THE HERALD
of Christ's Kingdom
VOL. III. December 1, 1920 No. 23
Table of Contents
THE
CHURCH OF ENGLAND APPEAL
THE
REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST
JESUS
FEEDS THE MULTITUDES
THE
BIRTH -Of JESUS (Christmas Lesson)
THE
MINISTRY OF LOVE'
ENCOURAGING
MESSAGES
BEREAN
STUDIES IN THE REVELATION
HYMNS
OF DAWN FOR JANUARY
VOL. III. December 15, 1920 No. 24
Table of Contents
THE
BLESSING OF THE "CUP OF SALVA TION".
THE
REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST
YOUR
"GOOD HOPES"--1921
BEREAN
STUDIES IN THE REVELATION
THE
CHILD AND THE KINGDOM
CO-OPERATION
OF THE BIBLE STUDENTS COMMITTEE
VOL. III. December 1, 1920 No. 23
TO ALL CHRISTIAN
PEOPLE
NOTWITHSTANDING the fact that during the past year great federated
Church movements, having as their purpose the stemming of the tide of evil and the
assisting of the world powers in preserving the present order of things, have met with
overwhelming reverse and disappointment, yet the theme of uniting the various religious
systems and forces of Christendom to present a formidable front to the powers of evil and
sin, continues to be a most popular theme generally in religious circles. No doubt the
rumblings of unrest and discontent, the dark clouds of impending social disaster, are
causing many to conclude that the real remedy is represented in a unionizing of the moral
and religious forces amongst men and an entering more vigorously than ever before upon the
field of conflict. Nor would we impugn the motives of those who, leaving God and His
Divine purpose out of their calculations, see no other remedy for the world's cleansing
and uplift than their own human philosophy and endeavor.
The blame to be attached would seem to lie in the fact that those
pressing the subject of a unionized Christendom have not, in these days of much confusion
and industrial disorder, taken themselves humbly before the Lord to seek out the Divine
will-have not, with sufficient care and reverence, sought the revelation of His Divine
Plan as contained in the Scriptures. Had they, in meekness and out of full consecration to
Him, inquired of His holy Oracles the meaning of these days and events, surely those who
profess to be leaders of Christ's flock would be pointing men to the coming Kingdom of
God's dear Son as the only remedy for the present state of sorrow and sin on earth.
During the past few weeks no doubt many of our readers have noted
something of the account of the Lambeth Conference, contained in some of the leading
newspapers and magazines of the world. It would seem that this assembly of leaders of one
of the most influential denominations of Christendom might be most significant. This
august Conference, assembled at Lambeth, was made up of I some 250 Bishops and Archbishops
of both America and Great Britain, the purpose apparently being to discuss the outlook as
to a united Christian ( ?) world, and to encourage not only in their own ranks the spirit
of unity, but to urge upon all Christendom a uniting to form one gigantic ,endeavor to
cope with the adverse evil powers. To quote a few words of the startling and remarkable
appeal which this Conference finally formulated and issued to all Christian people, as
recorded in THE EVANGELICAL CHRISTIAN of Toronto:
"We acknowledge this condition [a divided Christendom] of broken
fellowship to. be contrary to God's will, and we desire frankly to confess our share in
the guilt, thus crippling the Body of Christ, and hindering the activity of His Spirit. .
. . We do not ask that any one Communion should be absorbed in another. We do ask that all
should unite in a new and great endeavor to recover and to manifest to the world the unity
of the Body of Christ for which He prayed."
We will not here take the space to publish the entire appeal made by
the Church of England through this Conference to other Communions of Christian people, but
will content ourselves with one further brief quotation which we regard as specially
significant. After stating the need for "a ministry acknowledged by every part of the
Church as possessing not only the inward call of the Spirit, but also the commission of
Christ and the authority of the whole body," the appeal continues:
"May we not reasonably claim that the 'Episcopate' is the one means of providing such a
ministry? It is not that we call in question for a moment the spiritual reality of the
ministries of those Communions which do not possess the 'Episcopate.' On the contrary, we
thankfully acknowledge that these ministries have been manifestly blessed and owned by the
Holy Spirit as effective means of grace. But we submit that considerations alike of
history and of present experience justify the claim which we make on behalf of the
'Episcopate.' Moreover, we would urge that it is now and will prove to be in the future
the best instrument for maintaining the unity and continuity of the Church. But we greatly
desire that the office of a Bishop should be everywhere exercised in a representative and
constitutional manner, and more truly express all that ought to be involved for the life
of the Christian family in the title of Father-in-God. Nay, more, we eagerly look forward
to the day when, through its acceptance in a united Church, we may all share in that grace
which is pledged to the members of the whole body in the apostolic rite of the laying-on
of 'hands, and in the joy and fellowship of a Eucharist in which as one family we may
together, without any doubtfulness of mind, offer to the one Lord our worship and
service."
It is obviously manifest in. the above that as the Church of England.
looks forward to a uniting of. the various Communions of Christendom she would maintain
the right primarily to ordain the ministry of all denominations. The term
"Episcopate" relates to a system of ministry or clergy that is ordained by the
power and authority of the Episcopal 'Church, and that power and authority as claimed by
that Church is derived through Apostolic Succession. Thus by ordaining the clergy. of
other Christian Communions we may yet see the symbolic fulfillment of Rev. 13:11-15, of
the Beast (Church of England) giving life to the Image of the Beast (Protestant Churches
in general) as was the thought of PASTOR RUSSELL, and as set forth in our treatment of
this vision of St. John.--See H '20-53-59. -
SERIES XLII.
THE WORD OF GOD AND HIS ARMIES
"And I saw Heaven opened,
and behold, a white Horse; and Ile who Sat on him was [called] Faithful and True, and in
Righteousness He judges and makes war. And His Eyes were as a Flame of Fire, and on His
Head were many Diadems; having a Name written which no one knows except Himself. And He
was invested with a Mantle dipped in Blood; and His Name is called, The Word of
God."--Rev. 19:11-13.
LET IT BE observed that this vision as seen and recorded by St. John follows
immediately the announcement of the Marriage of the Lamb; and it is most obvious that in
its fulfillment the same order is observed that it follows at once the Marriage of the
Lamb. If we are correct in this conclusion, then it will be apparent that the vision-will
meet its fulfillment after ail the Kingdom class have passed beyond the veil. More than
this, it seems quite certain that the vision portrays in highly symbolical language the
last momentous scenes in connection with the end of this present Gospel Age--the last
great deadly Armageddon conflict between truth and error. The result of this conflict will
be the very speedy destruction of all the systems, civil and ecclesiastical, in active
operation at that time, as well as those in a state of disintegration, that are found in
any measure antagonistic to the reign of righteousness-the Kingdom of Christ and His
saints in glory over this earth.
The overthrow of the Romish hierarchy, the central governmental
system of the Roman Catholic ecclesiasticism, which as we have seen is described in a
previous vision, seems to occur immediately before all the Kingdom class is changed to
glory, and is an occurrence producing most eventful changes in, Christendom. (Rev.
18:9-24.) However, the scenes connected with the fulfillment of the vision under
consideration are of even much greater magnitude and will be accompanied with changes in
every department of life of the most stupendous character, surpassing anything that has
ever occurred in the history of man. Indeed, these changes will be accompanied, as this
and other Scriptures show, by supernatural occurrences -- transactions which will be of
such a character as to cause all who live at the time, and pass through them, to be
brought to acknowledge the sovereignty of God and Him alone. It would most naturally be
supposed by Bible students who understand God's Plan that the great event, the Marriage of
the Lamb, would be speedily followed by this very last closing scene of the Gospel Age,
for the reason that the Divine Plan for this Age would then be completed.
VISION DESCRIBES CLOSING SCENES OF THIS AGE
This vision is one of several in the Revelation that portrays in
harmony with many other Scriptures, these closing scenes. In the interpretation of the
vision, however, commentators have differed. Those who teach that Christ's Second personal
Advent does not take place until the end of the thousand years, the Millennium, while
believing that this vision meets its fulfillment at the beginning of the thousand years,
interpret the vision to be a symbolical picture, not of a personal advent of Christ but
merely of a manifestation of the effects of His power in acts of judgment and justice--a
view which in no sense differs from the manner in which He has been present in His Church,
and operating in her behalf throughout the Age, as portrayed in the symbolic vision of His
walking in the midst of the, seven golden Candlesticks, -or taught in His words, "Lo
I am with you. all the days even unto the end of the Age." This view was taught by
Stuart, Faber, Bush, Vint, Whitby and many others. Those who hold this view are commonly
called Post-Millennialists on ac count of their belief that, Christ personally and
visibly comes to earth at the end rather than at the beginning of the Millennial Age.
The view that Christ's Second Advent takes place at the end of the
thousand years is one that is disproved by all the Scriptures that describe this event,
and the elective character of this Age. On the other hand there are those who believe that
Christ comes personally in advance of the Millennial reign and for the purpose of
introducing His Kingdom and the thousand-year reign with His saints on the earth. These
are commonly called Pre-Millennialists. It is the thought of this class of expositors that
these words of verses 11-13 of chapter 19 describe the visible appearance of Christ in His
own person; in other words, that St. John saw not a vision designed to represent the
Second personal Advent of Christ, but rather that He saw Christ in person descending from
heaven to earth in a mixture of a heavenly and a fleshly body.
What seems clearly to be erroneous with the first class of expositors
is that they fail to see in the vision a portrayal of an advent of Christ in person. That
which is obviously unscriptural in this second view is that these expositors fail to see
that this description of the victorious Rider is a vision and is not to be understood
literally but is pictorial of certain developments and proceedings and .triumphs that
follow Christ's Second Coming as a Divine being, having a Divine body which "no man
hath seen nor can see." (1 Tim. 6:15, 16.) In the execution of the judgments
portrayed in the vision it is quite generally -understood by these expositors that He will
be seen with the eye of flesh by all mankind, those who will be living at the time of the
vision's fulfillment. It seems quite evi dent, however, that while the Scriptures teach
very clearly a personal advent of the Divine Christ, that advent will be invisible to
mortals. Indeed, the second personal, in visible, Advent of Christ is an event
represented as having already taken place in a previous vision-that of the Lamb standing
on Mount Zion. (Rev. 14:1; see H. '20-69-74.); and furthermore all the visions of chapter
14, and many of those that follow, have their fulfillment after that event, during the
period of His presence.
OUR LORD'S APOCALUPSIS--UNVEILING
The vision we now consider describes a different phase of His
presence. While the visions of chapter 14 and some that follow recorded in succeeding
chapters represent Him as personally present during the whole period from the scene of the
Limb on Mount Zion onward, and that His presence is known and recognized by the
"Watchers," yet that presence does not become known to the world in general
until the period when the vision now under consideration meets its fulfillment. Indeed
this seems to be one of the principal matters designed to be taught in this
vision-Christ's manifestation of His Second Advent to the Church, and that of His
uncovering or revealing to the world; and while but one advent, yet His manifestation to
the Church and to the world occurs at two distinct points of time. The revealing to the
world follows closely the end of the Harvest, the completion of the, First Resurrection,
the exaltation of the Church, and ,is what is represented in this vision we are now
considering. His presence, while personal, will be made known to the world in the acts of
power displayed in the judgments which will overthrow the present, order. The fact that
the Advent has already taken place has been gradually made known to the Lord's consecrated
for some years past, through the fact, that.. certain events predicted to occur as
affecting them have been realized in our midst for some years past. A quotation from
PASTOR RUSSELL expresses very clearly the thought of many Bible students regarding the
manner in which Christ has been present in the world conducting a work preparing the way
off His Kingdom:
"We do not mean that He is present by His spirit or will, as
exercised in and over His Church, as throughout the entire Age; but we mean that He is
present now in the manner arid sense promised throughout the Scriptures; present riot
Without a body, but a spiritual being. We know of His presence, not by the light of human
science, but by the light of God's Word. We know of Hit presence, riot as men recognizing
a man but as new creatures recognizing out Head', our Captain, our Bridegroom. We see Him
not by human sight, but the eyes of our understanding being opened and enlightened by the
light of out lamp, We see Him Whom we love and adore, present to test those who claim to
be His, and to select His 'faithful' 'undefiled,' 'chaste' virgins, to 'make up His,
jewels': those Who Are accounted Worthy to 'follow the Lamb withersoever He goeth"
and to be His joint-heirs, glorified together With Him, the Bride, the Lamb's Wife.
(Compare Rev. 14:4, 5 and 21:9)" -- Z. March '83-3
AS IN THE DAYS OF NOAH
An utterance illustrating the manner of the Second Advent,
particularly as to the Secrecy of His presence for a time, is made by Christ Himself in
describing that Advent, and reads: "As in the days of Noah, so shall also the parousia [presence] of the Son of Man be."
(Matt. 24:37.) It is well to keep in mind in considering the meaning of this verse that
the words were spoken by the Savior in reply to the question, "What shall be the sign
[indication] of thy coming [parousia, presence]
and of the end [consummation] of the Age?" (Matt. 24:3.) We quote a most remarkable
and clear comment on the reply of the Savior concerning this matter:
"'Notice that the comparison [made by the Savior] is not between
the coming of Noah and the coming of our Lord, nor between the coming of the flood and the
coming of our Lord. The coming of Noah is not referred. to at all; neither is the, coming
of our Lord referred to; for, as already stated, [the Greek word] parousia does not mean coming but presence. The
contrast then is between the time of the presence of Noah among the people 'before the flood,' and the time of the presence of
Christ in the world, at His Second Advent, before the
'fire'--[which symbolizes] the extreme trouble of the Day of the Lord with which this Age
ends. . . .
"The point of comparison is stated clearly and is readily seen
if we read, critically: The people except the members of Noah's family were ignorant of the coming storm [flood], and
unbelieving as to the testimony of Noah and his family, and hence they 'knew not,' and this is the point of comparison.
'So shall also the presence of the Son of Man
be.' None but those of the family of God will believe here [that is, before the vision we
are: considering hats its fulfillment]: others will 'know not,' until society, as at
present organized, begins to melt with the fervent heat of the, time of trouble now
impending. This is illustrated by the words, 'At in the days that Were before the flood, they were eating and drinking
and marrying [Luke (17:28) adds 'planting arid building'], until the day Noah entered
into' the ark, and knew not ... 1. so shall also the parousia
[the presence] of the Son of Main be.' In the time, of the presence of the Son of Man,
therefore, the World will go on With its
eating, drinking, planting, building, and marrying -- [these things] not mentioned as
sinful doings, but is indicative of their ignorance
of His presence, and of the trouble that win prevail in the world. This, then, is our
Lord's answer to the question of the disciples- What shall be the sign [indication] of thy
[parousia] Presence, and of the 'end or Harvest
of the Age? In substance, He' says: There will be no sign for the worldly masses; they
will riot know of my presence and the new dispensational changes. Only the few will know,
and they will be taught of God (in a Way not here explained) before there is any sign (indication) which the Worldly could discern.
