {February 14, 1856 JWe, ARSH 154.19-21}

James White gave a definition in 1864:

“The prophetic period of Lev. 26, or what has been supposed to be such, has been no small object of study among prophetical expositors. It has been supposed that the expression, ‘seven times,’ in verses 18, 21, 24, 28, denoted a prophetic period of 2520 years, and that this period covered the time during which the throne of Israel should be and remain subverted and trodden down by oppressing powers…” James White editor, Adventist Review and Sabbath Herald, January 26, 1864, 68  {January 26, 1864 JWe, 68}

DEFINING THE 2520 FROM SCRIPTURE

There are curses upon health, the animals, the land and the city, etc. But not every curse is applied in the 2520. The curses which define the 2520 are those which relate to the overall relationship between Israel and the nations. Specifically, it is the period of the scattering of God’s people among the nations, or the fourth mention of seven times in Leviticus 26.

RELATIONSHIP OF ISRAEL WITH THE NATIONS UNDER BLESSINGS AND CURSES

BLESSINGS: Under blessings Israel would reign over the nations.

And I will give peace in the land, and ye shall lie down, and none shall make you afraid: and I will rid evil beasts out of the land, neither shall the sword go through your land. And ye shall chase your enemies, and they shall fall before you by the sword. And five of you shall chase an hundred, and an hundred of you shall put ten thousand to flight: and your enemies shall fall before you by the sword. Leviticus 26:6-8

For the LORD thy God blesseth thee, as he promised thee: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, but thou shalt not borrow; and thou shalt reign over many nations, but they shall not reign over thee. Deuteronomy 15:6

And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth: Deuteronomy 28:1

The LORD shall open unto thee his good treasure, the heaven to give the rain unto thy land in his season, and to bless all the work of thine hand: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, and thou shalt not borrow. And the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the LORD thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do them: Deuteronomy 28:12-13

CURSES: Under the curses the nations would rule over Israel.

And I will set my face against you, and ye shall be slain before your enemies: they that hate you shall reign over you; and ye shall flee when none pursueth you. Leviticus 26:17

And I will bring a sword upon you, that shall avenge the quarrel of my covenant: and when ye are gathered together within your cities, I will send the pestilence among you; and ye shall be delivered into the hand of the enemy. Leviticus 26:25

And I will bring the land into desolation: and your enemies which dwell therein shall be astonished at it. 33 And I will scatter you among the heathen, and will draw out a sword after you: and your land shall be desolate, and your cities waste. 34 Then shall the land enjoy her sabbaths, as long as it lieth desolate, and ye be in your enemies’ land; even then shall the land rest, and enjoy her sabbaths. 35 As long as it lieth desolate it shall rest; because it did not rest in your sabbaths, when ye dwelt upon it. 36  And upon them that are left alive of you I will send a faintness into their hearts in the lands of their enemies; and the sound of a shaken leaf shall chase them; and they shall flee, as fleeing from a sword; and they shall fall when none pursueth. 37 And they shall fall one upon another, as it were before a sword, when none pursueth: and ye shall have no power to stand before your enemies. 38 And ye shall perish among the heathen, and the land of your enemies shall eat you up. 39 And they that are left of you shall pine away in their iniquity in your enemies’ lands; and also in the iniquities of their fathers shall they pine away with them. Leviticus 26:32-39

The Lord shall bring thee, and thy king which thou shalt set over thee, unto a nation which neither thou nor thy fathers have known; and there shalt thou serve other gods, wood and stone. Deuteronomy 28:36 (Note: being forced to serve other gods is not freedom of conscience)

Thou shalt beget sons and daughters, but thou shalt not enjoy them; for they shall go into captivity. Deuteronomy 28:41

He shall lend to thee, and thou shalt not lend to him: he shall be the head, and thou shalt be the tail. Deuteronomy 28:44

Therefore shalt thou serve thine enemies which the Lord shall send against thee, in hunger, and in thirst, and in nakedness, and in want of all things: and he shall put a yoke of iron upon thy neck, until he have destroyed thee. Deuteronomy 28:48

And ye shall be left few in number, whereas ye were as the stars of heaven for multitude; because thou wouldest not obey the voice of the Lord thy God. 63 And it shall come to pass, that as the Lord rejoiced over you to do you good, and to multiply you; so the Lord will rejoice over you to destroy you, and to bring you to nought; and ye shall be plucked from off the land whither thou goest to possess it. 64 And the Lord shall scatter thee among all people, from the one end of the earth even unto the other; and there thou shalt serve other gods, which neither thou nor thy fathers have known, even wood and stone. 65 And among these nations shalt thou find no ease, neither shall the sole of thy foot have rest: but the Lord shall give thee there a trembling heart, and failing of eyes, and sorrow of mind: Deuteronomy 28:62-65

SUMMARY OF THE CURSE

they that hate you shall reign over you

delivered into the hand of the enemy

scatter you among the heathen

no power to stand before your enemies

captivity

he shall be the head, and thou shalt be the tail

FULFILMENT OF THE SCATTERING

What led to the captivity?

Cause and effect. Failure to obey the law, breaking the covenant.

All of the kings of Israel followed in the idolatrous footsteps of Jeroboam, the first king, until they provoked the wrath (judgment) of God. Judah also rebelled until there was no remedy, and they provoked God’s wrath (judgment).

10 LAST KINGS OF ISRAEL

During the reign of Jehu (10th to last king) God began to cut Israel short. 2 Kings 10:32-33

SEVEN LAST KINGS OF ISRAEL

Jeroboam II through Hoshea

“For a season these predicted judgments were stayed, and during the long reign of Jeroboam II the armies of Israel gained signal victories; but this time of apparent prosperity wrought no change in the hearts of the impenitent, and it was finally decreed, ‘Jeroboam shall die by the sword, and Israel shall surely be led away captive out of their own land.’ Amos 7:11.” Prophets and Kings, 286.2

“The iniquity in Israel during the last half century before the Assyrian captivity was like that of the days of Noah, and of every other age when men have rejected God and have given themselves wholly to evil-doing. The exaltation of nature above the God of nature, the worship of the creature instead of the Creator, has always resulted in the grossest of evils. Thus when the people of Israel, in their worship of Baal and Ashtoreth, paid supreme homage to the forces of nature, they severed their connection with all that is uplifting and ennobling, and fell an easy prey to temptation. …”

     “The evils that had overspread the land had become incurable; and upon Israel was pronounced the dread sentence: ‘Ephraim is joined to idols: let him alone.’ ‘The days of visitation are come, the days of recompense are come; Israel shall know it.’ Hosea 4:17; 9:7.” Prophets and Kings, 281.4, 285.2

NOTE: “half century before Assyrian captivity” would start within the reign of Jeroboam II, the seventh to last king

SEVEN LAST KINGS OF JUDAH

Manasseh through Zedekiah

Four of the seven last kings of Judah (those attacked by the King of the North, Assyria/Babylon) experienced a fulfillment of specific curses mentioned in Leviticus 26. These have parallel verses in Deuteronomy 28.

Progression of Events                                   Deut. 28          Lev. 26

King taken captive                              36                    19 (1st seven times, v.18-20)

Children taken captive                        41                    22 (2nd seven times, v.21-23)

Sword and yoke of enemy                  48-50               25 (3rd seven times, v.24-27)

Eat children (siege)                             53-57               29 (4th seven times, v. 28-39)

Scattered among the nations             64                    33 (4th seven times, v. 28-39)

l 677 BC ASSYRIAN ATTACK (MANASSEH, 7th FROM LAST KING): TURNING POINT, PRIDE OF POWER BROKEN

Fulfills first seven times, Leviticus 26:18-20

And I will break the pride of your power; and I will make your heaven as iron, and your earth as brass: Leviticus 26:19

The LORD shall bring thee, and thy king which thou shalt set over thee, unto a nation which neither thou nor thy fathers have known; and there shalt thou serve other gods, wood and stone. Deuteronomy 28:36

CAPTURE OF KING MANASSEH, AN EARNEST OR DOWN PAYMENT

Prophets and Kings, p. 382 par. 3

2 Chronicles 33:9-11

Up to this point various kings provoked God’s wrath, but never did it result in the breaking of the nation. When there was repentance, God withdrew His wrath. However, something is different with Manasseh.

Manasseh marks a turning point, when the wrath could no longer be “quenched” or avoided: 2 Kings 21:9-15, 22:17, 23:25-27

l 606 BC SIEGE OF JERUSALEM 1 (JEHOIAKIM, 3RD FROM LAST): CHILDREN TAKEN CAPTIVE

Fulfills second seven times, Leviticus 26:21-22

I will also send wild beasts among you, which shall rob you of your children, and destroy your cattle, and make you few in number; and your high ways shall be desolate. Leviticus 26:22 (the “beasts” were seen to be a symbol for a nation which would take their children)

Thou shalt beget sons and daughters, but thou shalt not enjoy them; for they shall go into captivity. Deuteronomy 28:41

“When, early in the reign of Jehoiakim, Nebuchadnezzar for the first time besieged and captured Jerusalem, and carried away Daniel and his companions, with others specially chosen for service in the court of Babylon, the faith of the Hebrew captives was tried to the utmost.… {PK 428.1}

     “As an interpreter of the meaning of the judgments beginning to fall upon Judah, Jeremiah stood nobly in defense of the justice of God and of His merciful designs even in the severest chastisements.…” Prophets and Kings, 428 {PK 428.2}

2 Kings 20:17-18

Daniel 1:1-3

l 599 BC (Ussher, U. Smith) SIEGE OF JERUSALEM 2 (JEHOIACHIN, 2ND FROM LAST): YOKE AND SWORD

Fulfills third seven times, Leviticus 26:23-26

And I will bring a sword upon you, that shall avenge the quarrel of my covenant: and when ye are gathered together within your cities, I will send the pestilence among you; and ye shall be delivered into the hand of the enemy. Leviticus 26:25

Therefore shalt thou serve thine enemies which the LORD shall send against thee, in hunger, and in thirst, and in nakedness, and in want of all things: and he shall put a yoke of iron upon thy neck, until he have destroyed thee. 49 The LORD shall bring a nation against thee from far, from the end of the earth, as swift as the eagle flieth; a nation whose tongue thou shalt not understand; 50 A nation of fierce countenance, which shall not regard the person of the old, nor shew favour to the young: Deuteronomy 28:48-50

2 Kings 24:10-16

l 586 BC SIEGE OF JERUSALEM 3 (ZEDEKIAH, LAST KING): SCATTERING

2 Kings 25:1-10

NO REMEDY, 2 Chron. 36:16 (during zedekiah)

Fulfills fourth seven times, Leviticus 26:27-39

And ye shall eat the flesh of your sons, and the flesh of your daughters shall ye eat. Leviticus 26:29

And thou shalt eat the fruit of thine own body, the flesh of thy sons and of thy daughters, which the LORD thy God hath given thee, in the siege, and in the straitness, wherewith thine enemies shall distress thee: Deuteronomy 28:53

And I will scatter you among the heathen, and will draw out a sword after you: and your land shall be desolate, and your cities waste. Leviticus 26:33

And the LORD shall scatter thee among all people, from the one end of the earth even unto the other; and there thou shalt serve other gods, which neither thou nor thy fathers have known, even wood and stone. Deuteronomy 28:64

2 Kings 25:1-12 (specifically verses 2-4, 11-12), Jeremiah 52: 1-16

RULED OVER BY FOUR GENTILE NATIONS

TREADING DOWN AND TRAMPLING

And I will set my face against you, and ye shall be slain before your enemies: they that hate you shall reign (H7287) over you; and ye shall flee when none pursueth you. Leviticus 26:17

Reign H7287: A primitive root; to tread down, that is, subjugate; specifically to crumble off: – (come to, make to) have dominion, prevail against, reign, (bear, make to) rule, (-r, over), take.

Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, insomuch that he abhorred his own inheritance. And he gave them into the hand of the heathen; and they that hated them ruled over them. Their enemies also oppressed them, and they were brought into subjection under their hand. Many times did he deliver them; but they provoked him with their counsel, and were brought low for their iniquity. Psalms 106:40-43 (H1471 heathen:  foreign nation, Gentile)

“And He gave them into the hand of the nations” Testimonies for the church, vol. 8, 107.1

The nations which God appointed to rule over and oppress His people as a result of their failure to keep the covenant are the four nations of Daniel 2, and the four beasts of Daniel 7 and 8. These are the nations that would “trample”.

Daniel 2:38-40 Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome

MEANING OF TRAMPLE OR TREAD DOWN

The trampling nations were nations that rejected or did not regard God’s law and commandments as supreme. Because they did not regard God’s law, they often oppressed God’s people who kept His law. This trampling resulted in oppression as in the seventy years captivity, and oppression as in the 1260 years of papal supremacy.

Isaiah 58:13 “turn away thy foot from” (trample Sabbath {1T 353.4}, trample God’s Law {GC 604.3})

Trample Commandment-keeping people under foot {Ev 244.1}

Rev.11:2, “tread under foot”

G3961: From a derivative probably of G3817 (meaning a “path”); to trample (literally or figuratively): – tread (down, under foot).

G3817: A primary verb; to hit (as if by a single blow and less violently than G5180); specifically to sting (as a scorpion): – smite, strike.

Matthew 5:13, Luke 8:5, Hebrews 10:29 “trodden”

G2662 From G2596 and G3961; to trample down; figuratively to reject with disdain: – trample, tread (down, underfoot).

RULED OVER BY BABYLON (606-536 BC)

PERIOD OF DESOLATION: 70 YEAR BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY

Resting of the Land: Daniel 9:2, Leviticus 26:34-35, Jeremiah 25:8-11

In the following, Ellen White quotes Deuteronomy 4:26-28, which is a parallel scripture to Leviticus 26:33. She marks the captivity in Assyria and Babylon as the fulfillment.

“Moses traced the evils that would result from a departure from the statutes of Jehovah. Calling heaven and earth to witness, he declared that if, after having dwelt long in the Land of Promise, the people should introduce corrupt forms of worship and bow down to graven images and should refuse to return to the worship of the true God, the anger of the Lord would be aroused, and they would be carried away captive and scattered among the heathen. ‘Ye shall soon utterly perish from off the land whereunto ye go over Jordan to possess it,’ he warned them; ‘ye shall not prolong your days upon it, but shall utterly be destroyed. And the Lord shall scatter you among the nations, and ye shall be left few in number among the heathen, whither the Lord shall lead you. And there ye shall serve gods, the work of men’s hands, wood and stone, which neither see, nor hear, nor eat, nor smell.’ Verses 26-28.  [Deuteronomy 4:26-28 quoted]

     “This prophecy, fulfilled in part in the time of the judges, met a more complete and literal fulfillment in the captivity of Israel in Assyria and of Judah in Babylon.”

Prophets and Kings, 295.1-296,1 (first printed in The Review and Herald, Feb. 19, 1914)

“This prophecy, fulfilled in part in the time of the judges of Israel, met a more complete and terrible fulfillment in the captivity of Israel in Assyria and of Judah in Babylon. …” The Review and Herald, February 19, 1914, par. 10

When Israel and Judah were taken into captivity, their kings were taken captive, their crown of sovereign power above the nations was removed, and God’s chosen people were to be ruled over by four successive Gentile nations. Though Ellen White does not attach dates to the fall of the nation, or captivity of Israel and Judah, the Millerites dated these respectively with the captivity of Hoshea (723 BC) and the captivity of Manasseh (677 BC). Note: Manasseh, though not the last king of Judah, was chosen because the Scripture points to him as a turning point or the point of no remedy, when the wrath of God could no longer be quenched (2 Kings 21:9-15, 22:17, 23:25-27). After the captivity of Manasseh, Judah was increasingly subverted under the powers of Egypt and finally Babylon.

“The final overthrow of all earthly dominions is plainly foretold in the word of truth. In the prophecy uttered when sentence from God was pronounced upon the last king of Israel is given the message:

     “‘Thus saith the Lord God; Remove the diadem, and take off the crown: . . . exalt him that is low, and abase him that is high. I will overturn, overturn, overturn, it: and it shall be no more, until He come whose right it is; and I will give it Him.’ Ezekiel 21:26, 27.

     “The crown removed from Israel passed successively to the kingdoms of Babylon, Medo Persia, Greece, and Rome. God says, ‘It shall be no more, until He come whose right it is; and I will give it Him.’” Education, 179.1-3

“But they did not keep their covenant with God. They followed after the idolatrous practices of other nations, and instead of making their Creator’s name a praise in the earth their course held it up to the contempt of the heathen. Yet the purpose of God must be accomplished. The knowledge of His will must be spread abroad in the earth. God brought the hand of the oppressor upon His people and scattered them as captives among the nations….” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, 455.1

“The result that would follow an entrance into covenant relation with surrounding nations was plainly foretold. ‘The Lord shall scatter thee among all people, from the one end of the earth even unto the other,’ Moses had declared; ‘and there thou shalt serve other gods, which neither thou nor thy fathers have known, even wood and stone. And among these nations shalt thou find no ease, neither shall the sole of thy foot have rest: but the Lord shall give thee there a trembling heart, and failing of eyes, and sorrow of mind: and thy life shall hang in doubt before thee; and thou shalt fear day and night, and shalt have none assurance of thy life: in the morning thou shalt say, Would God it were even! and at even thou shalt say, Would God it were morning! for the fear of thine heart wherewith thou shalt fear, and for the sight of thine eyes which thou shalt see.’ Deuteronomy 28:64-67. ‘But if from thence thou shalt seek the Lord thy God,’ the promise had been, ‘thou shalt find Him, if thou seek Him with all thy heart and with all thy soul.’ Deuteronomy 4:29.

     “Zerubbabel and his associates were familiar with these and many like scriptures; and in the recent captivity they had evidence after evidence of their fulfillment. And now, having repented of the evils that had brought upon them and their fathers the judgments foretold so plainly through Moses; having turned with all the heart to God, and renewed their covenant relationship with Him, they had been permitted to return to Judea, that they might restore that which had been destroyed….” Prophets and Kings, 569.1-2

RULED OVER BY MEDO PERSIA (trampling power)

A space for grace and rebuilding: Ezra 9:8-9

PERIOD OF PROBATION: 70 WEEKS OR 490 YEARS (457 BC – 34 AD)

Probation for the people and Holy City: Daniel 9:24

444 BC dedication of temple, covenant (Nehemiah 8 and 9)

Though Medo Persia granted a great degree of liberty to God’s people after their captivity in Babylon, they were still the ruling power over them. Nehemiah explains that they were still servants under this power.

Nehemiah 9:30-37 (“kings set over us”), Daniel 8:4,20 (ram dominates, Medo Persia)

“In the history of nations the student of God’s word may behold the literal fulfillment of divine prophecy. Babylon, shattered and broken at last, passed away because in prosperity its rulers had regarded themselves as independent of God, and had ascribed the glory of their kingdom to human achievement. The Medo-Persian realm was visited by the wrath of Heaven because in it God’s law had been trampled underfoot. The fear of the Lord had found no place in the hearts of the vast majority of the people. Wickedness, blasphemy, and corruption prevailed. The kingdoms that followed were even more base and corrupt; and these sank lower and still lower in the scale of moral worth.” Prophets and Kings, 501.3

Persecution of Medo-Persia, Greece, and Pagan Rome in Daniel 8:

“With a new and deeper earnestness, Miller continued the examination of the prophecies, whole nights as well as days being devoted to the study of what now appeared of such stupendous importance and all-absorbing interest. In the eighth chapter of Daniel he could find no clue to the starting point of the 2300 days; the angel Gabriel, though commanded to make Daniel understand the vision, gave him only a partial explanation. As the terrible persecution to befall the church was unfolded to the prophet’s vision, physical strength gave way. He could endure no more, and the angel left him for a time. Daniel ‘fainted, and was sick certain days.’ ‘And I was astonished at the vision,’ he says, ‘but none understood it.’” [Daniel 8:27 quoted] The Great Controversy, 325.1

RULED OVER BY GREECE (trampling power)

Daniel 2:39 “shall bear rule over all the earth”, Daniel 8:21 (rough goat, Greece)

And as I was considering, behold, an he goat came from the west on the face of the whole earth, and touched not the ground: and the goat had a notable horn between his eyes. 6 And he came to the ram that had two horns, which I had seen standing before the river, and ran unto him in the fury of his power. 7 And I saw him come close unto the ram, and he was moved with choler against him, and smote the ram, and brake his two horns: and there was no power in the ram to stand before him, but he cast him down to the ground, and stamped upon him: and there was none that could deliver the ram out of his hand. Daniel 8:5-7

332 BC Conquered by Alexander the Great (Greece)

“Not at first had God revealed the exact time of the first advent; and even when the prophecy of Daniel made this known, not all rightly interpreted the message.

     “Century after century passed away; finally the voices of the prophets ceased. The hand of the oppressor was heavy upon Israel. As the Jews departed from God, faith grew dim, and hope well-nigh ceased to illuminate the future. The words of the prophets were uncomprehended by many; and those whose faith should have continued strong were ready to exclaim, ‘The days are prolonged, and every vision faileth.’ Ezekiel 12:22. But in heaven’s council the hour for the coming of Christ had been determined; and ‘when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth His Son, . . . to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.’ Galatians 4:4, 5.” Prophets and Kings, 700.1-2 

RULED OVER BY PAGAN ROME (31 BC – 330 AD, given a “time” or 360 years in Daniel 11:24)

Daniel 2:40 (subdue, break, bruise), Daniel 7:7, 23 (Treading power)

“In Matthew 24, in answer to the question of His disciples concerning the sign of His coming and of the end of the world, Christ had pointed out some of the most important events in the history of the world and of the church from His first to His second advent; namely, the destruction of Jerusalem, the great tribulation of the church under the pagan and papal persecutions, the darkening of the sun and moon, and the falling of the stars.…” The Great Controversy, 393.2

“But the chief agent of Satan in making war upon Christ and His people during the first centuries of the Christian Era was the Roman Empire, in which paganism was the prevailing religion. Thus while the dragon, primarily, represents Satan, it is, in a secondary sense, a symbol of pagan Rome.” The Great Controversy, 438.2

Deuteronomy 28:49-50, Daniel 8:23-24, under a nation of “fierce countenance”, destroy holy people

27 AD, Time of John the Baptist

[Lev. 26:1-4,11-12 quoted] “…’And I will set my face against you, and ye shall be slain before your enemies. They that hate you shall reign over you, and ye shall flee when none pursueth you.’ [Leviticus 26:14-17 quoted]

     “The Jews were experiencing the fulfillment of the threatened curse of God for their departure from him, and for their iniquity; yet they did not lay these things to heart, and afflict their souls before God. A people that hated them ruled over them. They were claiming the blessings God had promised to confer upon them should they be obedient and faithful. But at the very time they were suffering under the curse of God because of disobedience. John declared to them that unless they bore fruit, they would be hewn down and cast into the fire.” The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 2, 54.2-55.1 also {RH, January 14, 1873 par. 11-12}

“What was it that moved His own nation to throw such scorn upon Jesus? The Jews were expecting an earthly prince who would deliver them from the power that God had declared would rule over them if they refused to keep the way of the Lord and obey His statutes, His commandments, and His laws. They had made their proud boast that Israel’s king, the star arising from Judah, would break their thraldom, and make of them a kingdom of priests.” Christ Triumphant, 243.3

“The Jewish nation had corrupted their religion by useless ceremonies and customs. This laid a heavy tax upon the people, especially the poorer classes. They were also under bondage to other nations, and required to pay tribute to them. The Jews were unreconciled to their bondage, and looked forward to the triumph of their nation through the Messiah, the powerful deliverer foretold in prophecy. Their views were narrow. They thought the Coming One would, at his appearing, assume kingly honors, and, by force of arms, subdue the heathen nations, and take the throne of David….” Redemption or the First Advent of Christ with His life and Ministry (pamphlet), 14 {1Red 14.1}

“As a nation, the people of Israel, while desiring the advent of the Messiah, were so far separated from God in heart and life that they could have no true conception of the character or mission of the promised Redeemer. Instead of desiring redemption from sin, and the glory and peace of holiness, their hearts were fixed upon deliverance from their national foes, and restoration to worldly power. They looked for Messiah to come as a conqueror, to break every yoke, and exalt Israel to dominion over all nations. …” Prophets and Kings, 709.2 

The Jews did not understand or accept the punishment that God had chosen for His people as a result of their disobedience. The curse of scattering, oppression, bondage, and subversion under other nations was to be lengthy and sure, as it says in Daniel 10:1 and Deuteronomy 28:59.

The Jewish religion was under the protection of the Roman power, and the accusers of Paul thought that if they could fasten upon him the charge of violating the laws of their religion, he would probably be delivered to them for trial and sentence.…” The Acts of the Apostles, 253.1

“Christ’s reply was no evasion, but a candid answer to the question. Holding in His hand the Roman coin, upon which were stamped the name and image of Caesar, He declared that since they were living under the protection of the Roman power, they should render to that power the support it claimed, so long as this did not conflict with a higher duty. But while peaceably subject to the laws of the land, they should at all times give their first allegiance to God.

     “The Saviour’s words, ‘Render . . . unto God the things that are God’s,’ were a severe rebuke to the intriguing Jews. Had they faithfully fulfilled their obligations to God, they would not have become a broken nation, subject to a foreign power. No Roman ensign would have waved over Jerusalem, no Roman sentinel would have stood at her gates, no Roman governor would have ruled within her walls. The Jewish nation was then paying the penalty of its apostasy from God.” The Desire of Ages, 602.4-5 (See also {3SP 43.1-2})

Notice that the following few quotes use the terms “yoke of bondage” and “captivity” to describe the condition of God’s people during the time of Roman domination.

“This exhibition of Roman authority stirs the people with indignation, and they turn eagerly to hear what the great Teacher will say of this cruel act of oppression. With sadness, because of the sins which had brought the Jews into such bondage, Jesus looks upon the shameful scene. He also notes the hatred and revenge stamped upon the faces of the Jews, and knows how bitterly they long for power to crush their oppressors. …” The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 2, 222.2

“The tears of Christ expressed his anguish at seeing his people bringing sure destruction upon themselves. Gladly would he have broken from their necks the yoke of bondage to a heathen nation. But, while the Pharisees bitterly complained of their humiliation and oppression, they refused with hatred the only help that could relieve them from captivity, and make them a free and happy people. …” The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 3, 11.1

“For more than a thousand years the Jewish nation had abused God’s mercy and invited His judgments. They had rejected His warnings and slain His prophets. For these sins the people of Christ’s day made themselves responsible by following the same course. In the rejection of their present mercies and warnings lay the guilt of that generation. The fetters which the nation had for centuries been forging, the people of Christ’s day were fastening upon themselves.

     “In every age there is given to men their day of light and privilege, a probationary time in which they may become reconciled to God. But there is a limit to this grace. Mercy may plead for years and be slighted and rejected; but there comes a time when mercy makes her last plea. The heart becomes so hardened that it ceases to respond to the Spirit of God. Then the sweet, winning voice entreats the sinner no longer, and reproofs and warnings cease.” The Desire of Ages, 584.3, 587.1 

THE DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM BY TITUS IN AD 70 AGAIN FULFILLED THE SIEGE AND SCATTERING MENTIONED IN LEVITICUS 26 AND DEUTERONOMY 28

“Many both of men and women were thrust into prison, and some of the Lord’s messengers, as Stephen and James, were put to death.

