THE VOICE OF GOD - THE SECOND ADVENTThe sounding of the Voice of God in the heavens is one of four major events before the millennium begins. Each of those four major events (the national Sunday law, the general close of probation, the Voice of God, and the second advent) marks a decided transition.
When the Voice sounds, a remarkable number of different events rapidly occurs, and then, soon after, Jesus returns the second time.
We will begin this study with a presentation of the battle of Armageddon, and then we will view the final events from the Voice of God to the second advent.
THE BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON
In the late nineteenth century, Uriah Smith told a friend that, because of current political developments that indicated that the nation of Turkey might again become a prominent power in the Near East, there was a possibility that Turkey might be the "king of the north" mentioned in Daniel 11. He said that, in his book, he was going to identify the king of the north as the nation of Turkey; but that, if events changed, he would revert back to the regular Adventist view of the subject. In a few years those events did reverse, but, to the day of his death in 1903, Smith never removed his "new view" from his book, Daniel and Revelation. There is only one reference to Turkey in Great Controversy (GC 334-335), and it obviously has nothing to do with the battle of Armageddon. In addition, the Spirit of Prophecy places that battle in the future, not in the past.
It is more likely that the "battle of Armageddon" is the climax of the massive conflict, so soon to begin, with Satan and his followers on one side and Christ and His faithful commandment-keeping people on the other. This conflict bursts into the open when the national Sunday law is enacted and, in a sense, it will still be actively carried on a thousand years later as Satan prepares for the final attack against the Holy City. The battle of Armageddon Is actually the last phase of the entire great controversy between Christ and Satan.
The following passages identify the Armageddon battle with the outpouring of the seventh plague, which we know especially applies to that time when the voice of God delivers His people from the physical power of the wicked, on down to the second advent of Christ. In the "Twelve Rapid Events" section, which follows, military and warfare terms are frequently mentioned in the quotations ("battle, war, armies of heaven, powers of earth, munitions, weapons, " etc.).
1 - Why men join in the rebellion.
"The enmity of Satan against good will be manifested more and more as he brings his forces into activity in his last work of rebellion, and every soul that is not fully surrendered to God and kept by divine power will form an alliance with Satan against heaven and Join in battle against the Ruler of the universe." Testimonies to Ministers, 465:0.
2 - Soon all will have taken sides.
"Soon all the Inhabitants of the earth will have taken sides, either for or against the government of heaven." 7 Testimonies,141:2.
3 - The armies of heaven are on one side of the battle.
"The battle of Armageddon is soon to be fought. He on whose vesture is written the name, King of kings, and Lord of lords, is soon to lead forth the armies of heaven.
"It cannot now be said by the Lord's servants, as it was by the prophet Daniel: 'The time appointed was long.' Daniel 10:1. It is now but a short time till the witnesses for God will have done their work in preparing the way of the Lord." 6 Testimonies, 406:3-4.
4 - The nations of the world are on the other side.
"Four mighty angels hold back the powers of this earth till the servants of God are sealed in their foreheads. The nations of the world are eager for conflict; but they are held in check by the angels. When this restraining power is removed, there will come a time of trouble and anguish. Deadly instruments of warfare will be invented. Vessels, with their living cargo, will be entombed in the great deep. All who have not the spirit of truth will unite under the leadership of satanic agencies. But they are to be kept under control till the time shall come for the great battle of Armageddon." 7 Bible Commentary, 967/2:1.
5 - Armageddon is definitely occurring at the time of the seventh plague.
"We need to study the pouring out of the seventh vial. The powers of evil will not yield up the conflict without a struggle. But Providence has a part to act in the battle of Armageddon. When the earth is lighted with the glory of the angel of Revelation eighteen, the religious elements, good and evil, will awake from slumber, and the armies of the living God will take the field." 7 Bible Commentary, 983/1:2.
6 - Two great opposing powers. On one side is God and the obedient; on the other, the devil and the rebellious. It is a battle of evil angels and wicked men vs. good angels and God's people. The plagues are poured out during this time.
“Two great opposing powers are revealed in the last great battle. On one side stands the Creator of heaven and earth. All on His side bear His signet. They are obedient to His commands. On the other side stands the prince of darkness, with those who have "chosen apostasy and rebellion." 7 Bible Commentary, 982/2:5-983/1:0.
"Every form of evil is to spring into intense activity. Evil angels unite their powers with evil men, and as they have been in constant conflict and attained an experience in the best modes of deception and battle, and have been strengthening for centuries, they will not yield the last great final contest without a desperate struggle. All the world will be on one side or the other of the question. The battle of Armageddon will be fought, and that day must find none of us sleeping. Wide awake we must be, as wise virgins having oil in our vessels with our lamps. .
"The power of the Holy Ghost must be upon us, and the Captain of the Lord's host will stand at the head of the angels of heaven to direct the battle. Solemn events before us are yet to transpire. Trumpet after trumpet is to be sounded, vial after vial poured out one after another upon the inhabitants of the earth. Scenes of stupendous interest are right upon us." 7 Bible Commentary, 982/2:3-4.
7 - It is earthly powers vs. God. The battle is fought on earth.