-- Vol. II, 160-162
EVENTS THAT
MUST PRECEDE THE KINGDOM WORK
The world will discern, will become aware of the Lord's Advent, when
that which is typified by the "flood" comes the fiery judgment troubles
described in this vision we are now considering. It will be at the time this Vision meets
its fulfillment that Christ's presence will become known to the whole world.
In summing up these conclusions as they apply to this Vision we would
say that the vision represents that stage of the Second Advent of Christ Which will have
to do With the destruction of those things of the present order that will at that time
remain--the enemies of truth and righteousness, particularly the Systems and remnants of
the same. The fact that He is present, that His Second personal Advent is an actual fact,
will at the time of this vision's fulfillment become known to all mankind.
If we are correct thus far in our expositions of the visions of the
Revelation relating to the Second Advent era commonly called the Harvest-then the
following great events seemingly in the order given below remain yet to be fulfilled
before the blessings of the Kingdom begin to come to the world:
(1) The completion of the triple alliance described in Rev. 16:13,
14, previously explained.-H. '20-215.
(2) The disruption of the same, occurring in connection with the
symbolical great earthquake under the seventh Vial, described in Rev. 16:19.--H. '20-232.
(3) The destruction of the great Mother of Harlots. -Rev. 18:21; H.
'20-294-300.
(4) The Marriage of the Lamb, which completes the resurrection of His
joint-heirs.-Rev. 19:7, 8; H. '20-310-313.
(5) The manifestation of Christ and His joint-heirs to the world at
the close of the great tribulation, out of which the Great Company will, be delivered.
(Rev. 7:9.) The vision we are now considering portrays that stage of the Second Advent, as
it will be our endeavor to show. _H. 119-103-105.
(6) The binding of Satan. (Rev. 20:1.)
(7) The inauguration of the New Covenant with the nation of Israel
after their time of trouble is over.
CHRIST THE VICTORIOUS CONQUEROR
Proceeding now to an investigation of the 'various features of this
vision, it is our firm conviction that the personage seen in the vision by St. John
represents our Lord Jesus Christ. This is shown by the symbols connected with and
surrounding this personage, as also the .titles ascribed to Him. This same manifestation
of Christ, in His execution of judgment on the false religious systems, is frequently
referred to in the visions of the ancient Prophets. One of these prophetic visions is
found in Isa. 63:1-6. PASTOR RUSSELL has commented on these verses and associates the
vision as being identical in its fulfillment with this Revelation vision, and as
descriptive of the last feature of the time of trouble. His words concerning this are:
"The Prophet Isaiah (63:1-6), taking his standpoint down at the
end of the Harvest of the Gospel Age, be. holds a mighty Conqueror, glorious in His
Apparel (clothed with authority and power ), and riding forth victoriously over all His
enemies, with whose blood all His garments are stained. He inquires who the wonderful
stranger is, saying, 'Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah?
this that is glorious in His apparel, traveling in' the greatness of His strength?' . . .
The reply to the, Prophet's inquiry ----'Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed
garments from Bozrah?'--is, 'I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.' It is the
same mighty one described by the Revelator (Rev. 19:11-16), the King of kings and Lord of
lords,' Jehovah's Anointed, our blessed Redeemer, land Lord Jesus."---STUDIES, Vol.
IV-14, 17, 18.
MR. BARNES has thus commented on this verse-chapter 19:11:
"There can be no doubt that the Messiah is intended as He goes forth to the
subjugation of the world."
Another has said: "The Marriage of the Lamb . . . is speedily
followed with the closing scenes of the world [Age]. It is a scene of war and blood. It is
the battle of the great day of God Almighty.... The sublime Hero of the scene [symbolizes]
no other than our ever blessed Lord Jesus. His name is not given, but the marks and
inscriptions which He bears and all that is said of Him, infallibly identify Him as the
same Jesus who went up to heaven from the summit of Mount Olivet."
"REVEALED IN FLAMING FIRE"
We inquire, if this feature of the Second Advent is to be invisible, i.e., that no human being will see Him in person,
then in what way will this feature of the Second Advent be made - manifest to the world?
The reply is that it will not be revealed to the world by His riding (in a literal white
horse; nor as having a literal sword going forth out of His mouth, that with it He should
smite the nations. Rather it is that these things, together with all the other features
describing this person and His actions, are symbolical. Some one may inquire, however, May
it not be even though all these things are symbolical that the vision as a whole
represents a visible descent of the Son of God to earth? Not so, we answer. If visible it
must be by some kind of veiling of His glorified person, and if we keep in mind what we
have learned respecting our Lord's glorious change of nature at His resurrection,*. that
He is now the highly exalted, immortal Divine One, dwelling in light that no man can
approach unto, it be comes evident that no mortal man could look upon Him in His
glorified body or upon His majestic person, and live. In view of these facts, the vision
under consideration could not represent a visible manifestation of the person of the
glorified Christ. But let it be, borne in mind, that while His presence will not be
visible to the physical sense, there will be a manifestation of such a character and ac
companied by such supernatural demonstrations that will constitute convincing evidence to
the beholders that the Divine- Ruler, Christ, has taken to Himself His great power, and is
using that power to destroy the enemies of Truth in whatever way they may be operating.
Further more, these supernatural manifestations will be of such a character as to
sanctify God in the eyes of all the world and cause all who live through the troubles to
acknowledge His rulership. One aspect of the same scene seems to be referred to in Ezek.
37:28; 38:23; 39:27, 28.
___________
Series, Vol. II – 107-121
____________
THE OPENING HEAVEN
The particular delineations that are associated with this person are
of course symbolical and represent the different attributes and characteristics which will
be exercised by Christ in-the great judgment work, He is at the time to perform. The first
thing of a symbolical character that appeared to St. John's vision was that of the opening
of the Heaven. A recent expositor has explained this opening of the Heaven to be (quoting
the exact words) : "The hidden things of God as recorded" in this recent
expositor's "Volume." As this "Volume," or commentary of the
Revelation, did not appear until 1917, after PASTOR RUSSELL'S death, and there is nothing
of truth contained in it that had not been
previously made known by PASTOR RUSSELL and other writers, we are obliged to reject
this interpretation as erroneous and misleading.
The meaning as given by the noted MR. BARNES, which is in harmony
with PASTOR RUSSELL'S interpretation of the symbol where it occurs in other places,
appeals to us as being both reasonable and clear: To St. John beholding the vision it was as though there was an opening in the sky, i.e. in
the expanse above -- in the visible heavens as they o'erspread the earth. The Hebrews
spoke of the sky as a solid expanse; or as a curtain stretched out; or as an extended arch
above the earth-describing it as it appears to the eye. In that expanse or arch, the stars
are set as gems (Isa. 34:4) ; through apertures or windows in that expanse the rain comes
down. (Gen. 7:11.) These. expressions of Scripture evidently in many places have a
symbolical meaning associated with them. As illustrating this we call attention to
several: At Christ's baptism (Matt. 3:16), it is said that "the heavens opened and
the Holy Spirit descended," etc. Again in the instance of Stephen's martyrdom, the
heavens are represented as opened to him and he Saw the Son of God seated at the right
hand of power. (Acts 7:56.) Another instance is that in connection with St. Peter's vision
in which he saw the heaven opened and a certain vessel descending unto him, etc. (Acts
10:11.) Another use of the same is found in Rev. 4:1, in which St. John saw a door opened
in heaven. Now all these instances, while seemingly real to those who described them, were
visions and are evidently symbolical,. each one designed to teach a distinct truth. The
one in connection with the Savior's baptism was intended to teach that heavenly things
were at the time opened to His spiritual vision, the Divine benediction, represented in
the Holy Spirit of peace and truth symbolized by the dove, abiding on Him. In the case of
Stephen .the opening of the heavenly expanse was designed to comfort him and to show him
that he had the approval of the One who sits at the right hand of God, etc. In the case of
St. Peter, the meaning is that the revelation that was made to him in the vision he saw
had its origin in heaven. In the case of St. John (Rev. 4:1), the same thought is brought
out, that the Revelation visions then to be given to him were from God.
The opening of the heavens and the sudden appearance of the white
horse and his Rider is like these other incidents, a vision. The design of the vision is
evidently to represent the manifestation of Christ at His Second Advent to the whole
world; riding forth as a mighty conqueror in Majesty and Glory. It would represent,
therefore, that Christ's mission to earth was a heavenly, Divine one; and the symbolic
surroundings connected with the personage St. John saw, determine in addition, that His
mission was to be one of awful judgments, these judgments to be executed upon God's
enemies.
"AND BEHOLD A WHITE HORSE"
We inquire next, What is the symbolical significance of the white
horse in the symbol? The horse is employed in Job 39:19-25; Prov. 21:31; Zech. 10:3 as a
symbol of war, conquest and victory or triumph. A white horse is used in both triumphal
and bridal processions; and thus employed would denote victory and purity. White horses
are referred to by PASTOR RUSSELL as sometimes representing pure doctrines, truth.
Speaking of the saints in the "battle of the great day of God Almighty," and
referring to some of the introductory features of this battle (the proclaiming of Bible
Truth) taking place while some of the saints are still on this side of the veil, he has
said:
"They are armed with the same sword of the spirit, the Word of
God. They also ride upon white horses [pure doctrine]. They that are thus with Him are
'called and chosen and faithful' (Rev. 17:14; 19:11-16), and their part in the fray is to
oppose false doctrines and to slay- with the sword of the truth."--Z. Sept.,
The Rider of the horse is said to be called, "Faithful and
True." (v. 11.) We are reminded of the fact that this was one of the names or titles
Christ applies to Himself in the message to the Church of Laodicea. (Rev. 3:14.) The
attributes here referred to-"faithful and true," are peculiarly appropriate to
Christ, and particularly as they apply to this judgment vision. In these judgment acts He
shows His faithfulness in delivering the Church from all its enemies, and His truthfulness
in fulfilling the promises given her.
"In Righteousness He judges and makes war." (V. 11.) The
teaching is simply that all these acts of judgment that will be executed will be
righteous, just punishments; that the war that He institutes and engages in, unlike all
other wars which are largely the cause of ambitious men, made in most instances for the
purpose of conquest, has for its object the furtherance of righteousness, and for the good
of all; and it is to this end that this great destruction of evil men and systems is
accomplished.
HIS EYES WERE AS A FLAME OF FIRE
"And His Eyes were as a Flame of Fire." (v. 12.) The
meaning seems to be that His eyes were bright, sharp and penetrating, indicating Christ's
ability to penetrate into the very thoughts, motives and purposes of men. We speak
sometimes of a, fiery look or glance, which is indicative of just indignation at wilful
disobedience and sin. "His eyes like a flame of fire tell us in symbol that our
Master is all-seeing, omniscient; that He is not deceived by outward forms or ceremonies,
but can and does read every thought and intent of the heart." (Z'05-169.) Another
commentator on this verse has said:
"To judge rightly He must see through and through, search all
depths, look beneath all masks, penetrate all darkness, and try everything to its ultimate
residuum. Hence this flaming vision, which likewise tells of the fierceness of His wrath
against His enemies. There is often something wonderfully luminous, penetrating, overawing
in even the human eye. Men have been killed by the look of kings. It is like the, living
intellect made visible, which seems to read all secrets at a glance, and before which the
beholder cowers. It is this infinitely intensified flashing like a sword of fire from the
visual orbs that the holy Apostle here beheld in this [vision of the] Warrior-judge. It is
an eye-flame of Omniscient perception, and an outbreaking indignation and wrath which
seizes and unmans the foe before he sees the sword."--SEISS.
"And on His Head were many Diadems." (v. 12.) The
significance of this is well illustrated. in both sacred and profane history. When King
David overthrew the Ammonites and captured their king, he placed upon his own brow the
crown of the vanquished monarch in addition to the crown that was already his. (2 Sam.
12:30.) It is recorded in traditional writing that when Ptolemy captured and took
possession of Antioch he placed two crowns upon his head, thereby declaring himself king
of both Egypt and Asia. It is well known that the Pope wears a triple crown, which shows
his claim to three sovereignties combined in one. It has been already noted that the
"Dragon" has seven diadems, and the "Beast" has ten diadems on his
horns, the last indicating a combination of ten sovereignties. (Rev. 12:3; 13:1.) The
significance in this vision, therefore, obviously is that of an accumulation, of dominion
through conquests and victories; and the lesson in this Revelation symbol* seems to be
that Christ is now arrayed against the last form of the Beastly power-that previous to
this, through His followers, He had had many conflicts, and now as the winner of many
battles, He has become the ruler of all sovereignties, His rightful due and possession. In
chapter 10 as explained in a previous article,* He is represented as the Mighty Angel
whose right it is to rule the symbolical earth and sea. The "rainbow" is there,
seen upon His head, indicating that-His power and interposition were specially and
providentially exercised at that time of urgent need, in fulfillment of His promises to
His own, of Divine guidance and protection. He comes in the vision we are considering,
personally, as the great Warrior-King, and judge, to put down usurpers combined against
His right to rule, a right that was purchased by Him through the sacrifice of His human
life at Calvary. (Rom. 14:9.) He thus becomes the King of kings and Lord of lords.
__________
*H '19-261.
___________
HAVING A NAME WRITTEN
"Having a name written which no one knows except Himself."
(V. 12.) This statement expressing secrecy as to the "Name" of the illustrious
One would seem to teach that so far as humanity is concerned they do not recognize nor
appreciate Him, nor His true worth or offices. He has indeed been highly exalted far above
all .other creatures so that He justly claims the title "King of kings and Lord of
lords;" but the world knows it not. Mankind is still under a pall of blindness,
superstition and ignorance and have yet to learn concerning the glorious office of the
"Word," the "Logos," the Son of God and of those who share with Him as
His joint-heirs. And though the statement reads, "No one knows except Himself,"
this need not be understood to exclude His followers -those who are members of Him, of His
Body-the Bride. Do not the saints indeed, made partakers of the Holy Spirit and given to
know the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven, do not these truly understand the meaning of
the title, the "Word" of God, Jehovah's special mouthpiece, the King of kings
and Lord of lords; and do not all such even now proclaim the office of their Lord and
Bridegroom, and announce Him as earth's rightful King at the door. "How beautiful
upon the mountains are the feet of Him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace;
that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy
God reigneth!"