     “Thus the Jewish people sealed their rejection of God’s mercy. The result was foretold by Christ in the parable. The king ‘sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city.’ The judgment pronounced came upon the Jews in the destruction of Jerusalem and the scattering of the nation.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 308.2-3

PERIOD OF TREADING: 1800 YEARS (APROXIMATE: from time of Christ to 1844) PAGAN AND PAPAL ROME

Luke 21:20, 21, 24 Jerusalem trodden down of the Gentiles (from the time of Jerusalem’s destruction)

“When Cestius Gallus, in October, A.D. 66, drew his legions up around Jerusalem, and commenced the siege of the devoted city, the disciples recognized the sign; and when, without any visible cause, he suddenly withdrew it, they saw their opportunity, and fled in haste, as the Lord had instructed them. Safe sheltered in the little village of Pella, they escaped the horrors of Jerusalem’s overthrow. The prayer which the Saviour taught them to use (verse 20), – that they might not be obliged to flee in the winter, nor on the Sabbath day, thus recognizing the existence of the Sabbath as late as A.D. 66 to 70, – was fulfilled.” Uriah Smith, Synopsis of the Present Truth, 183.1 {1884 UrS, SYNPT 183.1}

“After the Romans under Cestius had surrounded the city, they unexpectedly abandoned the siege when everything seemed favorable for an immediate attack. The besieged, despairing of successful resistance, were on the point of surrender, when the Roman 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 opportunity was offered 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 Perea, beyond Jordan.

     “The Jewish forces, pursuing after Cestius and his army, fell upon their rear with such fierceness as to threaten them with total destruction. It was with great difficulty that the Romans succeeded in making their retreat. The Jews escaped 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 stubborn resistance to the Romans which speedily brought unutterable 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 assembled within its walls….” The Great Controversy, 30.2-31.2

“At the time when Jerusalem was destroyed and the temple laid in ruins, many thousands of the Jews were sold to serve as bondmen in heathen lands. Like wrecks on a desert shore they were scattered among the nations. For eighteen hundred years the Jews have wandered from land to land throughout the world, and in no place have they been given the privilege of regaining their ancient prestige as a nation. Maligned, hated, persecuted, from century to century theirs has been a heritage of suffering.” The Acts of the Apostles, 379.2

“Terribly was it realized in the destruction of Jerusalem. Terribly has it been manifested in the condition of the Jewish nation for eighteen hundred years,–a branch severed from the vine, a dead, fruitless branch, to be gathered up and burned. From land to land throughout the world, from century to century, dead, dead in trespasses and sins!” The Desire of Ages, 739.2

 “By the Spirit of Inspiration, looking far down the ages, Moses pictured the terrible scenes of Israel’s final overthrow as a nation, and the destruction of Jerusalem by the armies of Rome: ‘The Lord shall bring a nation against thee from far, from the end of the earth, as swift as the eagle flieth; a nation whose tongue thou shalt not understand; a nation of fierce countenance, which shall not regard the person of the old, nor show favor to the young.’ [Deuteronomy 28:49-50 quoted]

     “The utter wasting of the land and the horrible suffering of the people during the siege of Jerusalem under Titus centuries later, were vividly portrayed: “[51] He shall eat the fruit of thy cattle, and the fruit of thy land, until thou be destroyed. . . . [52] And he shall besiege thee in all thy gates, until thy high and fenced walls come down, wherein thou trustedst, throughout all thy land. . . . [53] Thou shalt eat the fruit of thine own body, the flesh of thy sons and of thy daughters, which the Lord thy God hath given thee, in the siege, and in the straitness, wherewith thine enemies shall distress thee.” “[56] The tender and delicate woman among you, which would not adventure to set the sole of her foot upon the ground for delicateness and tenderness, her eye shall be evil toward the husband of her bosom, . . . [57] and toward her children which she shall bear: for she shall eat them for want of all things secretly in the siege and straitness, wherewith thine enemy shall distress thee in thy gates.” [Deuteronomy 28:51-53, 56-57 quoted]  Patriarchs and Prophets, 467.1-2 

“…Again was fulfilled the warning prophecy given fourteen centuries before: ‘The tender and delicate woman among you, which would not adventure to set the sole of her foot upon the ground for delicateness and tenderness, her eye shall be evil toward the husband of her bosom, and toward her son, and toward her daughter, . . . and toward her children which she shall bear: for she shall eat them for want of all things secretly in the siege and straitness, wherewith thine enemy shall distress thee in thy gates.’ Deuteronomy 28:56, 57.” The Great Controversy, 32.1

In the following manuscript, Ellen White (1) parallels certain verses in Leviticus 26 with Deuteronomy 28, and (2) ties the fulfillment of the scattering of Israel in captivity to the “complete overthrow” of Jerusalem in 70 AD. She also calls these chapters of blessings and curses prophecies (see also Deuteronomy 31:16-30, {PP 467.4} {PK 296.1}). I have added the verse numbers in brackets for reference.

Manuscript 40, paragraphs 2-13

     “Many years after this the Lord spoke to His people from the pillar of cloud, promising to make them the most powerful people upon the face of the earth if they would obey His commandments. If they refused to do this, He must treat them as He can only in justice treat all apostates.

     [1] “‘And it shall come to pass,’ He declared, ‘if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments, which I command thee this day, that the Lord thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth: [2] and all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God. [3] Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field. [4] Blessed shall be the fruit of thy body, and the fruit of thy ground, and the fruit of thy cattle, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep. [5] Blessed shall be thy basket and thy store. [6] Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out…. [13] The Lord shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the Lord thy God, which I command thee this day to observe and to do them.’ [Deuteronomy 28:1-6, 13 quoted]

     [3] “‘If ye walk in my statutes, and keep my commandments, and do them; [4] then will I give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit. [5] And your threshing shall reach unto the vintage, and the vintage shall reach unto the sowing time: and ye shall eat your bread to the full, and dwell in your land safely. [6] And I will give peace in the land and ye shall lie down, and none shall make you afraid: and I will rid evil beasts out of your land, neither shall the sword go through your land: [7] and ye shall chase your enemies, and they shall fall before you by the sword: … [11] And I will set my tabernacle among you, and my soul shall not abhor you. [12] And I will walk among you, and will be your God, and ye shall be my people.’ [Leviticus 26:3-7, 11-12 quoted]

     “If the people obeyed the word of the Lord, doing all that the Lord commanded them, they could present themselves before God, and pray with confidence, ‘Look down from thy holy habitation, from heaven, and bless thy people Israel, and the land which thou gavest us, as thou swarest unto our fathers.’ [Deuteronomy 26:15 quoted]

     “God specified also the sure result of a disregard for His commands. [14] ‘If ye will not hearken unto me,’ He said, ‘and will not do all these commandments… [16] I also will do this unto you: I will even appoint over you terror, consumption, and burning ague, that shall consume the eyes, and cause sorrow of heart: and ye shall sow your seed in vain, for your enemies shall eat it. [17] And I will set my face against you; for ye shall be slain by your enemies. They that hate you shall reign over you, and ye shall flee when none pursueth you. [18] And if ye will not yet for all this hearken unto me, then I will punish you seven times more for your sins, [19] and I will break the pride of your power; and I will make your heaven as iron, and your earth as brass, [20] and your strength shall be spent in vain; for your land shall not yield her increase, neither shall the trees of the land yield their fruits.’ [Leviticus 26:14, 16-20 quoted]

     [15] “‘It shall come to pass if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe to do all his commandments and statutes, which I command you this day, that all these curses shall come unto thee, and overtake thee. [16] Cursed shalt thou be in the city, and cursed shalt thou be in the field. [17] Cursed shalt be thy basket and thy store. [18] Cursed shall be the fruit of the body, and the fruit of the land, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep. [19] Cursed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and cursed shalt thou be when thou goest out.’ [Deuteronomy 28:15-19 quoted]

     “This is the result of disobedience and transgression. Let all read carefully the twenty-eighth chapter of Deuteronomy, realizing that it makes every difference to a people whether they are obedient or disobedient to the law of Jehovah.

     “The prophecies regarding Israel were fulfilled to the letter. God permitted His chosen people to be scattered as captives in strange lands. When they repented, God took them to Himself again, and established them in His own land. But their continual disobedience resulted in their complete overthrow, and in the overthrow of Jerusalem.

     [1] ‘It shall come to pass,’ the Lord declared, ‘when all these things are come upon thee, the blessing and the curse, which I have set before thee, and thou shalt call them to mind among all the nations whither the Lord thy God hath driven thee, [2] and shalt return unto the Lord thy God, and shalt obey his voice, according to all that I command thee this day, thou and thy children, with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, … [7] the Lord thy God will put all thy curses upon thine enemies, and on them that hate thee, which persecuted thee…. [11] For this commandment which I command thee this day, it is not hidden from thee, neither is it afar off. [12] It is not in heaven, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go up for us to heaven, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it? [13] Neither is it beyond the sea, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go over the sea for us? and bring it nigh unto us, that we may hear it, and do it? [14] But the word is very nigh thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it.’ [Deuteronomy 30:1-2, 7, 11-14 quoted]

     “Please read carefully to the end of this chapter. The Lord gave directions that these commands should be put into song, and sung by all the Israel of God, lest these matters of such great importance should be forgotten.

     “God promised that by obedience to His law, the people would be exalted and made the representatives of His goodness, mercy, and love. Jesus was the hope and the tree of life to His elect and chosen people. He promised that sickness should not prey upon their bodies. But if they followed a course independent of God, they would be under the controlling power of Satan the destroyer.

     “It was because the Lord’s chosen people did the very things that the Lord told them not to do that the sure result of their course of action came upon them. They separated from God. They opened the door of the heart to Satan’s suggestions, and received his words as the words of God. They accepted maxims and ceremonies that God had not given. This brought in such a mass of rubbish that the principles given by Christ from the pillar of cloud were perverted. God could not give the people the blessings He longed to bestow upon them.” Manuscript 40, March 13, 1898, par. 2-13

After the scattering of Israel in 70 AD, the people of God became those who would by faith be sons of Abraham. Literal Israel became Spiritual Israel, but the oppression continued.

Pagan Rome continues its domination after the destruction of Jerusalem. Notice that the persecution was a “portion” to be meted (or measured) to the church. A portion of what? Oppression and persecution under the four nations, that God had appointed as a curse upon His people.

Portion to be meted out to the church

“When Jesus revealed to His disciples the fate of Jerusalem and the scenes of the second advent, He foretold also the experience 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 church; 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 rulers of this world would mete out to the church of God. Matthew 24:9, 21, 22. The followers of Christ must tread the same path of humiliation, 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 arrayed themselves against Christ in the person of His followers. 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.’ Hebrews 10:32. They ‘had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment.’ Hebrews 11:36. Great numbers sealed their testimony with their blood. Noble and slave, rich and poor, learned and ignorant, were alike slain without mercy. 

     “These persecutions, beginning under Nero about the time of the martyrdom of Paul, continued with greater or less fury for centuries. …” The Great Controversy, 39.1-40.1 

RULED OVER BY PAPAL ROME

PERIOD OF TREADING: 1260 YEARS (538 AD – 1798 AD) PAPAL ROME (treading and scattering power)

“…The papal power, so clearly described by the prophet Daniel, was yet to rise, and wage war against God’s people, and trample upon his law. Until this power should have performed its deadly and blasphemous work, it would be vain for the church to look for the coming of their Lord.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 117.1

Daniel 12:7 “scatter the power of the holy people” for 1260 years

Revelation 11:1-2 Gentiles tread the holy city “under foot forty and two months” (1260 years)

Revelation 11

“Said the angel of the Lord: ‘The holy city shall they tread underfoot forty and two months. … [Revelation 11:2-11 quoted]

     “The periods here mentioned—‘forty and two months,’ and ‘a thousand two hundred and threescore days’–are the same, alike representing the time in which the church of Christ was to suffer oppression from Rome. The 1260 years of papal supremacy began in A.D. 538, and would therefore terminate in 1798….” The Great Controversy, 266.2-3

“…The forty and two months are the same as the ‘time and times and the dividing of time,’ three years and a half, or 1260 days, of Daniel 7 – – the time during which the papal power was to oppress God’s people. This period, as stated in preceding chapters, began with the supremacy of the papacy, A.D. 538, and terminated in 1798. At that time the pope was made captive by the French army, the papal power received its deadly wound, and the prediction was fulfilled, ‘He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity.’” The Great Controversy, 439.2

“…by the mighty power of God’s word they [Vaudois Christians] sought to break the bondage which Rome had imposed. The Vaudois ministers were trained as missionaries…” The Great Controversy, 70.2 (similar {4SP 76.1})

Regarding Joseph Wolff, “Under the surveillance of the church he went from place to place, until it became evident that he could never be brought to submit to the bondage of Romanism. …” The Great Controversy, 358.1}

OTHER MAJOR TRAMPLING PERIODS

PERIOD OF TRAMPLING: 2300 YEARS (457 BC – 1844 AD) GREECE, PAGAN AND PAPAL ROME

Sanctuary and Host trodden under foot: Daniel 8:13-14

Pagan Rome, “destroy the mighty and the holy people”: Daniel 8:24

PERIOD OF TRAMPLING: 2520 YEARS (677 BC – 1844 AD, 723 BC – 1798 AD) BABYLON, MEDO-PERSIA, GREECE, ROME

Host trodden under foot: Daniel 8:13-14 (2300 as a continuing of the trampling of the host)

BONDAGE ENDED

RISE OF THE UNITED STATES (Lamblike, non-trampling power)

In 1798, following the rule of Papal Rome, the next prophetic “beast” began rising to power. This new nation, the United States, was depicted as a lamb-like beast (Revelation 13), and was not established as a power to rule over and oppress God’s people, like the four previous ones had. Though it will eventually form an image to the beast and oppress God’s people, it was ever God’s purpose that it should be a non-trampling nation, granting and protecting freedom to worship according to the dictates of conscience. Once the United States began its rise, the 2520 years of appointed bondage under oppressive nations ended. In 1798, the “times of the Gentiles” ended, and in 1844, under the second angel’s message, God’s church came out of the bondage to spiritual Babylon. These two dates terminate the two lines of 2520.

Haven for the oppressed and trodden:

(Revelation 13:11 quoted) “‘And he had two horns like a lamb.’ The lamblike horns indicate youth, innocence, and gentleness, fitly representing the character of the United States when presented to the prophet as ‘coming up’ in 1798. Among the Christian exiles who first fled to America and sought an asylum from royal oppression and priestly intolerance were many who determined to establish a government upon the broad foundation of civil and religious liberty. Their views found place in the Declaration of Independence, which sets forth the great truth that ‘all men are created equal’ and endowed with the inalienable right to ‘life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.’ And the Constitution guarantees to the people the right of self-government, providing that representatives elected by the popular vote shall enact and administer the laws. Freedom of religious faith was also granted, every man being permitted to worship God according to the dictates of his conscience. Republicanism and Protestantism became the fundamental principles of the nation. These principles are the secret of its power and prosperity. The oppressed and downtrodden throughout Christendom have turned to this land with interest and hope. Millions have sought its shores, and the United States has risen to a place among the most powerful nations of the earth.” The Great Controversy, 441.1

“The United States has been a refuge for the oppressed. It has been spoken of as the bulwark of religious liberty. God has done more for this country than for any other country upon which the sun shines. It has been marvelously preserved from war and bloodshed….” The Review and Herald, December 17, 1895 par. 3

“The greatest and most favored nation upon the earth is the United States. A gracious Providence has shielded this country, and poured upon her the choicest of Heaven’s blessings. Here the persecuted and oppressed have found refuge. Here the Christian faith in its purity has been taught. This people have been the recipients of great light and unrivaled mercies. …” The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4, 398.1

“Today the church of God is free to carry forward to completion the divine plan for the salvation of a lost race. For many centuries God’s people suffered a restriction of their liberties. The preaching of the gospel in its purity was prohibited, and the severest of penalties were visited upon those who dared disobey the mandates of men. As a consequence, the Lord’s great moral vineyard was almost wholly unoccupied. The people were deprived of the light of God’s word. The darkness of error and superstition threatened to blot out a knowledge of true religion. God’s church on earth was as verily in captivity during this long period of relentless persecution as were the children of Israel held captive in Babylon during the period of the exile.

     “But, thank God, His church is no longer in bondage. To spiritual Israel have been restored the privileges accorded the people of God at the time of their deliverance from Babylon. In every part of the earth, men and women are responding to the Heaven-sent message which John the revelator prophesied would be proclaimed prior to the second coming of Christ: ‘Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come.’ Revelation 14:7.

     “No longer have the hosts of evil power to keep the church captive; for ‘Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city,’ which hath ‘made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication;” and to spiritual Israel is given the message, ‘Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.’ Verse 8; 18:4. As the captive exiles heeded the message, ‘Flee out of the midst of Babylon’ (Jeremiah 51:6), and were restored to the Land of Promise, so those who fear God today are heeding the message to withdraw from spiritual Babylon, and soon they are to stand as trophies of divine grace in the earth made new, the heavenly Canaan.” Prophets and Kings, 714.1-715.1

“The history of ancient Israel is a striking illustration of the past experience of the Adventist body. God led His people in the advent movement, even as He led the children of Israel from Egypt. In the great disappointment their faith was tested as was that of the Hebrews at the Red Sea….” The Great Controversy, 457.2 (Egypt represented a land of bondage and oppression)

SUMMARY

This study demonstrates that the Millerite understanding of the 2520 harmonizes perfectly with the record of Scripture and the commentary of the Spirit of Prophecy, in that “seven times of Gentile supremacy must commence when the Jews ceased to be an independent nation”, that “The land of their captivity during the 2520 years of Gentile dominion over them embraces the ancient Assyrian, or Babylonian, the Medo Persian, the Grecian, and the Roman empires” and that “this period covered the time during which the throne of Israel should be and remain subverted and trodden down by oppressing powers”.

Prophecy, Uncategorized

RULES OF INTERPRETATION BY WILLIAM MILLER

WILLIAM MILLER’S FOURTEEN RULES

To download the complete article in PDF format, click the following link:

William Miller said,

In studying the Bible, I have found the following rules to be of great service to myself, and now give them to the public by special request. Every rule should be well studied, in connexion with the scripture references, if the Bible student would be at all benefited by them.

RULE I – Every word must have its proper bearing on the subject presented in the Bible.

PROOF: Matthew 5:18

RULE II – All scripture is necessary, and may be understood by a diligent application and study.

PROOF: 2 Timothy 3:15-17

RULE III – Nothing revealed in the scripture can or will be hid from those who ask in faith, not wavering.

PROOFS: Deuteronomy 29:29; Matthew 10:26-27; 1 Corinthians 2:10; Philippians 3:15; Isaiah 45:11; Matthew 21:22; John 14:13-14; 15:7; James 1:5-6; 1 John 5:13-15

RULE IV – To understand doctrine, bring all the scriptures together on the subject you wish to know; then let every word have its proper influence, and if you can form your theory without a contradiction, you cannot be in an error.

PROOFS: Isaiah 28:7-29; 35:8; Proverbs 19:27; Luke 24:27, 44-45; Romans 16:26; James 5:19; 2 Peter 1:19-20

RULE V – Scripture must be its own expositor, since it is a rule of itself. If I depend on a teacher to expound it to me, and he should guess at its meaning, or desire to have it so on account of his sectarian creed, or to be thought wise, then his guessing, desire, creed or wisdom is my rule, not the Bible.

PROOFS: Psalm 19:7-11; 119:97-105; Matthew 23:8-10; 1 Corinthians 2:12-16; Ezekiel 34:18-19; Luke 11:52; Malachi 2:7-8

RULE VI – God has revealed things to come, by visions, in figures and parables, and in this way the same things are oftentime revealed again and again, by different visions, or in different figures, and parables. If you wish to understand them, you must combine them all in one.

PROOFS: Psalm 89:19; Hosea 12:10; Habakkuk 2:2; Acts 2:17; 1 Corinthians 10:6; Hebrews 9:9, 24; Psalm 78:2; Matthew 13:13, 34; Genesis 41:1-32; Daniel 2, 7, and 8; Acts x.9-16

RULE VII – Visions are always mentioned as such.

PROOF: 2 Corinthians 12:1

RULE VIII – Figures always have a figurative meaning, and are used much in prophecy, to represent future things, times and events; such as mountains, meaning governments; beasts, meaning kingdoms.

Waters, meaning people.

Lamp, meaning Word of God.

Day, meaning year.

PROOFS: Daniel 2:35, 44; 7:8, 17; Revelation 17:1, 15; Psalm 119:105; Ezekiel 4:6

RULE IX – Parables are used as comparisons to illustrate subjects, and must be explained in the same way as figures by the subject and Bible.

PROOF: Mark 4:13. See explanation of the ten virgins, Miller’s Lectures, No. 16.

RULE X – Figures sometimes have two or more different significations, as day is used in a figurative sense to represent three different periods of time. If you put on the right construction it will harmonize with the Bible and make good sense, otherwise it will not.

PROOFS:

1. Indefinite. Ecclesiastes 7:14

2. Definite, a day for a year. Ezekiel 4:6

3. Day for a thousand years. 2 Peter 3:8

RULE XI – How to know when a word is used figuratively. If it makes good sense as it stands, and does no violence to the simple laws of nature, then it must be understood literally, if not, figuratively.

PROOFS: Revelation 12:1-2; 17:3-7

RULE XII – To learn the true meaning of figures, trace your figurative word through your Bible, and where you find it explained, put it on your figure, and if it makes good sense you need look no further, if not, look again.

RULE XIII – To know whether we have the true historical event for the fulfilment of a prophecy. If you find every word of the prophecy (after the figures are understood) is literally fulfilled, then you may know that your history is the true event. But if one word lacks a fulfilment, then you must look for another event, or wait its future development. For God takes care that history and prophecy doth agree, so that the true believing children of God may never be ashamed.

PROOFS: Psalm 22:5; Isaiah 45:17-19; 1 Peter 2:6; Revelation 17:17; Acts 3:18

RULE XIV

The most important rule of all is, that you must have faith. It must be a faith that requires a sacrifice, and, if tried, would give up the dearest object on earth, the world and all its desires, character, living, occupation, friends, home, comforts, and worldly honors. If any of these should hinder our believing any part of God’s word, it would show our faith to be vain. Nor can we ever believe so long as one of these motives lies lurking in our hearts. We must believe that God will never forfeit his word. And we can have confidence that he that takes notice of the sparrow, and numbers the hairs of our head, will guard the translation of his own word, and throw a barrier around it, and prevent those who sincerely trust in God, and put implicit confidence in his word, from erring far from the truth, though they may not understand Hebrew or Greek.

     These are some of the most important rules which I find the word of God warrants me to adopt and follow, in order for system and regularity. And if I am not greatly deceived, in so doing, I have found the Bible, as a whole, one of the most simple, plain, and intelligible books ever written, containing proof in itself of its divine origin, and full of all knowledge that our hearts could wish to know or enjoy. I have found it a treasure which the world cannot purchase. It gives a calm peace in believing, and a firm hope in the future. It sustains the mind in adversity, and teaches us to be humble in prosperity. It prepares us to love and do good to others, and to realize the value of the soul. It makes us bold and valiant for the truth, and nerves the arm to oppose error. It gives us a powerful weapon to break down Infidelity, and makes known the only antidote for sin. It instructs us how death will be conquered, and how the bonds of the tomb must be broken. It tells us of future events, and shows the preparation necessary to meet them. It gives us an opportunity to hold conversation with the King of kings, and reveals the best code of laws ever enacted.

     This is but a faint view of its value; yet how many perishing souls treat it with neglect, or, what is equally as bad, treat it as a hidden mystery which cannot be known. Oh, my dear reader, make it your chief study. Try it well, and you will find it to be all I have said. Yes, like the Queen of Sheba, you will say the half was not told you.

     The divinity taught in our schools is always founded on some sectarian creed. It may do to take a blank mind and impress it with this kind, but it will always end in bigotry. A free mind will never be satisfied with the views of others. Were I a teacher of youth in divinity, I would first learn their capacity and mind. If these were good, I would make them study the Bible for themselves, and send them out free to do the world good. But if they had no mind, I would stamp them with another’s mind, write bigot on their forehead, and send them out as slaves!

William Miller, Miller’s Works, vol. 1, p. 20-24, “Views of the Prophecies and Prophetic Chronology, Selected From Manuscripts of William Miller; With a Memoir of His Life.”

Edited by Joshua V. Himes, 1842

THE SAME PLAN: VALIDATED BY THE SPIRIT OF PROPHECY

“We should know for ourselves what constitutes Christianity, what is truth, what is the faith that we have received, what are the Bible rules–the rules given us from the highest authority… –Lt 4, 1889.” Mind, Character, and Personality, book 2, p. 535.3

“Those who are engaged in proclaiming the third angel’s message are searching the Scriptures upon the same plan that Father Miller adopted. In the little book entitled ‘Views of the Prophecies and Prophetic Chronology,’ Father Miller gives the following simple but intelligent and important rules for Bible study and interpretation:

     “‘1. Every word must have its proper bearing on the subject presented in the Bible;

2. All Scripture is necessary, and may be understood by diligent application and study;

3. Nothing revealed in Scripture can or will be hid from those who ask in faith, not wavering;

4. To understand doctrine, bring all the scriptures together on the subject you wish to know, then let every word have its proper influence; and if you can form your theory without a contradiction, you cannot be in error;

5. Scripture must be its own expositor, since it is a rule of itself. If I depend on a teacher to expound to me, and he should guess at its meaning, or desire to have it so on account of his sectarian creed, or to be thought wise, then his guessing, desire, creed, or wisdom is my rule, and not the Bible.’

     “The above is a portion of these rules; and in our study of the Bible we shall all do well to heed the principles set forth.” The Review and Herald, November 25, 1884 par. 23-25

Compilation, Health

PRINCIPLES FOR A HEALTHY DIET

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INTRODUCTION

Christianity is not a collection of rules and regulations, but a wonderful prescription, in following which man obtains a healthy body and a sound mind. The Bible presents a remedy for spiritual and physical disease….” Pacific Union Recorder, November 24, 1904 par. 3. {PUR, November 24, 1904 par. 3} 

“If we follow the Bible rule, ‘Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God,’ we shall not indulge appetite at the expense of the physical health, which it is our duty to preserve.” Funamentals of Christian Education, p. 425 par. 3. { FE 425.3; EC.292.3 }

The Spirit of Prophecy also clearly presents the “prescription” for our spiritual and physical health.

WHY SHOULD WE CONSIDER REFORMS IN DIET?

1. OBEDIENCE WILL BRING PHYSICAL HEALTH

“Health, life, and happiness are the result of obedience to physical laws governing our bodies. If our will and way are in accordance with God’s will and way; if we do the pleasure of our Creator, He will keep the human organism in good condition and restore the moral, mental, and physical powers in order that He may work through us to His glory. Constantly His restoring power is manifested in our bodies. If we cooperate with Him in this work, health and happiness, peace and usefulness, are the sure results. –MS 151, 1901. (1BC 1118.)” Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2, p. 648 par. 2. {2MCP 648.2}

“…we do not live to eat, but that we eat to live.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 444 par. 2. {CD 444.2}

“Those who understand the laws of health and who are governed by principle will shun the extremes both of indulgence and of restriction. Their diet is chosen, not for the mere gratification of appetite, but for the upbuilding of the body. They seek to preserve every power in the best condition for highest service to God and man. The appetite is under the control of reason and conscience, and they are rewarded with health of body and mind. While they do not urge their views offensively upon others, their example is a testimony in favor of right principles. These persons have a wide influence for good. –MH 319 (1905).” Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2, p. 395 par. 1.  {2MCP 395.1} 

Disobedience can result in sickness.