"A terrible conflict is before us. We are nearing the battle of the great day of God Almighty. That which has been held in control is to be let loose. The angel of mercy is folding her wings, preparing to step down from the throne and leave the world to the control of Satan. The principalities and powers of earth are in bitter revolt against the God of heaven. They are filled with hatred against those who serve Him, and soon, very soon, will be fought the last great battle between good and evil. The earth is to be the battlefield -the scene of the final contest and the final victory." My Life Today, 308:3.
8 - It is the forces of nature vs. God's enemies. The battle begins when probation closes.
"At His own will God summons the forces of nature to overthrow the might of His enemies . . We are told of a greater battle to take place In the closing scenes of earth's history, when 'Jehovah hath opened His armory, and hath brought forth the weapons of His indignation' . . The revelator describes the destruction that is to take place when the 'great voice out of the temple of heaven' announces, 'It is done.' "Patriarchs and Prophets, 509:3-4.
9 - The battles are real.
"The battles waging between the two armies are as real as those fought by the armies of this world, and on the issue of the spiritual conflict eternal destinies depend." Prophet and Kings, 176:0.
10 - The last great battle.
"A terrible conflict is before us. We are nearing the battle of the great day of God Almighty. That which has been held in control is to be let loose. The angel of mercy is folding her wings, preparing to step down from the throne and leave the world to the control of Satan. The principalities and powers of earth are in bitter revolt against the God of heaven. They are filled with hatred against those who serve Him, and soon, very soon, will be fought the last great battle between good and evil. The earth is to be the battle field, the scene of the final contest and the final victory. Here, where for so long Satan has led men against God, rebellion is to be forever suppressed." Last Day Events, 250:1.
11 - The Captain directs the battle.
"All the world will be on one side or the other of the question. The battle of Armageddon will be fought. And that day must find none of us sleeping. Wide awake we must be, as wise virgins having oil in our vessels with our lamps. The power of the Holy Ghost must be upon us and the Captain of the Lord's host will stand at the head of the angels of heaven to direct the battle." 3 Selected Messages, 425:5-426:1.
12 - The King of kings leads His armies. Thus, (as Revelation 19 indicates) the battle of Armageddon continues on down to the second advent.
"He on whose vesture is written the name, King of kings and Lord of lords, leads forth the armies of heaven on white horses, clothed in fine linen, clean and white." 7 Bible Commentary, 982/2:2.
" 'Faithful and True,' 'in righteousness He doth judge and make war.' And 'the armies which were in heaven' (Revelation 19:11,14) follow Him." Great Controversy, 641:0 [context: the second advent of Christ].
TWELVE RAPID EVENTS
Two brief pen pictures of these events will be found in EW 34:1 and EW 285:1-286:0. Only when they provide additional information to that given below will they be quoted. Here are twelve major events and a number of lesser ones:
As an expression of reverence, the word, "Voice," when applied to God, will be initial capitalized below.
It is now that God interposes.
"The people of God -some in prison cells, some hidden in solitary retreats in the forests and the mountains -still plead for divine protection, while in every quarter companies of armed men, urged on by hosts of evil angels, are preparing for the work of death. It is now, in the hour of utmost extremity, that the God of Israel will interpose for the deliverance of His chosen." Great Controversy, 635:2.
God always chooses extremities.
"He [God] has always chosen extremities, when there seemed no possible chance for deliverance from Satan's workings, for the manifestation of His power." 5 Testimonies, 714:0.
SUDDEN DARKNESS, AND THEN RAINBOWS AROUND THEM
1 - Deliverance begins by means of sudden darkness.
"With shouts of triumph, jeering, and imprecation, throngs of evil men are about to rush upon their prey, when, lo, a dense blackness, deeper than the darkness of the night, falls upon the earth." Great Controversy, 635:3-636:0.
2 - The symbol of God's covenant encircles His people.
"Then a rainbow, shining with the glory from the throne of God, spans the heavens and seems to encircle each praying company. The angry multitudes are suddenly arrested. Their mocking cries die away. The objects of their murderous rage are forgotten. With fearful forebodings they gaze upon the symbol of God's covenant and long to be shielded from its overpowering brightness. "-Great Controversy, 636:0.
3 - Light will be in every dwelling of the faithful.
"While all the world is plunged in darkness, there will be light in every dwelling of the saints. They will catch the first light of His second appearing." Prophets and Kings, 720:2.
BEYOND THE BOW OF PROMISE, A VISION OF CHRIST; AND THE SHOUT OF VICTORY
1 - They see the bow and Christ. Their shout is the shout of victory over the beast and his image.
"By the people of God a voice, clear and melodious, is heard, saying, 'Look up,' and lifting their eyes to the heavens, they behold the bow of promise. The black, angry clouds that covered the firmament are parted, and like Stephen they look up steadfastly into heaven and see the glory of God and the Son of man seated upon His throne. In His divine form they discern the marks of His humiliation; and from His lips they hear the request presented before H is Father and the holy angels: 'I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.' John 17:24. Again a voice, musical and triumphant, is heard, saying: 'They come! they come! holy, harmless, and undefiled. They have kept the word of My patience; they shall walk among the angels;' and the pale, quivering lips of those who have held fast their faith utter a shout of victory." Great Controversy, 636:1.