"And He was invested with a Mantle dipped in Blood; and His Name
is called, The Word of God." (v. 13.) The symbol in this verse seems to be that of a
victorious warrior in garments covered with blood who has already been I engaged in bloody
conflicts, and is again about to enter upon another, a final battle in which he will
accom plish a lasting victory in the destruction of all his foes. In fact, the whole
plot of the great Revelation drama is but a picture of successive conflicts of the Body
members of this. great Commander, under His providential leader ship, each one bringing
the Divine drama nearer and nearer to its close. In this last and final one, He is
represented as having glorified and clothed these members with Divine power to be
associated with Him as' witnesses in this final overthrow of His and their foes. We might
possibly carry this thought further than this, and note that it was the same One,
"The Word of God" in His pre-human state that -fought for Israel in the days of
Joshua, when under His providential leadership their, enemies were destroyed. Who was it
but the pre-human existent Word, who "fought from heaven," against the kings
of Canaan, by the waters of Megiddo; when "the stars in their courses fought against
Sisera." (Judges 4 and 5.) The Mantle dipped in blood seems to signify, then, a
memorial of past conflicts, and that at the time of
this vision's fulfillment, the Victor in, them 6.11 is to engage in another in which He Will destroy all the great combinations of evil
that have for centuries sought to blot out of existence His ransomed Church and oppose His
rule as King of kings.
THE LOGOS THE WORD OF GOD
Concerning the title of this victorious Rider "The Word of
God," this term "Word" is translated from the same Greek character, Logos, as that used in John 1:1: "in the
beginning Was the Word," the "Logos."
The explanation made by PASTOR RUSSELL of John 1:1 seems fully applicable to this
title as given to our Lord in Rev. 19:13:
"Here our Lord, in His pre-human existence, is referred to as
'The Word' (Greek Logos). 'In the beginning was
the Logos.' Dr. Alexander Clarke' says,
concerning this word Logos: 'This term should
be left untranslated for the same reason that the name Jesus and Christ
are left untranslated. As every appellative of the Savior of the world was descriptive
of some excellencies in His person, nature, or work, so the epithet, Logos) which signifies a Word, a word spoken,
speech, eloquence, doctrine, reason, or the faculty of reason,, is very properly applied
to Him.' 'the Evangelist, in his epistle, uses the same title in respect, to our Lord
again, denominating Him 'The Word of life,' or the 'Logos
of life.'--1 John I: I....
"The statement, thus understood, implies that our Lord Jesus, in
His prehuman existence, as the Logos, was with
the Father in the very beginning of creation. This confirms the inspired statement that
the Logos Himself was 'the' beginning of the
creation of God': this is the precise statement of the Apostle, who assures us that out
Lord is not only 'the Head of the Body, the Church,' and 'the first-born from the dead,'
but also the beginning of All creation--'that in
all things He might have the preeminence.' His
words are: 'He is the image of the invisible God,--first born of all creation; because by him were all
thing's created, those in the heavens and those on the earth, visible and
invisible,--whether thrones, or lordships, or governments, or authorities: 'all things
were created by Him and for Him, and He precedes all things, and in Him all things have
been permanently placed." (Col. 1:15-18.) Hear also the Word of prophecy concerning
the Only Begotten, not only declaring His coming exaltation as King of earthly kings, but
describing Him as already being Jehovah's first-born,
saying, 11 will make Him my first-born, higher than the, kings of the earth.' (Psa.
.89:27.) Note also that out Lord (referring, to His own origin), declares Himself to be,
'The faithful and true Witness, the beginning of
the creation of God.'--Rev. 3:14."--STUDIES, Vol. V-93,95.
ARMIES IN HEAVEN FOLLOWED HIM--
VIEWS OF NOTED EXPOSITORS
"And those Armies in Heaven followed Him on white Horses,
clothed in white pure Fine linen-"--V. 14.
It would seem, when all the other features associated with this
vision are taken into consideration, as though there could hardly be room for any
difference of opinion .among students of the Revelation, that these "armies of
heaven" represent the glorified saints. The vision being seen by St. John after the
announcement of the Marriage of the Lamb, and the call of other of the consecrated ones
who were left in the tribulation to participate in the Marriage celebration, the
"Marriage Supper," seems all sufficient to prove this. We have found in PASTOR
RUSSELL'S writings that it was his thought that the Scriptures seem to teach that it will
be in connection. with some of -the severest troubles of the "great tribulation"
that the last of the joint-heirs with Christ will meet their change. The overthrow of the
great "Mother" organization of the Roman Catholic ecclesiastical as indicated by
the visions preceding the Lamb's Marriage seems to be an event that will be witnessed by
some of these joint-heirs while in the flesh* as We have endeavored to show in a preceding
article. This vision of the descent from heaven of Christ and His Armies follows
immediately this event. There is quite a general agreement among expositors that these
armies of heaven represent,, the glorified saints. We quote a few very striking comments
which show this:
"'And the armies which are in heaven followed Him upon white
horses, clad in white, pure, fine linen.' These are the veteran fighters that taking on
them by faith the armor [described in Eph. 6:10-18] while here, [in the flesh] have stood
against principalities and. powers against the rulers of, the darkness of this Age;
against wicked spirits in the heavenlies. They were seen as conquerors in chapt. 12, when
the Dragon was cast out of heaven, through their overcoming him; veteran warriors through
the centuries since Christ went on high, and the Holy Spirit came down. These are the
overcomers of the different conditions of the assemblies of God [the seven Churches
representing seven periods of the Church's history] through the second and third chapters.
And now they have come down to take their place with Him in reigning."-TAYLOR.
"When the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven, in flaming fire
[judgments] taking vengeance upon them that know not God and obey not the Gospel-, He does
not come alone. He is' married now and His Bride is with Him. Even before the flood, Enoch
prophesied of this epiphany of the promised One and said, 'Behold the Lord cometh with ten
thousand of His saints to execute judgment against all.' I.' (Jude 14, 15.) They are with
Him now, therefore, they must have been taken before. John saw, and writes, 'The armies,
the ones in the heaven were following Him.' Christ is the Head and Leader, and He goes
before; the saints follow in His train. The promise from the beginning was that the seed
of the woman should bruise the serpent's head and here it is 'emphasized that He Himself
treadeth the Winepress of the Wine of the anger of the Wrath of God, the All-Ruler. He
Himself is the Great Hero and Conqueror in this battle. But He is [the Messenger of]
'Jehovah of hosts.' He has many under His command. The armies of the sky are His and He
brings them with Him, even the 'called and chosen and faithful!
"They wear no armor. They are immortal, and can not be hurt; and
they ate not the executors of this vengeance. It is Christ's own 'personal victory in
accordance with the Apostolic declaration that 'for this purpose the Son of God was
manifested that He might destroy the works of the Devil.' (1 John 3:8.) He bears the only
sword and He alone uses it. He treadeth the Winepress alone. Those who accompany I Him to the scene of
conflict therefore need no weapons. 'The Sword of the Great Captain is enough. Their
defense is in Him and their Victory is in Him; . . . it is David who slays Goliath, and
the hosts of God's Israel have only to follow up the mighty triumph, shouting their songs
along the path of victory."-SEISS.
"These hosts of the redeemed on white horses accompany Him to be
witnesses of His victory, and to participate in the joy of the triumph, not to engage in
the 'Work of blood, for He has said, 'I have trodden the Winepress alone.'--Isa. 63:3." -BARNES.
"In the power of this He now comes forth; the armies that are in
Heaven following their white horsed Leader, themselves also upon white horses, sharers
with Him in the conflict and the victory, clothed in 'fine linen, white and pure. It is
this fine linen, which we have just seen as granted to the Bride, and which needed the
blood of the Lamb to make it white. It is undoubtedly the same company here as there, only
here seen in a new aspect,, even as the Lord Himself is seen in a new one. . . . The Lord
comes then, and all the saints with Him. How impossible to think of a providential coming,
merely here. 'When Christ who is our' life shall appear [be manifested to the world],'
says the Apostle, 'then shalt we appear [be manifested] With Him in' glory.' (Col. 3:4. )
'Know ye not that the saints shall judge the world,' he ask, elsewhere."--Grant.
"In-the Apocalypse, the key note of the final revelation is
sounded, 'Behold He cometh with the clouds and every eye shall see Him, and they also that
pierced Him and all the tribes of the earth shall mourn, over Him.' (Rev. 1:7.) To that
coming, all the preliminary letters to the Churches, and all the subsequent actions of the
[Revelation] prophecy are directed; the opening of its Seals; the sounding of its
Trumpets. the' pouring forth of its Vials. Under the sixth Vial the startling cry is
heard, 'Behold I come as a thief; blessed is he that watcheth and keepeth his garments,
lest he walk naked, and they shall see his shame.' After the fall of Babylon, heaven is
opened and 'the King of kings and Lord of lords' whose name is 'Faithful and True,' the
'Word of God.' comes forth, followed by the army of His white robed saints." -H. G.
GUINNESS.
"Hark the song of exultation breaking forth from heaven! . . And
immediately [following the Marriage of the Lamb] a triumphal procession is seen moving
forth from the direction-whence comes the song: 'And I saw heaven opened and behold a
white horse; and He that sat upon him was called faithful and true, and in righteousness
doth He judge and make war.' This Majestic Rider we met at the very opening of Apocalyptic
history (Rev. 6:2), but then He. [in the person of His Church] was going forth in peaceful
conquest: 'And I saw and behold a white horse, and Re that sat upon him had a bow.' 'Thou
didst' ride upon thine horses, upon thy chariots of salvation: thy bow was made quite
bare.' (Hab. 3 :9) ; 'and a crown was -given unto Him.' .(Rev. 6:2.) This is the 'stephanos,' the crown which in Scripture is so
repeatedly set before the Christian as the prize for his spiritual overcoming and which is
fitly worn by Him who in the days of His flesh could say, 'I have overcome the world.'
'And He went forth conquering and in order to conquer,'*--not only to effect the present
victories of redemption but to win the ultimate sovereignty of the world.
_____________
*See H. '19-55 for exposition of first Seal.
____________
"This final conquest has now arrived; for as the white horse
Rider comes forth from heaven, we behold 'and on His head were many crowns.' Not the stephanos now, but the diadems is the symbol of His
supremacy. The kingdom of the world has become the Kingdom of our Lord and His Christ; and
all the crowns of 911 the kings have passed over on His brow. The long succession of
world-wide monarchies which we beheld in Daniel's vision has intervened; the stone cut out
of the mountain without hands now smites the image upon its feet, and itself fills the
whole world. How striking the picture of the final transfer of earth's sovereignty to
Immanuel! To Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, the first in this line of universal
monarchs, God said: 'Thou, 0 king, art a king of kings.' (Dan. 2:37.) Now that hat this
bloody line terminates in the overthrow of mystical Babylon-whose sovereign the pope has
long arrogated both temporal and. ecclesiastical supremacy-Messiah takes up, both the
successions, and also takes the long abused title attaching to it: 'And He hath on His
vesture and on His thigh a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.'"--A. J.
GORDON.
WATCHING WHILE WE WAIT
We submit a further word by PASTOR RUSSELL showing that he believed.
the fulfillment of this vision related to the final conflict with and triumph over the
powers of darkness by Christ and the Church and that the fulfillment was still future:
"A somewhat similar description of The Christ in glory is given
us in Rev. 19:11, where He that is called 'Faithful and True' goes forth in righteousness
to judge and make war. The Heavenly armies follow Him (v. 14), and. out- of His mouth goes
a sharp sword, that with it He should smite the nations.--V. 15.
"We know not why this prophecy speaks of Heavenly armies -- in
the We merely suggest that the Heavenly army may possibly be in two divisions--one on this
side of the, veil, the other on the other side of the veil. WE ARE WAITING TO T0 SEE, and
merely watching while we wait, and noting with possibly STILL GREATER CARE OUR FATHER'S
WORD. We may be. sure that if any commission be given to the Lord's people to execute
judgment this side of the veil IT WOULD BE SO EXPLICIT AS, TO LEAVE NO ROOM FOR DOUBT,
remembering that the Divine requirement throughout the Age has been that the saints of God
SHALL BE SUBJECT" TO THE POWERS THAT BE Any change" from this order to the elect
that we should execute judgments upon them WILL NEED TO BE VERY POSITIVELY AND VERY
CLEARLY UNDERSTOOD BEFORE BEING EXECUTED."--Z. '14-13-5.
While Pastor RUSSELL in the. above intimates that the heavenly armies
may include two branches, one in glory and the other the remaining saints in the flesh,
yet it is ,noted that his statement as to this! is very indefinite and uncertain, for as
he says, "we are waiting to see." We do not see anything at present to lead us!
to believe that any of the saints in the flesh will participate in this conflict in the
sense of exercising authority over the nations and fulfilling the symbolic picture.
However, we shall still watch while we wait.
It is well for the faithful student to keep in mind here that while
this vision we think describes the Lord Jesus' heavenly army, and this army is the
glorified saints, there I is an earthly army that will engage in this final conflict.
These are called Jehovah's great army and are not saints of God. When we come to consider
that part of the vision that relates to the opponents in this great and final battle
between truth and error we will need to consider who these are.--Joel 2:11'.
SHARP TWO-EDGED SWORD
"And out of His mouth proceeds a sharp two-edged Broadsword, so
that with it He may smite the Nations; and He shall rule them with an Iron Scepter; and He
treads the Winepress of the Wine of the Indignation of the Wrath of God, the
Omnipotent."--V. 15.
The sword referred to here is not a literal one. No one could
possibly conceive that this statement of St. John is to be understood literally.
Undoubtedly to St. John's vision it seemed a literal sword, even as' all the other
transactions in the vision seemed literal. Let us keep ever in mind in considering this
remarkable scene, that it was in every sense of the word a vision; but while a vision, it
points to a most real and literal but terrible transaction. There is a very general
agreement that the sword represents the sword of Truth. "He who now takes His great
power to reign is shown in symbol (Rev. 19:15) as the one whose sword went forth out of
His mouth; 'that with it He should smite the nations,- and He shall rule them with a rod
of iron.'. That sword is the Truth (Eph. 6:17) ; and the living saints, as well as many'
of the world, are [even] now being used as the Lord's soldiers in overthrowing errors and
evils." This has been true in a sense throughout the Gospel Age; however, the vision
we are considering describes something different. "But let no one hastily infer that
a peaceable conversion of the nations to be here symbolized; for many Scriptures, such as
Rev. 11:17, 18; Dan. 12:1; 2 Thes. 2:8; Psa. 149 and 47, teach the very opposite."