“If the light God has given in regard to health reform is disregarded, He will not work a miracle to keep in health those who pursue a course to make themselves sick.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 401 par. 1.  {CD 401.1}

“It is a sin to be sick, for all sickness is the result of transgression.” Counsels on Health, p. 37 par. 2. {CH 37.2}

2. HEALTH REFORM IS PART OF PREPARATION FOR THE SECOND COMING

“December 10, 1871, I was again shown that the health reform is one branch of the great work which is to fit a people for the coming of the Lord. It is as closely connected with the third angel’s message as the hand is with the body. The law of Ten Commandments has been lightly regarded by man, but the Lord would not come to punish the transgressors of that law without first sending them a message of warning. The third angel proclaims that message. Had men ever been obedient to the law of Ten Commandments, carrying out in their lives the principles of those precepts, the curse of disease now flooding the world would not be. 

     “Men and women cannot violate natural law by indulging depraved appetite and lustful passions, and not violate the law of God. Therefore He has permitted the light of health reform to shine upon us, that we may see our sin in violating the laws which He has established in our being. All our enjoyment or suffering may be traced to obedience or transgression of natural law.Our gracious heavenly Father sees the deplorable condition of men who, some knowingly but many ignorantly, are living in violation of the laws that He has established. And in love and pity to the race, He causes the light to shine upon health reform. He publishes His law and the penalty that will follow the transgression of it, that all may learn and be careful to live in harmony with natural law. He proclaims His law so distinctly and makes it so prominent that it is like a city set on a hill. All accountable beings can understand it if they will. Idiots will not be responsible. To make plain natural law, and urge the obedience of it, is the work that accompanies the third angel’s message to prepare a people for the coming of the Lord.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 161 par. 1-2.  {3T 161.2}

“Ignorance is no excuse now for the transgression of law. The light shines clearly, and none need be ignorant, for the great God Himself is man’s instructor. All are bound by the most sacred obligations to God to heed the sound philosophy and genuine experience which He is now giving them in reference to health reform. He designs that the great subject of health reform shall be agitated and the public mind deeply stirred to investigate; for it is impossible for men and women, with all their sinful, health-destroying, brain-enervating habits, to discern sacred truth, through which they are to be sanctified, refined, elevated, and made fit for the society of heavenly angels in the kingdom of glory.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 162 par. 1.  {3T 162.1}

3. DIET AFFECTS SPIRITUALITY

“…whatever affects the body has a corresponding effect on the mind and the soul….” The Ministry of Healing, p. 315 par. 2. {MH 315.2} 

“True temperance teaches us to dispense entirely with everything hurtful and to use judiciously that which is healthful. There are few who realize as they should how much their habits of diet have to do with their health, their character, their usefulness in this world, and their eternal destiny. The appetite should ever be in subjection to the moral and intellectual powers. The body should be servant to the mind, and not the mind to the body.” Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 562 par. 1. {PP 562.1}

There are but few who are roused sufficiently to understand how much their habits of diet affect their health, their character, their usefulness in this world, and their eternal destiny. I saw that it is the duty of those who have received the light from heaven, and have realized the benefit of walking in it, to manifest a greater interest for those who are still suffering for want of knowledge. Sabbath-keepers who are looking for the soon appearing of their Saviour should be the last to manifest a lack of interest in this great work of reform. Men and women must be instructed, and ministers and people should feel that the burden of the work rests upon them to agitate the subject and seek to educate others.”  Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, p. 154 par. 3. {CTBH 154.3}

Eating has much to do with religion. The spiritual experience is greatly affected by the way in which the stomach is treated. Eating and drinking in accordance with the laws of health promote virtuous actions. But if the stomach is abused by habits that have no foundation in nature, Satan takes advantage of the wrong that has been done and uses the stomach as an enemy of righteousness, creating a disturbance which affects the entire being. Sacred things are not appreciated. Spiritual zeal diminishes. Peace of mind is lost. There is dissension, strife, and discord. Impatient words are spoken and unkind deeds are done; dishonest practices are followed and anger is manifested–and all because the nerves of the brain are disturbed by the abuse heaped on the stomach.” Counsels on Health, p. 577 par. 4. {CH 577.4}

“…The better you observe the laws of health, the more clearly can you discern temptations, and resist them, and the more clearly can you discern the value of eternal things.–Youth’s Instructor, Aug. 25, 1886, p. 135.” Temperance, p. 188 par. 3. {Te 188.3} (see also {ML 141.5})

BASIC PRINCIPLES FOR A HEALTHY DIET

How does the body get what it needs to be healthy?

Besides exercise, the primary way is from what we eat. The food we eat is converted into blood by the digestive organs. Blood contains the “life” or the life giving elements (Genesis 9:4, Leviticus 17:11 and 14, Deuteronomy 12:23). It consists of nutrients, water, oxygen, and disease fighting components, which are distributed to the entire body by the circulatory system.  A correct diet will supply adequate nutrients and healing elements to the blood and body.

In order to have good health, we must have good blood; for the blood is the current of life. It repairs waste and nourishes the body. When supplied with the proper food elements and when cleansed and vitalized by contact with pure air, it carries life and vigor to every part of the system. The more perfect the circulation, the better will this work be accomplished.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 271 par. 2. {MH 271.2}

“Our bodies are built up from the food we eat. There is a constant breaking down of the tissues of the body; every movement of every organ involves waste, and this waste is repaired from our food. Each organ of the body requires its share of nutrition. The brain must be supplied with its portion; the bones, muscles, and nerves demand theirs. It is a wonderful process that transforms the food into blood and uses this blood to build up the varied parts of the body; but this process is going on continually, supplying with life and strength each nerve, muscle, and tissue.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 295 par. 1.  {MH 295.1}

“We are to be guarded how to use reason and select those articles of food that will make the very best blood and keep the blood in an unfevered condition.–Manuscript 5, 1881.” Selected Messages, book 3, p. 287 par. 3. {3SM 287.3}

“Great care should be taken to form right habits of eating and drinking. The food eaten should be that which will make the best blood. …” Counsels on Health, p. 576 par. 2. {CH 576.2}

HOW TO MAKE GOOD BLOOD

The following is an outline of what is required to make good blood and a healthy body. Each category will be explained in more detail hereafter:

  • B. DIET ADAPTED TO THE INDIVIDUAL
  • C. ADEQUATE VARIETY OF FOODS FOR ADEQUATE NUTRITION
  • D. PROPER DIGESTION, WHICH IS ACCOMPLISHED BY:
    • PALATABLE OR TASTY FOOD
    • NOT TOO MANY KINDS OF FOODS AT ONE MEAL
    • NOT TOO MUCH FOOD (OVEREATING)
    • PROPER FOOD COMBINATIONS
    • NO STIMULANTS OR FERMENTATION IN DIGESTIVE PROCESS
  • E. GOOD EATING HABITS

THE CONSEQUENCES OF HAVING BAD BLOOD

“Because principle requires us to discard those things that irritate the stomach and impair health, we should remember that an impoverished diet produces poverty of the blood. Cases of disease most difficult to cure result from this cause. The system is not sufficiently nourished, and dyspepsia and general debility are the result.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 321 par. 3. {MH 321.3}

“…The eating of food that does not make good blood is working against the laws of our physical organism, and is a violation of the law of God. The cause produces the effect. Suffering, disease, and death are the sure penalty of indulgence.– Letter 123, 1899.” Evangelism, p. 265 par. 4. {Ev 265.4}

“…Foul blood will surely becloud the moral and intellectual powers, and arouse and strengthen the baser passions of your nature. …” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 64 par. 2. {CD 64.2}

A. GOOD QUALITY FOOD

The best quality meals are made from fresh and ripe foods prepared from their most natural state. Foods from the home garden are best, because they can be grown in the most simple and wholesome way, in nutrient rich soil. When purchasing manufactured (packaged) food, the principle to follow is that less refined foods provide better nutrients. Food should be chosen that has whole, unrefined grains and few unfamiliar, unnatural substances.

“Families and institutions should learn to do more in the cultivation and improvement of land. If people only knew the value of the products of the ground, which the earth brings forth in their season, more diligent efforts would be made to cultivate the soil. All should be acquainted with the special value of fruit and vegetables fresh from the orchard and garden.” The Paulson Collection of Ellen G. White Letters, p. 313 par. 3.  {PC 313.3}

“Fine-flour bread does not impart to the system the nourishment that is to be found in unbolted-wheat bread. Its common use will not keep the system in the best condition.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 236 par. 2. {CD 236.2}

“The science of cooking is not a small matter. . . . This art should be regarded as the most valuable of all the arts, because it is so closely connected with life. It should receive more attention; for in order to make good blood, the system requires good food. The foundation of that which keeps people in health is the medical missionary work of good cooking.” Child Guidance, p. 372, par. 1. {CG 372.1}

“Your food has not been of the right quantity or quality. You have eaten too largely and of a poor quality of food which could not be converted into good blood.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 74 par. 1. {3T 74.1}

DECAYED OR POOR QUALITY FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

“Nicely prepared vegetables and fruits in their season will be beneficial, if they are of the best quality, not showing the slightest sign of decay, but are sound and unaffected by any disease or decay. More die by eating decayed fruit and decayed vegetables which ferment in the stomach and result in blood poisoning, than we have any idea of.—Letter 12, 1887” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 309 par. 6. {CD 309.6}

Poor, half-decayed fruit and vegetables should never be placed upon the table because it is a savings of a few pennies. This kind of management is a loss, and the body that should be nourished as a temple of the Holy Ghost and be fitted to do the very best kind of work is neglected. …” The Retirement Years, p. 127 par. 2. {RY 127.2}

“Let there be a plentiful supply of fruits and vegetables that are in a good condition. Overripe fruit or wilted vegetables ought not to be used.” The Signs of the Times, September 30, 1897, par. 6.  {ST September 30, 1897, par. 6}

“Care should be taken to have all food in as good condition as possible. In the end, good food is the cheapest. Vegetables that are stale or of poor quality are likely to be unpalatable and unwholesome. So with fruits. Ripe and fresh, they are as wholesome as they are delicious; but green, partly decayed, or overripe fruit should never be eaten raw. When cooked, unripe fruit is less objectionable. So far as possible, however, we should use fruit in its natural state. The more we accustom ourselves to use it fresh from the tree, the greater will be our enjoyment of fruit, and the more benefit we shall receive from its use.” Pacific Health Journal, July 1, 1905 par. 7. {PHJ July 1, 1905, par. 7}

B. DIET ADAPTED TO THE INDIVIDUAL

“There is real common sense in dietetic reform. The subject should be studied broadly and deeply, and no one should criticize others because their practice is not, in all things, in harmony with his own. It is impossible to make an unvarying rule to regulate everyone’s habits, and no one should think himself a criterion for all. Not all can eat the same things. Foods that are palatable and wholesome to one person may be distasteful, and even harmful, to another. Some cannot use milk, while others thrive on it. Some persons cannot digest peas and beans; others find them wholesome. For some the coarser grain preparations are good food, while others cannot use them.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 319 par. 2. {MH 319.2}

“Our bodies are constructed from what we eat; and in order to make tissues of good quality, we must have the right kind of food, and it must be prepared with such skill as will best adapt it to the wants of the system. It is a religious duty for those who cook, to learn how to prepare healthful food in a variety of ways, so that it may be both palatable and healthful. Poor cookery is wearing away the life energies of thousands. More souls are lost from this cause than many realize. It deranges the system and produces disease. In the condition thus induced, heavenly things cannot be readily discerned.” Counsels on Health, p. 116 par. 3. {CH 116.3}

“But not all foods wholesome in themselves are equally suited to our needs under all circumstances. Care should be taken in the selection of food. Our diet should be suited to the season, to the climate in which we live, and to the occupation we follow. Some foods that are adapted for use at one season or in one climate are not suited to another. So there are different foods best suited for persons in different occupations. Often food that can be used with benefit by those engaged in hard physical labor is unsuitable for persons of sedentary pursuits or intense mental application. God has given us an ample variety of healthful foods, and each person should choose from it the things that experience and sound judgment prove to be best suited to his own necessities.The Ministry of Healing, p. 296 par. 2.{MH 296.2}

There is a wide difference in constitutions and temperaments, and the demands of the system differ greatly in different persons. What would be food for one, might be poison for another; so precise rules cannot be laid down to fit every case. I cannot eat beans, for they are poison to me; but for me to say that for this reason no one must eat them would be simply ridiculous. I cannot eat a spoonful of milk gravy, or milk toast, without suffering in consequence; but other members of my family can eat these things, and realize no such effect; therefore I take that which suits my stomach best, and they do the same. We have no words, no contention; all moves along harmoniously in my large family, for I do not attempt to dictate what they shall or shall not eat.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 494 par. 1. {CD 494.1}

“We cannot regulate the diet question by making any rule. Some can eat beans and dried peas, but to me this diet is painful. It is like poison. Some have appetites and taste for certain things, and assimilate them well. Others have no appetite for these articles. So one rule cannot be made for everyone.–Manuscript 15, 1889.” Selected Messages, book 3, p. 294 par. 4. {3SM 294.4}

C. ADEQUATE VARIETY FOR ADEQUATE NUTRITION

The body needs a variety of different vitamins and minerals, and therefore, the diet should not be extremely limited to only a few items of food with no variation. We should eat a reasonable variety of the fruits and vegetables available in the local area.

“The grains, with fruits, nuts, and vegetables, contain all the nutritive properties necessary to make good blood.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 316 par. 2. {MH 316.2} 

“But while we would recommend simplicity in diet, let it be understood that we do not recommend a meager diet. Let there be a plentiful supply of fruits and vegetables that are in a good condition.” The Signs of the Times, September 30, 1897 par. 6. {ST, 30 de septiembre, 1897 párr. 6}

“Here is one reason why some have not been successful in their efforts to simplify their food. They have a poverty-stricken diet. Food is prepared without painstaking, and there is a continual sameness. There should not be many kinds at any one meal, but all meals should not be composed of the same kinds of food without variation. Food should be prepared with simplicity, yet with a nicety which will invite the appetite.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 63 par. 1. {2T 63.1}

“There are some who go to extremes. They must eat just such an amount and just such a quality, and confine themselves to two or three things. They allow only a few things to be placed before them or their families to eat. In eating a small amount of food, and that not of the best quality, they do not take into the stomach that which will suitably nourish the system. Poor food cannot be converted into good blood. An impoverished diet will impoverish the blood.Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 199 par. 1.  {CD 199.1}

D. PROPER DIGESTION

“Health and happiness depend upon the healthy condition of the stomach. …” Pamphlet 123, p. 42 par. 2. {PH123 42.2} 

“…The delicate organs of digestion should be respected. God requires us, by being temperate in all things, to act our part toward keeping ourselves in health. He cannot enlighten the mind of a man who makes a cesspool of his stomach. He does not hear the prayers of those who are walking in the light of the sparks of their own kindling.” Counsels on Health, p. 576 par. 2. {CH 576.2}

Cesspool: sewage tank

“The sin of intemperate eating–eating too frequently, too much, and of rich, unwholesome food–destroys the healthy action of the digestive organs, affects the brain, and perverts the judgment, preventing rational, calm, healthy thinking and acting.” Child Guidance, p. 398 par. 4. {CG 398.4} 

There are several things that can affect digestion and the quality of the blood. The following should be considered in order to have proper digestion:

PALATABLE OR TASTY FOOD

“…It is important that we relish the food we eat. If we cannot do this, but eat mechanically, we fail to be nourished and built up as we would be if we could enjoy the food we take into the stomach. We are composed of what we eat. In order to make a good quality of blood, we must have the right kind of food, prepared in a right manner.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, p. 681 par. 3.  {1T 681.3}

“There is a class who seem to think that whatever is eaten is lost, that anything tossed into the stomach to fill it, will do as well as food prepared with intelligence and care. But it is important that we relish the food we eat. If we cannot, and have to eat mechanically, we fail to receive the proper nourishment.” Counsels on Health, p. 116 par. 3. {CH 116.3}

“The state of the mind has largely to do with the health of the body, and especially with the health of the digestive organs. …” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 375 par. 2. {CD 375.2}

“Unless the food is prepared in a wholesome, palatable manner, it cannot be converted into good blood to build up the wasting tissues.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 538 par. 1. {2T 538.1}

“Food should be prepared with simplicity, yet with a nicety which will invite the appetite.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 63 par. 1.  {2T 63.1}  

“The meals should be varied. The same dishes, prepared in the same way, should not appear on the table meal after meal and day after day. The meals are eaten with greater relish, and the system is better nourished, when the food is varied.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 300 par. 1.  {MH 300.1}

“Often health reform is made health deform by the unpalatable preparation of food. The lack of knowledge regarding healthful cookery must be remedied before health reform is a success.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 263 par. 2. {CD 263.2}

ADAPTING THE TASTE TO HEALTHFUL FOOD

“Persons who have accustomed themselves to a rich, highly stimulating diet have an unnatural taste, and they cannot at once relish food that is plain and simple. It will take time for the taste to become natural and for the stomach to recover from the abuse it has suffered. But those who persevere in the use of wholesome food will, after a time, find it palatable. Its delicate and delicious flavors will be appreciated, and it will be eaten with greater enjoyment than can be derived from unwholesome dainties. And the stomach, in a healthy condition, neither fevered nor overtaxed, can readily perform its task.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 298 par. 3. {MH 298.3}

“Persons who have indulged their appetite to eat freely of meat, highly seasoned gravies, and various kinds of rich cakes and preserves, cannot immediately relish a plain, wholesome, and nutritious diet. Their taste is so perverted they have no appetite for a wholesome diet of fruits, plain bread, and vegetables. They need not expect to relish at first food so different from that which they have been indulging themselves to eat. If they cannot at first enjoy plain food, they should fast until they can. That fast will prove to them of greater benefit than medicine, for the abused stomach will find that rest which it has long needed, and real hunger can be satisfied with a plain diet. It will take time for the taste to recover from the abuses which it has received, and to gain its natural tone. But perseverance in a self-denying course of eating and drinking will soon make plain, wholesome food palatable, and it will soon be eaten with greater satisfaction than the epicure enjoys over his rich dainties.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 158 par. 3. {CD 158.3}

NOT TOO MANY KINDS OF FOODS AT ONE MEAL

“We must care for the digestive organs, and not force upon them a great variety of food. He who gorges himself with many kinds of food at a meal is doing himself injury. It is more important that we eat that which will agree with us than that we taste of every dish that may be placed before us. There is no door in our stomach by which we can look in and see what is going on; so we must use our mind, and reason from cause to effect. If you feel all wrought up, and everything seems to go wrong, perhaps it is because you are suffering the consequences of eating a great variety of food.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 111 par. 4. {CD 111.4}

“There should not be a great variety at any one meal, for this encourages overeating and causes indigestion.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 299 par. 6. {MH 299.6}

The stomach suffers when so many kinds of food are placed in it at one meal. Simplicity is a part of health reform. There is danger that our work shall cease to merit the name which it has borne.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 275 par. 4. {CD 275.4}

“The variety of food at one meal causes unpleasantness, and destroys the good which each article, if taken alone, would do the system. This practice causes constant suffering, and often death.—Letter 54, 1896” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 110 par. 4.  {CD 110.4}

HOW MANY ITEMS?

“Do not have too great a variety at a meal; three or four dishes are a plenty. At the next meal you can have a change….” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 109 par. 5. {CD 109.5}

“I make myself a criterion for no one else. There are things that I cannot eat without suffering great distress. I try to learn that which is best for me, and then saying nothing to any one, I partake of the things that I can eat, which often are simply two or three varieties that will not create a disturbance in the stomach.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 493 par. 5. {CD 493.5}

If your work is sedentary, take exercise every day, and at each meal eat only two or three kinds of simple food, taking no more of these than will satisfy the demands of hunger.—Letter 73a, 1896” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 110 par. 5. {CD 110.5}

NOT TOO MUCH FOOD (OVEREATING)

“Any unnecessary burden placed on the stomach will becloud the brain….” Manuscript Releases, vol. 13, p. 203 par. 2.  {13MR 203.2} 

“The digestive organs should never be burdened with a quantity or quality of food which it will tax the system to appropriate. All that is taken into the stomach, above what the system can use to convert into good blood, clogs the machinery; for it cannot be made into either flesh or blood, and its presence burdens the liver, and produces a morbid condition of the system. The stomach is overworked in its efforts to dispose of it, and then there is a sense of languor, which is interpreted to mean hunger, and without allowing the digestive organs time to rest from their severe labor, to recruit their energies, another immoderate amount is taken into the stomach, to set the weary machinery again in motion. The system receives less nourishment from too great a quantity of food, even of the right quality, than from a moderate quantity taken at regular periods.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 103 par. 1. {CD 103.1}

“If more food is eaten than can be digested and appropriated, a decaying mass accumulates in the stomach, causing an offensive breath and a bad taste in the mouth. The vital powers are exhausted in an effort to throw off the excess, and the brain is robbed of nerve force. Less food would have nourished the system, and not wasted its powers in overwork.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 425 par. 3. {FE 425.3}

PROPER FOOD COMBINATIONS

“The digestive organs have an important part to act in our life happiness. God has given us intelligence, that we may learn what we should use as food. Shall we not, as sensible men and women, study whether the things we eat will be in agreement, or whether they will cause trouble? People who have a sour stomach are very often of a sour disposition. Everything seems to be contrary to them, and they are inclined to be peevish and irritable. If we would have peace among ourselves, we should give more thought than we do to having a peaceful stomach.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 112 par. 1. {CD 112.1}

Knowledge in regard to proper food combinations is of great worth, and is to be received as wisdom from God.—Letter 213, 1902” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 109 par. 4. {CD 109.4}

Disturbance is created by improper combinations of food; fermentation sets in; the blood is contaminated and the brain confused.

     “The habit of overeating, or of eating too many kinds of food at one meal, frequently causes dyspepsia. Serious injury is thus done to the delicate digestive organs. In vain the stomach protests and appeals to the brain to reason from cause to effect. The excessive amount of food eaten, or the improper combination, does its injurious work. In vain do disagreeable premonitions give warning. Suffering is the consequence. Disease takes the place of health.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7, p. 257 par. 2-3. {7T 257.2-3}

“In the use of foods we should exercise good, sound common sense. …Change the diet; use less of some foods; try other preparations. Soon we shall know the effect that certain combinations have on us. As intelligent human beings let us individually study the principles and use our experience and judgment in deciding what foods are best for us.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7 p. 133 par. 3. {7T 133.3} 

“I consider that one reason why I have been able to do so much work both in speaking and in writing, is because I am strictly temperate in my eating. If several varieties of food are placed before me, I endeavor to choose only those that I know will agree. Thus I am enabled to preserve clear mental faculties. I refuse to place in my stomach knowingly anything that will set up fermentation. This is the duty of all health reformers. We must reason from cause to effect. It is our duty to be temperate in all things.—Letter 50, 1908” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 493 par. 3. {CD 493.3}

COUNSELS ON SPECIFIC FOOD COMBINATIONS

Correct combinations:

  • fruit with bread (grains)
  • vegetables with bread (grains)
  • puddings and custards with bread (grains)
  • nuts with grains and fruits
  • nuts with grains and some roots

Incorrect combinations:

  • Fruits with vegetables
  • Vegetables with fruit and sweet desserts
  • Sour fruit with milk                                        
  • Milk with sugar
  • Foods with lots of sugar
  • Foods with grease

COMBINATION: FRUIT WITH VEGETABLES

“It is not well to eat fruit and vegetables at the same meal. If the digestion is feeble, the use of both will often cause distress and inability to put forth mental effort. It is better to have the fruit at one meal and the vegetables at another.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 299 par. 7.  {MH 299.7}  (see also{CD 112.3})

If we would preserve the best health, we should avoid eating vegetables and fruit at the same meal. If the stomach is feeble, there will be distress, the brain will be confused, and unable to put forth mental effort. Have fruit at one meal and vegetables at the next. . . .” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 394 par. 3. {CD 394.3}

“We do not recommend a meager diet, but a plentiful supply of fruit and vegetables; but both ought not to be used at the same meal. At one meal eat only one or two kinds of food, such as bread and fruit; at the next meal, bread and vegetables. The placing of a large variety of dishes upon the table is not for the health of those who partake of the dishes.” Manuscript 111, 1894, par. 2. {Ms111-1894, par. 2}

“In the night seasons, it seemed that Elder —– was taken sick, and an experienced physician said to you, ‘I took notice of your diet. You eat too great a variety at one meal. Fruit and vegetables taken at one meal produce acidity of the stomach; then impurity of the blood results, and the mind is not clear because the digestion is imperfect.’ You should understand that every organ of the body is to be treated with respect. In the matter of diet, you must reason from cause to effect.—Letter 312, 1908” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 112 par. 6. {CD 112.6}

“The juices of fruit, mingled with bread, will be highly enjoyed. Good, ripe, undecayed fruit is a thing we should thank the Lord for, because it is beneficial to health.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 437 par. 1. {CD 437.1}

Exception: Lemon juice with vegetable

“My thistle greens, nicely cooked, and seasoned with sterilized cream and lemon juice, are very appetizing.…” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 324 par. 1.  {CD 324.1}

COMBINATION: VEGETABLES WITH FRUIT AND DESERTS

“As applied to diet, true hygiene demands the intelligent selection of the most healthful articles of food, prepared in the simplest and most healthful manner. It is customary to provide a variety of vegetables and other articles of diet for the first course at dinner. Then fashion requires that dessert shall come on the table in puddings, custards, or other kinds of sweets. To introduce such combinations into the stomach after partaking of vegetables and fruit is anything but wise. A large share of the endless mixtures called health reform dishes is in reality anything but healthful. Grains and fruits, or vegetables with bread and accompaniments, are all that the system needs. …” The Signs of the Times, September 30, 1897, par. 4. {ST September 30, 1897, par. 4}

“Puddings, custards, sweet cake, and vegetables, all served at the same meal, will cause a disturbance in the stomach.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 112 par. 5. {CD 112.5}

“…if we must have puddings and custards, let bread and these articles form the meal.” The Signs of the Times, September 30, 1897 par. 6. {ST, September 30, 1897 par. 6}

Plain, simple pie may serve as dessert, but when one eats two or three pieces merely to gratify an inordinate appetite, he unfits himself for the service of God. Some, after partaking largely of other food, will take dessert, not because they need it, but because it tastes good. … —Letter 17, 1895” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 333 par. 5. {CD 333.5}

COMBINIATION: SOUR/ACID FRUIT WITH MILK

“I have a word of caution for Brother Gates. He is a nervous dyspeptic. I noticed he ate fruit and milk mixed. Sour fruits or even subacid fruits mixed will certainly increase his difficulties. Now I hope he will not be careless in the diet question, but be exceedingly careful. It would be more favorable for him to eat meat occasionally than to eat many things in the fruit and vegetable line. If he is strict to eat only vegetables at one meal and fruit at the next and [not] eat both at the same time, he can do much toward a more healthy condition of the digestive organs. If he will avoid putting milk or cream in his sauce, he will find less difficulty in taking care of his food. I hope, Elder Gates, you will be a very strict sentinel over your appetite in this respect.” Letter 49a, 1892 {Lt49a-1892} [note: EGW often refers to fruit sauce as sauce]

COMBINATION: MILK WITH SUGAR

“Sugar and milk used at the same time is hard for the digestive organs, clogs the machinery.” Letter 5, 1870 {Lt5-1870}

“Far too much sugar is ordinarily used in food. Cakes, sweet puddings, pastries, jellies, jams, are active causes of indigestion. Especially harmful are the custards and puddings in which milk, eggs, and sugar are the chief ingredients. The free use of milk and sugar taken together should be avoided.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 301 par. 4. {MH 301.4}

“…If for dessert sweet cake is eaten with milk or cream, fermentation will be created in the stomach, and then the weak points of the human organism will tell the story. The brain will be affected by the disturbance in the stomach. …” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 334 par. 5. {CD 334.5}

NUTS

“Nuts and nut foods are coming largely into use to take the place of flesh meats. With nuts may be combined grains, fruits, and some roots, to make foods that are healthful and nourishing. Care should be taken, however, not to use too large a proportion of nuts. Those who realize ill effects from the use of nut foods may find the difficulty removed by attending to this precaution. It should be remembered, too, that some nuts are not so wholesome as others. Almonds are preferable to peanuts, but peanuts in limited quantities, used in connection with grains, are nourishing and digestible.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 298 par. 1. {MH 298.1} 

GREASE COOKED IN FOOD

“…The grease cooked in the food renders it difficult of digestion. …” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 368 par. 6. {CD 368.6}

“You should keep grease out of your food. It defiles any preparation of food you may make.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 63 par. 1. {2T 63.1}

“There are but few who eat to the glory of God. How can those who have cake and pie crust filled with grease ask God’s blessing upon it and then eat with an eye single to God’s glory? We are commanded to do all to the glory of God. We must eat and drink to His glory.—Manuscript 3, 1854, 8-10.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 7, p. 370 par. 1. {7MR 370.1}

“Grains and fruits prepared free from grease, and in as natural a condition as possible, should be the food for the tables of all who claim to be preparing for translation to heaven. The less feverish the diet, the more easily can the passions be controlled. Gratification of taste should not be consulted irrespective of physical, intellectual, or moral health.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 352 par. 1. {2T 352.1}

NO FERMENTATION OR STIMULANTS IN DIGESTIVE PROCESS

Fermentation negatively affects blood, disturbs digestion, and unnaturally stimulates the nervous system. Fermentation, therefore, should be avoided in the digestive system. Fermented foods that should be discarded from the diet include all alcoholic beverages, any items containing vinegar, and cured (non-fresh) cheeses. There are certain foods that have a small amount of fermentation, which the world promotes as beneficial to the digestive system. This includes yogurt and other probiotic items, sourkraut, soy sauce, miso, tempeh, kombucha, kefir, and kimchi. While the Spirit of Prophecy does not mention these specific foods, it is likely that they should be avoided because of the fermentation. Adding “good bacteria” in to your body may only be necessary occasionally or for medicinal purposes during sickness. A good, balanced diet of unfermented foods should provide all that is needed for a healthy digestive system.