THE SAINTS ARE GLORIFIED
1 - A glorious light shines about them. "Soon I heard the voice of God, which shook the heavens and the earth. There was a mighty earthquake. Buildings were shaken down on every side. I then heard a triumphant shout of victory, loud, musical, and clear. I looked upon the company, who, a short time before, were in such distress and bondage. Their captivity was turned. A glorious light shone upon them. How beautiful they then looked! All marks of care and weariness were gone, and health and beauty were seen in every countenance. Their enemies, the heathen around them, fell like dead men; they could not endure the light that shone upon the delivered, holy ones. This light and glory remained upon them, until Jesus was seen In the clouds of heaven, and the faithful, tried company were changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, from glory to glory." -Early Writings, 272:3-273:0. [At the voice of God, a light rests upon them; at the Second Advent they are translated.]
2 - At the Voice of God they are glorified.
"At the voice of God they were glorified; now [at the Second Advent] they are made immortal and with the risen saints are caught up to meet their Lord in the air." Great Controversy, 645:1.
3 - Their faces are lit with the glory of God.
"The 144,000 triumphed. Their faces were lighted up with the glory of God." Early Writings, 37:0.
THE VOICE OF GOD SHAKES HEAVENS AND EARTH
1 - The Voice comes from one clear space of glory.
"In the midst of the angry heavens is one clear space of indescribable glory, whence comes the voice of God like the sound of many waters, saying: 'It is done.' Revelation 16:17, that voice shakes the heavens and the earth." Great Controversy, 636:2-3.
"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." Early Writings, 285:1.
2 - The Voice comes from the region of Orion.
"Dark, heavy clouds came up and clashed against each other, The atmosphere parted and rolled back; then we could look up through the open space In Orion, whence came the voice of God. The Holy City will come down through that open space." Early Writings, 41:2.
3 - The sounding of the Voice brings despair to the wicked.
"After the people have heard the voice of God they are in despair and trouble such as never was since there was a nation." Maranatha, 279:5,
4 - It is the signal for some of the worst of the "judgments upon Babylon" to fall.
"(Rev 18:5-1.0; 18:11,3, 15-17 quoted) Such are the judgments that fall upon Babylon in the day of the visitation of God's wrath. She has filled up the measure of her iniquity; her time has come; she is ripe for destruction." Great Controversy, 653:1-3,
Note: The Revelation 18 "judgments upon Babylon," mentioned in the above passage, could be placed earlier in the outpouring of the plagues. But an awakening of the wicked is implied in the context, which does not fully occur until the Voice of God sounds. Also the next sentence (below) locates it at the sounding of the Voice.
5 - The Voice produces a terrible awakening, as the idols are destroyed.
"When the voice of God turns the captivity of His people, there is a terrible awakening of those who have lost all in the great conflict of life, While probation continued they were blinded by Satan's deceptions, and they justified their course of sin. . Now they are stripped of all that made them great and are left destitute and defenseless. They look with terror upon the destruction of the idols, which they preferred before their Maker. . The gain of a lifetime is swept away in a moment. The rich bemoan the destruction of their grand houses, the scattering of their gold and sliver. But their lamentations are silenced by the fear that they themselves are to perish with their idols.
"The wicked are filled with regret not because of their sinful neglect of God and their fellow men but because God has conquered, they lament that the result is what it is; but they do not repent of their wickedness. They would leave no means untried to conquer if they could." Great Controversy, 654:1-2.
THE GREAT EARTHQUAKE; FORTY-FOUR SIGNS AND WONDERS OCCUR
It is generally considered that this earthquake is part of the seventh plague (the Rev 16:18 earthquake), which continues on until it concludes at the second advent and the death of the wicked. (The seventh seal earthquake may also apply to this time; Rev 8:5).
1 - The Voice of God produces the mighty earthquake.
"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." Early Writings, 285:1.
2 - Four signs rapidly occur.
"It is at midnight that God manifests His power for the deliverance of His people. [1) The sun appears, shining in its strength. Signs and wonders follow in quick succession. The wicked look with terror and amazement upon the scene, while the righteous behold with solemn joy the tokens of their deliverance. [2) Everything in nature seems turned out of its course. [3) The streams ease to flow. [4] Dark, heavy clouds come up and clash against each other." Great Controversy, 636:2.
3 . Nineteen more signs accompany them.
"That voice [5) shakes the heavens and the earth. [6] There is a mighty earthquake, 'such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great.' Revelation 16: 17-18. [7) The firmament appears to open and shut. [8] The glory from the throne of God seems flashing through. [9) The mountains shake like a reed in the wind, and [10] ragged rocks are scattered on every side. [11) There is a roar as of a coming tempest. [12] The sea is lashed into fury. There is heard [13] the shriek of a hurricane like the voice of demons upon a mission of destruction. [14) The whole earth heaves and swells like the waves of the sea. [15] Its surface is breaking up. [16] Its very foundations seem to be giving way. [17] Mountain chains are sinking. [18] Inhabited Islands disappear. [19) The seaports that have become like Sodom for wickedness are swallowed up by the angry waters. Babylon the great has come in remembrance before God, 'to give unto her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath.' [20] Great hailstones, everyone 'about the weight of a talent,' are doing their work of destruction. Revelation 16:19, 21. [21) The proudest cities of the earth are laid low. [22] The lordly palaces, upon which the world's great men have lavished their wealth in order to glorify themselves, are crumbling to ruin before their eyes. [23] Prison walls are rent asunder, and [24] God's people, who have been held in bondage for their faith, are set free." Great Controversy, 636:3-637:0.