STUDIES, Vol. II-100, 101.
" It is the same sword that we have seen in chap. 1:16; 2:12, in
the address to the assembly [Church] in Pergamos [which represented the worldly age of
Constantine and his successors] which had become nationalized; and now [at this time] the
nations Christianized though- not Christ's own, are to be under judgment of the sword,
which is the Word of God."--TAYLOR.
'Judgment is now [at the time of this vision] impending: out of His
mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it He may smite the nations.' So Isaiah: 'He shall
smite the earth with the rod of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips shall He stay
the wicked.' (Isa. 11:4.) It needs but a word from Him to cause their destruction; while
it is a judgment no less according to His Word; it is that long and oft threatened, slow
to come, but at last coming in the full measure of the denunciation."--GRANT.
"It is 'sharp' like the sickle, and fulfils the same office. It
is the sword of almighty justice. It proceeds out of His mouth. So Isaiah 11:4. This shows
the ease with which he accomplishes His purposes. He speaks and it is done. He commands
and it is accomplished. Something of this was pre-intimated when the armed mob came forth
against Him in Gethsemane, 'When Jesus spake to them, I am He, they went backward, and
fell to the ground.' (John 18:6.) If so mild an utterance prostrated His enemies, then
what will it be when He girds and crowns Himself for the 'battle of the great day of God
Almighty -- when He comes, with all the cavalcade of heaven to tread the Winepress of the
fierceness of Jehovah's anger? 'The Word of God is quick and powerful and sharper than any
two-edged sword, piercing -even to the dividing of soul and spirit and of the joints and
marrow' (Heb. 4:12) ; and When that Word goes forth in execution of Almighty wrath upon
those in arms against His throne, what a flow of blood, and wilting of life, and tornado
of deadly disaster, must it work!" -- SEISS.
This treading of the Winepress is the same doubtless that is referred
to in Isa. 63, and Rev. 14:20. It is stated by PASTOR RUSSELL to be the last feature of
the time of trouble."
_________
*H '20-120.
_________
KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS
"And He has on His Mantle and on His Thigh a Name written, King
of Kings and Lord of Lords." (v. 16.) We are here reminded of the Psalmist's words,
"Gird .thy sword upon thy thigh, 0 Most Mighty." (Psa. 45:3.) The warrior
carries His sword on His thigh; in this instance, however, the sword proceeds from His
mouth. The sword in addition to its representing the Word of God seems in this instance to
be the emblem of authority and majesty as well. Standing for authority and majesty it
would include the thought of authority to punish His enemies. The Apostle Paul uses it in
this sense when referring to the world rulers, he says: "For rulers are not a terror
to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? Do that which
is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for
good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in
vain." (Rom. 13:3, 4.) The authority, majesty and dominion of Christ seems to be
expressed in that the name, "King of kings and Lord of lords," is engraven upon
both His mantle and thigh. The governments of the world bad for long centuries abused a
lease of power from Jehovah. The time had now come when the lease had, expired. Symbolic
beasts had held the sword of authority, and reigned. And at this stage of history, as
represented in this and preceding visions, they had combined to hold it against the
rightful King and His armies. He is now in the vision represented as manifested in His
majesty to use' that authority and power to overthrow, to destroy this combination of
kings and 'lords, and to inaugurate the Millennial reign for the blessing of all the
families of earth.
0 Church of Christ! behold at last
The promised sign appear
The Gospel preached in all the world
And lo! the King draws near.
With girded loins, make haste, make haste
Thy witness to complete;
That Christ may take His throne and bring
All nations to His feet.
And Thou, 0 Israel, long in dust,
Arise! and come away;
See how the Sun of righteousness
Sheds forth the beams of day.
Thy scattered sons are gathering home,
The fig tree buds again;
A little while and David's Son
On David's throne shall reign.
Then sing aloud, 0 Pilgrim Church,
Brief conflict yet remains;
And then Immanuel descends
To bind thy foe in chains.
-Gordon's Millennial Hymns.
--DECEMBER 19--MATT.
14:13-23--
Golden Text.--"They have
no need to go away; give ye them to eat."--Matt. 14:16
ON hearing of the death of John the Baptist; Jesus crossed the Lake
of Galilee,--out of the dominion of Herod. Possibly His thought was that His ministry was
not yet concluded, and that Herod, having shown such boldness against John, might seek to
interfere with His labors and the completion of His ministry. Or possibly He feared that a
rebellious spirit might be aroused amongst the people-and His teachings would seem to
foster this. An intimation-of the kind is given in the fact that after the miracle the
people sought to make Jesus king. To have encouraged any such matter would be to have
opposed what He recognized to be the Divine arrangement.
Possibly, as some of the epistles seem to intimate, Jesus sought
privacy with His Apostles that He might contemplate the character. of the work He was to
do.. Evidence of His growing popularity at this time is given in the fact that so large a
multitude went afoot for many miles around the shore of the lake that they might be with
Him and hear His precious words of life-parables, etc., respecting the Kingdom which He
proposed to establish, and in which all His Apostles and all His. faithful were to share.
INSTANT IN SEASON AND OUT OF SEASON
When Jesus saw the multitude His heart was filled with compassion,
and He could not withhold Himself from them. In season and out of season, so far as His
convenience was concerned, He must work the works of God, lay down His life inch by inch,
hour by hour. We read that "He had compassion on the multitude," for they were
as sheep without a shepherd. They had a heart-hunger, although they knew not what it was
really, for they longed for higher, better, nobler conditions than surrounded them, and
this great Teacher seemed to have words such as none other had for them-words of hope, of
reconciliation with God, of Divine providence and care. Those who sat in Moses' seat
(Scribes and Pharisees, Matt. 23:2) were so filled with a misconception of their proper
attitude toward God, misled so, that they merely banded themselves together to enjoy the
Divine promises and to appropriate them to themselves, and give up the remainder of their
nation as publicans and sinners, considering, them too lacking in piety to have Divine
favor or any part or lot in the Kingdom privileges. Jesus, however, passed by these
self-righteous ones who rejected Him and the only way of approach to God, and showed His
special favor to the humbler poor, who heard His message gladly and wondered at the
"gracious words that proceeded out of His mouth"--words telling them that God
despises not the imperfect and 'weak if they are sincere and consecrated to Him.
It was after three o'clock, in the afternoon, in the early evening,
that the disciples suggested that it was time for the multitude to be dismissed that they
might find food and lodging in the surrounding villages. John and Mark record a dialogue
on the subject between Jesus and Philip, the home of the, latter being in the adjoining
town of Bethsaida, and who was therefore acquainted with the region, its resources, etc.
Jesus inquired of Philip, "Whence shall we buy bread that these may eat?" Philip
replied that it would require two hundred pennyworth of bread to give each of them a
little. This would mean about two hundred dollars' worth of bread according to our present
day reckoning. All of the Apostles then seemed to join in with the suggestion that the
multitude be sent away that they might buy their own provisions as well as secure
lodging-though as a matter of fact the people of the East make little ado about lodgings.
They will camp almost anywhere, and, wrapping their cloaks about them, lie down in the
fields or by the roadsides to sleep-in any place not supposed to be dangerous.
SEEKING FIRST A NATURAL SUPPLY
It was then Jesus said to His disciples, "Give ye them to
eat." Mark says that they inquired, "Shall we go and buy them 200 pennyworth of
bread and give them to eat?" Jesus asked, "How many loaves have ye? Go and
see." It was the Apostle Andrew who returned with the word that a lad of the company
had five loaves and two small fishes which he had put at their disposal. Jesus accepted
the situation and instructed that the multitude be directed to be seated in companies. It
is- supposed that they arranged themselves in groups of, fifty, and that there were 100
groups, making in all 5,000. Apparently they adopted the form of a three-sided square,
after the shape of a Roman reclining table, the disciples who served them passing in at
the open side and thus being able to reach the entire company. We are not informed how the
five barley loaves and two small fishes were increased so as to be sufficient for the five
thousand people with a remainder of twelve baskets full. Quite probably the increase was
while being broken in the Lord's hands, though possibly also the increasing continued at
the hands of the Apostles as they in turn distributed the food to the people.
If such a story were told us respecting an ordinary person we could
not believe it. Indeed it would be not faith but credulity on our part to believe it. So
it is with those who deny the heavenly origin of our Lord Jesus: they do not believe that
He could or did do such works as are recorded in the Scriptures. Neither could we believe
the matter from their standpoint. It is because we believe that Jesus was the only
begotten of the Father, who came into the world to be our Redeemer-because we believe that
the Father poured upon Him the Divine spirit or power that we can also believe that He had
power to still the tempest or thus increase the food by His blessing.
If we could not accept these Scriptural testimonies monies respecting
the power of Jesus over natural things neither could we accept the declarations of the
Prophets and Apostles respecting His coming power in the Kingdom. If we can accept the
Scriptural declaration respecting Him as the great Restorer of all things, God's
representative, Immanuel, who in the future shall bless the whole world of mankind, then
with equal propriety and with the same kind of faith we can recognize Him as the one in
whom the Father's power operated in a small way in connection with the miracles under
consideration and others at the First Advent.
CAREFUL USE OF DIVINE BOUNTIES
The whole lesson was intensified by the Lord's direction that the
disciples should gather up the fragments; and, besides, another lesson was given, namely,
that however great and bountiful are God's provisions for people, none of them are to be
wasted. We cannot see wastefulness in any of the Lord's consecrated people without feeling
that, however great progress they have made in understanding the mind of the Lord in some
respects, they are still deficient in this particular. An appreciation of the gift and
respect for the Giver implies a carefulness and a stewardship in respect to all that comes
to us from our Heavenly Father-things temporal and things spiritual. According to our
Lord's parables He is measuring our love and zeal in a considerable degree by our use or
abuse of the talents, opportunities, blessings, temporal and spiritual, now bestowed upon
us.
We may be sure that in this, miracle as in the others our Lord
intended to inculcate some important lesson of faith or practice-not so much for the
public as for His ,special followers, His disciples. We may presume, therefore, that He
had a two-fold purpose in sending them away by ship while He remained and dismissed the
multitude, telling them that His discourses and miracles were at an end. *One of these
purposes doubtless was private fellowship and communion with the Father in the
mountain-apart from the multitude-apart even from His beloved twelve Apostles. There are
times when we love to join our hearts and voices with others at the throne of heavenly
grace, and come as a company of the Lord's people into fellowship and communion with Him,
and there are other times when we seem to need individual, personal, private communion
with God, as our Lord seemed to have required on this occasion.
Our Lord's second object was, doubtless, to give His disciples
opportunity for thinking over the miracle and talking it over by themselves in His
absence. They might thus speak more freely one with another, and get more benefit than if
He had been with them, and they would have been under a certain degree of restraint in His
presence. The Lord wished this great lesson to be thoroughly impressed upon their minds:
it would be helpful to them in future' years to remember how He bad power to increase
their temporal food without human interference and independent of human conditions. It
would be a lesson also respecting the spiritual food, that they should not despise the day
of 'small things; that if sent by Him to break the bread of life to the people, they
should not be fearful and hindered by reason of unpropitious conditions prevailing, but
should have full confidence in Him that He had the power to overrule in all the affairs of
life, that all his gracious purposes might be accomplished.
WE MAY DISPENSE THE BREAD FROM HEAVEN
There is a lesson for us of the present day, too, in this matter, as
there has been a lesson for the Church all the way down through this Gospel Age. We may
feel that the multitude is large and that the means at our disposal for reaching them with
the bread of life are limited. We may be inclined to say here, we have such and such
things, but "what are they among so many?" Let us hearken to the Lord's word,
"Give ye them to eat." It should be sufficient for us to know that any one is
present who is hungering and thirsting after righteousness. "He that hath an ear to
hear, let him hear." Tell him the Good Tidings, no matter in what form they must be
presented, no matter how intolerable the conditions. The important thing is that there are
some who are hungry for the Truth, and that if we will the Lord will bless us in
ministering it to them.
We have been reminded of this parable sometimes as in the past we
have read the reports of the work accomplished under PASTOR RUSSELL'S supervision during
his lifetime, and endeavored to realize the immense amount of spiritual food borne to the
people all over the civilized world, and our privileges connected with its dissemination.
We have marveled how the Lord blessed the comparatively small amount of money so that it
reached so far --it seemed to multiply tinder the Lord's blessing. The matter is with us
as it was with the Apostles. The Lord Himself raises the question of how much it will
require. We look about us and see how few are hunger ing and thirsting for the Truth,
how many I grasping after multitudinous errors, false gospels, new lights, etc., and we
hear the Lord's word, "Give ye them to eat." It re quires faith to go forth
and to hope to accomplish the great harvest work under present. limited conditions, but so
surely as the Lord is the Chief Reaper, His blessing upon what He has given us to dispense
will make it sufficient, so that all who are
really hungry may be fed.
Let the lesson sink deeply into our hearts; let us have the more
confidence in Him who not only provided the temporal food centuries ago, but who now
according to His promise has come forth a second time and -is dispensing again spiritual
food, meat in due season, things new and old from the treasury of His Word. Let us be
swift to appropriate these promises to our hearts, seeing to it that we are still
hungering and thirsting after clearer views of the Divine -character and plan. Let us be
on the alert to give to all who are hungering and thirsting the blessed food which has so
greatly refreshed and strengthened us. If they do not get it they will faint by the way as
they go looking for other provisions. We have the very thing which all of the household of
faith need; without it they cannot maintain their standing, they cannot press on, they
shall surely become discouraged. A thousand shall fall at our side and ten thousand at our
right hand without this needed - nourishment. Let us be alert.
THE USE OF MEANS--THEN AND NOW
The lad who had the loaves and fishes and who put them at the
disposal of the Lord, we may be sure wag greatly blessed, although we hear nothing further
of him than is here mentioned. It was a case of opportunity, and we may be sure that the boy thus willing to put his all at our Lord's disposal, instead of attempting
to sell it to the hungry at famine prices, received a
corresponding blessing. The lesson for all is that whatever we may have of financial
means for sending forth the bread of life to others, or whatever we may have of knowledge
of the Truth,' is neither to be selfishly hoarded nor selfishly partaken of by ourselves.