     Certain foods, although not eaten in a fermented state, can cause fermentation during the digestive process. This includes foods high in sugar, flesh meat, and incorrect food combinations.

     Fermentation is not the only thing that can cause unnatural stimulation of the nervous system. Stimulation is also caused by some unfermented foods. Spices, tea (containing caffeine) and coffee (containing caffeine) contain substances that stimulate the nervous system. This stimulation should be avoided also.

Ellen White explains what happens when fermentation takes place in the stomach.

“…fermentation takes place in the stomach, and the food does not digest, but decays or putrefies; as a consequence, the blood is not nourished, but becomes filled with impurities, and liver and kidney difficulties appear.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 345 par. 6. {CD 345.6}

I refuse to place in my stomach knowingly anything that will set up fermentation. This is the duty of all health reformers. We must reason from cause to effect. It is our duty to be temperate in all things.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 493 par. 3. {CD 493.3}

STIMULANTING SUBSTANCES OR FOODS

“The principles of temperance must be carried further than the mere use of spirituous liquors. The use of stimulating and indigestible food is often equally injurious to health and in many cases sows the seeds of drunkenness.” Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2, p. 394 par. 4. {2MCP 394.4}

“Under the head of stimulants and narcotics is classed a great variety of articles that, altogether, used as food or drink irritate the stomach, poison the blood, and excite the nerves. Their use is a positive evil. Men seek the excitement of stimulants, because, for the time, the results are agreeable. But there is always a reaction. The use of unnatural stimulants always tends to excess, and it is an active agent in promoting physical degeneration and decay.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 339 par. 2. {CD 339.2}

Through the use of stimulants, the whole system suffers. The nerves are unbalanced, the liver is morbid in its action, the quality and circulation of the blood are affected, and the skin becomes inactive and sallow. The mind, too, is injured. The immediate influence of these stimulants is to excite the brain to undue activity, only to leave it weaker and less capable of exertion. The aftereffect is prostration, not only mental and physical, but moral. As a result we see nervous men and women, of unsound judgment and unbalanced mind. They often manifest a hasty, impatient, accusing spirit, viewing the faults of others as through a magnifying glass, and utterly unable to discern their own defects.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 422 par. 3.  {CD 422.3} 

Do not in any way encourage an appetite for stimulants. Eat only plain, simple, wholesome food, and thank God constantly for the principles of health reform. In all things be true and upright, and you will gain precious victories.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 162 par. 4.  {9T 162.4}

Gross and stimulating food fevers the blood, excites the nervous system, and too often dulls the moral perceptions, so that reason and conscience are overborne by the sensual impulses.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 243 par. 3. {CD 243.3}

SPECIFIC FOODS

The following are counsels on specific, stimulating foods that should be avoided.

  • VARIOUS STIMULATING FOODS, CONDIMENTS, AND SPICES

“Food prepared with condiments and spices inflames the stomach, corrupts the blood, and paves the way to stronger stimulants. It induces nervous debility, impatience, and lack of self-control. Tobacco and the wine cup follow.–Signs of the Times, Oct. 27, 1887.” Temperance, p. 57 par. 3.  {Te 57.3}

“Flesh meats, butter, cheese, rich pastry, spiced foods, and condiments are freely partaken of by both old and young. These things do their work in deranging the stomach, exciting the nerves, and enfeebling the intellect. The blood-making organs cannot convert such things into good blood.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 236 par. 2. {CD 236.2}

“Rum, tobacco, opium, increase the action of the pulse, but as soon as the immediate effect is gone, the system sinks down below par, as much as it was elevated above par. This is the effect of the use of mustard, pepper, and spices, tea, coffee, and all of these drugs. For a time they seem to have a good effect, quickening the circulation, but it is not a healthful quickening, and a reaction is the result.” Letter 100, November 3, 1898, par. 7. {Lt100-1898 (November 3, 1898) par. 7}

“Condiments, so frequently used by those of the world, are ruinous to the digestion.

     “In this fast age, the less exciting the food, the better. Condiments are injurious in their nature. Mustard, pepper, spices, pickles, and other things of a like character, irritate the stomach and make the blood feverish and impure. The inflamed condition of the drunkard’s stomach is often pictured as illustrating the effect of alcoholic liquors. A similarly inflamed condition is produced by the use of irritating condiments. Soon ordinary food does not satisfy the appetite. The system feels a want, a craving, for something more stimulating.

     “Some have so indulged their taste, that unless they have the very article of food it calls for, they find no pleasure in eating. If condiments and spiced foods are placed before them, they make the stomach work by applying this fiery whip; for it has been so treated that it will not acknowledge unstimulating food.

     “Spices at first irritate the tender coating of the stomach, but finally destroy the natural sensitiveness of this delicate membrane. The blood becomes fevered, the animal propensities are aroused, while the moral and intellectual powers are weakened and become servants to the baser passions.” Counsels for the Church, p. 223 par. 6-9. {CCh 223.6-9}

“You have perhaps seen a picture of the stomach of one who is addicted to strong drink. A similar condition is produced under the irritating influence of fiery spices. With the stomach in such a state, there is a craving for something more to meet the demands of the appetite, something stronger, and still stronger.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 340 par. 3. {CD 340.3}

“Teach your children to abhor stimulants. Do not place luxurious dishes before the children,–spiced foods, rich gravies, cakes, and pastries. This highly seasoned food irritates the stomach, and causes a craving for still stronger stimulants.…

     “Under the irritating influence of fiery spices, as well as under that of strong drinks, the stomach becomes of a fiery red color. With the stomach in such a state, there is a craving for something more to meet the demands of the appetite, something stronger, and still stronger.” The Signs of the Times, August 10, 1915, par. 5-6. {ST, August 10, 1915 par. 5-6}

I had used pepper and mustard in my diet; but these should not be put into the human stomach. The delicate membrane becomes inflamed, the healthy tone of the stomach is lowered, and the appetite is perverted, the taste loses its discernment, and the delicious flavors of grains, vegetables, and fruits become insipid and unpalatable.” The Signs of the Times, February 17, 1888, par. 5. {ST February 17, 1888, par. 5}

“Cake was brought into our tent. I ate a small piece, and my stomach refused to retain it; it was spiced with cinnamon. If my stomach would not acknowledge this as food, but rebelled against it, what condition must these be in who partook of this food every day.…” The Review and Herald, July 19, 1870, par. 5. {RH, July 19, 1870 par. 5} 

  • FLESH MEAT

“Flesh food also is harmful. Its naturally stimulating effect should be a sufficient argument against its use; and the almost universally diseased condition of animals makes it doubly objectionable. It tends to irritate the nerves and to excite the passions, thus giving the balance of power to the lower propensities.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 397 par. 1. {CD 397.1}

“When the use of flesh food is discontinued, there is often a sense of weakness, a lack of vigor. Many urge this as evidence that flesh food is essential; but it is because foods of this class are stimulating, because they fever the blood and excite the nerves, that they are so missed. Some will find it as difficult to leave off flesh eating as it is for the drunkard to give up his dram; but they will be the better for the change.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 316 par. 3. {MH 316.3} 

  • TEA AND COFFEE (CAFFEINATED)

“Tea and coffee, as well as tobacco, have an injurious effect upon the system. Tea is intoxicating; though less in degree, its effect is the same in character as that of spirituous liquors. Coffee has a greater tendency to becloud the intellect and benumb the energies. It is not so powerful as tobacco, but is similar in its effects. The arguments brought against tobacco may also be urged against the use of tea and coffee.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 426 par. 1. {CD 426.1}

“…all should bear a clear testimony against tea and coffee, never using them. They are narcotics, injurious alike to the brain and to the other organs of the body….” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 430 par. 3. {CD 430.3}

“You say again, ‘They are not educated in regard to the injurious effects of meat eating and of using sugar and vinegar, tea and coffee. That is, they depend for their herb drink on tea from China and coffee from Java. These things are injurious and deleterious to the human system. Tea and coffee are stimulants and poisons, and their effects have been presented before them.’” Manuscript Releases, vol. 20, p. 2 par. 4. {20MR 2.4}

“All these nerve irritants are wearing away the life forces, and the restlessness, the impatience, the mental feebleness caused by shattered nerves become a warring element, ever working against spiritual progress. Shall Christians bring their appetite under the control of reason, or will they continue its indulgence because they feel so ‘let down’ without it, like the drunkard without his stimulant? Shall not those who advocate temperance reform awake in regard to these injurious things also? And shall not the pledge embrace coffee and tea as hurtful stimulants?” Counsels on Health, p. 442 par. 2. {CH 442.2}

Tea acts as a stimulants and, to a certain extent, produces intoxication. The action of coffee and many other popular drinks is similar. The first effect is exhilarating. The nerves of the stomach are excited; these convey irritation to the brain, and this in turn is aroused to impart increased action to the heart and short-lived energy to the entire system. Fatigue is forgotten; the strength seems to be increased. The intellect is aroused, the imagination becomes more vivid.

     “Because of these results, many suppose that their tea or coffee is doing them great good. But this is a mistake. Tea and coffee do not nourish the system. Their effect is produced before there has been time for digestion and assimilation, and what seems to be strength is only nervous excitement. When the influence of the stimulant is gone, the unnatural force abates, and the result is a corresponding degree of languor and debility.

     “The continued use of these nerve irritants is followed by headache, wakefulness, palpitation of the heart, indigestion, trembling, and many other evils; for they wear away the life forces. Tired nerves need rest and quiet instead of stimulation and overwork. Nature needs time to recuperate her exhausted energies. When her forces are goaded on by the use of stimulants, more will be accomplished for a time; but, as the system becomes debilitated by their constant use, it gradually becomes more difficult to rouse the energies to the desired point. The demand for stimulants becomes more difficult to control, until the will is overborne and there seems to be no power to deny the unnatural craving. Stronger and still stronger stimulants are called for, until exhausted nature can no longer respond.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 326 par. 1-3 {MH 326.1-3}  also {CD 424.3}

EXCEPTIONS

Not all tea or coffee is harmful. The Spirit of Prophecy counsels reveal that some herb teas, which are naturally caffeine free, are acceptable. There are many herb teas that are useful as remedies for sickness. Also, coffee made from toasted cereal has no caffeine and is acceptable. When the counsels are correctly harmonized, it is concluded that the stimulating element, or caffeine, in the tea and coffee is what should be avoided.

“‘Crackers’–the English biscuit–or zwieback, and fruit, or cereal coffee, are the foods best suited for the evening meal.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 321 par. 1. {MH 321.1}

“I am not guilty of drinking any tea except red-clover-top tea, and if I loved wine, tea, and coffee, I would not use these health-destroying narcotics, for I prize health and I prize a healthful example in all these things. I want to be a pattern of temperance and of good works to others.–Letter 12, 1888.” Selected Messages, book 2, p. 302 par. 6.  {2SM 302.6}

“…We never use tea or coffee. Occasionally I have used red-clover-blossom tea for a warm drink, but few of my family drink any fluid at our meals. …” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 492 par. 1. {CD 492.1}

MEDICINAL TEA

“In the morning he said he felt rather bad. I prepared a cup of weak red pepper tea….” Letter 9, 1877 {Lt9-1877}

“I had an ill turn that night. The wind came up while we were searching for a place to rest. I think I took cold. I was in such severe pain I called for cayenne pepper and obtained some relief, but the same kind of a cold I had when at San Diego was upon me. …” Letter 353, August 27, 1905, par. 3. {Lt353-1905 (August 27, 1905) par. 3}

“Once when crossing the waters I was sick and could retain nothing on my stomach and I did take a little weak tea as a medicine, but I don’t want any of you again to make the remark that ‘Sister White uses tea.’ If you will come to my house I will show you the bag that contains my herb drink. I send to Michigan, across the mountains, and get the red-clover top. In regard to coffee, I never could drink it, so those who reported that Sister White drinks coffee made a mistake.– Manuscript 3, 1888.” Selected Messages, book 2, p. 301 par. 5. {2SM 301.5}

“A cup of tea made from catnip herb will quiet the nerves. {2SM 297.4} 

     “Hop tea will induce sleep. …”  Selected Messages, book 2, p. 297 par. 4-5. {2SM 297.5}

  • BAKING SODA (inflammation)

Baking soda is not a stimulant, but it causes inflammation in the stomach.

“The use of soda or baking powder in breadmaking is harmful and unnecessary. Soda causes inflammation of the stomach and often poisons the entire system. ..” The Ministry of Healing, p. 300 par. 4.  {MH 300.4}

“Hot biscuit raised with soda or baking powder should never appear upon our tables. Such compounds are unfit to enter the stomach. Hot raised bread of any kind is difficult of digestion. …” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 319 par. 5. {CD 319.5} {CD 343.1}

  • HIGHLY SEASONED (inflammation)

“Lectures should be given, explaining why reforms in diet are essential, and showing that the use of highly seasoned food causes inflammation of the delicate lining of the digestive organs. Let it be shown why we as a people have changed our habits of eating and drinking. Show why we discard tobacco and all intoxicating liquor.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 285 par. 2. {CD 285.2}

FERMENTATION

Fermentation in the digestive process is caused by the following:

IMPROPER COMBINATIONS

“Often the different kinds of food placed in the stomach do not agree, and fermentation is the result. This is the cause of many stomach difficulties.” This Day with God, p. 340 par. 4. {TDG 340.4}

“…when several kinds of food are eaten at the same meal, indigestion is often the result. Some foods do not agree with other foods. A disturbance is created by improper combinations of food, fermentation sets in, the blood is contaminated, and the brain is confused.” Pacific Union Recorder, October 9, 1902, par. 2.  {PUR, October 9, 1902 par. 2}

TOO MANY KINDS OF FOOD AT ONE MEAL

So many varieties are introduced into the stomach that fermentation is the result. This condition brings on acute disease, and death frequently follows.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 110 par. 3 {CD 110.3}

Too great a variety of foods should not be taken into the stomach at one meal; for fermentation is set up, and injurious results are felt. Subsisting on a diet of fruits and grains properly prepared in the most simple, natural form is the very best way to preserve the health of the digestive organs, which do the work required for the nourishment of the human organism.” Manuscript 123, 1901. {Ms123-1901}

TOO MUCH FOOD

If more food is eaten than can be digested and appropriated, a decaying mass accumulates in the stomach, causing an offensive breath and a bad taste in the mouth. The vital powers are exhausted in an effort to throw off the excess, and the brain is robbed of nerve force.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 425 par. 3. {FE 425.3} 

“At bountiful tables, men often eat much more than can be easily digested. The overburdened stomach cannot do its work properly. The result is a disagreeable feeling of dullness in the brain, and the mind does not act quickly. Disturbance is created by improper combinations of food; fermentation sets in; the blood is contaminated and the brain confused.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 139 par. 4. {CD 139.4}

“Do not place in your stomach a heterogeneous mass of food, which will set up a fermentation.” Letter 310, 1904. {Lt310-1904}

POOR QUALITY FOOD

“Nicely prepared vegetables and fruits in their season will be beneficial, if they are of the best quality, not showing the slightest sign of decay, but are sound and unaffected by any disease or decay. More die by eating decayed fruit and decayed vegetables which ferment in the stomach and result in blood poisoning, than we have any idea of.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 309 par. 6. {CD 309.6}

SPECIFIC FOODS RELATED TO FERMENTATION

The following are counsels on specific fermented foods that should be avoided.

  • ALCOHOL

Isaiah 5:22  Woe unto them that are mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle strong drink:

Isaiah 5:11  Woe unto them that rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; that continue until night, till wine inflame them!

Proverbs 31:4-5  It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink:  (5)  Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted.

“Alcohol and tobacco pollute the blood of men, and thousands of lives are yearly sacrificed to these poisons.–Health Reformer, November, 1871.” Temperance, p. 57 par. 4.  {Te 57.4}

  • VINEGAR

Foods that contain vinegar:

pickles, mustard, ketchup, some kinds of salsa, salad dressing, vinaigrettes, mayonnaise

“Condiments, so frequently used by those of the world, are ruinous to the digestion.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 339 par. 1. {CD 339.1}

“In this fast age, the less exciting the food, the better. Condiments are injurious in their nature. Mustard, pepper, spices, pickles, and other things of a like character, irritate the stomach and make the blood feverish and impure. The inflamed condition of the drunkard’s stomach is often pictured as illustrating the effect of alcoholic liquors. A similarly inflamed condition is produced by the use of irritating condiments. Soon ordinary food does not satisfy the appetite. The system feels a want, a craving, for something more stimulating.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 325 par. 2. {MH 325.2}

“The salads are prepared with oil and vinegar, fermentation takes place in the stomach, and the food does not digest, but decays or putrefies; as a consequence, the blood is not nourished, but becomes filled with impurities, and liver and kidney difficulties appear.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 345 par. 6. {CD 345.6}

“There was a time when I was in a situation similar in some respects to yours. I had indulged the desire for vinegar. But I resolved with the help of God to overcome this appetite. I fought the temptation, determined not to be mastered by this habit. 

     “For weeks I was very sick; but I kept saying over and over, The Lord knows all about it. If I die, I die; but I will not yield to this desire. The struggle continued, and I was sorely afflicted for many weeks. All thought that it was impossible for me to live. You may be sure we sought the Lord very earnestly. The most fervent prayers were offered for my recovery. I continued to resist the desire for vinegar, and at last I conquered. Now I have no inclination to taste anything of the kind. This experience has been of great value to me in many ways. I obtained a complete victory.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 485 par. 1-2. {CD 485.1-2}

  • CHEESE

Cheese ferments during the curing process, and this may be the primary reason why it should not be eaten. This would also include cured, non-dairy cheese.

“Cheese should never be introduced into the stomach.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 368 par. 4. {CD 368.4}

“The effect of cheese is deleterious.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 236 par. 2. {CD 236.2}

“Flesh meats, butter, cheese, rich pastry, spiced foods, and condiments are freely partaken of by both old and young. These things do their work in deranging the stomach, exciting the nerves, and enfeebling the intellect. The blood-making organs cannot convert such things into good blood…” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 354 par. 3. {CD 354.3}

“Some brought cheese to the meeting, and ate it; although new, it was altogether too strong for the stomach, and should never be introduced into it.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 369 par. 2. {CD 369.2}

  • SUGAR

Sugar is not good for the stomach. It causes fermentation, and this clouds the brain and brings peevishness into the disposition.—Manuscript 93, 1901” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 327 par. 1. {CD 327.1}

“Some use milk and a large amount of sugar on mush, thinking that they are carrying out health reform. But the sugar and milk combined are liable to cause fermentation in the stomach, and are thus harmful. The free use of sugar in any form tends to clog the system and is not unfrequently a cause of disease.” Counsels on Health, p. 154 par. 1. {CH 154.1}

“Far too much sugar is ordinarily used in food. Cakes, sweet puddings, pastries, jellies, jams, are active causes of indigestion. Especially harmful are the custards and puddings in which milk, eggs, and sugar are the chief ingredients. The free use of milk and sugar taken together should be avoided.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 301 par. 4. {MH 301.4}

“If for dessert sweet cake is eaten with milk or cream, fermentation will be created in the stomach, and then the weak points of the human organism will tell the story. The brain will be affected by the disturbance in the stomach. This may be easily cured if people will study from cause to effect, cutting out of their diet that which injures the digestive organs and causes pain in the head.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 334 par. 5. {CD 334.5}

“…It would be better not to tax the stomach with unhealthful desserts, and not to demand that the cook expend time and strength and ingenuity in preparing them. It would be much better to discard the sweet puddings, jams, and marmalade, which cause fermentation in the stomach. When these are banished from our tables, when we have sweeter stomachs, we shall have sweeter tempers, and be better enabled to live a Christian life.” The Signs of the Times, September 30, 1897, par. 4. {ST September 30, 1897, par. 4}

  • FERMENTATION IN BREAD

“Good brown bread and rolls, prepared in a simple manner yet with painstaking effort, will be healthful. Bread should never have the slightest taint of sourness. It should be cooked until it is most thoroughly done. Thus all softness and stickiness will be avoided.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 108 par. 1. {CD 108.1}

“Bread should be light and sweet. Not the least taint of sourness should be tolerated. The loaves should be small and so thoroughly baked that, so far as possible, the yeast germs shall be destroyed. When hot or new, raised bread of any kind is difficult of digestion. It should never appear on the table. This rule does not, however, apply to unleavened bread. Fresh rolls made of wheaten meal without yeast or leaven, and baked in a well-heated oven, are both wholesome and palatable.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 301 par. 2. {MH 301.2}

“Hot bread and biscuit, fresh from the oven, is not healthful. The heated gases need to be evaporated.” Spalding and Magan Collection, p. 46 par. 4. {SpM 46.4}

“Milk should not be used in place of water in bread making. All this is extra expense, and is not wholesome. If the bread thus made is allowed to stand over in warm weather, and is then broken open, there will frequently be seen long strings like cobwebs. Such bread soon causes fermentation to take place in the stomach…. Every housekeeper should feel it her duty to educate herself to make good sweet bread in the most inexpensive manner, and the family should refuse to have upon the table bread that is heavy and sour, for it is injurious.—Unpublished Testimonies, January 11, 1897.” Healthful Living, p. 80 par. 7. {HL 80.7}

“In the making of raised or yeast bread, milk should not be used in the place of water. The use of milk is an additional expense, and it makes the bread much less wholesome. Milk bread does not keep sweet so long after baking as does that made with water, and it ferments more readily in the stomach.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 316 par. 3.  {CD 316.3}

  • FLESH MEAT

“…Then the light came me: ‘Use no flesh meant as food. You do not need the flesh of dead animals. There are simple foods that you can eat that will not create a disturbance, and cause fermentation, as does the meat.’” Manuscript 41, 1908 {Ms41-1908}

“Those who use flesh meat disregard all the warnings that God has given concerning this question. They have no evidence that they are walking in safe paths. They have not the slightest excuse for eating the flesh of dead animals. God’s curse is resting upon the animal creation. Many times when meat is eaten, it decays in the stomach, and creates disease. Cancers, tumors, and pulmonary diseases are largely caused by meat eating.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 383 par. 4. {CD 383.4}

The flesh of dead animals, fermenting and putrefying in the stomach, to be sent through every part of the system, is not pleasant to reflect upon, or to experience. It causes many wretched feelings, and is the greatest cause of fevers, suffering of every type, and of death. Those of sedentary habits should certainly discard flesh-meats. Many greatly abuse their stomachs by eating too much of even healthful food. But how much more those who eat of unhealthful food. The abused stomach bears up in a wonderful manner under the continued abuse daily heaped upon it, until malignant disease brings down the victim. The entire system seems to be corrupted, and nothing can stay the rapid work of disease and premature death.”  Pamphlet 123 (Testimony to the Church at Battle Creek), p. 42 par. 1. {PH123 42.1}

“Those who claim to believe the truth are to guard carefully the powers of body and mind, so that God and His cause will not be in any way dishonored by their words or actions. The habits and practices are to be brought into subjection to the will of God. We are to give careful attention to our diet. It has been clearly presented to me that God’s people are to take a firm stand against meat eating. Would God for thirty years give His people the message that if they desire to have pure blood and clear minds, they must give up the use of flesh meat, if He did not want them to heed this message? By the use of flesh meats the animal nature is strengthened and the spiritual nature weakened.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 383 par. 1.  {CD 383.1}

Flesh meats will depreciate the blood. Cook meat with spices, and eat it with rich cakes and pies, and you have a bad quality of blood. The system is too heavily taxed in disposing of this kind of food. The mince pies and the pickles, which should never find a place in any human stomach, will give a miserable quality of blood. And a poor quality of food, cooked in an improper manner, and insufficient in quantity, cannot make good blood. Flesh meats and rich food, and an impoverished diet, will produce the same results.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 387 par. 3. {CD 387.3}

“Vegetables, fruits, and grains should compose our diet. Not an ounce of flesh meat should enter our stomachs. The eating of flesh is unnatural. We are to return to God’s original purpose in the creation of man.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 380 par. 2. {CD 380.2}

MEAT EATING CAUSES IMPURE BLOOD

“Will the people who are preparing to become holy, pure, and refined, that they may be introduced into the society of heavenly angels, continue to take the life of God’s creatures and subsist on their flesh and enjoy it as a luxury? From what the Lord has shown me, this order of things will be changed, and God’s peculiar people will exercise temperance in all things. Those who subsist largely upon flesh cannot avoid eating the meat of animals which are to a greater or less degree diseased. The process of fitting animals for market produces in them disease; and fitted in as healthful manner as they can be, they become heated and diseased by driving before they reach the market. The fluids and flesh of these diseased animals are received directly into the blood, and pass into the circulation of the human body, becoming fluids and flesh of the same. Thus humors are introduced into the system. And if the person already has impure blood, it is greatly aggravated by the eating of the flesh of these animals. The liability to take disease is increased tenfold by meat eating. The intellectual, the moral, and the physical powers are depreciated by the habitual use of flesh meats. Meat eating deranges the system, beclouds the intellect, and blunts the moral sensibilities. We say to you, dear brother and sister, your safest course is to let meat alone.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 63 par. 3.  {2T 63.3}  See also {HL 103.1}

Those who use flesh meats freely do not always have an unclouded brain and an active intellect, because the use of the flesh of animals tends to cause a grossness of body and to benumb the finer sensibilities of the mind. The liability to disease is increased by flesh eating. We do not hesitate to say that meat is not essential to the maintenance of health and strength.