4 - Eight more signs take place.
"[25] The sky opened and shut and was in commotion. [26] The mountains shook like a reed in the wind and [27] cast out ragged rocks all around. The sea boiled like a pot and [28] cast out stones upon the land." Early Writings, 285:2.
"[29] The powers of heaven will be shaken at the voice of God. Then the sun, moon, and stars will be moved out of their places. They will not pass away, but be shaken by the voice of God." Early Writings, 41:1.
"Suddenly [in the middle of night] [30] the sun appeared, shining in his strength, and [31) the moon stood still. The wicked looked upon the scene with amazement, while the saints beheld with solemn joy the tokens of their deliverance." Early Writings, 285:1.
5 - Ten more signs occur.
"In the day of the Lord, just before the coming of Christ, [32] God will send lightnings from Heaven in His wrath, [33] which will unite with fire In the earth. [34] The mountains will burn like a furnace, and will pour forth terrible streams of lava, [35] destroying gardens and fields, villages and cities; and as they pour their melted ore, [36] rocks and heated mud into the rivers, will cause them to boll like a pot, and [37] send forth massive rocks and scatter their broken fragments upon the land with indescribable violence, [38] Whole rivers will be dried up. The earth will be convulsed, and there will be dreadful eruptions and [39] earthquakes everywhere. God will [40] plague the wicked inhabitants of the earth until they are destroyed from off it." 3 Spiritual Gifts, 82:3-83:0.
Note: From the Voice of God to-and including-the Second Coming is considered the seventh plague. By the conclusion of the Second Advent, no wicked people will be alive.]
"The earth's crust will be rent by the outbursts of the elements concealed in the bowels of the earth. These elements, once broken loose, [41] will sweep away the treasures of those who for years have been adding to their wealth by securing large possessions at starvation prices from those in their employ." Maranatha, 283:3.
"[42] The great general conflagration is but just ahead, when all this wasted labor of life will be swept away in a night and day." 4 Testimonies,49:2.
"There will be [43] great destruction of human life. But as in the days of the great deluge Noah was preserved in the ark that God had prepared for him, so in these days of destruction and calamity, God will be the refuge of His believing ones. Through the psalmist He declares, 'Because thou has made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; there shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. ' 'For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion, " Then shall we not make the Lord our surety and our defense?" Maranatha, 283:5.
"Earthquakes in various places have been felt, but these disturbances have been very limited. . Terrible shocks will come upon the earth, and [44] the lordly palaces erected at great expense will certainly become heaps of ruins." 3 Selected Messages, 391:5.
THE SPECIAL RESURRECTION
1 - Two classes arise in this special resurrection.
"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." Great Controersy, 697:1.
2 - The earthquake opens the graves.
"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." Early Writings, 285:1.
THE DOOM OF THE WICKED PREDICTED; THEIR TERRIBLE FEAR
1 - Amid thunder and lightning, a voice declares the doom of the wicked.
"Thick clouds still cover the sky; yet the sun now and then breaks through, appearing like the avenging eye of Jehovah. Fierce lightenings leap from the heavens, enveloping the earth in a sheet of flame. Above the terrific roar of thunder, voices, mysterious and awful, declare the doom of the wicked. The words spoken are not comprehended by all; but they are distinctly understood by the false teachers. Those who a little before were so reckless, so boastful and defiant, so exultant in their cruelty to God's commandment-keeping people, are now overwhelmed with consternation and shuddering in fear. Their wails are heard above the sound of the elements. Demons acknowledge the deity of Christ and tremble before His power, while men are supplicating for mercy and grovelling in abject terror.
"Said the prophets or old, as they beheld in holy vision the day of God: 'Howl ye; for the day of the Lord is at hand; it shall come as a destruction from the Almighty.' Isaiah 13:6. 'Enter into the rock, and hide thee in the dust, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of His majesty. The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the Lord alone shall be exalted in that day. For the day of the Lord of hosts shall be upon everyone that is proud and lofty, and upon everyone that is lifted up; and he shall be brought low.' 'In that day a man shall cast the idols of his silver, and the idols of his gold, which they made each one for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats; to go into the clefts of the rocks, and into the tops of the ragged rocks, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of His majesty, when He ariseth to shake terribly the earth.' " Great Controversy, 697:2-698:1.
THE RIGHTEOUS KNOW THEY ARE DELIVERED AND THEY SING PRAISES TO GOD
1 - A bright star is seen, and the faces of the righteous are radiant as they sing praises; the clouds sweep back and the sky is filled with stars.
“Through a rift in the clouds there beams a star whose brilliancy is increased fourfold in contrast with the darkness. It speaks hope and joy to the faithful, but severity and wrath to the transgressors of God's law. Those who have sacrificed all for Christ are now secure, hidden as in the secret of the Lord's pavilion. They have been tested, and before the world and the despisers of truth they have evinced their fidelity to Him who died for them. A marvelous change has come over those who have held fast their integrity in the very face of death. They have been suddenly delivered from the dark and terrible tyranny of men transformed to demons. Their faces, so lately pale, anxious, and haggard, are now aglow with wonder, faith, and love. Their voices rise in triumphant song: 'God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof.' Psalm 46:1-3.