It is to be consecrated to the Lord, and out of that consecration the Lord will bring
blessing to others and increased blessings upon our own heads and hearts,
It was after Jesus had spent the night in prayer and toward morning
came to His disciples still on the take in the boat – storm-stayed -- and after they
had tome to the landing safely, that some of those who had been with Him and who had
partaken of the miraculous bread and fish had returned to the vicinity of Capernaum and
sought Jesus again, that He upbraided them and accused them of seeking Him more for the
loaves and fishes than on account of the truths which He proclaimed; and using this as a
text, proceeded to tell them of Himself as the Bread of Eternal Life that had come down
from heaven, of which if a man eat he would never die-the bread of life everlasting.
Blessed are our ears for we have heard! blessed are the eyes of our
understanding for we have seen Him! blessed are we for we have tasted of this Bread of
Life! Blessed are we if we ate stilt hungering and thirsting after righteousness, and day
after day being more and more filled according to the promise.
A FAMINE FOR THE WORD OF GOD. -- Amos. 8:11
We live in very stirring times, in times when there is a greater
hungering for knowledge, for wealth, for influence, for power, for everything, than there
ever was before. Everybody seems to be hungry. Yet our day is so full of philosophies,
inventions, sciences (true and false), money making schemes, financial schemes,
theological schemes, etc., etc., that the whole world is absorbed in attempts to satisfy
these various hungerings of the soul. Yet these things do not satisfy even the worldly
they still hunger and thirst; and nothing will ever satisfy them but the Living Bread-the
Truth. Now is the time for us who have become "new creatures in Christ Jesus" to
see to it that we dispense to others the true -bread and water of life; and that our own
earthly hunger for earthly things shall not be prospered or gratified at the expense of
our spiritual hunger for spiritual things, but that the latter shall have our special
attention and care and provision.
The more people are satisfied with earthly things the less
inclination they will have for the heavenly things, and the more we are satisfied with the
heavenly things the less of appetite will we have for the earthly things. The new nature
flourishes at the expense of the old nature, and the new ambitions, hopes and desires at
the expense of the old. Likewise-when the old nature flour ishes, it is at the expense
of the new in all of life's af fairs. Let us then., realizing the difference between the
food I that perisheth and the food that brings Divine bless ing-eternal life-let us
choose the latter, let us feed more and more upon the Lord and upon His Word and thus grow
strong in the Lord and in the power of His might, and be more and more weaved from the
world, its spirit, its hopes, its ambitions. We seek a heavenly country a heavenly
Kingdom, a heavenly nature, and heavenly qualities, fitted and prepared for that heavenly
nature. We have found the great Life-giver, the one who can and does supply this bread
from heaven. It is our great privilege to be the dispensers of this bread--"Give ye
them to eat." "He that hath an ear let him hear."
--DECEMBER 26--LUKE
2 :8-20--
Golden Text.--"There is
born to you to-day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."--Luke
2:11.
CHRISTMAS season calls forth once more hallowed memories of the birth
of the Savior of the world. The more intimately we know our dear Redeemer in the light of
the Scriptures, the more we shall appreciate Him, love Him and seek to copy Him. No other
life than His could bear so continual and close a scrutiny, yet always be full of fresh
revelations of moral dignity and character-any other life similarly studied and criticized
would reveal its seamy side of weakness, sin and ignobility.
The time of our Lord's birth was an auspicious one in several
respects, and very evidently Divine wisdom had exercised itself in respect to the world's
affairs by way of preparation for this important event: (1) The spirit of world-conquering
that began with Nebuchadnezzar's kingdom was favorable to it, in the sense that it brought
the various families or nations of mankind into closer contact with each 'Other,
broadening their ideas. (2) This policy had resulted in the transplanting of peoples from
one land to another, and thus had made them more cosmopolitan in their sentiments. (3)
Israel and Judah, thus transplanted in their captivity to Babylon, became so attached to
the new conditions that. comparatively few of them availed themselves of the offer of
Cyrus to return to their own land, only about fifty thousand of all the tribes, out of
several millions. The Jews among the Gentiles were by no means lost and had by no means
abandoned all. of their hopes in the Abrahamic Covenant nor all of their faithfulness to
the Mosaic Law-although they were lax -in these matters and too full of a love of gain and
ease to cultivate the spirit of Israelites indeed. Nevertheless, they- had their influence
amongst all the nations with whom they dwelt, and were witnesses to the hopes of Israel in
the one God and in a coming Messiah, the Son of God, to be the world's Deliverer. (4) The
triumph for a time of the Greek Empire had brought to the civilized world a highly
developed literature-the Greek language had reached its zenith, and was the literary
language of the civilized world. (5) The Roman Empire had conquered the world and was in
the height of its power, and as a result there was a time of universal peace, and hence a
more favorable time than -any before for the announcement of the Gospel and for the safety
of, its representatives in passing from nation to nation. (6) Israel itself had reached
probably its highest development, intellectually, morally and religiously, and
additionally we are told in the Scriptures that "All men were in expectation" of the Messiah's coming.--Luke
3:15.
It was just at this most appropriate 'time, as divinely arranged for,
that Caesar Augustus, the Roman Emperor issued his decree respecting the taxing of his
worldwide empire. The decree was not merely an assessment of taxes, but was rather a
census, or enrollment for taxation. But instead of sending assessors to the people,
according to the present custom, the arrangement then was. that every male citizen must
report himself at the headquarters of his own family line. This I was the -occasion for
the coming of Joseph and his espoused wife, Mary, the mother of Jesus, to Bethlehem, their
native city or family city, for they were both of the house of David (though through
different lines), and Bethlehem was "the city of David." Thus in a providential
manner and by a decree over which they had no control whatever, Joseph and Mary were
brought to the very city in which most appropriately the great heir of David should be
born, as had been ioretold by the Prophet.-Micah 5:2.
IF THOU EVEN THOU HADST KNOWN
Had the people assembled at Bethlehem realized who this was that had
come to their city-that He was from the heavenly courts, that Re was the Logos made flesh,
that He had come to "save His people from their sins." how gladly they would
have welcomed Him into the inn 'and have given to His use and comfort its choicest
apartments! But they knew Him not, and hence lost this great privilege of ministering to
Him. Similarly, in every city and town where the Lord's people are (His true saints),
there are many who would make them welcome and give them the best at their disposal, did
they but recognize them as the messengers of Jesus and of the Heavenly Father; but as the
Apostle says, "The world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not." (1 John 3:1.)
The disciple must not expect to be above His Lord, and hence, even when going upon
missions of mercy and benevolence and as ambassadors for God, We should expect that the
Lord's providence would furnish for us, not the most palatial conditions, but more
probably very humble conditions. And when we find it thus we should rejoice that to some
extent at least we have experiences which harmonize With those of our Lord. The Lord's
people will obtain a blessing in proportion as they are prepared to receive all
opportunities for God's service as Divine favors and to appreciate them, no matter how
humble the conditions: and it -is noteworthy that neither Joseph, nor Mary, nor Jesus, nor
the disciples, nor the Evangelist who recorded the incident, offers the slightest
complaint or suggestion of dissatisfaction with the arrangement pro vided by Divine
providence, In proportion as they would have felt dissatisfied with the arrangements
provided, in that proportion the Divine plans would not have worked for their good.
SHEPHERDS ABIDING IN THE FIELD
The vicinity of Bethlehem is a pastoral country, and today is covered
with flocks. It was the custom at the time of the Savior's birth for the shepherds to
remain with their flocks by night as a guard against thieves as well as against wild
beasts. It was in this vicinity that David (afterward king), when a shepherd-boy
protecting his flocks, slew on one occasion a lion and at another time a bear. The
shepherds as a class -were not particularly well educated people as respects schools, and
yet many of them were thoughtful and thus secured, in their leisure time while watching
their flocks, by reflection and by conversation, considerable knowledge, so that they
might be termed an intellectual, and thinking class of people, their minds being turned
more to reflection on large subjects than are the minds of some who are constantly
immersed in trade and mechanics. The shepherd whom God honored in making him king of
His-typical kingdom, was a great poet, and evidently much of his time while shepherding
was given to the muse, and one of his. most beautiful poems (Psalm 23) represents Jehovah
Himself as. the Shepherd of His people,--His flock, for which He cares. It was to men of
this thoughtful class, and no, doubt men familiar with David's Psalms, and with the
Messianic hopes therein set forth, that the Lord sent the first message respecting His Son
made flesh.
The description of the appearance of an angel, and of the fear which
the brightness of his countenance engendered, is both simple and natural. All mankind more
or less feels instinctively a fear of the supernatural, a trepidation at the very thought
of being in the presence, of the holy angels. And this is proper as well as natural, for
all realize their own imperfections through the fall, fearing more or less that the
results to themselves would be unfavorable if Divine justice were laid to the line and to
the plummet in respect to their affairs. All seem instinctively to realize their. need of
mercy at the hands of Him with whom we have to do. And so it was with these shepherds;
they were affrighted as they beheld the heavenly visitor in their midst; but his message
was not one of justice nor in any sense of condemnation, but of Divine mercy. He soothed
them with the words, "Be not afraid; for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy
which shall be unto all people." Can we wonder that joy took the place of fear in
their hearts as they heard the gracious words? Surely not.. And so it is with all who from
that day to the present time have heard this true Gospel Message, not merely with the
outward ears, but truly, with the cars of their understanding-comprehending it.
Oh, if we could only get all true Christians to study this tenth
verse of our lesson, and to see the- depths of its significance, it would quickly
revolutionize the teachings of Christendom! But as our Lord declared, some of the deep
things of the Divine Plan are hidden from many of the wise and prudent according to the
course of this world, and are revealed only to the humble-the babes. Nevertheless, the
testimony of God standeth sure, and all whose understandings have been opened and who have
been enabled to comprehend some of the lengths and the breadths, and the heights and the
depths of God's love, may rejoice that the ignorance of the world in general on this
subject and the opposition of the great adversary who is blinding them, cannot continue
forever, but must soon give place, when the Lord's due time shall come;--when He who died
on Calvary for the world's redemption shall begin His glorious reign by binding that old
serpent, the devil, Satan, that he should deceive the nations no more for the thousand
years of the Millennial reign. Then all shall see out of obscurity; then all shall discern
what at present is the privilege of only the favored few to see, respecting the Divine
character and plan-that the Message of the angel was true, every, word of it-that the
.grand results to flow from the birth of the Savior in Bethlehem justified the Message
sent by the great Jehovah -a good Message of great joy which eventually shall be to all
people-whose enlightenment and blessing shall have no hindrance, no restriction, and as a
result all shall come to a knowledge of the truth and to an opportunity of availing
themselves of the grace, mercy and peace provided for all in the great. salvation secured
by the ransom-sacrifice of our Lord Jesus.
THE ANGEL'S MESSAGE GOOD TIDINGS
The angel further explained his great Gospel Message, showing its
basis, and declaring that all the good things mentioned should come to pass because the
Savior, Messiah, had been born-the one so long looked for in Israel, the promised seed of
Abraham in whom not only Israel should be blessed and exalted to honor, dignity and
cooperation, but in whom also "all the families of the earth should be blessed."
And let us here remark that the order of presentation used by the heavenly messenger, and
evidently divinely ordered, is the proper presentation of this subject which should be
adopted by all who seek to be used of the Lord as His ambassadors in the calling of the
elect Church. First, there is the grand pronouncement of Divine favor and blessing, that
it is a cause for joy, and that ultimately it shall extend to every creature; secondly,
there is the specific explanation of how all this is to be accomplished-through a Savior,
a Deliverer, who, in order to deliver His people from the wages of sin, death, into
eternal life and blessing, must first of all save them from their sins. And we see from-other Scriptures
that this Salvation from our sins signifies not
only the payment on our behalf of the penalty for Adamic sin, but also, subsequently,
man's instruction in righteousness and lifting out of sin; in which uplift each one is
required to cooperate to the extent of his will and of his ability.
So all teaching of the grace that is to come to mankind should be
coupled with the philosophy of the salvation -the Savior made flesh and the flesh devoted
or sacrificed for our sins, and the Savior glorified, that in due time after the selection
of His Church He might, with her, according to the Divine Plan, establish His Kingdom of
righteousness for the uplifting of the world of mankind out of ignorance, superstition and
general degradation into which the great Adversary has gotten them through the fall and
through his subsequent blinding and misleading. In this connection it is well to remember
that our Lord's name, Jesus, signifies Savior, and
that all who would be of the elect Church must have the spirit of the Bridegroom (as well
as by faith be covered with the garment of His imputed righteousness) : and that His
spirit is one of opposition to sin to the extent
of self sacrifice. We also are to "resist unto blood [death] striving against sin."--Heb. 12:4.
Then the angel gave the shepherds an intimation of the humble
conditions under which this great King of earth was born into the 'world-as a babe,
wrapped in swaddling bands and lying in a manger. This was necessary, not only to their
identification of Jesus, but necessary also to bring down their thoughts from the great
and grand results to its humble beginnings, lest they should be misled in their
expectations. And as it is with every part of the Divine Plan, so also it should be in
respect to all of our proclamations of the same. We are not only to tell of the future
glory and greatness and grandeur, but we are-to tell also of the present humiliation-not
only of our Savior who humbled Himself to take a, low estate amongst men, and to die for
our sins, but also to point out that the "Elect -are called, to walk in His
footsteps, under similarly humiliating circumstances-to suffer with Him, if they would
reign with Him; to die with Him, if they would live with Him. And thus also the Prophets
spoke not only of the glory that should follow, but also of the sufferings of Christ (Head
and Body) which must precede the glory. (I Pet. 1:11.) The lesson to every one who has
ears to hear it is, "No cross, no crown." Let us, then, humble ourselves under
the mighty hand of God, and rejoice in every step of the humiliation,. that He may exalt
us in due time to share the glories of His Son our Lord, and to share with Him the grand
work of blessing all the families of the earth.