     “Those who subsist largely upon meat cannot avoid sometimes eating flesh which is more or less diseased. In many cases the process of fitting animals for market produces an unhealthy condition. Shut away from light and pure air, inhaling the atmosphere of filthy stables, the entire body soon becomes contaminated with foul matter; and when such flesh is received into the human body it corrupts the blood, and disease is produced. If the person already has impure blood, this unhealthful condition will be greatly aggravated. But few can be made to believe that it is the meat they have eaten which has poisoned their blood and caused their suffering. Many die of diseases wholly due to meat eating, when the real cause is scarcely suspected by themselves or others. Some do not immediately feel its effects, but this is no evidence that it does not hurt them. It may be doing its work surely upon the system, yet for the time being the victim may realize nothing of it.” Counsels on Health, p. 115 par. 1-2. {CH 115.1-2} 

“Flesh-eating was permitted in consequence of the fall. But until after the flood, animal food was not used. By the flood all vegetation was destroyed, and the Lord, instead of working a miracle, gave those who were preserved from the waters of the flood permission to eat animal flesh. Swine’s flesh has ever been prohibited. But notwithstanding that the swine was made only as a scavenger, notwithstanding that the Lord pronounced it unclean, and forbade the use of its flesh, because it chooses to eat everything that is defiled, yet men and women look upon its flesh as a sweet morsel.

     “The use of animal food has become, to the meat-eating portion of the human family, the principal article of food. It is erroneously supposed to give physical strength and endurance. But this is false, and is contradicted by facts. Grains, fruits, and vegetables are the foods which will keep the human machinery in the best running order and increase the higher faculties of the human being. More and purer blood is made by fruits and grains than can be produced by the use of flesh, which is a stimulant. Flesh-eating is destructive to health. It was never the original plan of God for man to subsist upon this diet. Therefore the Lord did not say to the children of Israel, Ye shall have no meat. But He took them away from the fleshpots of Egypt. And when He could just as easily have wrought a miracle to give them a flesh diet, He gave them instead bread from heaven.” Manuscript 38, March 11, 1898 par. 10-11. {Ms38-1898 (March 11, 1898) par. 10-11}

MEAT EATING INJURES SPIRITUALITY

“Eating the flesh of dead animals is deleterious to the health of the body, and all who use a meat diet are increasing their animal passions and are lessening their susceptibility of the soul to realize the force of truth and the necessity of its being brought into their practical life.–Letter 54, 1896.

     “Eating the flesh of dead animals has an injurious effect upon spirituality. When meat is made the staple article of food, the higher faculties are overborne by the lower passions. These things are an offense to God, and are the cause of a decline in spiritual life. . . . Whatever we do in the line of eating and drinking should be done with the special purpose of nourishing the body, that we may serve God to His name’s glory. The whole body is the property of God, and we must give strict attention to our physical well-being, for the religious life is closely related to physical habits and practices.–Letter 69, 1896.

     “The Lord has been teaching His people that it is for their spiritual and physical good to abstain from flesh eating. There is no need to eat the flesh of dead animals.–Letter 83, 1901.” Selected Messages, book 3, p. 290-291  {3SM 290.2-291.1}

E. GOOD EATING HABITS

REGULAR MEAL TIMES

“Eat at regular hours, and eat wholesome food.” This Day with God, p. 340 par. 4. {TDG 340.4}

“Neither should the meals be delayed one or two hours, to suit circumstances, or in order that a certain amount of work may be accomplished. The stomach calls for food at the time it is accustomed to receive it. If that time is delayed, the vitality of the system decreases, and finally reaches so low an ebb that the appetite is entirely gone. If food is then taken, the stomach is unable to properly care for it. The food cannot be converted into good blood.

     “If all would eat at regular periods, not tasting anything between meals, they would be ready for their meals, and would find a pleasure in eating that would repay them for their effort.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 179 par. 3-4. {CD 179.3-4}

TWO OR THREE MEALS AND NO FOOD BETWEEN MEALS

It was customary for the Hebrews to eat but twice a day, their heartiest meal coming not far from the middle of the day.” The Health Reformer, June 1, 1878, par. 8. {HR, June 1, 1878 par. 8}

“Most people enjoy better health while eating two meals a day than three; others, under their existing circumstances, may require something to eat at suppertime; but this meal should be very light. Let no one think himself a criterion for all,–that every one must do exactly as he does.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 176 par. 3.  {CD 176.3}

“It is plain that two meals a day are better than three. I believe and practice this, but I have no ‘Thus saith the Lord’ that it is wrong for some to eat the third meal. We are not to be as the Pharisees, bound about by set rules and regulations. God’s word has not specified any set hours when food should be eaten. We are to be careful not to make laws like the laws of the Pharisees, or to teach for doctrines the commandments of men.” Medical Ministry, p. 284 par. 4. {MM 284.4}

“The practice of eating but two meals a day is generally found a benefit to health; yet under some circumstances persons may require a third meal. This should, however, if taken at all, be very light, and of food most easily digested. ‘Crackers’–the English biscuit–or zwieback, and fruit, or cereal coffee, are the foods best suited for the evening meal.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 321 par. 1. {MH 321.1}

“I dare not say to you or to anyone else, You must eat only two meals a day. But I do say that too much food should not be placed in the stomach at one time, for when this is done, the stomach has no chance to do its work properly. For some, three meals a day are better than two.” This Day with God, p. 340 par. 5. {TDG 340.5}

“If those who only eat two meals have the idea that they must eat enough at the second meal to answer for the third meal also, they will injure their digestive organs. Let the students have the third meal, prepared without vegetables, but with simple, wholesome food, such as fruit and bread.—Letter 141, 1899” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 178 par. 4.  {CD 178.4}

“Those who are changing from three meals a day, to two, will at first be troubled more or less with faintness, especially about the time they have been in the habit of eating their third meal. But if they persevere for a short time, this faintness will disappear.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 175 par. 1.  {CD 175.1}

“The stomach may be so educated as to desire food eight times a day, and feel faint if it is not supplied. But this is no argument in favor of so frequent eating.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 175 par. 3.  {CD 175.3}

“Regularity in eating should be carefully observed. Nothing should be eaten between meals, no confectionery, nuts, fruits, or food of any kind. Irregularities in eating destroy the healthful tone of the digestive organs, to the detriment of health and cheerfulness.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 384 par. 3. {MH 384.3}

“I am astonished to learn that, after all the light that has been given in this place, many of you eat between meals! You should never let a morsel pass your lips between your regular meals. Eat what you ought, but eat it at one meal, and then wait until the next.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 373 par. 2. {2T 373.2} 

“In many cases the faintness that leads to a desire for food is felt because the digestive organs have been too severely taxed during the day. After disposing of one meal, the digestive organs need rest. At least five or six hours should intervene between the meals, and most persons who give the plan a trial will find that two meals a day are better than three.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 304 par. 1. {MH 304.1}

“The stomach must have careful attention. It must not be kept in continual operation. Give this misused and much-abused organ some peace and quiet and rest. After the stomach has done its work for one meal, do not crowd more work upon it before it has had a chance to rest and before a sufficient supply of gastric juice is provided by nature to care for more food. Five hours at least should elapse between each meal, and always bear in mind that if you would give it a trial, you would find that two meals are better than three.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 173 par. 1.  {CD 173.1}

The digestive organs, like a mill which is continually kept running, become enfeebled, vital force is called from the brain to aid the stomach in its overwork, and thus the mental powers are weakened. The unnatural stimulation and wear of the vital forces make them nervous, impatient of restraint, self-willed, and irritable.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 181 par. 2.  {CD 181.2}

“When traveling, some are almost constantly nibbling, if there is anything within their reach. This is a most pernicious practice. Animals that do not have reason, and that know nothing of mental taxation, may do this without injury, but they are no criterion for rational beings, who have mental powers that should be used for God and humanity.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 182 par. 1.  {CD 182.1}

BREAKFAST THE BIGGEST MEAL

“It is the custom and order of society to take a slight breakfast. But this is not the best way to treat the stomach. At breakfast time the stomach is in a better condition to take care of more food than at the second or third meal of the day. The habit of eating a sparing breakfast and a large dinner is wrong. Make your breakfast correspond more nearly to the heartiest meal of the day.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 173 par. 2.  {CD 173.2}

“Their breakfast consisted of coffee and bread with the addition of prune sauce. This was not healthful. The stomach, after rest and sleep, was better able to take care of a substantial meal than when wearied with work.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 105 par. 3.  {CD 105.3}

FOOD TEMPERATURE

Food should not be eaten very hot or very cold. If food is cold, the vital force of the stomach is drawn upon in order to warm it before digestion can take place. Cold drinks are injurious for the same reason; while the free use of hot drinks is debilitating.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 305 par. 1. {MH 305.1}

“I do not approve of eating much cold food, for the reason that the vitality must be drawn from the system to warm the food until it becomes of the same temperature as the stomach before the work of digestion can be carried on.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 603 par. 1.  {2T 603.1}

“Very hot food ought not to be taken into the stomach. Soups, puddings, and other articles of the kind, are often eaten too hot, and as a consequence the stomach is debilitated. Let them become partly cooled before they are eaten.– R. and H., 1884, No. 31.” Healthful Living, p. 91 par. 1.  {HL 91.1}

LIQUIDS WITH THE MEAL

“Many make a mistake in drinking cold water with their meals. Taken with meals, water diminishes the flow of the salivary glands; and the colder the water, the greater the injury to the stomach. Ice water or ice lemonade, drunk with meals, will arrest digestion until the system has imparted sufficient warmth to the stomach to enable it to take up its work again. Hot drinks are debilitating; and besides, those who indulge in their use become slaves to the habit. Food should not be washed down; no drink is needed with meals. Eat slowly, and allow the saliva to mingle with the food. The more liquid there is taken into the stomach with the meals, the more difficult it is for the food to digest; for the liquid must first be absorbed. Do not eat largely of salt; give up bottled pickles; keep fiery spiced food out of your stomach; eat fruit with your meals, and the irritation which calls for so much drink will cease to exist. But if anything is needed to quench thirst, pure water, drunk some little time before or after the meal, is all that nature requires. Never take tea, coffee, beer, wine, or any spirituous liquors. Water is the best liquid possible to cleanse the tissues.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 420 par. 1.  {CD 420.1}

“The dishes of soft foods, the soups and liquid foods, or the free use of meat, are not the best to give healthful muscles, sound digestive organs, or clear brains.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 225 par. 2. {FE 225.2}

“It is of great importance not to drink at the meal. Eat food as dry as possible. Then digestion will commence in the mouth. Sufficient time is seldom given to the period of eating. The slower the process the better will be the digestion.” Letter 142, 1900 {Lt142-1900}

EAT SLOW AND CHEW WELL

“The digestion begins in the mouth. Masticate your food thoroughly. Let there be no hurried eating.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 13, p. 257 par. 2. {13MR 257.2}

Food should be eaten slowly and should be thoroughly masticated. This is necessary in order that the saliva may be properly mixed with the food and the digestive fluids be called into action.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 305 par. 2. {MH 305.2}

“In order to secure healthy digestion, food should be eaten slowly. Those who wish to avoid dyspepsia, and those who realize their obligation to keep all their powers in a condition which will enable them to render the best service to God, will do well to remember this. If your time to eat is limited, do not bolt your food, but eat less, and masticate slowly. The benefit derived from food does not depend so much on the quantity eaten, as on its thorough digestion; nor the gratification of taste so much on the amount of food swallowed, as on the length of time it remains in the mouth. Those who are excited, anxious, or in a hurry would do well not to eat until they have found rest or relief, for the vital powers, already severely taxed, cannot supply the necessary digestive fluids.” Counsels on Health, p. 120 par. 2. {CH 120.2} 

“So far as possible we should avoid hurried eating. The shorter the time for a meal, the less should be eaten. It is better to omit a meal than to eat without proper mastication.” Education, p. 206 par. 1.  {Ed 206.1} 

EXERCISE BEFORE OR AFTER A MEAL

“Another serious evil is eating at improper times, as after violent or excessive exercise, when one is much exhausted or heated. Immediately after eating there is a strong draft upon the nervous energies; and when mind or body is heavily taxed just before or just after eating, digestion is hindered. When one is excited, anxious, or hurried, it is better not to eat until rest or relief is found.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 305 par. 3. {MH 305.3} 

“Exercise aids the dyspeptic by giving the digestive organs a healthy tone. To engage in deep study or violent exercise immediately after eating, hinders the digestive process; for the vitality of the system, which is needed to carry on the work of digestion, is called away to other parts. But a short walk after a meal, with the head erect and the shoulders back, exercising moderately, is a great benefit. The mind is diverted from self to the beauties of nature. The less the attention is called to the stomach, the better. If you are in constant fear that your food will hurt you, it most assuredly will. Forget your troubles; think of something cheerful.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 103 par. 3. {CD 103.3}

Neither study nor violent exercise should be engaged in immediately after a full meal; this would be a violation of the laws of the system. Immediately after eating there is a strong draft upon the nervous energy. The brain force is called into active exercise to assist the stomach; therefore, when the mind or body is taxed heavily after eating, the process of digestion is hindered. The vitality of the system, which is needed to carry on the work in one direction, is called away and set to work in another.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 413 par. 1. {2T 413.1}

“Exercise will aid the work of digestion. To walk out after a meal, hold the head erect, put back the shoulders, and exercise moderately, will be a great benefit. The mind will be diverted from self to the beauties of nature. The less the attention is called to the stomach after a meal, the better. If you are in constant fear that your food will hurt you, it most assuredly will. Forget self, and think of something cheerful.” Counsels on Health, p. 53 par. 2. {CH 53.2}

DON’T EAT TOO LATE OR TOO CLOSE TO BED TIME

“In most cases two meals a day are preferable to three. Supper, when taken at an early hour, interferes with the digestion of the previous meal. When taken later, it is not itself digested before bedtime. Thus the stomach fails of securing proper rest. The sleep is disturbed, the brain and nerves are wearied, the appetite for breakfast is impaired, the whole system is unrefreshed and is unready for the day’s duties.” Education, p. 205 par. 3.  {Ed 205.3}

“Another pernicious habit is that of eating just before bedtime. The regular meals may have been taken; but because there is a sense of faintness, more food is eaten. By indulgence this wrong practice becomes a habit and often so firmly fixed that it is thought impossible to sleep without food. As a result of eating late suppers, the digestive process is continued through the sleeping hours. But though the stomach works constantly, its work is not properly accomplished. The sleep is often disturbed with unpleasant dreams, and in the morning the person awakes unrefreshed and with little relish for breakfast. When we lie down to rest, the stomach should have its work all done, that it, as well as the other organs of the body, may enjoy rest. For persons of sedentary habits, late suppers are particularly harmful. With them the disturbance created is often the beginning of disease that ends in death.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 303 par. 3. {MH 303.3} 

Many indulge in the pernicious habit of eating just before sleeping hours. They may have taken three regular meals; yet because they feel a sense of faintness, as though hungry, will eat a lunch or fourth meal. By indulging this wrong practice, it has become a habit, and they feel as though they could not sleep without taking a lunch before retiring. In many cases, the cause of this faintness is because the digestive organs have been already too severely taxed through the day in disposing of unwholesome food forced upon the stomach too frequently, and in too great quantities. The digestive organs thus taxed become weary, and need a period of entire rest from labor to recover their exhausted energies. A second meal should never be eaten until the stomach has had time to rest from the labor of digesting the preceding meal. If a third meal be eaten at all, it should be light, and several hours before going to bed.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 174 par. 1.  {CD 174.1}

For persons of sedentary habits, late suppers are particularly harmful. With them the disturbance created is often the beginning of disease that ends in death.  {CD 173.3} 

     “In many cases the faintness that leads to a desire for food is felt because the digestive organs have been too severely taxed during the day. After disposing of one meal, the digestive organs need rest. At least five or six hours should intervene between the meals; and most persons who give the plan a trial, will find that two meals a day are better than three.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 173 par. 4.  {CD 173.4}

Adventist Doctrine, Second Coming

THE SPECIAL RESURRECTION

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The Bible tells us of a resurrection in which MANY of the dead will awake, some portion righteous and some wicked.

And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book. 2 And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. Daniel 12:1-2

In The Great Controversy this verse is applied to a resurrection in which two classes of people will be raised at the same time. The term “special resurrection” has been applied to this, although Sister White never uses it in her writings. The only way to see in the Spirit of Prophecy that this resurrection is distinctive from the general resurrection is to read the narrative of the events surrounding the second coming of Christ.

     The Great Controversy, chapter 40, titled “God’s People Delivered”, gives a narrative of the events to take place between the Time of Jacob’s trouble and the Coming of Christ on the cloud (p. 636-645.2).

     Immediately after the close of probation and the time of Jacob’s Trouble, during the first signs of the deliverance of God’s people, a voice says “it is done” {GC 636.2} which causes an earthquake {GC 636.3} In the fury of that shaking, graves are opened, and the special resurrection takes place.

“Graves are opened, and ‘many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth. . . awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.’ Daniel 12:2. All who have died in the faith of the third angel’s message come forth from the tomb glorified, to hear God’s covenant of peace with those who have kept His law. ‘They also which pierced Him’ (Revelation 1:7), those that mocked and derided Christ’s dying agonies, and the most violent opposers of His truth and His people, are raised to behold Him in His glory and to see the honor placed upon the loyal and obedient.” The Great Controversy, 637 {GC 637.1}

“Graves are opened, and ‘many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth . . . awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.’ Daniel 12:2. All who have died in the faith of the third angel’s message come forth from the tomb glorified, to hear God’s covenant of peace with those who have kept His law.

     “Those who had died in faith under the third angel’s message, keeping the Sabbath, came forth from their dusty beds.

     “‘They also which pierced him’ (Revelation 1:7), those that mocked and derided Christ’s dying agonies, and the most violent opposers of His truth and His people, are raised to behold Him in His glory, and to see the honor placed upon the loyal and obedient. . . .” The Faith I Live By, 182 {FLB 182.4-6} 

“…Dark, heavy clouds came up and clashed against each other. But there was one clear place of settled glory, whence came the voice of God like many waters, shaking the heavens and the earth. There was a mighty earthquake. The graves were opened, and those who had died in faith under the third angel’s message, keeping the Sabbath, came forth from their dusty beds, glorified, to hear the covenant of peace that God was to make with those who had kept His law.” Maranatha, 281 {Mar 281.2} 

This class of people are those who have died “henceforth” from the time that the third angel began to be preached during the Millerite or early Advent time, after the Great Disappointment of October 22, 1844.

In the description of the third angel it is said:

And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them. Revelation 14:13

In Matthew 26:64 and Mark 14:62 Christ assured those who killed him that they would witness Christ “coming in the clouds”. They will be resurrected prior to his coming, in order to watch him come in the clouds.

After the special resurrection is described, the narrative of The Great Controversy continues, describing events in the earth and heavens {GC 636.3-638}, the law displayed in the heavens {GC 639}, the voice of God declaring the day and hour of his coming, and a blessing pronounced on those who have honored God by keeping His Sabbath holy {GC 640.2}. “Soon there appears” the cloud on which Christ descends {GC 640.3}, causing the earth to shake.

“The King of kings descends upon the cloud, wrapped in flaming fire. The heavens are rolled together as a scroll, the earth trembles before Him, and every mountain and island is moved out of its place…” The Great Controversy, 641 {GC 641.2}

Those who killed Christ are alive to witness this arrival. It is described in {GC 641.2} and {GC 643.1}.

Then another resurrection is described.

Amid the reeling of the earth, the flash of lightning, and the roar of thunder, the voice of the Son of God calls forth the sleeping saints. He looks upon the graves of the righteous, then, raising His hands to heaven, He cries: ‘Awake, awake, awake, ye that sleep in the dust, and arise!’ Throughout the length and breadth of the earth the dead shall hear that voice, and they that hear shall live. And the whole earth shall ring with the tread of the exceeding great army of every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. From the prison house of death they come, clothed with immortal glory, crying: ‘O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?’ 1 Corinthians 15:55. And the living righteous and the risen saints unite their voices in a long, glad shout of victory.” The Great Controversy, 644 {GC 644.2}

The description of this resurrection has some distinct differences from the one described earlier.

1. Christ is present, raises his hands to heaven, then calls the dead to life. {4SP 463.1}

2. They are raised glorified and immortal. {GC 645.1} {4SP 464.1}

“Amid the reeling of the earth, the flash of lightning, and the roar of thunder, the voice of the Son of God calls forth the sleeping saints. . . . Throughout the length and breadth of the earth the dead shall hear that voice, and they that hear shall live. . . . All arise with the freshness and vigor of eternal youth. . . .” My Life Today, 345 {ML 345.5}

“At the first resurrection all come forth in immortal bloom, but at the second, the marks of the curse are visible upon all. …” Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3, 83 {3SG 83.2}

“The living righteous are changed ‘in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye.’ At the voice of God they were glorified; now they are made immortal and with the risen saints are caught up to meet their Lord in the air. …” The Great Controversy, 645 {GC 645.1}

ANOTHER NARRATIVE

This is a second witness. It is a more brief narrative, found in Spiritual Gifts Volume 1, describing the same thing as The Great Controversy, chapter 40, and it describes two separate resurrections of the righteous.

“It was at midnight that God chose to deliver his people. As the wicked were mocking around them, suddenly the sun appeared, shining in his strength, and the moon stood still. The wicked beheld the scene with amazement. Signs and wonders followed in quick succession. Every thing seemed turned out of its natural course. The saints beheld the tokens of their deliverance with solemn joy.

     “The streams ceased to flow. Dark, heavy clouds came up, and clashed against each other. But there was one clear place of settled glory, from whence came the voice of God, like many waters, which shook the heavens and the earth. There was a mighty earthquake. The graves were shaken open, and those who had died in faith under the third angel’s message, keeping the Sabbath, came forth from their dusty beds, glorified, to hear the covenant of peace that God was to make with those who had kept his law.

     “The sky opened and shut, and was in commotion. The mountains shook like a reed in the wind, and cast out ragged rocks all around. The sea boiled like a pot, and cast out stones upon the land. And as God spake the day and hour of Jesus’ coming, and delivered the everlasting covenant to his people, he spake one sentence, and then paused, while the words were rolling through the earth. The Israel of God stood with their eyes fixed upwards, listening to the words as they came from the mouth of Jehovah, and rolled through the earth like peals of loudest thunder. It was awfully solemn. At the end of every sentence the saints shouted, Glory! Hallelujah! Their countenances were lighted up with the glory of God; and they shone with the glory as did Moses’ face when he came down from Sinai. The wicked could not look on them for the glory. And when the never-ending blessing was pronounced on those who had honored God, in keeping his Sabbath holy, there was a mighty shout of victory over the beast, and over his image.

     “Then commenced the jubilee, when the land should rest. I saw the pious slave rise in triumph and victory, and shake off the chains that bound him, while his wicked master was in confusion, and knew not what to do; for the wicked could not understand the words of the voice of God. Soon appeared the great white cloud. On it sat the Son of man.

     “This cloud when it first appeared in the distance, looked very small. The angel said that it was the sign of the Son of man. And as the cloud approached nearer to the earth, we could behold the excellent glory and majesty of Jesus as he rode forth to conquer. A holy retinue of angels, with their bright, glittering crowns upon their heads, escorted him on his way. No language can describe the glory of the scene. The living cloud of majesty, and unsurpassed glory, came still nearer, and we could clearly behold the lovely person of Jesus. He did not wear a crown of thorns; but a crown of glory decked his holy brow. Upon his vesture and thigh was a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords. His eyes were as a flame of fire, his feet had the appearance of fine brass, and his voice sounded like many musical instruments. His countenance was as bright as the noon-day sun. The earth trembled before him, and the heavens departed as a scroll when it is rolled together, and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every freeman, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains. And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: for the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

     “Those who a little before would have destroyed God’s faithful children from the earth, had to witness the glory of God which rested upon them. They had seen them glorified. And amid all the terrible scenes they had heard the voices of the saints in joyful strains, saying, Lo, this is our God, we have waited for him, and he will save us. The earth mightily shook as the voice of the Son of God called forth the sleeping saints. They responded to the call, and came forth clothed with glorious immortality, crying, Victory! victory! over death and the grave. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? Then the living saints, and the resurrected ones, raised their voices in a long, transporting shout of victory. Those sickly bodies that had gone down into the grave came up in immortal health and vigor. The living saints were changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, and caught up with the resurrected ones, and together they meet their Lord in the air. O what a glorious meeting. Friends whom death had separated, were united, never more to part.” Spiritual Gifts, vol. 1, 205-207 {1SG 205.1-207.1} 

Compilation, Prophecy

THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPHECY

A COMPILATION OF QUOTES BY ELLEN G. WHITE

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PROPHECY REVEALS CHRIST

“Those who with humility of heart search the Scriptures with a sincere desire to know and obey the truth, will not be left to walk in darkness. Jesus says, I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. The whole Bible is a revelation of Christ….” Manuscript Releases, vol. 2, p. 90 par. 1

“In studying the Scriptures we become acquainted with God and are led to understand our relation to Christ, the Sin Bearer, the surety for the fallen race.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. 429 par. 1

The prophecies are part of the revelation of Christ, and they too reveal important things about the work of Christ in the earth, and His great purposes for the salvation of souls.

Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. John 5:39

“…The Bible is made up of many parts—history, biography, song and praise, prayer, and prophecy. But all is inspired of God, and ‘is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.’ In the term ‘scripture’ is included the whole treasure house of revelation and knowledge, in whatever form it is given.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 2, p. 91 par. 4 (2 Timothy 3:16 quoted)

TRUTHS OF PROPHECY ARE A SACRED TRUST

“God has called His church in this day, as He called ancient Israel, to stand as a light in the earth. By the mighty cleaver of truth, the messages of the first, second, and third angels, He has separated them from the churches and from the world to bring them into a sacred nearness to Himself. He has made them the depositaries of His law and has committed to them the great truths of prophecy for this time. Like the holy oracles committed to ancient Israel, these are a sacred trust to be communicated to the world. The three angels of Revelation 14 represent the people who accept the light of God’s messages and go forth as His agents to sound the warning throughout the length and breadth of the earth.…” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 455 par. 2

“The first and second messages were given in 1843 and 1844, and we are now under the proclamation of the third; but all three of the messages are still to be proclaimed. It is just as essential now as ever before that they shall be repeated to those who are seeking for the truth. By pen and voice we are to sound the proclamation, showing their order, and the application of the prophecies that bring us to the third angel’s message. There cannot be a third without the first and second. These messages we are to give to the world in publications, in discourses, showing in the line of prophetic history the things that have been and the things that will be.” Selected Messages, book 2, p. 104 par. 3

A LIFE AND DEATH MESSAGE WHICH INCLUDES PROPHECY

“Our warfare is aggressive. Tremendous issues are before us, yea, and right upon us. Let our prayers ascend to God that the four angels may still hold the four winds, that they may not blow to injure or destroy until the last warning has been given to the world. Then let us work in harmony with our prayers. Let nothing lessen the force of the truth for this time. The present truth is to be our burden. The third angel’s message must do its work of separating from the churches a people who will take their stand on the platform of eternal truth.

     “Our message is a life-and-death message, and we must let it appear as it is, the great power of God. We are to present it in all its telling force. Then the Lord will make it effectual. It is our privilege to expect large things, even the demonstration of the Spirit of God. This is the power that will convict and convert the soul.