"While these words of holy trust ascend to God, the clouds sweep back, and the starry heavens are seen, unspeakably glorious in contrast with the black and angry firmament on either side. The glory of the celestial city streams from the gates ajar." Great Controversy, 698:2-699:1.
2 - "We are delivered. It is the Voice of God! "
"Satan's host and wicked men will surround them and exult over them because there will seem to be no way of escape for them. But In the midst of their revelry and triumph there is heard peal upon peal of the loudest thunder. The heavens have gathered blackness, and are only iIIuminated by the blazing light and terrible glory from heaven, as God utters His voice from His holy habitation. '
"The foundations of the earth shake, buildings totter and fall with a terrible crash. The sea boils like a pot and the whole earth is in terrible commotion. The captivity of the righteous is turned, and with sweet and solemn whisperings they say to one another: 'We are delivered. It is the voice of God.' " 1 Testimonies, 354:0-1.
THE TEN COMMANDMENTS ARE OPENED TO THE VIEW OF ALL
1 - Against the sky, a Hand is seen holding the Ten Commandments. The folded tablets are then opened to the view of all.
"Then there appears against the sky a hand holding two tables of stone folded together. Says the prophet: 'The heavens shall declare His righteousness: for God is judge Himself.' Psalm 50:6. That holy law, God's righteousness, that amid thunder and flame was proclaimed from Sinai as the guide of life, is now revealed to men as the rule of judgment. The hand opens the tables, and there are seen the precepts of the Decalogue, traced as with a pen of fire. The words are so plain that all can read them. Memory is aroused, the darkness of superstition and heresy is swept from every mind, and God's ten words, brief, comprehensive, and authoritative, are presented to the view of all the inhabitants of the earth." Great Controversy, 639:1.
2 -It Is the original tables of stone which are shown to the world.
"In the temple (in heaven] will be seen the ark of the testament in which were placed the two tables of stone, on which are written God's law. These tables of stone will be brought forth from their hiding place, and on them will be seen the Ten Commandments engraved by the finger of God. These tables of stone now lying in the ark of the testament will be a convincing testimony to the truth and binding claims of God's law." 7 Bible Commentary, 972/1:3/2:0.
"Sacrilegious minds and hearts have thought they were mighty enough to change the times and laws of Jehovah; but, safe In the archives of heaven, In the ark of God, are the original commandments, written upon the two tables of stone. No potentate of earth has power to draw forth those tables from their sacred hiding place beneath the mercy seat." 7 Bible Commentary, 972/2:1.
THE HORROR OF THE WICKED IS INDESCRIBABLE
1 - The sounding of the Voice has brought despair to the wicked.
"After the people have heard the voice of God they are in despair and trouble such as never was since there was a nation." Maranatha, 279:5.
2 - Their horror is the discovery of the fact that the Ten Commandments were never abolished. They find they have been fighting against God.
"It is impossible to describe the horror and despair of those who have trampled upon God's holy requirements. The Lord gave them His law; they might have compared their characters with it and learned their defects while there was yet opportunity for repentance and reform; but In order to secure the favor of the world, they set aside its precepts and taught others to transgress. They have endeavored to compel God's people to profane His Sabbath. Now they are condemned by that law which they have despised. With awful distinctness they see that they are without excuse. They chose whom they would serve and worship. 'Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not.' Malachi 3:18.
"The enemies of God's law, from the ministers down to the least among them, have a new conception of truth and duty. Too late they see that the Sabbath of the fourth commandment is the seal of the living God. Too late they see the true nature of their spurious sabbath and the sandy foundation upon which they have been building. They find that they have been fighting against God. Religious teachers have led souls to perdition while professing to guide them to the gates of Paradise. Not until the day of final accounts will it be known how great is the responsibility of men in holy office and how terrible are the results of their unfaithfulness. Only in eternity can we rightly estimate the loss of a single soul. Fearful will be the doom of him to whom God shall say: Depart, thou wicked servant." Great Controversy. 639:2 - 640:1.
3 - Former Sabbathkeepers are also filled with anguish.
"Then I was shown a company who were howling in agony. On their garments was written in large characters, 'Thou art weighed in the balance, and found wanting.' I asked who this company were. The angel said, 'These are they who have once kept the Sabbath and have given it up.' I heard them cry with a loud voice, 'We have believed in Thy coming, and taught it with energy’. And while they were speaking, their eyes would fall upon their garments and see the writing, and then they would wail aloud. I saw that they had drunk of the deep waters, and fouled the residue with their feet-trodden the Sabbath underfoot-and that was why they were weighed in the balance and found wanting." Early Writings, 37:0.
4 - A lengthy description of the insights the wicked obtain at this time is given in GC 654:1-656:1. The most important are quoted immediately below:
5 - There is a terrible awakening.
"When the voice of God turns the captivity of His people, there is a terrible awakening of those who have lost all in the great conflict of life. While probation continued they were blinded by Satan's deceptions, and they justified their course of sin." Great Controversy, 654:1.
6 - The wicked regret having lost in their rebellion against God.
"The wicked are filled with regret, not because of their sinful neglect of God and their fellow men, but because God has conquered. They lament that the result is what it is; but they do not repent of their wickedness. They would leave no means untried to conquer if they could.