ANGELIC HOST PROCLAIMS PEACE ON EARTH
It was a fitting climax that, after the one angel had told the
surprised shepherds of the Good Tidings of great joy for all people and was ready to
depart, he should be joined by an angelic host, singing, "Glory to God in the
highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." This was but a reiteration of the
Gospel Message already delivered. It declared that the work which should be accomplished
by the babe just born, should redound to the highest glory and honor of Jehovah God, His
Father. It declared also that through this work to be accomplished by Jesus should ,come
to 'earth Divine good will and consequently peace, and all that these would imply in the
way of blessings of restitution and privilege of attaining everlasting life. But ,how much
in conflict with all this are the erroneous theories which have gained credence in
Christendom, which teach that, notwithsanding the ransom which our Lord Jesus gave, and
notwithstanding the turning aside of the original sentence upon our race as the result of
the propitiation for our sins accepted by the Father, the vast majority of the human
family will nevertheless, to all eternity, be in rebellion against God, and in torture
will continually blaspheme His name;--and that without ever having had a full, reasonable
opportunity to know the ,Savior or to accept His salvation. How strange that any should
think that such a plan would be glory to God in the highest 1
How, strange that any should refuse
to see the very plain statement of the Scripture that God has provided through Christ
that every member of the human family shall have a full opportunity of coming to a
knowledge of the truth, and then of relinquishing sin and of accepting new life of
righteousness under the New Covenant-and that then whoever still refuses and will not
submit himself to this righteous arrangement shall be utterly destroyed from amongst the
people-in the Second Death,--that none will be suffered to live in sin and opposition to
God to blemish any part of God's dominions, but that all the incorrigible shall be as
though they had not been. In no other way can we possibly imagine that the time will ever
come when there will be full peace among men. "There is no peace for the wicked,
saith my God."
The only solution which God offers respecting the establishment of
peace is in connection with the establishment of His Kingdom, for which our dear Redeemer
taught us to pray, "Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is done in
heaven." That will mean peace in its fullest and most absolute sense. The Scriptural
proposition does not include the violation of any man's will, but merely the offering
through Christ of an opportunity for His everlasting blessing and peace, or his cutting
off in the Second Death if he fails to appreciate the Divine offer.
The shepherds having heard of God's grace, manifested their interest
by visiting and paying their homage to the Savior: and so each one who has heard of the
grace of God with an appreciative heart can -do nothing less than seek the Lord and do Him reverence and serve His
cause by proclaiming the gracious message with which he has been favored. 'Let us each do
so, and thus more and mare increase in our hearts the joys of the Lord and our
appreciation of His grand Gospel.
SINCE sending forth the November 1-15 issue of the HERALD many loving
messages have come assuring us of very deep appreciation of this special issue. As we have
endeavored to explain previously, our thought in preparing this special issue was to
assemble such matter as would in a particular Way treat those lines of thought that are of
extra ordinary importance to the people of the Truth in these latter days, from strictly
the Bible standpoint and thus assist the brethren to discern the will of God more
perfectly.
It now appears to be the unanimous opinion that the special HERALD of
November 1-15 is a most appropriate issue to be given a general circulation amongst other
brethren who have -been more or less perplexed and disturbed during the varied and unusual
circumstances of the past four years and who have had difficulty in discerning clearly the
important facts and the various issues in their true light. Dear brethren let us not be
misunderstood in the above suggestions. It is not in a spirit of proselytizing that we
would seek to give a message to others. It is not our thought that we should try to
influence other brethren to break away from a condition of sectarianism or bondage to
become entangled in another. Rather our thought is that as all consecrated believers in
Christ are members of the "same Body" of Christ, even though some or all -may
for a time, have been misled in one direction or another ,or into one entanglement or
another before they. Were aware .of it, the spirit of love, the spirit of the Master,
operating in, all the members of His Body dictates that we should have one another's
interest at heart especially the spiritual welfare, so that at all times we would seek to
be so exercised toward all other consecrated believers in a way and manner that would be
to their advantage and progress spiritually. This is sure to mean that if we see a
fellow-member of Christ failing to enjoy the fullness of His blessing-the fullness of
Christian liberty, and the fullness of light, joy and peace in his heart, and in danger of
being robbed of his precious heritage, we can not -but esteem it as the mission of love
and the will of God that we exert every holy means
the Lord may have put within our -reach to help such an one to be recovered, and assist
him to so put on the whole armor of God that he may be able to with stand all the fiery
darts of the evil one. We believe' it is just this spirit of helpfulness in the members of
the Body that the inspired Apostle recommends: "But speaking the truth in love, -may
grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: from whom the whole body
fitly joined together and ,compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to
-the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase, of the body unto the
edifying of itself in love."--Eph. 4:15, 16.
We wish all the friends to know that it is our desire that all the
publications of the HERALD shall bear that stamp of the spirit of Christ, set forth in the
language above; and in issuing the recent double number containing matter pertinent to
these last times, we believe that we are acting strictly in accordance with the mind of
Christ. For this reason we desire to encourage the friends everywhere to make special
effort to place the double issue in the hands of every person that it is thought might be
helped at this time. We doubt not that some could best assist in the circulation of the
double number by sending us lists of names and addresses of other friends whom you know,
living in your own vicinity or elsewhere; we can mail the journal to them direct. Others
may order a supply of the special HERALD and hand or mail them to others as occasion and
opportunity may offer. There will be a charge of 5c each or 50c per dozen.
GIVING THE WATER OF LIFE
The tract we have been supplying for some time, "The
Inauguration of God's Kingdom preceded by distress of nations," has brought some
excellent results which clearly show that there are those hungering and thirsting after
the bread from heaven and the water of life. And what wonder, as the whole creation
continues to groan and travail in pain together, waiting, etc. It is encouraging, too, to
note that the friends seem increasingly active in witnessing to the Truth by the
distribution of these tracts. We believe that the disposition to participate in this
ministry represents a most wholesome attitude spiritually. It has been with regret,
however, that we have not been able to fill all orders for these tracts as received, as
the supply we have is now quite limited. Hence, we have been compelled to cut down all
orders and ship only a fraction of the amount requested. And while our circumstances will
not permit of our ordering another edition printed at present, we are looking to the Lord
for His guidance, with the hope that if it is His will there may soon he a full supply. of
the free literature on hand, sufficient that all may. share the blessings of this ministry
to the extent of their opportunities and as their time will permit. Let all who have
espoused the cause of our great King, the cause of truth and righteousness, the cause of
His coming Kingdom, have the burden of His Message upon their hearts, to the intent that
He may more and more bless our united efforts to be true and worthy witnesses for
"Jesus and the Word of God," while it is yet called. day.
WEEP WARMTH AND COMFORT OF LOVE
DEAR BRETHREN,
Love and greetings in our dear Lord's name! It gives me great joy and
pleasure now to write you. My son has received the HERALD from the first and we have all
enjoyed it so much -increasingly so.
We were sorry at not seeing our dear Brothers Streeter and Hoskins,
but realize it to be our Father's appointment. HOW my
heart warmed to all the dear ones, and the Lord's service to them, as I read the reports
in the June 15th and Sept. 1st HERALDS. Yes, surely this is the time we need the warmth
and comfort of one Another's loving co-operation. Then the Sept. 15th issue from first
page to last was meat indeed.' . . . It is of the Lord and I praise and thank Him that He
still has vessels to use in holding forth the Word of life. I wish I had a copy to take to
every one who once honored, loved and believed our dear Pastor. I am sure many of them
just need this loving, helping hand.
I am writing the dear brethren in London (some of them I know
well--Brother Crawford gave me my First Volume in 1901. Praise the Lord!) to ask if my
time can he of use in the service of the dear fellow-members. Could the articles on
Revelation be put in book form and be arranged for colporteuring? I worked during my spare
time up to January, 1919, with Vol. IV, and got ready sales. I am getting up in years now,
but my time is all free and all the Lord's to use as He wills.
Thanking you all for your labor of love and praying the Lord to guide
and keep us all steadfast to the end,
By His great favor, I am your sister,
MRS. A. M.--Scot.
BLESSED ARE THEY WHICH HUNGER AND THIRST
Pear Brethren in Christ:
Greetings in His love, with manifold Christian love, sympathy and
best wishes to you all and all of like precious faith throughout the world. I trust that -
you are well, both temporally and spiritually.
Please allow me to make a formal request, as stated in Oct. 15th
HERALD, page 2, under heading, "Regarding Pilgrim Visits." In speaking for a few
of the Lord's brethren, being assured they sanction unanimously this request, that
whenever possible to send us Pilgrims, without too great expense to yourselves, we would
be glad to have you do so.
I am enclosing money order for $1.00, for which please re new my
subscription for the HERALD. I do not find words to express my appreciation and
thankfulness for the Lord's love, mercy and goodness to me, because I have the blessed
assurance that He has led me all the way, even to get the HERALD after I had rejected it
on several occasions, being guided by a selfish spirit and an organization. But as the
Lord taught us (Matt. 5:6), "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after
righteousness for they shall be filled," even so. For as I read and study the HERALD,
I am more and more convinced that it stands free from all sects, pat-ties, creeds of men,
etc., and that you are seeking all the more to bring every utterance into the fullest
subjection to the will of God in Christ, as ex-, pressed in the Holy Scriptures. So I have
found it to contain the same old story that I have loved so long-the Message of Truth
which we all must know if we would be free from bondage. I have read very much religious
literature, but it does not take the-place of the HERALD, which I prize above all, because
of its truth, and steadfastness to God's Word, as was manifested by that wise servant whom
the Lord made ruler over all His goods.
Now may grace, peace and love be multiplied unto you through the
knowledge of God and Jesus Christ our Lord. I desire an interest in your prayers.
Yours in the One Hope, W. H. F.--Va.
STUDY XL--DECEMBER 5
THE MIGHTY ANGEL FROM HEAVEN*
____________
It is suggested that more satisfactory. results. will be obtained in
the study of chapter 10 if the present lesson be devoted exclusively to an examination of
the symbols employed, and a general review of
the lessons to be drawn from the symbols before attempting to learn when or how they have
been fulfilled. After a careful review of the symbols themselves the student will be
better prepared to discern the fulfillment, concerning which the questions are given in
succeeding lessons.
______________
(196) From the symbolic description given in chapter 10:1 what would
be the reasonable conclusion as to who and what is represented, and how is this picture
similar to, as well as different from, that of another vision previously considered? H
'19-261.
(197) What are the evidences that the Savior Himself is here
represented as acting in behalf of His people, and what do the symbols here used teach-His
Face as the Sun, Feet as Pillars of Fire, the Cloud, the Rainbow, etc.?' H '19-261.
(198) What would seem to be signified by the action of the mighty
Angel in placing one foot on the Sea and the other on the Land? and what are the general
lessons to be drawn from the loud Voice "as a Lion roars"? H '19-262.
(199) What lessons are suggested by the Seven Thunders uttering their
voices?, H '19-262.
(200) What general. suggestions do we receive from the Angel's
statements: "a Time should be no more," "the Secret of God should be
completed,", and from St. John's receiving and, eating the Little Book? H '19-263.
STUDY XLI-DECEMBER
12
THE LOUD CRY OF THE PROTESTANT REFORMATION
(201) Give a brief review of. the prominent worldwide transactions
that have taken place in connection with the Church's history, already noted in our study
of the revelation visions thus far. H '19-264.
(202) When was the vision of the mighty Angel's descent and His loud
cry "as a lion roars," fulfilled, and what notable movement in history was thus
symbolized? In what way did Pastor Russell make reference to this movement? H '19-264.
(203) What were the general conditions and circumstances prevailing
just prior to the time when the Reformation Movement was started; and what phase of the
Church's history was there represented? What is. the testimony of the historian bearing
upon this period? H '19-264, 265.
(204) In what phase of the Church's history would we then properly
look for the mighty Angel's appearance? Relate what various historians have given us as to
the activities of Martin Luther and other Reformers in fulfillment of this vision? and
what have been the general results of the Reformation so far as the true Church is
.concerned up to these last times? H '19-265, 266.
(205) How has a recent expositor applied this vision?' and point out
the fallacy of the application. H '19-266.
As a part of the devotional exercises at the beginning of each day,
brethren of the Truth find it a profitable feature to sing one of the Hymns of Dawn.
Additionally, it is recognized that there is a strength of fellowship 'in the fact that
the friends realize that though scattered and separated, they are singing the same hymn
during the morning worship, The following selections are suggested for the month of
January:
(1) 34; (2) 191; (3) 239; (4) 136; (5) 13; -(6) 186; (7)
145; (8) 130; (9) .177; (10) 322; (11) 196; (12) 267; (13) 103; (14) 8; (15) 165; (16)
241; (17) 45; (18) 118; (19) 114; (20) 67; (21) 134; (22) 57; (23) 1; (24) 198; (25) 87;
(26) 19; (275 20; (28) 82; (29) 83; (30) 323.
VOL. III. December 15, 1920 No. 24
"What shall I -render unto
the Lord for all His benefits toward me? I will take the cup ,of salvation, and call upon
the name of the Lord. I will pay my vows unto the Lord now, in the presence of all His
people."--Psa. 116.12-14.
COMING to the close of another year of Christian experience-of going
by way of the cross, we realize the appropriateness of casting our mental eyes backward at
this time in a special sense and briefly reviewing the way we have come, with its
experiences and lessons, that we may if possible take., up life's burdens and press on to
meet the new experiences with that grace and fortitude becoming to the children of God.
And what more appropriate words can we consider than the language quoted above: "What
shall I render unto the Lord, etc."
"HIS LOVING KINDNESS, OH, HOW GREAT!"
And who of. us cannot trace a long line of. special providences on
our behalf Who of us as we take a mental retrospect of our lives cannot exclaim with the
poet:
"Looking back I praise the way
God has -led me day by day!"
While human love and acts of kindness often draw largely upon us for
the exercise of this grace of gratitude, appreciation, how much more does the constant
loving kindness and tender mercy of our Heavenly' Father thus fittingly. draw upon our
inmost being to respond in grateful acknowledgement and praise! To Him we are indebted for
every good that we possess. What this implies
only those can know who have been brought by His love into the secret place of the Most
High, and made to feast upon the "finest of the wheat," the wealth of our
Father's Storehouse. We are the special objects of His grace.
How wonderfully the Lord has guided His people! His children have
ever been His constant care. No good thing hath He withheld from them, and all things have
been made to work together for their good if they obeyed Him. Who that has trusted the
Lord through many years, through sunshine and shadow, through smiles and tears, by still
waters and through storm and tempest, has not proved the verity of His precious promises
and His abiding faithfulness! Surely, "Not one
thing hath failed of all the good things which the Lord your God spake concerning
you!" (josh. 23:14.) In the smallest and in the greatest affairs of our lives He has
ever watched for our interests. Every cloud has had a golden lining!
What, then, shall we render unto the Lord for all His benefits? What
have we, indeed, that we have not received from Him? Nothing! As a tender parent loves to
see his child appreciatively accept his favors, so does our Heavenly Father regard our
attitude toward Him, and our manifestation of appreciation of His favors and love toward
us. His unspeakable gifts to us were purchased at a great cost to His heart. Then we will
thankfully take the cup of salvation, through faith in our, Redeemer, and pay our vows
unto the Lord. We will drink this cup with our dear Master--this cup of suffering and of
joy. "We will trust and not be afraid."