     “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. Advance new principles, and crowd in the clear-cut truth. It will be as a sword cutting both ways. But be not too ready to take a controversial attitude. There will be times when we must stand still and see the salvation of God. Let Daniel speak, let the Revelation speak, and tell what is truth. But whatever phase of the subject is presented, uplift Jesus as the center of all hope, ‘the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright and morning Star.’ Revelation 22:16.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 61 par. 2-4

“But there is a day that God hath appointed for the close of this world’s history. This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.’ Prophecy is fast fulfilling. More, much more, should be said about these tremendously important subjects. The day is at hand when the destiny of every soul will be fixed forever. This day of the Lord hastens on apace. The false watchmen are raising the cry, ‘All is well’; but the day of God is rapidly approaching. … ‘Be ye also ready: for in an such hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.’ People are now settling to rest, imagining themselves secure under the popular churches; but let all beware, lest there is a place left open for the enemy to gain an entrance. Great pains should be taken to keep this subject before the people. The solemn fact is to be kept not only before the people of the world, but before our own churches also, that the day of the Lord will come suddenly, unexpectedly. The fearful warning of the prophecy is addressed to every soul. Let no one feel that he is secure from the danger of being surprised. Let no one’s interpretation of prophecy rob you of the conviction of the knowledge of events which show that this great event is near at hand.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 355 par. 2

“‘A new heart will I give you and a new spirit will I put within you.’ I believe with all my heart that the Spirit of God is being withdrawn from the world, and those who have had great light and opportunities and have not improved them, will be the first to be left. They have grieved away the Spirit of God. The present activity of Satan in working upon hearts, and upon churches and nations should startle every student of prophecy. The end is near. Let our churches arise. Let the converting power of God be experienced in the heart of the individual members, and then we shall see the deep moving of the Spirit of God. Mere forgiveness of sin is not the sole result of the death of Jesus. He made the infinite sacrifice not only that sin might be removed, but that human nature might be restored, rebeautified, reconstructed from its ruins, and made fit for the presence of God. . . .” Selected Messages, book 3, p. 154 par. 1

Are we to wait until the fulfillment of the prophecies of the end before we say anything concerning them? Of what value will our words be then? Shall we wait until God’s judgments fall upon the transgressor before we tell him how to avoid them? Where is our faith in the word of God? Must we see things foretold come to pass before we will believe what He has said? In clear, distinct rays light has come to us, showing us that the great day of the Lord is near at hand, ‘even at the doors.’ Let us read and understand before it is too late.” Counsels for the Church, p. 64 par. 4

OUR DUTY

“As a people, we should be earnest students of prophecy; we should not rest until we become intelligent in regard to the subject of the sanctuary, which is brought out in the visions of Daniel and John. This subject sheds great light on our present position and work, and gives us unmistakable proof that God has led us in our past experience.…” Evangelism, p. 222 par. 3

“Whatever may be man’s intellectual advancement, let him not for a moment think that there is no need of thorough and continuous searching of the Scriptures for greater light. As a people we are called individually to be students of prophecy. We must watch with earnestness that we may discern any ray of light which God shall present to us. We are to catch the first gleamings of truth; and through prayerful study clearer light may be obtained, which can be brought before others.

     “When God’s people are at ease and satisfied with their present enlightenment, we may be sure that He will not favor them. It is His will that they should be ever moving forward to receive the increased and ever-increasing light which is shining for them. The present attitude of the church is not pleasing to God. There has come in a self-confidence that has led them to feel no necessity for more truth and greater light. We are living at a time when Satan is at work on the right hand and on the left, before and behind us; and yet as a people we are asleep. God wills that a voice shall be heard arousing His people to action.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 708 par. 2-3

When the students of prophecy shall set their hearts to know the truths of Revelation, they will realize what an importance is attached to this search. Christ Jesus is the Alpha and the Omega, the Genesis of the Old Testament, and the Revelation of the New. Both meet together in Christ.…” S.D.A. Bible Commentary, vol. 6, p. 1093 par. 1

We must have a knowledge of the Scriptures, that we may trace down the lines of prophecy, and understand the specifications given by the prophets, and by Christ and the apostles; that we may not be ignorant; but be able to see that the day is approaching, so that with increased zeal and effort, we may exhort one another to faithfulness, piety, and holiness.” The Review and Herald, July 31, 1888 par. 6

“…It is essential to have an intelligent knowledge of the truth; for how else could we meet its wily opponents? The Bible must be studied, not alone for the doctrines it teaches, but for its practical lessons. You should never be surprised, you should never be without your armor on. Be prepared for any emergency, for any call of duty. Be waiting, watching for every opportunity to present the truth, familiar with the prophecies, familiar with the lessons of Christ. But do not trust in well-prepared arguments. Argument alone is not enough. God must be sought on your knees; you must go forth to meet the people through the power and influence of His Spirit…” Sons and Daughters of God, p. 279 par. 2

“…Though no man knoweth the day nor the hour of His coming, we are instructed and required to know when it is near. We are further taught that to disregard His warning, and refuse or neglect to know when His advent is near, will be as fatal for us as it was for those who lived in the days of Noah not to know when the flood was coming. And the parable in the same chapter, contrasting the faithful and the unfaithful servant, and giving the doom of him who said in his heart, ‘My Lord delayeth His coming,’ shows in what light Christ will regard and reward those whom He finds watching, and teaching His coming, and those denying it. ‘Watch therefore,’ He says. ‘Blessed is that servant, whom his Lord when He cometh shall find so doing.’ Verses 42, 46. ‘If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.’ Revelation 3:3.” The Great Controversy, p. 370 par. 2

“The secret things which belong to God are to be left with Him; but the things which He has revealed are for us and for our children. We are not now back in Paul’s time. We are nearing the great day of God. The signs are fulfilling. And yet we have no message to tell us of the day and hour of Christ’s appearing.

     “The Lord has wisely concealed this from us, that we may always be in a state of expectancy and preparation for the second appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ in the clouds of heaven. We are to search the prophecies that point to the roll of fast fulfilling events, and which Christ has plainly told us will take place prior to the end of this earth’s history. We are to watch and pray, wait patiently, and work faithfully to save perishing souls. Time is a most precious talent, and every moment is to be improved in doing our work wisely and well, so that if we are suddenly called to lay off the armor, we may be prepared to give up our account to God.” Letter 28, 1897

Every child of God should be intelligent in the Scriptures, and able, by tracing the fulfillment of prophecy, to show our position in this world’s history. The Bible was written for the common people as well as for scholars, and is within the comprehension of all. The great truths which underlie man’s duty to his fellow men and to his Maker are clearly revealed; and those who really want the truth need make no mistake. The way is not left in uncertainty, as though we were standing where four roads met, not knowing which one to take. The truth is our guide; it is to us like a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.

     “The many contradictory opinions in regard to what the Bible teaches do not arise from any obscurity in the book itself, but from blindness and prejudice on the part of interpreters. Men ignore the plain statements of the Bible to follow their own perverted reason. Priding themselves on their intellectual attainments, they overlook the simplicity of truth; they forsake the fountain of living waters to drink of the poisonous stream of error.–Review and Herald, Jan. 27, 1885.” Counsels on Sabbath School Work, p. 23 par. 1-2

“When God sends to men warnings so important that they are represented as proclaimed by holy angels flying in the midst of heaven, He requires every person endowed with reasoning powers to heed the message. The fearful judgments denounced against the worship of the beast and his image (Revelation 14:9-11), should lead all to a diligent study of the prophecies to learn what the mark of the beast is, and how they are to avoid receiving it….” The Great Controversy, p. 594 par. 2

“There is a study of history that is not to be condemned. Sacred history was one of the studies in the schools of the prophets. In the record of His dealings with the nations were traced the footsteps of Jehovah. So today we are to consider the dealings of God with the nations of the earth. We are to see in history the fulfillment of prophecy, to study the workings of Providence in the great reformatory movements, and to understand the progress of events in the marshalling of the nations for the final conflict of the great controversy.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, p. 307 par. 2

We need to:

– see in history the fulfillment of prophecy

– study the workings of Providence in the great reformatory movements

– understand the progress of events in the marshalling of the nations for the final conflict of the great controversy

We need to study the working out of God’s purpose in the history of nations and in the revelation of things to come, that we may estimate at their true value things seen and things unseen; that we may learn what is the true aim of life; that, viewing the things of time in the light of eternity, we may put them to their truest and noblest use.…” Education, p. 184 par. 1

“As a people, we should be earnest students of prophecy; we should not rest until we become intelligent in regard to the subject of the sanctuary, which is brought out in the visions of Daniel and John. This subject sheds great light on our present position and work, and gives us unmistakable proof that God has led us in our past experience.…” Evangelism, p. 222 par. 3

DUTY OF MINISTERS

“Much ignorance of Scripture prevails, even among those that preach the Word. Well-educated, intelligent men preach at the Word, and around the Word, but they do not touch the inner meaning of the Word. They do not present truth in its genuine simplicity. These men, considering themselves authority, tell their hearers that they cannot understand either Daniel or Revelation.

     “Many ministers make no effort to explain Revelation. They call it an unprofitable book to study. They regard it as a sealed book, because it contains the record of figures and symbols. But the very name that has been given it, ‘Revelation,’ is a denial of this supposition. Revelation is a sealed book, but it is also an opened book. It records marvelous events that are to take place in the last days of this earth’s history. The teachings of this book are definite, not mystical and unintelligible. In it the same line of prophecy is taken up as in Daniel. Some prophecies God has repeated, thus showing that importance must be given to them. The Lord does not repeat things that are of no great consequence.‑‑Ms 107, 1897, pp. 1, 2.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 8, p. 413 par. 1-2

There are many who do not understand the prophecies relating to these days, and they must be enlightened. It is the duty of both watchmen and laymen to give the trumpet a certain sound. Be in earnest, ‘cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.’” Evangelism, p. 194 par. 4

“Let the watchmen now lift up their voice and give the message which is present truth for this time. Let us show the people where we are in prophetic history…” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 716 par. 2

Ministers should present the sure word of prophecy as the foundation of the faith of Seventh-day Adventists. The prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation should be carefully studied, and in connection with them the words, ‘Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.’ [John 1:29.]

     “The twenty-fourth chapter of Matthew is presented to me again and again as something that is to be brought to the attention of all. We are today living in the time when the predictions of this chapter are fulfilling. Let our ministers and teachers explain these prophecies to those whom they instruct. Let them leave out of their discourses matters of minor consequence, and present the truths that will decide the destiny of souls.” Gospel Workers, p. 148 par. 1-2

DUTY OF OUR INSTITUTIONS

“Prophecy and history should form a part of the studies in our schools…” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 525 par. 4

In the book of Revelation we read of a special work that God desires to have His people do in these last days. He has revealed His law and shown us the truth for this time. This truth is constantly unfolding, and God designs that we shall be intelligent in regard to it, that we may be able to distinguish between right and wrong, between righteousness and unrighteousness.

     “The third angel’s message, the great testing truth for this time, is to be taught in all our institutions. God designs that through them this special warning shall be given, and bright beams of light shall shine to the world. Time is short. The perils of the last days are upon us, and we should watch and pray, and study and heed the lessons that are given us in the books of Daniel and the Revelation.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 127-128

PUBLICATIONS

“This is our work. The light that we have upon the third angel’s message is the true light. The mark of the beast is exactly what it has been proclaimed to be. Not all in regard to this matter is yet understood, and will not be understood until the unrolling of the scroll; but a most solemn work is to be accomplished in our world. The Lord’s command to His servants is, ‘Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.’ Isaiah 58:1. A message that will arouse the churches is to be proclaimed. Every effort is to be made to give the light, not only to our people, but to the world. I have been instructed that the prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation should be printed in small books, with the necessary explanations, and should be sent all over the world. Our own people need to have the light placed before them in clearer lines.” Counsels on Health, p. 520 par. 3

“Let more time be given to the publication and circulation of books containing present truth. Call attention to books dwelling on practical faith and godliness and to those that treat on the prophetic word. The people are to be educated to read the sure word of prophecy in the light of the living oracles. They need to know that the signs of the times are fulfilling.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7, p. 158 par. 2

THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPHECY

“Bible reading, the critical examination of Bible subjects, essays written upon topics which would improve the mind and impart knowledge, the study of the prophecies or the precious lessons of Christ–these will have an influence to strengthen the mental powers and increase spirituality. A familiar acquaintance with the Scriptures sharpens the discerning powers and fortifies the soul against the attacks of Satan.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. 543 par. 3

“Why should not this book–this precious treasure–be exalted and esteemed as a valued friend? This is our chart across the stormy sea of life. It is our guidebook showing us the way to the eternal mansions and the character we must have to inhabit them. There is no book the perusal of which will so elevate and strengthen the mind as the study of the Bible. Here the intellect will find themes of the most elevated character to call out its powers. There is nothing that will so endow with vigor all our faculties as bringing them in contact with the stupendous truths of revelation. The effort to grasp and measure these great thoughts expands the mind. We may dig down deep into the mine of truth and gather precious treasures with which to enrich the soul. Here we may learn the true way to live, the safe way to die.–RH, Jan 4, 1881.” Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1, p. 97 par. 4

“The prophecies which the great I AM has given in His Word, uniting link after link in the chain of events, from eternity in the past to eternity in the future, tell us where we are today in the procession of the ages, and what may be expected in the time to come. All that prophecy has foretold as coming to pass, until the present time, has been traced on the pages of history, and we may be assured that all which is yet to come will be fulfilled in its order.” Evangelism, p. 193 par. 4

“What is our condition in this fearful and solemn time? Alas, what pride is prevailing in the church, what hypocrisy, what deception, what love of dress, frivolity, and amusement, what desire for the supremacy! All these sins have clouded the mind, so that eternal things have not been discerned. Shall we not search the Scriptures, that we may know where we are in this world’s history? Shall we not become intelligent in regard to the work that is being accomplished for us at this time, and the position that we as sinners should occupy while this work of atonement is going forward? If we have any regard for our souls’ salvation, we must make a decided change. We must seek the Lord with true penitence; we must with deep contrition of soul confess our sins, that they may be blotted out.

     “We must no longer remain upon the enchanted ground. We are fast approaching the close of our probation. Let every soul inquire, How do I stand before God? We know not how soon our names may be taken into the lips of Christ, and our cases be finally decided. What, oh, what will these decisions be! Shall we be counted with the righteous, or shall we be numbered with the wicked?” Selected Messages, book 1, p. 125 par. 2-3

DANIEL AND REVELATION

“The close study of Daniel’s visions and warnings is essential.…” Manuscript Releases, vol. 19, p. 166 par. 2

“The book of Daniel is unsealed in the revelation to John, and carries us forward to the last scenes of this earth’s history.” Letter 59, 1896

As we near the close of this world’s history, the prophecies recorded by Daniel demand our special attention, as they relate to the very time in which we are living. With them should be linked the teachings of the last book of the New Testament Scriptures. Satan has led many to believe that the prophetic portions of the writings of Daniel and of John the revelator cannot be understood. But the promise is plain that special blessing will accompany the study of these prophecies. ‘The wise shall understand’ (verse 10), was spoken of the visions of Daniel that were to be unsealed in the latter days; and of the revelation that Christ gave to His servant John for the guidance of God’s people all through the centuries, the promise is, ‘Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein.’ Revelation 1:3.

     “From the rise and fall of nations as made plain in the books of Daniel and the Revelation, we need to learn how worthless is mere outward and worldly glory. Babylon, with all its power and magnificence, the like of which our world has never since beheld,–power and magnificence which to the people of that day seemed so stable and enduring,–how completely has it passed away! As ‘the flower of the grass,’ it has perished. James 1:10. So perished the Medo-Persian kingdom, and the kingdoms of Grecia and Rome. And so perishes all that has not God for its foundation. Only that which is bound up with His purpose, and expresses His character, can endure. His principles are the only steadfast things our world knows.

     “A careful study of the working out of God’s purpose in the history of nations and in the revelation of things to come, will help us to estimate at their true value things seen and things unseen, and to learn what is the true aim of life. Thus, viewing the things of time in the light of eternity, we may, like Daniel and his fellows, live for that which is true and noble and enduring. And learning in this life the principles of the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour, that blessed kingdom which is to endure for ever and ever, we may be prepared at His coming to enter with Him into its possession.” Prophets and Kings, p. 547-548

As we near the close of this world’s history, the prophecies relating to the last days especially demand our study. The last book of the New Testament scriptures is full of truth that we need to understand. Satan has blinded the minds of many, so that they have been glad of any excuse for not making the Revelation their study. But Christ through His servant John has here declared what shall be in the last days, and He says, ‘Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein.’ Revelation 1:3.” Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 133 par. 2

“The unfulfilled predictions of the book of Revelation are soon to be fulfilled. This prophecy is now to be studied with diligence by the people of God and should be clearly understood. It does not conceal the truth; it clearly forewarns, telling us what will be in the future.–1NL 96 (1903).” Last Day Events, p. 15 par. 6

“The solemn messages that have been given in their order in the Revelation are to occupy the first place in the minds of God’s people. Nothing else is to be allowed to engross our attention.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, p. 302 par. 1 (1904)

To the apostle John on the Isle of Patmos were revealed the things which God desired him to give to the people. Study these revelations. Here are themes worthy of our contemplation, large and comprehensive lessons which all the angelic host are now seeking to communicate. Behold the life and character of Christ, and study His mediatorial work. Here is infinite wisdom, infinite love, infinite justice, infinite mercy. Here are depths and heights, lengths and breadths, for our consideration. Numberless pens have been employed in presenting to the world the life, the character, and the mediatorial work of Christ, and yet every mind through which the Holy Spirit has worked has presented these themes in a light that is fresh and new.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 59 par. 1

 “‘And he said unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book; for the time is at hand.’ Shall we, then, treat this prophecy as if it were sealed? Let us search it carefully, to learn what it says about the very last scenes of this earth’s history.” Manuscript 110, 1905 (Revelation 22:10 quoted)

This book [Revelation] demands close, prayerful study, lest it be interpreted according to the ideas of men, and false construction be given to the sacred Word of the Lord, which in its symbols and figures means so much to us. There is so much that we positively must understand in order that we may shape our course of action so that we shall not receive the plagues which are coming upon the world.

     “In the Revelation the deep things of God are portrayed. Those whose hearts are wholly sanctified to God will be brought nigh to see priceless gems through the telescope of faith. And as they apply the truth to practice, the still deeper mysteries are stamped on the soul. Those thus honored are to communicate to others that which they have received. And as they do this, angels make the impression upon hearts.

     “All who understand the Word of God will realize that the things of minor importance which in the past have occupied their time and consumed their strength have deprived them of an experience and knowledge which they might have obtained had they kept the faith untarnished by selfishness. Had they done this, they would have understood the result of possessing that faith which works by love and purifies the soul.

     “Let none think, because they cannot explain the meaning of every symbol in the Revelation, that it is of no use for them to search this book with deep earnest longing and intense desire to know the meaning of the truths it contains. The One who revealed these mysteries to John can and will give the diligent searcher for truth a foretaste of heavenly things, hereafter to be realized. Rich blessings will come to him who reads and hears the words of this prophecy, and keeps those things which are written therein. Letter 16, 1900, pp. 2, 3.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 1, p. 42 par. 1-4

We are to know more than we do at the present time. We are to comprehend the deep things of God. There are themes to be dwelt upon which are worthy of more than passing notice. Angels have desired to look into the truths which are revealed to the people who are searching God’s word and with contrite hearts praying for wisdom, for greater lengths and breadths and heights of that knowledge which God alone can give.

     “Hundreds of commentaries have been written upon the gospel by men who are called great, and as we near the closing scenes of this earth’s history still more wonderful representations will be made. We need to study the scriptures with humble, contrite hearts. Those who will devote their powers to the study of God’s word, and especially the prophecies referring to these last days, will be rewarded by the discovery of important truths. The last book of the New Testament scriptures is full of truths that need to be understood. Satan has blinded the eyes of men, and they have been glad of any excuse for not making a study of this book. Here Christ has declared through His servant John what shall be in the last days. 

     “Every Bible student should study these prophecies with diligence. As we search the scriptures, the character of Christ will appear in its infinite perfection.…” Bible Training School, January 1, 1913 par. 1-3

There is need of a much closer study of the word of God; especially should Daniel and the Revelation have attention as never before in the history of our work. We may have less to say in some lines, in regard to the Roman power and the papacy; but we should call attention to what the prophets and apostles have written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit of God. The Holy Spirit has so shaped matters, both in the giving of the prophecy and in the events portrayed, as to teach that the human agent is to be kept out of sight, hid in Christ, and that the Lord God of heaven and His law are to be exalted. Read the book of Daniel. Call up, point by point, the history of the kingdoms there represented. Behold statesmen, councils, powerful armies, and see how God wrought to abase the pride of men, and lay human glory in the dust….

     “The light that Daniel received from God was given especially for these last days. The visions he saw by the banks of the Ulai and the Hiddekel, the great rivers of Shinar, are now in process of fulfillment, and all the events foretold will soon come to pass.

     “Consider the circumstances of the Jewish nation when the prophecies of Daniel were given.

     “Let us give more time to the study of the Bible. We do not understand the word as we should. The book of Revelation opens with an injunction to us to understand the instruction that it contains. ‘Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy,’ God declares, ‘and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.’ When we as a people understand what this book means to us, there will be seen among us a great revival. We do not understand fully the lessons that it teaches, notwithstanding the injunction given us to search and study it.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 112-113

When the books of Daniel and Revelation are better understood, believers will have an entirely different religious experience. They will be given such glimpses of the open gates of heaven that heart and mind will be impressed with the character that all must develop in order to realize the blessedness which is to be the reward of the pure in heart.

     “The Lord will bless all who will seek humbly and meekly to understand that which is revealed in the Revelation. This book contains so much that is large with immortality and full of glory that all who read and search it earnestly receive the blessing to those ‘that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein.’

     “One thing will certainly be understood from the study of Revelation–that the connection between God and His people is close and decided.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 114 par. 3-5

“We are standing on the threshold of great and solemn events. Many of the prophecies are about to be fulfilled in quick succession. Every element of power is about to be set to work. Past history will be repeated; old controversies will arouse to new life, and peril will beset God’s people on every side. Intensity is taking hold of the human family. It is permeating everything upon the earth. . . .

     “Study Revelation in connection with Daniel, for history will be repeated. . . . We, with all our religious advantages, ought to know far more today than we do know.

     “As we near the close of this world’s history, the prophecies relating to the last days especially demand our study. The last book of the New Testament Scriptures is full of truth that we need to understand. …” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 116 par. 2, 3, and 5

“Let us read and study the twelfth chapter of Daniel. It is a warning that we shall all need to understand before the time of the end.–15MR 228 (1903).” Last Day Events, p. 15 par. 4

OLD TESTAMENT PROPHETS

“As a people and as individuals we need to have a deeper sense of our duty to God and our responsibility to the world. There should be more earnest study of the Scriptures. I have been deeply impressed with the importance of studying the book of Daniel in connection with the smaller prophets, especially Malachi. And we need to give careful attention also to the lessons taught in the building of the tabernacle and the temple, and in the temple service. Through the prophets God has given a delineation of what will come to pass in the last days of this earth’s history, and the Jewish economy is full of instruction for us.” The Review and Herald, November 10, 1896 par. 11

“The last books of the Old Testament show us workers taken from the laborers in the field. Others were men of high ability and extensive learning, but the Lord gave them visions and messages. These men of the Old Testament spoke of things transpiring in their day, and Daniel, Isaiah, and Ezekiel not only spoke of things that concerned them as present truth, but their sights reached down to the future, and to what should occur in these last days.–Letter 132, 1898.” Selected Messages, book 3, p. 419 par. 5

“This is a time when every soul needs to cling earnestly to God. Those whom the Lord is leading to do his last work in the earth are to stand as Micah and Zephaniah and Zechariah stood in their day, to call to repentance and good works. The writings of these prophets contain warnings and instruction applicable to this time, and should receive our careful study. They should teach us to shun every phase of evil that made such warnings essential to the people of the past. Let every soul arouse and make diligent examination of self, that everything that would separate the people of God from righteousness may be put away.” The Review and Herald, September 16, 1909 par. 4

“…The book of Ezekiel is deeply instructive.” The Review and Herald, February 25, 1896 par. 5

“Let God’s workmen study the sixth chapter of Isaiah, and the first and second chapters of Ezekiel.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 213 par. 2

“Study the ninth chapter of Ezekiel….” Manuscript Releases, vol. 18, p. 236 par. 2

“We are amid the perils of the last days, the time will soon come when the prophecy of Ezekiel 9 will be fulfilled; that prophecy should be carefully studied, for it will be fulfilled to the very letter. Study also the tenth chapter which represents the hand of God as at work to bring perfect method and harmonious working into all the operations of his prepared instrumentalities. The eleventh and twelfth chapters also should receive critical, thoughtful attention. Let these prophecies be studied on your knees before God; unless you take up the stumbling-blocks which by your own perverse spirit you have laid in the way of many who have been connected with you, God will turn His face utterly from you and your associates.” The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, p. 1303 par. 1

“I ask our people to study the twenty-eighth chapter of Ezekiel.… (Special Testimonies, Series B, No. 17, p. 30).” S.D.A. Bible Commentary, vol. 4, p. 1162 par. 8

“Study faithfully the thirty-third chapter of Ezekiel…” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 416 par. 1

“Read and study the thirty-fourth chapter of Ezekiel. In it we are given most precious encouragement. ‘I will save my flock, and they shall be no more a prey,’ the Lord declares. ‘. . . And I will make with them a covenant of peace. . . .’” God’s Amazing Grace, p. 138 par. 3

CHRIST AND PROPHECY

OLD TESTAMENT TYPES ARE PROPHECY

“Through the teachings of the sacrificial service, Christ was to be uplifted before all nations, and all who would look to Him should live. Christ was the foundation of the Jewish economy. The whole system of types and symbols was a compacted prophecy of the gospel, a presentation in which were bound up the promises of redemption.” The Acts of the Apostles, p. 14 par. 1

THE MESSAGE OF CHRIST WAS BASED ON PROPHECY

“The burden of Christ’s preaching was, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent ye, and believe the gospel.’ Thus the gospel message, as given by the Saviour Himself, was based on the prophecies…” The Desire of Ages, p. 233 par. 1

“The time of Christ’s coming, His anointing by the Holy Spirit, His death, and the giving of the gospel to the Gentiles, were definitely pointed out. It was the privilege of the Jewish people to understand these prophecies, and to recognize their fulfillment in the mission of Jesus. Christ urged upon His disciples the importance of prophetic study. Referring to the prophecy given to Daniel in regard to their time, He said, ‘Whoso readeth, let him understand.’ Matthew 24:15. After His resurrection He explained to the disciples in ‘all the prophets’ ‘the things concerning Himself.’ Luke 24:27. The Saviour had spoken through all the prophets. ‘The Spirit of Christ which was in them’ ‘testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.’ 1 Peter 1:11.

     “As the message of Christ’s first advent announced the kingdom of His grace, so the message of His second advent announces the kingdom of His glory. And the second message, like the first, is based on the prophecies. The words of the angel to Daniel relating to the last days were to be understood in the time of the end. At that time, ‘many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.’ ‘The wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.” Daniel 12:4, 10. The Saviour Himself has given signs of His coming, and He says, ‘When ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.’ ‘And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.’ ‘Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.’ Luke 21:31, 34, 36.” The Desire of Ages, p. 244 par. 1, 4

“The disciples from Emmaus told over all the circumstances of their meeting with Jesus, and how he was known to them in the breaking of bread. They declared that though their hopes had been buried with Christ, they now believed that he would indeed reign on the throne of David. And while they were uttering these words of faith, Jesus himself stood among them, and said, ‘Peace be unto you.’ Those hands that were uplifted in blessing, were the same hands that had been pierced upon the cross. He unfolded to their minds the prophecies concerning his life and death and resurrection. He took up the Old Testament and confirmed it by the facts that are now recorded in the New Testament. He proved to the disciples that he was indeed the Messiah, the Saviour of the world.