"The world see the very class whom they have mocked and derided, and desired to exterminate, pass unharmed through pestilence, tempest, and earthquake. He who is to the transgressors of His law a devouring fire, is to His people a safe pavilion." Great Controversy, 654:2-3.
7 - The ministers awaken also.
"The minister who has sacrificed truth to gain the favor of men now discerns the character and influence of his teachings. It is apparent that the omniscient eye was following him as he stood in the desk, as he walked the streets, as he mingled with men in the various scenes of life. Every emotion of the soul, every line written, every word uttered, every act that led men to rest in a refuge of falsehood, has been scattering seed; and now, in the wretched, lost souls around him, he beholds the harvest." Great Controversy, 654:4-655:0.
8 - All recognize that they have rebelled against the holy law of their Creator.
"Ministers and people see that they have not sustained the right relation to God. They see that they have rebelled against the Author of all just and righteous law. The setting aside of the divine precepts gave rise to thousands of springs of evil, discord, hatred, iniquity, until the earth became one vast field of strife, one sink of corruption." Great Controversy, 655:3.
9 - The wicked fall at the feet of the righteous.
"Men whom the world has worshiped for their talents and eloquence now see these things- in their true light. They realize what they have forfeited by transgression, and they fall at the feet of those whose fidelity they have despised and derided, and confess that God has loved them." Great Controversy, 655:3.
10 - The wicked are no longer able to overpower the faithful.
"At our happy, holy state the wicked were enraged, and would rush violently up to lay hands on us to thrust us into prison, when we would stretch forth the hand in the name of the Lord, and they would fall helpless to the ground. Then it was that the synagogue of Satan knew that God had loved us who could wash one another's feet and salute the brethren with a holy kiss, and they worshiped at our feet." Early Writings, 15:1.
11 - The religious leaders suffer under the wrath of God and the revilings of lost souls.
"Many of the wicked were greatly enraged as they suffered the effects of the plagues. It was a scene of fearful agony. Parents were bitterly reproaching their children, and children their parents, brothers their sisters, and sister their brothers. Loud, wailing cries were heard in every direction, 'It was you who kept me from receiving the truth which would have saved me from this awful hour.' The people turned upon their ministers with bitter hate and reproached them, saying, 'You have not warned us. You told us that all the world was to be converted, and cried, Peace, peace, to quiet every fear that was aroused. You have not told us of this hour; and those who warned us of it you declared to be fanatics and evil men, who would ruin us.' But I saw that the ministers did not escape the wrath of God. Their suffering was tenfold greater than that of their people." Early Writings, 282:1.
12 - Lost church members are extremely angry with their pastors.
"Church members who have seen the light and been convicted, but who have trusted the salvation of their souls to the minister, will learn in the day of God that no other soul can pay the ransom for their transgression. A terrible cry will be raised. 'I am lost, eternally lost.' Men will feel as though they could rend in pieces the ministers who have preached falsehoods and condemned the truth." 4 Bible Commentary, 1157/1:2.
13 - The wicked accuse one another, and especially their ministers. Some of the wicked are slain by one another.
"The people see that they have been deluded. They accuse one another of having led them to destruction; but all unite in heaping their bitterest condemnation upon the ministers. Unfaithful pastors have prophesied smooth things; they have led their hearers to make void the law of God and to persecute those who would keep it holy. Now, in their despair, these teachers confess before the world their work of deception. The multitudes are filled with fury. 'We are lost!' they cry, 'and you are the cause of our ruin;' and they turn upon the false shepherds. The very ones that once admired them most will pronounce the most dreadful curses upon them. The very hands that once crowned them with laurels will be raised for their destruction. The swords which were to slay God's people are now employed to destroy their enemies. Everywhere there is strife and bloodshed." Great Controversy, 655:4-656:0.
"God's Word is made of none effect by false shepherds. . Their work will soon react upon themselves. Then will be witnessed the scenes described in Revelation 18 when the judgments of God shall fall upon mystical Babylon." Last Day Events, 248:2.
THE DAY AND HOUR OF CHRIST’S COMING IS ANNOUNCED
1 - The Voice of God gives the day and hour of Christ's second advent, and confirms the eternal covenant with His people.
"The voice of God is heard from heaven, declaring the day and hour of Jesus' coming, and delivering the everlasting covenant to His people. Like peals of loudest thunder His words roll through the earth. The Israel of God stand listening, with their eyes fixed upward. Their countenances are lighted up with His glory, and shine as did the face of Moses when he came down from Sinai." Great Controversy, 640:2.
2 - At the end of each sentence, the saints shout.
"As God spoke the day and the hour of Jesus' coming and delivered the everlasting covenant to His people, He spoke one sentence, and then paused, while the words were rolling through the earth. The Israel of God stood with their eyes fixed upward, 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. And at the end of every sentence the saints shouted, 'Glory! Alleluia!' Their countenances were lighted up with the glory of God; and they shone with the glory, as did the face of Moses when he came down from Sinai. The wicked could not look on them for the glory." Early Writings, 34:1; 285:2-286:0.
3 - The living saints at this time are 144,000 in number.