The Father has made a special provision for those who have made a
full surrender of themselves to Him. The experiences which He has arranged for them
constitute "the cup of salvation." And in accepting this cup from the Lord, we
are accepting all the experiences that come to us in His providence, whatever they may
be--joy or sorrow, pain or pleasure or anything, As Jesus exclaimed: "The cup which
my Father hath poured for me, shall I not drink it?" so should this be the language
of our hearts. It had in type been foretold of our Lord that He should be lifted up, even
as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness. He knew that He was to be the great
antitypical Sin-offering; that He was to be. "made sin" for fallen man. Yet this
cup that the Father had poured for Him He declared Himself very willing to drink. And this
is the cup which He has given to us.
Our Savior said to 'His disciples who desired to sit next to Him in
the Kingdom: "Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of?" He Himself
continued to drink of that cup until the end-He drank the dregs of the cup. And so it will
be with His followers. We are to drink of this same cup. It is our individual cup, and yet
it is His cup. If we be truly loyal we will accept our share of the cup thankfully,
gladly. And we know that as we drink of it He will be with us; we shall not be alone. He
supervises the experiences of each of His members; and with every temptation and trial He will provide some way
of escape, if the trial threatens to become too severe.
THE CUP OF JOY IN THE KINGDOM
On the occasion of the institution of the Memorial of His death, the
Master in His conversation with the Apostles said: "But I say unto you, I will not
drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine until that Day when I drink it new with you in
my Father's Kingdom." (Matt. 26:29.) Our Lord was here contrasting two great Days-the
Day of suffering and the Day of glory. This Gospel Age has been the Day of
suffering. The Millennial Age will be the Day of glory, and is especially spoken of as
"The Day of Christ."
The fruit' of the vine, the literal cup, 'represents two thoughts.
The cup of wine is produced at the cost of the life of the grape.
The grape loses its-own individuality. The juice is pressed out, and thus the fruit of
the vine is made ready for use. The cup of wine--the juice of the grape-represents,
however, not only the crushing of the grape, but also the exhilaration that comes as the
result. So in our drinking of this figurative cup. To us it symbolizes our Savior's
sufferings, and death, and our own participation with, Him in these sufferings. But wine
also represents joy, gladness, and is thus used in the Scriptures. So in the sense in
which the Lord used the words "fruit of the vine," quoted in the preceding
paragraph, the cup represented the: joys of the Kingdom.
In the earthly experiences of our Lord Jesus the Father marked out
for Him a certain specific course, This course constituted His cup of suffering and death.
But the Father promised Him that after He had drunk this cup faithfully, He should be
given a different cup, a different experience-glory, honor and, immortality., And then the
Savior was authorized by the Father to make the same proposition to those who might desire
to become His followers-that if they would suffer with Him, would drink His cup of death
with Him, then they should participate with Him in His future cup of joy.
"NOW IS THE ACCEPTABLE TIME"
Our cup is a cup of joy and also a cup of bitterness. But when we are
called upon to drink a bitter draft, let us remember Him who bravely and faithfully
partook, of this bitterness, rejoicing to do the Father's will; and let us take courage,
and likewise rejoice that we are accounted worthy to share this cup with our beloved Lord.
And as He who was perfect needed strength and help Divine in connection with His
experiences in the drinking of the cup, as He sought the Father in earnest prayer for the
needed assistance, so must we do. We should also be continually on our guard lest we enter
into temptation, lest we look away from Him from whom alone cometh our help.
"I will pay my vows unto the Lord now," said the Psalmist.
And "now is the acceptable time-now is the Day of Salvation"--for the Church.
Now is the time sacrifices are to be offered--not by
and by. The Lord has so arranged that this Vow which we take upon ourselves this
Covenant of Sacrifice, must be fulfilled by us. The flesh which we consecrate must be
consumed. If we seek to withdraw the sacrifice from the altar, we shall be dealt with in
such a manner as to destroy the flesh; else -we ourselves shall be destroyed. If we
faithfully drink of the cup which the Father has prepared for us, we shall afterward
receive the blessings which He has promised to those who thus drink. Therefore, now, in
the present life, we, drink of this cup He has given us; for unless we do this now, we shall have no share in the Kingdom
blessings in the life to come.
In our Lord's case, literal crucifixion was necessary. He must bear
the fullest measure of the Law's demand; He must bear the penalty of its every violation,
even as in the case of the vilest criminal under the Law; otherwise He could not - have
redeemed every Jew. He must bear the curse of 'the Law-He must hang on a tree. But in our
experiences, the cross will not be a literal cross of wood; the nails will not be literal
nails; but bitter words and slander and misrepresentation will surely be our portion-and
perhaps physical violence in some form to some of the last members of the Body. We do not
know.
BY WAY OF THE CROSS
"Whosoever will save his life shall lose it." We are all to
pass through the trying, experiences represented by the winepress. We are to lay down our lives in the
Divine service. We are to submit ourselves to the crushing experiences, to be obliterated:
as individuals, in the human sense, and to become New Creatures. "If we suffer [with
Him], we shall also reign with Him"--not otherwise. So we joyfully accept the
invitation to drink of His cup. And not until the cup has been drained to the last shall
we receive the other cup--the cup of Kingdom joys. While our Lord 'had a great blessing in
the obedience which He rendered to the Father; yet it was a trying time for Him down to
the last moment, 'when He cried, "It is finished." And so with the Church. We
must drink all of the cup; none of the contents is to be left. We must endure all of the
experiences.
All the sufferings of Christ will be complete when the Body of Christ
shall have finished its course. The new cup of joy was given our Lord when He was received
,up into glory. Then all the angels of God, worshipped Him. Soon our cup of joy will be
given to us. Undoubtedly we shall- all, partake of this joy with all the faithful soon, if
we are approved. We believe the fulness of joy will not be reached until all the members
of Christ are with Him beyond the veil. Then we shall share His Throne and partake of His
glory. Then with our beloved Lord we shall drink of the "new wine" in the
Kingdom; for the promise is to all His faithful saints.
"YE ARE MY WITNESSES, SAITH JEHOVAH"
The concluding statement of the Psalmist as given' in our text is
that he would pay his vows "in the presence of all His [God's] people." It is
not enough that we shall be loyal in our hearts; but the Lord, desires a pub lic
confession, a witness before men. "With the heart man believeth unto righteousness,
and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." (Rom. 10:10.) And all the
witnesses for the Truth must be martyrs for the Truth. They must, in other words, be
willing to suffer for it. And so it will be to a large extent with those who are
faithfully, courageously, holding up the banner of Truth. They will be targets for the
Adversary.
Our Master said that whoever would not confess Him before men,. He
would not confess before the Father and before the holy angels. Only those who are
thoroughly loyal are to be of this very select company of which our Lord is the Head, and
which is soon now to be gathered into the Heavenly Garner. I
Then let us appreciate more and. more this "cup of
blessing," which we, are privileged to drink with our blessed Master; and let us
"call upon the name of the Lord" for grace to help in every time of need. We
need Him daily, hourly, momentarily. And we may come to the Throne of Grace at any time in
the name of our great Advocate.
Our Father's ear is ever open to the cry of His children. They are as
dear to Him "as the apple of His eye." They "are graven upon the palms
of His hands." "As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you,"
is His promise. to His own. All that we can render will be at best very, very little in
return for -all His bounties, for all His matchless grace toward us. But the measure of
love and zeal that accompanies our little all will indicate the measure of our gratitude
to our Heavenly Father and our great Redeemer.
"What
shall I render, Lord, to Thee?
Thy love surpasses all my thought!
What can a fitting tribute be,
To Him who my poor life hath bought?
"Who
sought me in my low estate,
And raised me up to heights Divine!
What words can fitly sound Thy praise,
Or thought encompass love like Thine?
"What
shall I render, Lord, to Thee?
My heart, my strength, my life, I bring!
My hands, my voice in service glad,
To Thee, my Savior and my King "
SERIES XLIII
THE OVERTHROW OF CHRISTENDOM
"And I saw an Angel
standing in the Sun; and he cried with a loud Voice, saying to All Those Birds which Fly
in Mid heaven, 'Come, assemble yourselves to the Great Supper of God; that you may eat
Flesh of Kings, and Flesh of Commanders, and Flesh of Powerful men, and Flesh of Horses,
and Flesh of Those who Sit on them, and Flesh of All, both Freemen and Bondman, both
Little and Great.'"--Rev. 19:17, 18.
LET it be borne in mind that the vision described in these words is
closely associated with, indeed -is a continuation of, the one described in verses 11-16,
which was considered in our last. It will be recalled that the symbols- employed in that
part of the vision -are descriptive of a great warrior and his armies who were about to
engage in deadly conflict. This conquering warrior and his armies, as we observed,
represent our Lord Jesus Christ and His glorified Church. However, before St. John saw, or
at least before he described the enemy forces, his attention was drawn to the strange and
startling scene of an Angel who appears to be standing-in the Sun, and who in a loud Voice
utters the words quoted above. The import of the language implies that whoever may be
represented by this Angel, foresees or anticipates the result or outcome of this, terrible
battle. The vision of the assembling of the Birds in response to the Angel's call
evidently symbolizes what is frequently literally the case after a great battle, namely,
the assembling of vultures and other birds of prey over. a battle-field to feed on the
flesh of the dead and disabled wounded. It will therefore be seen that the words of the
Angel indicate that the symbols are drawn from a most sanguinary and cruel battle- in
which the carnage and slaughter would be most terrible, and the bodies of the dead would
be left unburied for the birds of prey. This great battle is symbolical, and is quite
generally understood by expositors to be identical with the closing scene of the one
called in Rev. 16:14, 16, "The battle of that great day of God Almighty ... .. And He
gathered them to a place called in the Hebrew tongue, Armageddon [mount of
destruction]." The words of this symbolic Angel are in themselves sufficient to show
that one of the final destructive acts of the judgment of Christendom is that described in
the closing verses of this nineteenth, chapter.
It will have been noted that in our expositions of the visions
relating to the Harvest period we considered one very significant gathering (which of
course preceded the one of this vision), namely, the gathering out of the rejected,
religious systems, the Elect, the wheat class, the overcoming saints. (Rev. 14:14-16.)
This gathering will have been completed and these overcomers will have entered into glory
with their Lord before the vision we are now considering meets its fulfillment. Another, a
second gathering also considered by us, will, -before this Vision meets its fulfillment
have been completed; this is the one described as the gathering of the ripe clusters of
the Vine of the Earth, preparatory to their being cast into the great Winepress of the
wrath of God. (Rev. 14: 18, 19.) This treading of the great Winepress which is the last
feature of the time of trouble is evidently identical or associated with the one referred
to in this vision: "And He treadeth the Winepress of the fierceness and wrath of
Almighty God."--Rev. 19:15; 14:20.
The gathering or assembling referred to in the words of the Angel
standing in the Sun is that of those represented by the Birds of prey, the vultures, which
will of course take place at the conclusion of the great Wine press feature of the time
of trouble. While this great battle is undoubtedly a symbolical one, and the great
slaughter is more especially designed to describe the destruction of the various
governments, systems, and organizations, that will then be found in opposition to the
establishment of God's Kingdom of truth and righteousness, yet there can be no question
that in the destruction of these there will be a most dreadful and appalling slaughter and
loss of human lives. It seems to be one of those visions that combine both, symbolical and
literal statements.
THE ANGEL STANDING IN THE SUN
Coming to the consideration of the symbols of the vision more
particularly, we inquire first, Who or what is represented by the Angel who is seen
standing in the Sun, etc.? It is of interest to note that nearly all commentators who
wrote before 1890 quite, generally understood this Angel to be one of the spiritual,
heavenly messengers. DAVID N. LORD, however, who wrote in 1846 and who was frequently
quoted by PASTOR Russell, is a notable exception and seems to us to come much nearer to
the truth in his exposition. In the light of the events of his tory unveiling more
clearly these Revelation visions that embrace the closing scenes of the Age-the Harvest
and the vintage-his explanation is indeed remarkable and convincing and constitutes a
basis for invaluable assistance at the present time in obtaining a clear insight into,
what is our conviction, the true and, correct interpretation. It was his understanding
that the Angel stationed in the Sun who summons the Birds of prey to assemble to the Great
Supper of God to eat the flesh of the anti-Christian host is a symbol of either one
conspicuous person or a class of persons that have been made aware of the impending
destruction and are in a position of close observation of the great leaders of this vast
anti-Christian host, although not of their number. This person or com pany of persons
are to warn these of their impending destruction.
The interpretation that finds this Angel to represent a class of
persons living on the earth at the time of Christ's manifestation with His saints in
judgment seems to us to be the correct one. If we are not in error in this conclusion,
then this Angel represents a company or class who after the glorification of the Church,
the joint-heirs of the Kingdom, have knowledge of the fact that the destruction of this
great anti-Christian host is at that time to immediately occur.
A recent exposition interprets this Angel who is seen to be standing
in the Sun, etc., to be "the Elijah class, after
the publication of" the "volume" containing that exposition. One
insurmountable objection to this interpretation is that in the Divine order and
chronological arrangement of the associated visions, all the Elijah class had at the time,
of this Angel and his proclamation passed beyond the veil; indeed the Elijah class are
seen in the preceding part of this same vision as the "armies of heaven," who
are following the symbolical personage seated upon the white horse, We have seen that this
personage represents Christ as He is about to execute the final judgment on His enemies,
the anti-Christian host. We would understand then, that this Angel represents a company of
-persons here on earth after the Kingdom class. has passed beyond the veil. The Sun, to
our understanding is in all the Revelation. visions a symbol of the light of God's Truth.
The Angel standing in the Sun would therefore represent. a. company of persons on earth
blest with a knowledge of Divine Truth; not alone the Truth respecting God's great Plan of
the Ages, but also the Truth that the. very last judgment on those powers, civil and
ecclesiastical (which were left after the judgments fell upon the I great Mother of
Harlots), was immediately to take. place. More than this, whoever this company may be it
seems evident that they comprise a class that has become acquainted with the fact that the
selection of the joint-heirs of the Kingdom was at the time of the visions fulfillment
complete; and still further that all of these elect ones were at that time glorified and
with their Divine Lord. The proclamation made by this Angel implies that the momentous
events, transpiring at the time will culminate in the complete destruction of those
organizations, civil, social and ecclesiastical symbolized by the "Beast," the
"Kings of the Earth," and the "False Prophet." Keeping in mind then
that this -vision meets .its fulfillment in the very closing period of the great time of
trouble, the Great Tribulation (Dan. 12:1; Rev. 7:9, 14), and after the glorification of the Church, it would
seem to the careful student of the Revelation that there could be but one class on earth
at this particular time possessing such knowledge of the Divine plans and purposes; and
may not that class indeed be the one that is called in Rev. 7:9. the "Great Multitude
[Company]." It is quite generally understood by those 'who have given this matter
careful study that the class referred to in Rev. 7:9 comprises certain devoted and
consecrated Christians who are left on the earth after the Little Flock class has all been
changed, to complete the development of their character and fit them to participate in the
celebration of the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. One feature connected with the
crystallizing of their characters would most naturally. seem to be the giving of just such
a testimony as is symbolized in the calling of the birds of prey to gather to "the
Great Supper of God." It is from out of this great tribulation that these are
represented as coming in Rev. 7:9-14.