     “Christ did on this occasion just as he desires us to do now. We are to show that the specifications of prophecy have been fulfilled in the history of the world. In the light of the prophetic word the disciples did not have the least reason for unbelief, for all had come to pass according to the Scriptures. We should take the Old Testament to explain the New Testament, and the New Testament to reflect light into the Old. The typical service pointed forward to Christ, and in him type met antitype. The disciples were to carry on this very work, for they were to go forth to teach all nations that the Messiah had come.” The Signs of the Times, October 14, 1889 par. 6-7

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THE TABLES OF HABAKKUK

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THE 1843 TABLE

And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.

For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry. Habakkuk 2:2-3

Inspired by this passage from Habakkuk, the Millerites published a visual representation of their message: the 1843 prophetic chart. This chart illustrates the visions of Daniel and the Revelation aligned to correspond chronologically with the major prophetic periods.

Although it was printed in the year 1842, it is known as the 1843 chart because it reflects the initial belief of our pioneers: that the major prophetic periods it contains ended together in 1843. They later realized that they actually reached to 1844.

Thus, the “vision” stated in this table encompasses the sequence of pagan kingdoms that would oppress God’s people, beginning in the history of literal Israel, and concluding in the history of Spiritual Israel. Our pioneers associated the conclusion of the prophetic periods with the end of the world. Therefore, 1843 represented for them the conclusion of the prophetic “vision”.

PUBLICATION OF THE 1843 CHART

This is the account written five years later, by pioneer Joseph Bates, of the printing of 300 copies of the chart:

Joseph Bates (1847)

In May, 1842, a general conference was again convened in Boston, Mass. At the opening of this meeting Br. Chs. Fitch and A. Hale of Haverhill, presented us the Visions of Daniel and John which they had painted on cloth, with the prophetic numbers and ending of the vision, which they called a chart. …These brethren had fulfilled a prophecy given by Hab. …where it says, ‘And the Lord answered me and said, write the vision and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.’ This thing now became so plain to all, that it was unanimously voted to have three hundred of these charts lithographed forthwith, that those who felt the message may read and run with it….” Joseph Bates, Second Advent Way Marks and High Heaps, 52  [ 1847 JB, BP2 52.3 ]

This is how Ellen White described the publication of the prophetic chart:

As early as 1842 the direction given in this prophecy to ‘write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it,’ had suggested to Charles Fitch the preparation of a prophetic chart to illustrate the visions of Daniel and the Revelation. The publication of this chart was regarded as a fulfillment of the command given by Habakkuk. No one, however, then noticed that an apparent delay in the accomplishment of the vision–a tarrying time–is presented in the same prophecy. After the disappointment, this scripture appeared very significant: ‘The vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry. . . . The just shall live by his faith.’” The Great Controversy, 392  [ GC 392.2 ]

The inspired testimony is clear. The same Holy Spirit that inspired the prophet Habakkuk to express the command to “Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables,” motivated Millerite Charles Fitch to fulfill that command, by writing the vision on the 1843 table:

“… As early as 1842, the Spirit of God had moved upon Charles Fitch to devise the prophetic chart, which was generally regarded by Adventists as a fulfillment of the command given by the prophet Habakkuk, to ‘write the vision, and make it plain upon tables.’ No one, however, then saw the tarrying time which was brought to view in the same prophecy. After the disappointment the full meaning of this scripture became apparent. Thus speaks the prophet: ‘Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it, because it will surely come, it will not tarry.’ Habakkuk 2:2, 3.” The Story of Redemption, 366  [ SR 366.4 ]   

The message preached by William Miller and the Millerites was the First Angel’s Message, and it contained a special focus on the time component: the expected conclusion of the prophetic periods in 1843.

“To William Miller and his colaborers it was given to preach the warning in America. This country became the center of the great advent movement. It was here that the prophecy of the first angel’s message had its most direct fulfillment. The writings of Miller and his associates were carried to distant lands. Wherever missionaries had penetrated in all the world, were sent the glad tidings of Christ’s speedy return. Far and wide spread the message of the everlasting gospel: ‘Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come.’” The Great Controversy, 368  [ GC 368.1 ]

“With trembling, William Miller began to unfold to the people the mysteries of the kingdom of God, carrying his hearers down through the prophecies to the second advent of Christ. The testimony of the Scriptures pointing to the coming of Christ in 1843 awakened widespread interest. Many were convinced that the arguments from the prophetic periods were correct, and, sacrificing their pride of opinion, they joyfully received the truth.” The Story of Redemption, 357  [ SR 357.2 ]

The 1843 chart, which illustrated such prophetic periods, was employed as the visual tool for the preaching of the First Angel’s Message. This is how James White described it:

James White (1850)

“‘And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgement is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.’ Rev.14:6,7. This angel’s message represents the last mission of mercy to the world; and it has been fulfilled. The original apostolic message was – ‘But now commandeth all men every where to repent, because he that appointed a day in the which he will judge the world in righteousness.’ Acts 17:30, 31. But the last message to the world was – ‘Repent for the hour [time] of his judgement is come.’ Time was connected with that message, and that time was 1843. God said by the prophet, ‘Write the vision and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.’ – Hab.2:2.   The whole advent host once believed that publishing the visions of Daniel and John on the chart, from which the swift messengers lectured in 1842 and 1843, was a fulfillment of this prophecy; and the unbelief of those who doubt now, does not prove that we were all mistaken then. The passing of the time, and the perpetual backsliding and unbelief of Adventists has not changed this truth of God into a lie; but it remains truth still.   You who participated in this first angel’s message, and felt its power and glory, and saw its effects on the people, just go back with me to the camp-meetings, conferences, and other meetings where the time, 1843, was proclaimed from the chart. With what solemnity, zeal and holy confidence the servants of the Lord proclaimed the time. And O, how their words fell upon the people, melting the hardest sinner’s heart; for God was with them, and his Spirit attended the solemn message. The most spiritual and devoted in all the churches caught the flame and many who had been trained to worship their church and their minister, here learned to ‘fear God’ alone, and ‘give glory to him.’ This message weaned us from this world, and led us to the feet of Jesus, to seek forgiveness of all our sins, and a free and full salvation through the blood of Christ. Dear Brethren, Was this message ‘from heaven or from men?’ I know your answer – ‘from heaven,’ Amen. We then ‘tasted of the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,’ and we cannot, will not, dare not give it up, and call it a ‘mistake,’ the ‘work of man,’ ‘mesmerism,’ and ‘of the Devil,’ as many have done, and have fallen away. ‘It is impossible’ ‘to renew’ such ‘to repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.’ See Heb.6:4-6.” James White, The Third Angel’s Message, 2  [ 1850 JW, TTAM 2.1 ]

THE MISTAKE ON THE CHART

In 1850, Ellen White made these important statements:

“…I have seen that the 1843 chart was directed by the hand of the Lord, and that it should not be altered; that the figures were as He wanted them; that His hand was over and hid a mistake in some of the figures, so that none could see it, until His hand was removed.” Early Writings, 74  [ EW 74.1 ]

“I saw that the truth should be made plain upon tables, that the earth and the fullness thereof is the Lord’s, and that necessary means should not be spared to make it plain. I saw that the old chart was directed by the Lord, and that not a figure of it should be altered except by inspiration. I saw that the figures of the chart were as God would have them, and that His hand was over and hid a mistake in some of the figures, so that none should see it till His hand was removed.” Spalding and Magan Collection, 1  [ SpM 1.3 ]   

Through the inspiration of Ellen White, God testified that the 1843 chart was directed by Him, and that He approved its figures (or numbers). Therefore, there is no valid authorization to modify any figure of the chart, unless God showed by inspiration to Ellen White, the necessity to do it.

In both quotations, inspiration recognizes only one mistake (singular), in some of the figures (plural). That is to say, the same mistake is repeated in more than one figure. And it reveals to us that this mistake was covered up by the hand of God, that is to say, it was intentionally allowed by God, with a Divine purpose.

Sister White specifically identifies the mistake allowed by God in the 1843 chart, which would be corrected later. It was precisely the year 1843, which was incorrectly repeated in the calculation of two prophetic periods (the 2300 and the 2520).

WHY DID MILLER AND THE MILLERITES BELIEVE THAT THE PROPHETIC PERIODS WOULD END IN 1843?

In order to answer this question, let us look at the example of one of these periods, the 2300 days of Daniel 8:14. This period began when the decree of Artaxerxes went into effect, in 457 B.C. And its arithmetical calculation is expressed in the chart as follows:

2300 days figureThe initial reason why the Millerites believed that this period would end in 1843 is, because, when 457 are subtracted from 2300 the result is, indeed, 1843.

But the main reason the Millerites got the termination of this period wrong is simple. While they correctly identified the year in which the period began, they misidentified the specific part of the year in which the period began, for that fact was hidden by the hand of God.

That is, in what specific part of the year 457 B.C. did the decree of Artaxerxes, which marks the beginning of the 2300 years, go into effect? Accurately identifying the starting point is important, because we are dealing with a period of 2300 full years. And since the period began in biblical times, it must be calculated according to the Hebrew calendar.

The period contains 457 full years elapsed before Christ, followed by 1843 full years after Christ, totaling 2300 full years. The 457 years before Christ would only be complete if they started counting from the first day of 457 B.C., while the 1843 years after Christ would only be complete if they ran to the last day of 1843. Uriah Smith put it this way:

Uriah Smith (1897)

“…it takes 457 full years before Christ, and 1843 full years after, to make 2300; so that if the period commenced with the very first day of 457, it would not terminate till the very last day of 1843. Now it will be evident to all that if any portion of the year 457 had passed away before the 2300 days commenced, just so much of the year 1844 must pass away before they would end.”  Uriah Smith, Daniel and the Revelation, 233  [ 1897 UrS, DAR 233.1 ]  

Marking the beginning of the 2300 days precisely on the first day of the Jewish year 457 B.C. seemed reasonable to the Millerites, for Ezra chapter 7 indicates that Ezra left Babylon on the first day of the first month, carrying with him the decree of Artaxerxes:

Ezra 7:9, 11

For upon the first day of the first month began he to go up from Babylon, and on the first day of the fifth month came he to Jerusalem, according to the good hand of his God upon him….

Now this is the copy of the letter that the king Artaxerxes gave unto Ezra the priest, the scribe, even a scribe of the words of the commandments of the LORD, and of his statutes to Israel.

Thus, having supposed the Millerites that the 2300 days commenced at the beginning of the Jewish year 457 B.C., it was reasonable that they expected their termination at the end of the Jewish year 1843.

But on what date in the Gregorian calendar we use today did the Jewish year 1843 end?

The last day of the Jewish religious year 1843 coincided with April 18, 1844 of the Gregorian calendar.

The Gregorian year starts first, running from winter to winter, while the Jewish religious year starts one season later, running from spring to spring.

For this reason, when the Jewish religious year 1843 concluded in the spring, more than 3 months of the Gregorian year 1844 had already elapsed.

THE FIRST DISAPPOINTMENT

The Jewish year 1843 expired on April 18, 1844 of the Gregorian calendar. The next morning, April 19, 1844, the Millerites experienced their first disappointment.

“From the date of the decree of the king of Persia, found in Ezra 7, which was given in 457 before Christ, the 2300 years of Daniel 8:14 must terminate with 1843. Accordingly we looked to the end of this year for the coming of the Lord. We were sadly disappointed when the year entirely passed away and the Saviour had not come.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, 52  [ 1T 52.2 ]

The mistake that the hand of God concealed until the First Disappointment had passed was the fact that the 2300 days did not commence with the first day of the Jewish year 457 B.C. in the spring, but until the fall, when half of the Jewish year 457 B.C. had already elapsed!

THE MISTAKE IN THE PERIODS IS UNDERSTOOD: A TARRYING TIME.

Since we are dealing with 2300 full years, as the starting point of the prophetic period is shifted by half a year, the end will likewise be shifted by half a year. Therefore, instead of ending at the end of the Jewish year 1843, the period would extend to the middle of the following Jewish year, 1844:

“It was not at first perceived that if the decree did not go forth at the beginning of the year 457 B.C., the 2300 years would not be completed at the close of 1843. But it was ascertained that the decree was given near the close of the year 457 B.C., and therefore the prophetic period must reach to the fall of the year 1844. Therefore the vision of time did not tarry, though it had seemed to do so. We learned to rest upon the language of the prophet. ‘For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.’” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, 52  [ 1T 52.3 ]

Thus, when the Lord’s hand was removed, after the First Disappointment, the Millerites would discover that the prophetic periods actually ended in the fall of 1844. This apparent extension of the “vision” between the spring of 1844 and the fall of 1844 became known as the “tarrying time” as stated by pioneer Joseph Bates:

Joseph Bates (1847)

“We have already shown that the tarrying time for the bridegroom by the prophetic periods was six months, beginning the 19th April down to 22nd October, 1844….” Joseph Bates, Second Advent Way Marks and High Heaps, 72  [ 1847 JB, BP2 72.1 ]

THE PURPOSE OF THE FIRST DISAPPOINTMENT

The following quote reveals the purpose of God in allowing this mistake:

“I saw the people of God joyful in expectation, looking for their Lord. But God designed to prove them. His hand covered a mistake in the reckoning of the prophetic periods. Those who were looking for their Lord did not discover this mistake, and the most learned men who opposed the time also failed to see it. God designed that His people should meet with a disappointment. The time passed, and those who had looked with joyful expectation for their Saviour were sad and disheartened, while those who had not loved the appearing of Jesus, but embraced the message through fear, were pleased that He did not come at the time of expectation. Their profession had not affected the heart and purified the life. The passing of the time was well calculated to reveal such hearts. They were the first to turn and ridicule the sorrowful, disappointed ones who really loved the appearing of their Saviour. I saw the wisdom of God in proving His people and giving them a searching test to discover those who would shrink and turn back in the hour of trial.  [ EW 235.3 ]   

“Jesus and all the heavenly host looked with sympathy and love upon those who had with sweet expectation longed to see Him whom their souls loved. Angels were hovering around them, to sustain them in the hour of their trial. Those who had neglected to receive the heavenly message were left in darkness, and God’s anger was kindled against them, because they would not receive the light which He had sent them from heaven. Those faithful, disappointed ones, who could not understand why their Lord did not come, were not left in darkness. Again they were led to their Bibles to search the prophetic periods. The hand of the Lord was removed from the figures, and the mistake was explained. They saw that the prophetic periods reached to 1844, and that the same evidence which they had presented to show that the prophetic periods closed in 1843, proved that they would terminate in 1844. Light from the Word of God shone upon their position, and they discovered a tarrying time—‘Though it [the vision] tarry, wait for it.’ In their love for Christ’s immediate coming, they had overlooked the tarrying of the vision, which was calculated to manifest the true waiting ones. Again they had a point of time. Yet I saw that many of them could not rise above their severe disappointment to possess that degree of zeal and energy which had marked their faith in 1843.” Early Writings, 236  [ EW 236.1 ]   

The “light from the word of God [that] shone upon their position” was the light of the Second Angel’s message that descended at the First Disappointment:

“Another mighty angel was commissioned to descend to earth. Jesus placed in his hand a writing, and as he came to the earth, he cried, ‘Babylon is fallen, is fallen.’ Then I saw the disappointed ones again raise their eyes to heaven, looking with faith and hope for their Lord’s appearing. But many seemed to remain in a stupid state, as if asleep; yet I could see the trace of deep sorrow upon their countenances. The disappointed ones saw from the Scriptures that they were in the tarrying time, and that they must patiently wait the fulfillment of the vision. The same evidence which led them to look for their Lord in 1843, led them to expect Him in 1844. Yet I saw that the majority did not possess that energy which marked their faith in 1843. Their disappointment had dampened their faith.” Early Writings, 247  [ EW 247.1 ]   

The light of the Second Angel that began to shine with the first disappointment, intensified until it became the Midnight Cry, when the correct date for the termination of the prophetic periods was announced:

“‘While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.’ Matthew 25:5-7. In the summer of 1844, midway between the time when it had been first thought that the 2300 days would end, and the autumn of the same year, to which it was afterward found that they extended, the message was proclaimed in the very words of Scripture: ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh!’  [ GC 398.3 ]   

“That which led to this movement was the discovery that the decree of Artaxerxes for the restoration of Jerusalem, which formed the starting point for the period of the 2300 days, went into effect in the autumn of the year 457 B.C., and not at the beginning of the year, as had been formerly believed. Reckoning from the autumn of 457, the 2300 years terminate in the autumn of 1844.…  [ GC 398.4 ]

“…The tenth day of the seventh month, the great Day of Atonement, the time of the cleansing of the sanctuary, which in the year 1844 fell upon the twenty-second of October, was regarded as the time of the Lord’s coming. This was in harmony with the proofs already presented that the 2300 days would terminate in the autumn, and the conclusion seemed irresistible.” The Great Controversy, 398-399  [ GC 399.4 ]

Joseph Bates (1847)

“At Midnight a cry was raised, the bridegroom is coming, go ye out to meet him. Then all the virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.” We have already shown that the tarrying time for the bridegroom by the prophetic periods was six months, beginning the 19th April down to 22nd October, 1844.” Joseph Bates, (1847) Second Advent Way Marks and High Heaps, 72  [ 1847 JB, BP2 72.1 ]

Habakkuk had prophesied centuries earlier that this delay would occur as a result of writing the vision upon tables:

And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.

For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry. Habakkuk 2:2-3

PURPOSES ACHIEVED THROUGH THE 1843 CHART

The 1843 chart fulfilled several divine purposes:

1. It produced the First Disappointment, which purged the Millerite movement of numerous unstable followers.

2. It ushered in the arrival of the Second Angel, which denounced the moral fall of the churches that rejected the message of 1843 (First Angel’s message).

3. It brought about the “Tarrying Time” in which the prophetic periods would be re-examined and the correct calculation would be arrived at: October 22, 1844.

Having expired the Jewish year 1843, our pioneers understandably discontinued the use of the chart to preach the time of Jesus’ return, as it now seemed obsolete.

They had to re-examine the prophetic periods and fix a new termination for them, in the autumn of 1844. The calculation of the periods was now correct, but the nature of the expected event was not, so the Millerite-Adventists experienced an even greater disappointment, known as the Great Disappointment.

AFTER THE GREAT DISAPPOINTMENT

The Great Disappointment of October 22, 1844 dramatically reduced the Millerite-Adventist ranks. This motivated the few survivors of the Great Disappointment to focus for several years on re-examining their beliefs and determining their soundness. The Spirit of Prophecy, manifested through Ellen White, was instrumental in this process of consolidating old truths and discerning new light; for instance, the acceptance of the seventh day Sabbath in 1846.

“Many of our people do not realize how firmly the foundation of our faith has been laid. My husband, Elder Joseph Bates, Father Pierce, Elder [Hiram] Edson, and others who were keen, noble, and true, were among those who, after the passing of the time in 1844, searched for the truth as for hidden treasure. I met with them, and we studied and prayed earnestly. Often we remained together until late at night, and sometimes through the entire night, praying for light and studying the Word. Again and again these brethren came together to study the Bible, in order that they might know its meaning, and be prepared to teach it with power. When they came to the point in their study where they said, ‘We can do nothing more,’ the Spirit of the Lord would come upon me, I would be taken off in vision, and a clear explanation of the passages we had been studying would be given me, with instruction as to how we were to labor and teach effectively. Thus light was given that helped us to understand the scriptures in regard to Christ, His mission, and His priesthood. A line of truth extending from that time to the time when we shall enter the city of God, was made plain to me, and I gave to others the instruction that the Lord had given me.  [ 1SM 206.4 ]  

“During this whole time I could not understand the reasoning of the brethren. My mind was locked, as it were, and I could not comprehend the meaning of the scriptures we were studying. This was one of the greatest sorrows of my life. I was in this condition of mind until all the principal points of our faith were made clear to our minds, in harmony with the Word of God. The brethren knew that when not in vision, I could not understand these matters, and they accepted as light direct from heaven the revelations given.  [ 1SM 207.1 ]   

“For two or three years my mind continued to be locked to an understanding of the Scriptures. In the course of our labors, my husband and I visited Father Andrews, who was suffering intensely with inflammatory rheumatism. We prayed for him. I laid my hands on his head, and said, ‘Father Andrews, the Lord Jesus maketh thee whole.’ He was healed instantly. He got up, and walked about the room, praising God, and saying, ‘I never saw it on this wise before. Angels of God are in this room.’ The glory of the Lord was revealed. Light seemed to shine all through the house, and an angel’s hand was laid upon my head. From that time to this I have been able to understand the Word of God.  [ 1SM 207.2 ]  

“What influence is it would lead men at this stage of our history to work in an underhand, powerful way to tear down the foundation of our faith–the foundation that was laid at the beginning of our work by prayerful study of the Word and by revelation? Upon this foundation we have been building for the past fifty years. Do you wonder that when I see the beginning of a work that would remove some of the pillars of our faith, I have something to say? I must obey the command, ‘Meet it!’…” Selected Messages, book 1, 206-207  [ 1SM 207.3 ]   

“A transforming power attended the proclamation of the first and second angels’ messages, as it attends the message of the third angel. Lasting convictions were made upon human minds. The power of the Holy Spirit was manifested. There was diligent study of the Scriptures, point by point. Almost entire nights were devoted to earnest searching of the Word. We searched for the truth as for hidden treasures. The Lord revealed Himself to us. Light was shed on the prophecies, and we knew that we received divine instruction….  [ 2SM 109.3 ]  

“… Truth was made to shine forth, beautiful in its simplicity, dignified with a power and invested with an assurance unknown before the disappointment. We could then proclaim the message in unity.” Selected Messages, book 2, 109  [ 2SM 109.4 ]

Around 1850, when this process of re-examining their beliefs to determine their soundness and assimilating new truths was completed, Adventists were once again ready to preach their message. It was very important for our pioneers to be clear that God had directed every step in the development of their message, including the disappointments. To this end, God considered it important to validate again the 1843 chart.

1850: REVALIDATION OF THE 1843 CHART

In 1850, the Adventist “little flock” was ready to take their message again to the world and for this they would need to publish a new chart.

But before God ordered the new chart, He first revalidated the “old chart” of 1843, by means of inspired statements through Ellen White:

September 23d The Lord showed me that the 1843 chart was directed by his hand, and that no part of it should be altered; that the figures were as he wanted them. ….” The Review and Herald  [ RH November 1, 1850, par. 10, 11 ]

“A vision the Lord gave me October 23, 1850… I saw that the truth should be made plain on tables, that the earth and the fullness thereof is the Lord’s, and that necessary means should not be spared to make it plain. I saw that the angels’ messages made plain, would have effect. I saw that the old chart was directed by the Lord, and that not a peg of it should be altered without inspiration. I saw that the figures on the chart were as God wanted them, and that His hand was over and hid a mistake in some of the figures so that none could see it until His hand was removed.” Manuscript 15, 1850  [ Ms15-1850 ]

God inspired these statements to make it clear that the history of the Millerite movement is sacred history. And to prevent the 1843 “old chart” from being regarded as an obsolete relic of our past, God claimed to have guided it and approved it.

THE 1850 TABLE

The new chart of 1850 corrected the mistake of the old chart: the year 1843. Now the prophetic periods ended correctly in 1844. Moreover, the 1850 chart contained the light of the Third Angel’s message, which began to shine after the great disappointment.

“God showed me the necessity of getting out a chart. I saw it was needed and that the truth made plain upon tables would affect much and would cause souls to come to the knowledge of the truth.—Letter 26, 1850, p. 1. (To Brother and Sister Loveland, November 1, 1850.)” Manuscript Releases, vol. 5, 202  [ 5MR 202.4 ]

“… On our return to Brother Nichols’, the Lord gave me a vision and showed me that the truth must be made plain upon tables, and it would cause many to decide for the truth by the three angels’ messages, with the two former being made plain upon tables.” (Written on November 27, 1850) Manuscript Releases, vol. 16, 207  [ 16MR 207.1 ]  

It is clear that the 1850 chart was also commanded by God. And it is likewise the fulfillment of the command given by Habakkuk, for the prophet transmitted the command to declare the truth in “tables,” in the plural. Thus, the 1850 table is Habakkuk’s second table.

Just as God gave two tables of the covenant to ancient Israel at its beginning, God gave two tables of the covenant to modern Israel (Adventism) at its beginning. Ancient Israel received the tables of the law, while modern Israel received the tables of the prophets.

I saw that God was in the publishment of the chart by Brother Nichols. I saw that there was a prophecy of this chart in the Bible, and if this chart is designed for God’s people, if it [is] sufficient for one it is for another, and if one needed a new chart painted on a larger scale, all need it just as much.  [ 13MR 359.1 ]

I saw that the charts ordered by God struck the mind favorably, even without an explanation. There is something light, lovely, and heavenly in the representation of the angels on the charts. The mind is almost imperceptibly led to God and heaven….” Manuscript Releases, vol. 13, 359  [ 13MR 359.3 ]

James White (1850)

“A chronological chart of the visions of Daniel and John, calculated to illustrate clearly the present truth, is now being lithographed under the care of Bro. Otis Nichols, of Dorchester, Mass. Those who teach the present truth will be greatly aided by it.” James White, The Present Truth, November 1850, 88  [ November 1850 JWe, PTJW 88.8 ]  

CONCLUSION

It was at the end of a long process of examination that God asked the Adventist pioneers to visually illustrate their conclusions on the 1850 chart. So the prophetic concepts represented in the second table are the ones that passed this rigorous examination.

Thus, both charts represent the fruit of the careful study of God’s chosen messengers: the 1843 chart was primarily the product of years of study by William Miller, while the 1850 chart added the product of years of study by Seventh-day Adventists such as James White, Joseph Bates, Hiram Edson, among others.

“The past fifty years [this was written in 1905] have not dimmed one jot or principle of our faith as we received the great and wonderful evidences that were made certain to us in 1844, after the passing of the time. The languishing souls are to be confirmed and quickened according to His Word…. Not a word is changed or denied. That which the Holy Spirit testified to as truth after the passing of the time, in our great disappointment, is the solid foundation of truth. [The] pillars of truth were revealed, and we accepted the foundation principles that have made us what we are—Seventh-day Adventists, keeping the commandments of God and having the faith of Jesus.” (Letter 326, December 4, 1905) The Upward Look, 352  [ UL 352.4 ]  

The 1843 chart embodied the message of the First Angel and induced the arrival of the Second Angel; while the 1850 chart contains the accumulation of the messages of the three Angels. The prophetic truths illustrated in both charts constitute the solid prophetic foundation of Adventism. Additionally, the 1850 chart contains pillars of Adventism, such as the doctrine of the sanctuary, the law of God which includes the Sabbath, etc….

On the right side of both tables is illustrated the historical role of Islam, represented as horsemen, in the prophetic fulfillment of the trumpets of Revelation.

Also, in the center of both tables there is a vertical strip with significant historical dates. It is a chronology that begins in the year 677 B.C. and extends until 1843 (in the first table), and until 1844 (in the second table), for a total of 2520 years of duration of the “vision”. Both tables include the calculation of the prophetic period of the Seven Times, or 2520.