"Soon we heard the voice of God like many waters, which gave us the day and hour of Jesus' coming. The living saints, 144,000 in number, knew and understood the voice, while the wicked thought it was thunder and an earthquake. When God spoke the time, He poured upon us the Holy Ghost, and our faces began to light up and shine with the glory of God, as Moses' did when he came down from Mount Sinai." Early Writings, 15:0.
4 - Heard, but not remembered after the vision.
"I have not the slightest knowledge as to the time spoken by the voice of God. I heard the hour proclaimed, but had no remembrance of that hour after I came out of vision. Scenes of such thrilling, solemn interest passed before me as no language is adequate to describe. It was all a living reality to me, for close upon this scene appeared the great white cloud, upon which was seated the Son of man." 1 Selected Messages, 76:0.
THE FAITHFUL ARE GIVEN THE SABBATH BLESSING
1 - When the blessing is given, there is a shout of victory.
"And when the blessing is pronounced on those who have honored God by keeping His Sabbath holy, there is a mighty shout of victory." Great Controversy, 640:2.
"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." Early Writings, 34:1; 286:0.
THE JOURNEY TO EARTH
Backtracking a little: At the close of the investigative judgment (when each person in the world had made his decision, received either the mark or the seal, and probation for mankind had concluded); Jesus threw down the censer, declared "It is done," and went to the entrance of that gigantic structure (the heavenly Sanctuary; and it is a most marvelous building—see GC 414:2). There He put off His priestly robes, and commanded His angels to begin pouring out the plagues on the wicked.
Then He began His journey to the earth.
1 - The trip to our world begins.
“And I saw a flaming cloud come where Jesus stood. Then Jesus. . took His place on the cloud which carried Him to the East, where it first appeared to the saints on earth—a small black cloud which was the sign of the Son of man." Maranatha, 287:7 (“To the Little Remnant Scattered Abroad," April 6, 1846 broadside.).
2 - All the angels in heaven accompany Him. "All heaven will be emptied of the angels, while the waiting saints will be looking for Him and gazing into heaven, as were the men of Galilee when He ascended from the Mount of Olivet. Then only those who are holy, those who have followed fully the meek Pattern, will with rapturous joy exclaim as they behold Him, 'Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us.' " Early Writings, 110:1.
3 - On the journey, Christ and His angels pass through the region of Orion.
“Dark, heavy clouds came up and clashed against each other. The atmosphere parted and rolled back; then we could look up through the open space in Orion, whence came the Voice of God. The Holy City will come down through that open space." Early Writings, 41:2.
Note: The present writer restricts this location to "the region of Orion," since we are nowhere told in the inspired writings that' 'the open space in Orion" is the Great Nebula in Orion, or a portion of it. Therefore we cannot with certainty equate the "open space" with the Orion Nebula.
According to EW 41, the Voice of God sounds from the area of this constellation, and at the third advent the City of God will come down through that part of the sky. But that is the third advent, not the second. It is likely that, at His second advent, Christ will also return through that area-but we are not specifically told that in this or any other passage. Nor are we told what part of the Orion constellation is here referred to (Orion is one of the largest constellations in the sky).
LAST DAYS :
The following material was gleaned from our book of unpublished manuscripts, entitled The Last Days, and is some of the best material from that volume on topics given in this section.
ARMAGEDDON
Satan Is Now Marshalling His Armies For the Last Great Struggle.- "We have a short time in which to accomplish the work that is essential. Let us earnestly prepare for the conflict that is before us, for Satan's armies are marshalling for the last great struggle.
Satan Is Seeking to Bring in Heresies; the Rejecters of Warnings Will be Ensnared. "Satan is rallying his forces and seeking to bring in heresies to confuse the minds of those who have not been trained to understand the leading of the Holy Spirit. A delusive net is being prepared for them and those who have been warned again and again, but have not educated themselves to understand the warnings, will surely be taken in Satan's snares." Letter 864, 1908, pp. 1-2. (To S. N. Haskell, December 17, 1908).
Satan is Drilling His Army. "The end is near, and every year Satan is drilling his army to develop strong parties to be ready against the battle of the last great conflict." Manuscript 134, 1908, p. 3. ("Arbitrary Control, " cir. 1908).
THE VOICE OF GOD
The Scattered Ones in Dens and Caverns Are Made Glad at the Voice of God. "Before the glory of Him who is to reign, the mountains will tremble and bow, the rocks will be moved out of their places, for once more will the Lord shake, not alone the earth, but the heavens also. The scattered ones, who have fled for their lives to the rocks, the dens, the caverns of the earth, because of the fury of the oppressor, will be made glad at the voice of God. .
As Christ Strengthened John, So Will He Strengthen His Terror-stricken Saints at His Second Coming.- "The child of God will be terror-stricken at the first sight of the majesty of Jesus Christ. He feels that he cannot live in His holy presence. But the word comes to him, as to John, 'Fear not.' Jesus laid His right hand upon John. He raised him up from his prostrate position. So will He do unto His loyal, trusting ones, for there are greater revelations of the glory of God to be given them. .
Effects of the Second Coming on the Lost. "There is also to be revelation to the transgressors of the law of Jehovah—they who made void the law of God, who have taken their stand on the side of him who thought to change times and laws. From the terror-stricken myriads come the cry, 'The great day of His wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand.' (Revelation 6:17)."Manuscript 56, 1886, pp. 5-7. ("Traveling in Switzerland, " May 21, 1886).
The Covenant Will be Brought Forth. "When every case is decided in the courts of heaven, this covenant, [the ten commandments) will be brought forth, plainly written with the finger of God. The world will be arraigned before the bar of Infinite Justice to receive sentence—a life measuring with the life of God for obedience, and death for transgression." Manuscript 82, 1899, p. 10. ("In the Master's Service, " May 21, 1899).
The Heaviest Judgments Will Fall on the False Shepherds. - "And upon those who have taken upon them the work of shepherds of the flock will be visited the heaviest judgments, because they have presented to the people fables instead of truth. Children will rise up and curse their parents. Church members, who have seen the light and [have) been convicted, but who have trusted the salvation of their souls to the minister, will learn in the day of God that no other soul can pay the ransom for their transgression. A terrible cry will be raised, 'I am lost, eternally lost.
The Ire of the Lost Against Their False Shepherds. "Men will feel as though they could rend in pieces the ministers who have preached falsehoods and condemned the truth. The pure truth for this time requires a reformation in the life, but they separated themselves from the love of the truth, and of them it can be said, '0 Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself' (Hosea 13:9). The Lord sends a message to the people, 'Set the trumpet to thy mouth. He shall come as an eagle against the house of the Lord, because they have transgressed My covenant, and trespassed against My law' (Hosea 8:1)."-Letter 30, 1900, pp. 5-6. (To "Brother and Sister Hickox," February 25, 1900). [See also: TBC 167.]
Revelation 18:1-3 Will be Fulfilled When God Arises to Shake Terribly the Earth. "What terrible scenes will take place when the Lord shall arise to shake terribly the earth. Then the words of Revelation 18:1-3 [the announcement that Babylon is fallen] will be fulfilled. The whole of the eighteenth chapter of revelation is a warning of what is coming on the earth. But I have no light in particular in regard to what is coming on New York, only that I know that one day the great buildings there will be thrown down by the turning and overturning of God's power. From the light given me, I know that destruction is in the world. One word from the Lord, one touch of His mighty power, and those massive structures will fall. Scenes will take place, the fearfulness of which we cannot imagine." Letter 176, 1903, pp. 4-5. (To H. W. Kellogg, August 9, 1903). [See also: Ev 387-8; PM 280-1.}
God Will Protect His Believing Ones During the Convulsions of Nature Preceding the Advent. "Before the Son of man appears in the clouds of heaven, everything in nature will be convulsed. Lightning from heaven, uniting with fire in the earth, will cause the mountains to burn like a furnace, and pour out their floods of lava over villages and cities. Molten masses of rock [will] cause the water to boil, and they will send forth rocks and earth. There will be mighty earthquakes and great destruction of human life. But as in the days of the great deluge, Noah was preserved in the ark that God had prepared for Him, so in these last days of destruction a calamity, God will be the refuge of His believing ones." Letter 248, 1907, pp. 2-4. (To J. E. White and wife, August 16, 1907). [See also: IMCP 22-3.}
Satan Wants to Revive Slavery. "I am instructed to say to our people throughout the cities of the South, Let everything be done under the direction of the Lord. The work is nearing its close. We are nearer the end than when we first believed. Satan is doing his best to block. the progress of the message. He is putting forth efforts to bring about the enactment of a Sunday law that will result in slavery in the Southern field and will close the door to the observance of the true Sabbath; which God has given to men to keep holy. The law, which He came down from heaven to Mt. Sinai to proclaim, is to be observed by all who would identify themselves with the people of God." Letter 6, 1909, p. 2. (To J. E. White, January 1, 1909).
TEN COMMANDMENTS OPENED
In the Day of Judgment the Tables of God's Law Will Condemn the Lost. "Ministers have taught the people that the law of God is not binding. But God certainly does not say so, and in the day of judgment that law, written with the finger of God on tables of stone, will condemn all impenitent transgressors." -Manuscript 33, 1900. pp. 5, 6, 8-10, 18. ("Unfaithful Shepherds, " June 25, 1900). [See also: CG 513.}
These Tables Are in Heaven. "There is a sanctuary, and in that sanctuary is the ark, and in the ark are the tables of stone, on which is written the law spoken from Sinai amidst scenes of awful grandeur. These tables of stone are in the heavens, and they will be brought forth in that day when the judgment shall sit and the books shall be opened, and men shall be judged according to the things written in the books. They will be judged by the law written by the finger of God, and given to Moses to be deposited in the ark. A record is kept of the deeds of all men, and according to his works will every man receive sentence, whether they be good, or whether they be evil." Manuscript 20, 1906, pp. 8-9. ("Preach the Word," February 7, 1906). [See also: Ev 616-17; PM 224-5.]
They Are to be Brought Forth When Sentence Is Pronounced.- "In my books the truth is stated, barricaded by a 'Thus saith the Lord.' The Holy Spirit traced these truths upon my heart and mind as indelibly as the law was traced by the finger of God upon the tables of stone, which are now in the ark, to be brought forth in that great day when sentence is pronounced against every evil, seducing science produced by the father of lies." Letter 90, 1906, p. 6. (To The Brethren Assembled in Council at Graysville, Tennessee, March 6, 1906).
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