James White (1850)

“…We date the “seven times” or 2520 years, from the captivity of Manasseh, which is, with great unanimity, placed by chronologers B. C. 677. This date is the only one we have ever reckoned from, for the commencement of this period; and subtracting B. C. 677 from 2520 years, there remained but A. D. 1843. We, however, did not observe, that as it would require 677 full years B. C. and 1843 full years A. D. to complete 2520 years, that it would also oblige us to extend this period as far into A. D. 1844, as it might have commenced after the beginning of B. C. 677.” James White editor, The Advent Review, vol. 1, August 1850, 2  [ August 1850 JWe, ADRE 2.6 ]

James White (1850)

“…we now could see clearly that it would take every hour of 457 B. C., and 1843 years after, to fill up 2300 days or years; and so of the seven times of the Gentiles; 677 B. C. and 1843, was only 2520 as given on the chart….” James White editor, The Advent Review, vol. 1, September 1850, 55  [ September 1850 JWe, ADRE 55.5 ]

Adventist History, Charts

HISTORY OF THE CHARTS

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FOUNDATIONS OF OUR FAITH

Between the years of 1844 and 1850 the faithful Advent believers spent much time studying the light of the third angel which was opening to their understanding. Also, in light of the Great Disappointment, which had created an atmosphere of doubt and fanaticism, they began to re-examine and affirm the points of faith that they had believed. The Lord was leading this process of investigation, and through the work of the Spirit of Prophecy, he helped them to settle upon principles of truth, which are called the foundation of the faith of the Seventh-day Adventist church. The following quotes describe this early experience.

Many of our people do not realize how firmly the foundation of our faith has been laid. My husband, Elder Joseph Bates, Father Pierce, Elder [Hiram] Edson, and others who were keen, noble, and true, were among those who, after the passing of the time in 1844, searched for the truth as for hidden treasure. I met with them, and we studied and prayed earnestly. Often we remained together until late at night, and sometimes through the entire night, praying for light and studying the Word. Again and again these brethren came together to study the Bible, in order that they might know its meaning, and be prepared to teach it with power. When they came to the point in their study where they said, ‘We can do nothing more,’ the Spirit of the Lord would come upon me, I would be taken off in vision, and a clear explanation of the passages we had been studying would be given me, with instruction as to how we were to labor and teach effectively. Thus light was given that helped us to understand the scriptures in regard to Christ, His mission, and His priesthood. A line of truth extending from that time to the time when we shall enter the city of God, was made plain to me, and I gave to others the instruction that the Lord had given me.

     “During this whole time I could not understand the reasoning of the brethren. My mind was locked, as it were, and I could not comprehend the meaning of the scriptures we were studying. This was one of the greatest sorrows of my life. I was in this condition of mind until all the principal points of our faith were made clear to our minds, in harmony with the Word of God. The brethren knew that when not in vision, I could not understand these matters, and they accepted as light direct from heaven the revelations given.

     “For two or three years my mind continued to be locked to an understanding of the Scriptures. In the course of our labors, my husband and I visited Father Andrews, who was suffering intensely with inflammatory rheumatism. We prayed for him. I laid my hands on his head, and said, ‘Father Andrews, the Lord Jesus maketh thee whole.’ He was healed instantly. He got up, and walked about the room, praising God, and saying, ‘I never saw it on this wise before. Angels of God are in this room.’ The glory of the Lord was revealed. Light seemed to shine all through the house, and an angel’s hand was laid upon my head. From that time to this I have been able to understand the Word of God.

     “What influence is it would lead men at this stage of our history to work in an underhand, powerful way to tear down the foundation of our faith–the foundation that was laid at the beginning of our work by prayerful study of the Word and by revelation? Upon this foundation we have been building for the past fifty years. Do you wonder that when I see the beginning of a work that would remove some of the pillars of our faith, I have something to say? I must obey the command, ‘Meet it!’ . . .” Selected Messages, book 1, p. 206.4-207.3 (published 1904)

“A transforming power attended the proclamation of the first and second angels’ messages, as it attends the message of the third angel. Lasting convictions were made upon human minds. The power of the Holy Spirit was manifested. There was diligent study of the Scriptures, point by point. Almost entire nights were devoted to earnest searching of the Word. We searched for the truth as for hidden treasures. The Lord revealed Himself to us. Light was shed on the prophecies, and we knew that we received divine instruction. . . .

     “…Truth was made to shine forth, beautiful in its simplicity, dignified with a power and invested with an assurance unknown before the disappointment. We could then proclaim the message in unity.” Selected Messages, book 2, p. 109.3-4

After the great Disappointment there were few who set themselves to seek the Word with all their heart.…

     “We walked carefully with God. The message was to be given to the world, and we knew that this present light was the special gift of God. The impartation of this gift was the prerogative of God. His disappointed ones, who were still seeking after truth, were led step by step to communicate to the world that which had been communicated to them. The prophetic declarations were to be repeated, and the truth essential for salvation was to be made known…. 

     “The Lord will not lead minds now to set aside the truth that the Holy Spirit has moved upon His servants in the past to proclaim.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 17, p. 12.1-4 (written 1896)

The Lord has led out representative men to proclaim the first, second, and third angels’ messages. We know that God was with His faithful standard bearers. Many of them held fast their faith until their hands were palsied by death. …

     “Let not those who have been placed in responsible positions think that God has given them light to controvert the work of the faithful ones who have died in the faith. God wrought through these old pioneers of the cause, and no voice or pen should be brought into action to demerit their labor, which was full of self-denial and self-sacrifice. Their works were wrought in God.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 9, p. 132.2-3 (written December 1890)

“The very same Satan is at work to undermine the faith of the people of God at this time. There are persons ready to catch up every new idea. The prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation are misinterpreted. These persons do not consider that the truth has been set forth at the appointed time by the very men whom God was leading to do this special work. These men followed on step by step in the very fulfillment of prophecy, and those who have not had a personal experience in this work, are to take the Word of God and believe on ‘their word’ who have been led by the Lord in the proclamation of the first, second, and third angels’ messages. These messages, received and acted upon, are doing their work to prepare a people to stand in the great day of God. If we search the Scriptures to confirm the truth God has given His servants for the world, we shall be found proclaiming the first, second, and third angels’ messages.

     “It is true that there are prophecies yet to be fulfilled. But very erroneous work has been done again and again, and will continue to be done by those who seek to find new light in the prophecies, and who begin by turning away from the light that God has already given. The messages of Revelation 14 are those by which the world is to be tested; they are the everlasting gospel, and are to be sounded everywhere. But the Lord does not lay upon those who have not had an experience in His work the burden of making a new exposition of those prophecies which He has, by His Holy Spirit, moved upon His chosen servants to explain.” Selected Messages, book 2, p. 111.2-3 (written 1896)

HOLY SPIRIT TESTIFIED WHAT WAS TRUTH

The Holy Spirit has affirmed that the charts are truth made plain.

“…the truth must be made plain upon tables, and it would cause many to decide for the truth by the three angels’ messages, with the two former being made plain upon tables.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 16, p. 207.1 (written Nov. 27, 1850)

The Holy Spirit has affirmed that the principles of faith, which were established in the early years after 1844, are a solid foundation of truth.

“The past fifty years have not dimmed one jot or principle of our faith as we received the great and wonderful evidences that were made certain to us in 1844, after the passing of the time. The languishing souls are to be confirmed and quickened according to His Word. . . . Not a word is changed or denied. That which the Holy Spirit testified to as truth after the passing of the time, in our great disappointment, is the solid foundation of truth. [The] pillars of truth were revealed, and we accepted the foundation principles that have made us what we are–Seventh-day Adventists, keeping the commandments of God and having the faith of Jesus.” The Upward Look, p. 352.4

“When men come in who would move one pin or pillar from the foundation which God has established by His Holy Spirit, let the aged men who were  pioneers in our work speak plainly, and let those who are dead speak also, by the reprinting of their articles in our periodicals. Gather up the rays of divine light that God has given as He has led His people on step by step in the way of truth. This truth will stand the test of time and trial. Ms 62, 1905, p. 6.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 1, p. 55.1

“And those who are seeking to understand this message will not be led by the Lord to make an application of the Word that will undermine the foundation and remove the pillars of the faith that has made Seventh-day Adventists what they are today. The truths that have been unfolding in their order, as we have advanced along the line of prophecy revealed in the Word of God, are truth, sacred, eternal truth today. Those who passed over the ground step by step in the past history of our experience, seeing the chain of truth in the prophecies, were prepared to accept and obey every ray of light. They were praying, fasting, searching, digging for the truth as for hidden treasures, and the Holy Spirit, we know, was teaching and guiding us. Many theories were advanced, bearing a semblance of truth, but so mingled with misinterpreted and misapplied scriptures, that they led to dangerous errors. Very well do we know how every point of truth was established, and the seal set upon it by the Holy Spirit of God. And all the time voices were heard, ‘Here is the truth,’ ‘I have the truth; follow me.’ But the warnings came, ‘Go not ye after them. I have not sent them, but they ran.” (See Jeremiah 23:21.)

     “The leadings of the Lord were marked, and most wonderful were His revelations of what is truth. Point after point was established by the Lord God of heaven. That which was truth then, is truth today.Selected Messages, book 2, p. 103.1-104.1

“The Lord will not lead minds now to set aside the truth that the Holy Spirit has moved upon His servants in the past to proclaim.

     “Many will honestly search the Word for Light as those in the past have searched it; and they see light in the Word. But they did not pass over the ground in their experience, when these messages of warning were first proclaimed. Not having had this experience, some do not appreciate the value of the truths that have been to us as waymarks, and that have made us as a peculiar people what we are. They do not make a right application of the Scriptures, and thus they frame theories that are not correct. It is true that they quote an abundance of Scripture, and teach much that is true; but truth is so mixed with error as to lead to wrong conclusions. Yet because they can weave Scripture into their theories, they think that they have a straight chain of truth. Many who did not have an experience in the rise of the messages, accept these erroneous theories, and are led into false paths, backward instead of forward. This is the enemy’s design.” Selected Messages, book 2, p. 110.3-4

HISTORY OF PUBLICATIONS, FROM 1848 TO 1850

After several years of study under the guidance of the Spirit of Prophecy, the believers had settled into the foundation of truth. God then asked James White to publish two papers, which would reflect their understanding of the foundational principles of their faith.

IN 1848 GOD REQUESTS A PUBLICATION (THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE)

“…November, 1848, I had been given a view of the proclamation of the sealing message, and of the duty of the brethren to publish the light that was shining upon our pathway.

     “After coming out of vision, I said to my husband: ‘I have a message for you. You must begin to print a little paper and send it out to the people….’

     “While we were in Connecticut in the summer of 1849, my husband was deeply impressed that the time had come for him to write and publish the present truth….” Life Sketches of Ellen G. White (1915), p. 125.1-3

In 1848, “the light that was shining upon our pathway” was that of the third angel. It was the new light that had been emerging after the Great Disappointment.

So, you can see that the request was given in November 1848, but it was not until summer of 1849 that James White began to carry out this task. Actually about six or seven months passed after the request. I don’t know the reason for the delay, but perhaps James and Ellen were traveling or involved in some other work. Or perhaps the burden or impression was not laid upon James until that later time.

It was in June of 1849 when James White felt it his duty to begin the work of publishing.

“In June, 1849, the way was opened for us to make our home for a time at Rocky Hill, Connecticut. Here, on the 28th of July, our second child, James Edson, was born.

     “While we were living at this place, my husband was impressed that it was his duty to write and publish the present truth. He was greatly encouraged and blessed as he decided thus to do. But again he would be in doubt and perplexity, as he was penniless. There were brethren who had means, but they chose to keep it. He at length gave up in discouragement, and decided to look for a field of grass to mow. As he left the house, a burden was rolled upon me, and I fainted. Prayer was offered for me, and I was blessed, and taken off in vision. I saw that the Lord had blessed and strengthened my husband to labor in the field one year before; that he had made a right use of the means there earned; and that he would have a hundredfold in his life, and, if faithful, a rich reward in the kingdom of God; but that the Lord would not now give him strength to labor in the field, for He had another work for him; that he must walk out by faith, and write and publish the present truth. He immediately commenced to write, and when he came to some difficult passage, we would call upon the Lord to give us the true meaning of His word.

     “About the same time he began to publish a small sheet entitled, The Present Truth. …” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, p. 87.1-88.1

PUBLISHING “THE PRESENT TRUTH”

Publishing began in July of 1849, and continued sporadically through November of 1850. A total of eleven issues were printed, all about topics considered to be present truth at that time, or the message of the third angel. In fact the paper was called “The Present Truth”. Topics included the sanctuary, the 2300 days, the law and the Sabbath, shut door, third angel’s message, mark of the beast, harvest, Miller’s Dream, etc.

Here is a list of the issues printed: July 1849 (No. 1), August 1849 (No. 2 & 3), September 1849 (No. 4), December 1849 (No. 5), December 1849 (No. 6), March 1850 (No. 7), March 1850 (No. 8), April 1850 (No. 9), May 1850 (No. 10), November 1850 (No. 11).

IN 1850 GOD REQUESTS ANOTHER PUBLICATION (FIRST AND SECOND ANGEL’S MESSAGES)

From a vision on August 4, 1850:

“The Lord showed me that he, James, must take the testimonies that the leading Adventists published in ’44 and republish them… He is now doing that work.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 19, p. 129.2

SATAN RESISTS THE PUBLISHING WORK

“The Lord showed me some weeks ago that as James would begin to republish what the leaders had written in ’44 upon the truth, Satan would try to hinder us; but we must struggle for the victory and go on. It has been just so. He knows this work will hurt His cause and save some jewels. That is why he rages so but he is driven back.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 6, p. 249.3 (August 15, 1850.)

“I saw the cruel power of Satan that has afflicted us of late and bound us to keep the truth from coming out in the paper. . . . I saw these efforts of Satan were to hinder the paper coming out, for the lines that were being published were written in the Spirit of God, and would rejoice the hearts of the trusting ones, and Satan knew it would hurt his cause because it would be seen by these testimonies that most of the Advent people once believed as we do that there was a shut door in ’44. And to have the plain, clean truth come out in the paper . . . would cause many to decide for the truth and to take a firm and unyielding stand for God and His truth. I saw that the paper would strengthen the things that remain and would help build up God’s people in the most holy faith. . . .” Manuscript Releases, vol. 6, 250.1 (August 24, 1850)

“The enemy has tried hard to take some of our lives here [Port Byron, NY] of late. One after another of us has been afflicted almost unto death. Had it not been for the balm in Gilead and the Physician there, we must have perished.

     “The Lord showed me some weeks before we came to this place, that we must gird on the whole armor, for we were to have a great conflict with the enemy while we were getting out the paper, for he knew the paper would hurt his cause and would be the means of strengthening the things that remain and would cause souls that were undecided to take a decided stand for God and His truth. Satan meant to hinder the work of the paper by causing sickness and distress in our company, but we laid hold of the sure promises of God. We anointed with oil in the name of the Lord and prayed over the sick and they were healed.

     “Oh, what battles we have had to fight with the enemy since we commenced to get out the paper. We have had to pray, pray, pray, and have faith, faith, faith and that is all the way we have been enabled to live. . . . 

     “Satan has great power and we must have living, abiding faith in God or the powers of darkness will get the ascendancy over us and Satan will triumph. We will be free and we must be free in order to glorify God.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 8, p. 221.4-222.2 (September 1, 1850.)

“I saw that a paper was needed, and all should be interested in it. I saw that the burden of the paper was laid upon James, and that it was as important to publish the truth as to preach it. I saw that James should not be discouraged if all did not feel the interest in the paper that he did. I saw that Brother Bates had not the interest in the paper that he should have, and that his lack of interest has discouraged James. I saw that James should set his face as a flint and go forward. I saw the flock looking for the paper, and were ready like hungry children to eat the truth published in it.–Ms 15, 1850, p. 1.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 6, p. 249.1 (October 23, 1850)

PUBLISHING “THE ADVENT REVIEW”

In August of 1850 James White began publishing “The Advent Review”. True to the name “review” it was a look back at “the testimonies that the leading Adventists published in ’44” (1844). This is a review of what they had come to believe by 1844.

God designed that all three angel’s messages would be reviewed and established firmly by 1850. “The Present Truth” papers established the third angel’s message. Then, throughout the year 1850, “The Advent Review” re-affirmed the messages of the first and second angels.  These papers were “written in the Spirit of God”.

Here is a list of the issues printed: August 1850 (No. 1* & No. 2), September 1850 (No. 3), Extra (No. 4*), Special 1850*, November 1850 (No. 5)

*includes seven times and 2520

PUBLISHING “THE ADVENT REVIEW AND SABBATH HERALD”, A COMBINATION OF ALL THREE ANGEL’S MESSAGES

“In November, 1850, the paper was issued at Paris, Maine. Here it was enlarged, and its name changed to that which it now bears, the Advent Review and Sabbath Herald.” Life Sketches of Ellen G. White (1915), p. 139.4

“I saw that my husband must not give up the paper, for Satan was trying to drive him to take just such a step, and was working through agents to do this. I was shown that we must continue to publish, and the Lord would sustain us.” Life Sketches of Ellen G. White (1915), p. 140.3

Here is a list of the issues printed: November 1850 (No. 1), December 1850 (No. 2* & No. 3) 

*includes seven times and 2520

EXAMPLES OF WHAT WAS PUBLISHED ABOUT THE SEVEN TIMES & 2520

A VINDICATION of the positions we have occupied from the first, and which seems so contradictory to those of whom the scriptures (Dan. 12:10,) have said ‘they shall not understand;’ but which to our minds only serve to open to us more clearly the word of God, and confirm us in the confident expectation that our hopes will shortly be realized…. 

     “Our minds were directed to that point of time, from the fact that dating the several prophetic periods from those years in which the best chronologers assign the fulfilment of those events which were to mark their commencement, they all seemed to terminate that year. This was, however, only apparent. We date the ‘seven times’ or 2520 years, from the captivity of Manasseh, which is, with great unanimity, placed by chronologers B. C. 677. This date is the only one we have ever reckoned from, for the commencement of this period; and subtracting B. C. 677 from 2520 years, there remained but A. D. 1843. We, however, did not observe, that as it would require 677 full years B. C. and 1843 full years A. D. to complete 2520 years, that it would also oblige us to extend this period as far into A. D. 1844, as it might have commenced after the beginning of B. C. 677.…” James White editor, The Advent Review, vol. 1, August 1850, p. 2 par. 3, 6

“…we now could see clearly that it would take every hour of 457 B. C., and 1843 years after, to fill up 2300 days or years; and so of the seven times of the Gentiles; 677 B. C. and 1843, was only 2520 as given on the chart.…” James White editor, The Advent Review, vol. 1, September 1850, p. 55 par. 5

“‘Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. [This was fulfilled when the first published time was made plain upon the chart.] For the vision is yet for an appointed time, [Mark this. There is ‘appointed time’ connected with the ‘vision’ made ‘plain upon tables;’ and what can it refer to, but the vision of the 2300 days of which it is said, ‘shut thou up the vision for it shall be for many days,’ ‘the time appointed was long,’ and ‘at the time appointed the end shall be,’] but at the end it shall speak, and not lie; though it tarry, [seem to tarry, by reaching into 1844, beyond the first published time,] wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.’

     “Here we will give extracts from the ‘Advent Shield’ No. 1, published May, 1844, pages 122-124. This is a standard work for Advent believers, and presents their unanimous view of their true position at that time.

     “‘Having passed the point of the apparent termination of the prophetic periods, we are placed in a position, which God foresaw his children would be placed in, at the end of the vision; and for which he made provision, by the prophet Habakkuk, (2:1-3) when he says, ‘I will stand upon my tower, and will watch to see what he will say unto me, and what I shall answer when I am reproved,’ or as it reads in the margin ‘argued with.’ ‘And the Lord answered me and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time,’ [the seven times] ‘but at the end [of the prophetic periods] it shall speak and not lie: though it tarry,’ [beyond their apparent termination] ‘wait for it; because it will surely come,’ [in the fulness of the prophetic times, beyond which,] ‘it will not tarry.’” James White editor, The Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, vol. 1, December 1850, p. 13 par. 8-10

HISTORY OF THE CHARTS OF 1843 AND 1850

A FULFILLMENT OF HABAKKUK CHAPTER TWO

In 1850, as the Advent believers were settling into the truth with the help of the Holy Spirit, God requested a new chart. But first He gave His affirmation of the old 1843 chart. Notice that many of the dates from the following quotes are near the end of 1850, just before the December publication of the new chart.  Both the 1843 and 1850 charts are clearly affirmed by the Spirit of Prophecy as fulfillment of Habakkuk 2:2.

 “…God said by the prophet, ‘Write the vision and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.’ – Hab.2:2.

     “The whole advent host once believed that publishing the visions of Daniel and John on the chart, from which the swift messengers lectured in 1842 and 1843, was a fulfillment of this prophecy; and the unbelief of those who doubt now, does not prove that we were all mistaken then. The passing of the time, and the perpetual backsliding and unbelief of Adventists has not changed this truth of God into a lie; but it remains truth still.

     “You who participated in this first angel’s message, and felt its power and glory, and saw its effects on the people, just go back with me to the camp-meetings, conferences, and other meetings where the time, 1843, was proclaimed from the chart. With what solemnity, zeal and holy confidence the servants of the Lord proclaimed the time. And O, how their words fell upon the people, melting the hardest sinner’s heart; for God was with them, and his spirit attended the solemn message. The most spiritual and devoted in all the churches caught the flame and many who had been trained to worship their church and their minister, here learned to ‘fear God’ alone, and ‘give glory to him.’ This message weaned us from this world, and led us to the feet of Jesus, to seek forgiveness of all our sins, and a free and full salvation through the blood of Christ. Dear Brethren, Was this message “from heaven or from men?” I know you answer – ‘from heaven.’ Amen.” James White editor, The Present Truth, vol. 1, April 1850, p. 65 par. 7-9

AFFIRMATION OF THE 1843 CHART

“Among these prophecies was that of Habakkuk 2:1-4: ‘I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower, and will watch to see what He will say unto me, and what I shall answer when I am reproved. And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry. Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.’

     “As early as 1842 the direction given in this prophecy to ‘write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it,’ had suggested to Charles Fitch the preparation of a prophetic chart to illustrate the visions of Daniel and the Revelation. The publication of this chart was regarded as a fulfillment of the command given by Habakkuk. No one, however, then noticed that an apparent delay in the accomplishment of the vision–a tarrying time–is presented in the same prophecy. After the disappointment, this scripture appeared very significant: ‘The vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry. . . . The just shall live by his faith.’” The Great Controversy, p. 392.1-2

“As early as 1842, the Spirit of God had moved upon Charles Fitch to devise the prophetic chart, which was generally regarded by Adventists as a fulfillment of the command given by the prophet Habakkuk, to ‘write the vision, and make it plain upon tables.’ No one, however, then saw the tarrying time which was brought to view in the same prophecy. After the disappointment the full meaning of this scripture became apparent. Thus speaks the prophet: ‘Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it, because it will surely come, it will not tarry.’ Habakkuk 2:2, 3.” The Story of Redemption, p. 366.4 (apparently first published in The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4, in 1884)

“I have seen that the 1843 chart was directed by the hand of the Lord, and that it should not be altered; that the figures were as He wanted them; that His hand was over and hid a mistake in some of the figures, so that none could see it, until His hand was removed.” Early Writings, p. 74.1

“September 23d… The Lord showed me that the 1843 chart was directed by his hand, and that no part of it should be altered; that the figures were as he wanted them….” The Review and Herald, November 1, 1850, par. 9-10

“I saw that the truth should be made plain on tables, that the earth and the fullness thereof is the Lord’s, and that necessary means should not be spared to make it plain. I saw that the angels’ messages made plain, would have effect. I saw that the old chart was directed by the Lord, and that not a peg of it should be altered without inspiration. I saw that the figures on the chart were as God wanted them, and that His hand was over and hid a mistake in some of the figures so that none could see it until His hand was removed.” Manuscript 15, October 23, 1850, par. 4

“I saw that the truth should be made plain upon tables, that the earth and the fullness thereof is the Lord’s, and that necessary means should not be spared to make it plain. I saw that the old chart was directed by the Lord, and that not a figure of it should be altered except by inspiration. I saw that the figures of the chart were as God would have them, and that His hand was over and hid a mistake in some of the figures, so that none should see it till His hand was removed.” Spalding and Magan Collection, p. 1 par. 3 (from the October 23, 1850 vision)

IN 1850 GOD REQUESTS ANOTHER CHART

Following the affirmation of the 1843 chart, the new chart was printed, containing all the same principle, or foundational, concepts as the old chart, and adding the new light on the third angel’s message.

“…God shewed me the necessity of getting out a chart. I saw it was needed and that the truth made plain upon tables would effect much and would cause souls to come to the knowledge of the truth.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 15, p. 210.4 (written Nov. 1, 1850)

“On our return to Brother Nichols’, the Lord gave me a vision and showed me that the truth must be made plain upon tables, and it would cause many to decide for the truth by the three angels’ messages, with the two former being made plain upon tables.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 16, p. 207.1 (written Nov. 27, 1850)

“THE CHART. A chronological chart of the visions of Daniel and John, calculated to illustrate clearly the present truth, is now being lithographed under the care of Bro. Otis Nichols, of Dorchester, Mass. Those who teach the present truth will be greatly aided by it.” James White, The Present Truth, November 1850, p. 88.8

Chart lithographed in December 1850, and there is no date given, according to LeRoy E. Froom, The Prophetic Faith of Our Fathers, vol. 4, p. 1071

“THE CHART. – It is now ready. We think the brethren will be much pleased with it, and that it will be a great help in defining our present position. …” James White, The Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, January 1851, p. 31.11

AFFIRMATION OF THE 1850 CHART

I saw that God was in the publishment of the chart by Brother Nichols. I saw that there was a prophecy of this chart in the Bible, and if this chart is designed for God’s people, if it [is] sufficient for one it is for another, and if one needed a new chart painted on a larger scale, all need it just as much….

     “I saw that the charts ordered by God struck the mind favorably, even without an explanation. There is something light, lovely, and heavenly in the representation of the angels on the charts. The mind is almost imperceptibly led to God and heaven. …  {13MR 359.3}

     “I saw that if the means that has been wasted in getting out charts had been spent in getting out the truth clear before the brethren in publishing tracts, etc., it would have done much good and saved souls. I saw that the chart-making business has spread like the fever.–Manuscript 1, 1853, pp. 6, 7.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 13, p. 359.1-360.1

WAS THE 1863 CHART ORDERED OR ENDORSED BY GOD?

There is no evidence in the Spirit of Prophecy that God ordered the 1863 chart, or that the Holy Spirit guided in the making of it. The only “endorsement” for the use of the charts after 1863 came about seven years after the publication of the 1863 chart. She mentions “the charts”, simply saying that you can show people truth which is illustrated on the chart. This comment is in harmony with the fact that the chart still contained truths, but this is not the same magnitude of endorsement given for the previous charts; a strong body of evidence and affirmation that the first two were requested by God and directed by the Holy Spirit.

“We shall not hold our peace upon this subject. Our people will come up to the work. The means will come. And we would say to those who are poor and want books: Send in your orders, with a statement of your condition as to this world’s goods. We will send you a package of books containing four volumes of Spiritual Gifts, How to Live, Appeal to Youth, Appeal to Mothers, Sabbath Readings, and the two large charts, with Key of Explanation. If you have a part of these, state what you have, and we will send other books in their places, or send only such of these as you have not. Send fifty cents to pay the postage, and we will send you the five-dollar package and charge the fund four dollars.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, p. 689.2 (1868)

“…Are you missionaries in your neighborhoods, and in your own families? Are you seeking to have a deep work of reformation going forward where you are best known? Is your life such as to give you influence at home with your families and workmen? You can hang up the charts, and show them the truth, as it is there illustrated. You can teach them, if you have a mind thus to do, by explaining prophetic history, and tracing down prophecies, that the end of all things is at hand. You can impress them with the sacredness of the law of God, and show them its claims upon them.” The Review and Herald, March 29, 1870 par. 14