It will have been noted that in connection with the pouring out of
the seventh Vial judgment, which is a general picture, although described under other
symbols of these same events, there is heard a voice proceeding from the nominal Temple,
saying, "It has been done." We cannot fail to notice a close connection between
the words ,of the Angel who is seen standing in the Sun with the words of this voice. It
will be recalled that PASTOR RUSSELL applies the Words, "It has been done," as
proceeding from the Great Company, uttered in connection with the fall of the
ecclesiastical systems. We quote his words: "But now, when the seventh has been
poured out, we bear the nominal Temple saying, 'It has been done': . . . . This Temple
class, which, finally recognizes God's dealings when these systems. are entirely
destroyed, is the same which we have, found elsewhere mentioned in Scripture, and which We
have designated the second company, who, though losing the prize promised to overcomers of
the Beast, etc. (Rev. 20:4), are 'saved so as by fire [these severe. judgments] in the day
of the Lord Jesus."' -H '20-231, 232.
KINGS AND COMMANDERS, AND THE BIRDS OF PREY
We have next recorded in strong symbolical language in the visions,
(vs. 19, 20), the utter defeat and overthrow of the opposing forces, following which we
have the statement of St. John I that "all the birds were satiated with their
Flesh." (V. 21.) We inquire, Who are represented by these "Birds" of prey,?
We have a very. interesting and clear interpretation of, this symbol by PASTOR RUSSELL.
His explanation is that these Birds, vultures, represent Communists, Infidels, Socialists,
Anarchists, and Nihilists.
"All these fight in the battle of the great day, though ignorant
of Him whose Kingdom they help to establish. These are the vultures of Rev.. 19:17,18, 21,
who battle for plunder and get their fill [eat of the Supper] in the overturning of
earth's kingdoms; because the time is come for Messiah to take the dominion of earth and
to overthrow the oppressors and corrupters of the earth (Rev. 19:15 and 11:17, 18),
preparatory to the establishment of everlasting peace upon the only firm foundation of
righteousness and truth.
"Meantime, while those who are in opposition to the Kingdom of
God and its scepter of righteousness, impartiality and justice, are being gathered [not after they have been
gathered as described in the vision under consideration] to the great slaughter 'referred
to above (See Luke 19:27), the Lord's professed Church is having its trial
completed."--Z Jan. '86-1.
We inquire next, Who are represented -by the Kings, Commanders, etc.,
the flesh of whom will satiate these symbolical Birds of prey? In reply to this we quote
one Of PASTOR RUSSELL'S later statements:
"The ecclesiastical kings and princes, with their return of
clergy and faithful adherents, will be gathered in solid phalanx-Protestant and Catholic.
The political kings and princes, senators, and all in high places, with their henchmen and
retainers, will follow in line on the same side. The financial kings and merchant princes,
and all whom they can influence by the most gigantic power ever yet exercised in the
world, will join the same side, according to this prophecy. [Rev. 16:12-16.] They do not
realize, however, that they are coming to Armageddon [Mount of Destruction]." -Foreword, STUDIES, VOL. IV.
DEVELOPMENTS THAT MUST PREC19DE
It will be of advantage at this stage of our expositions to bear in
mind that this Armageddon conflict, will have been going on for some time before the
events of the vision we are considering meet their fulfillment. The gathering of the
forces to this conflict has been in process of fulfillment for some years past and
-occasional skirmishes have occurred in connection with the strikes, lockouts, etc,,., of
the capital and labor troubles. The real Armageddon conflict, however, is from our present
view point still future. This was PASTOR RUSSELLS thought as seen in the Foreword of STUDIES, VOL. IV.
"The Image of the Beast must yet receive life-power. It must be
transformed from a mere mechanism to a living force. Protestant Federation realizes that
its organization will continue to be futile unless it receives vitalization--unless its
clergy directly or indirectly shall be recognized as possessed of apostolic ordination and
authority to teach. This, the prophecy indicates,, will come from the two-horned Beast,
which we believe symbolically represents the Church of England. High handed activities
of Protestantism and Catholicism, operating in conjunction for the suppression of human
liberties; await this vivifying of the Image. This may come soon, but Armageddon can not
precede it, but must follow--perhaps a year after, according to our view of the Prophetic
Word!'
'Since PASTOR RUSSELL wrote these words events have transpired' that
seem to. confirm his interpretation .of Scripture I I concerning how Federated
Protestantism will receive apostolic ordination(?). The following .from the Literary Digest of Sept. 25th. under the title,
"The' Lambeth Plan for Church Reunion," is very' significant in this connection:
"'From solemn contemplation of hates and misunderstandings
engendered by the world-war the Lambeth Conference [held in London], composed of 252
Anglican [Church of England] and Protestant Episcopal bishops from the British Isles,
America and other parts of the world, turns to a pro posed union of all Christendom as
the chief :hope against the forces of disorder.... On the question of ordination the
Conference suggests that 'if the authorities of other communions should so desire, we are
persuaded that, terms of union having -been otherwise
satisfactorily adjusted, bishops and clergy of our communion would willingly accept
from the authorities [other denominations] a form of commission or recognition which would
commend our ministry to their congregations, as having I its place in the one family- of
life.' In return the. signers of the manifesto assert their 'hope that the same motive
would lead ministers [of other denominations] who have not received it to accept a
commission through episcopal ordination, as obtaining for them a ministry throughout the
whole fellowship,' and their belief that 'in, so acting no one of us could possibly, be
taken to repudiate his past ministry.' Such resolutions as these 'can only have been
inspired by Christian charity at its highest,', says the London Guardian, official organ of the Church of
England, and it fervently declares:
"'It will be forever memorable that at this moment when doubt
and uncertainty are clogging. the energy and obscuring the ideals of the nation, and when
the very foundations of civilization are being threatened by the forces of disorder, the
bishops of the, Anglican communion have shown the way to strengthen and 'unite the only
power by which they can be combated,"'
It would seem as though in the settlement of this question of
so-called apostolic ordination by the union of the Church of England with the other
Protestant denominations, we have the explanation of the change in the sym bol
"Image of the Beast,'? to that of the "False Prophet;" the latter symbol
being more expressive of its authorita tive teaching characteristic. Papacy, already
united, may in the near future, we believe, gain for a brief space of time a powerful
influence in the world, and become allied to the civil powers and Federated Protestantism
in a vain attempt to keep down the masses in their efforts to seek relief from oppression,
fancied and real. This, the Scriptures teach, will fail, and a disruption of this
"triple alliance" will take place. This, it will be remembered, was PASTOR
RUSSELL'S thought. The Armageddon destruction will then immediately begin, and the first
sys tem to go down will be the great "Mother of Harlots," which we understand
to represent the Roman Catholic hierarchy located at Rome. This, as we have endeavored to
show in previous expositions, indeed as portrayed in the order of the visions themselves,
will occur before the Marriage of the Lamb, which represents the glorification and union
of all the Elect-Kingdom class with their Lord. That Solemn and significant event, 'the
downfall of the great Mother system, leaves the kingdoms of the earth in 'a state of
threatened, disintegration, yet still standing, but fearful that their destruction is also
near. These' kingdom's in this distressing condition gradually I merge into the last or
eighth form of the fourth, beast, the fourth and last of the four great empires of
Daniel's visions. The Protestant Federation, called in the vision under, consideration ,
the "False Prophet," is also left for a 'time, after great Babylon, the 'Mother
system 'falls.' It is at this stage- of the Armageddon battle that the vision under
consideration seems to meet its fulfillment. it will be at this time that the world
becomes aware that Christ has assumed the reins of authority. 'This stupendous' event I we
-believe, .however, Will be first manifest in' Israel's land, outside of Christendom.--See
H '20-136.
THE BEAST, THE KINGS OF THE, EARTH AND THEIR ARMIES
And I saw the Beast, and the Kings of the Earth. and their Armies,
assembled together to make War with Him who Sits on the Horse, and with His Army. And the
Beast was captured, and He who was with him, -- that False Prophet who Performed, the
Signs in his presence, with which he deceived Those who received the Mark of the Beast,
and Those who Worship his Image; -- these two were cast alive into That Lake of Fire which
Burns with Sulphur. And the Rest were killed with That Broad-sword of Him who Sits on the
Horse, which Went Forth out of His Mouth; and All the Birds were satiated with their
Flesh."--Rev. 19:19-21.
Do we once more inquire, What is symbolized by the "Beast,"
the "Kings of the Earth and their Armies," and the "False Prophet"?
Then let us briefly review:
Considering these in their order we will take up. first the Beast
symbol which evidently was intended to, be one of much intricacy. As we have traced its
long dark career down through the ages we have found- the Beast's complex history in
brief, as follows:
Primarily and in a general sense it represents the fourth universal
power that in the vision of Daniel 7 is represented by the fourth nondescript Beast, from
its beginning in prophecy about 31 B. C., down. through its va rious aspects or
changes to its last form, in which it is destroyed, which destruction is described in the
vision of Rev. 19:19-21, under 'consideration. Daniel describes it first when it rules
from the City of Rome over all the civilized world. This was its condition in the days of
Christ and for about four centuries after. He describes it next at a time when its
universal sway ceases, and its ruling authority is distributed among the ten kingdoms into
which the great empire became divided about the fourth century. He again sees it when
these governments ,into which its territory became divided are dominated over by
Papacy-Papacy being 'symbolized by a "little horn" (power) that rose up among
the ten about the sixth century. Daniel next describes it when the temporal dominion of
the "little horn," Papacy, is taken away. This was fully accomplished in 1870,
although its power to persecute, "to wear out the saints of the Most High , "
(Dan. 7:25) ceased in 1799. Daniel finally sees it after the Papal hierarchy the Mother
system is destroyed. This is its final form, and in harmony with this it is stated in, the
prophecy that the Beast's body is destroyed and given to the burning flame. This is the,
final, picture and is the one referred to in the vision under consideration. "And the
Beast . . . was cast alive into the lake of fire." (Rev. 19:20.) All these aspects
are' portrayed in Dan. 7:7-28.
St. John in the Revelation was given by Christ, visions Of this same
fourth power. These visions describe the, same things that Daniel saw under other striking
symbols. However, in addition to this, the Beast's history is de scribed more fully and
in greater detail. Briefly stated, these all represent the same fourth Beast of Daniel's
vision. One striking difference, however, is that in the Revelation visions the Beast is
represented -as having seven heads. These seven heads represent the seven successive
ruling powers, beginning about 31 B. C., all of
which have exercised authority in and from-the City of Rome. 'the most noted and important
one of these heads or successions (frequently called the Beast) in its realization to the
saints, being I the Beast under its Papal head This head exercised, a ruling influence, to
a greater, or less extent - for more than, twelve centuries over 'the-- saints: and. also
over the nations I of Christendom. In the sense of exercising temporal authority this
Papal head is identical with the "little horn" of Daniel 7, and passed away in
1870. It is because of Papacy's dominating influence over the saints and kingdoms of
Christendom that it s frequently denominated "the Beast." The seventh head is
the Victor Immanuel Dynasty, now ruling, and it is said of this latter that it. would
continue but a short time. (Rev. 17:10.) This last head will be followed by the last form
of the Beast, which is that described in the vision we are now, considering-the nations of
Christendom in a state of disintegration, bordering on anarchy. While it seems to us the
Papal hierarchy will never again gain temporal dominion, it will, however gain a temporary
rise to power and influence in the affairs of the nations. It is in the exercise of this
power and influence amongst its followers, in union with the civil powers and federated
Protestantism, that it continues to be referred to as the "Beast" in Rev. 16:13
. It is in connection with its making use of its power in this triple-alliance in a
dominating oppressive sense that it is destroyed. This, as we have explained in harmony
with PASTOR RUSSELL, will probably be accomplished by an Italian uprising. At this time
the last form of the Beast fully comes into existence and as described in both Daniel and
the Revelation, is destroyed in the fire (anarchy).--Dan. 7:11; Rev. 19:20.
The Kings of the Earth who, in association with the Beast, make war
against Him who sits on the horse are, as explained foregoing, the ecclesiastical kings
and princes, with their retinue of clergy and faithful adherents -- Protestant and
Catholic, the political kings' and princes, senators and retainers, the financial kings
and merchants, princes, and all whom, they can influence by the most gigantic power ever
exercised in the world.
The "False Prophet," what does it, represent? The answer
is, it would seem to be another symbol of Federated Protestantism and refers to the
"Image of the Beast" when it receives life or authority to act with Papacy and
the civil powers in an oppressive authoritative manner. This union will be fully
consummated oft account of the revolutionary conditions that will prevail which will be
then threatening the overthrow of the present order. We quote PASTOR RUSSELL on this
symbol:
"In Revelation 16:13 we find mention of the False Prophet,
another representation of the Image-the vitalized product of the Evangelical Alliance,
which has taken the form of Church Federation, and has to-day a great deal of vitality.
Whether -we can expect it to have more remains to be seen. The Scriptures clearly indicate
that the- Image of the Beast [False Prophet] is to get so great power that it will do the
same thing that the Roman Catholic Church did in the past; and that the two systems,
Catholic and Protestant, will rule the civilized world with a high hand through the civil
power-the Dragon."--Foreward, STUDIES, VOL.
IV.
THE LAST GREAT BATTLE
We inquire next, In what sense will those referred to by the Beast,
and the Kings of the Earth and their Armies, be making war against the one seated on the
white horse and His army? And let us find the answer in what will doubtless be the logical
sequence: As the time has, at last drawn near for Christ's Kingdom, to be established,
these referred to in the vision as opposing the victorious Rider will be found trying to
uphold the 'present order and hence will, be in opposition to God's will. It needs to be
kept in-mind, however, that-this vision we are now considering refers to events subsequent
to that phase of the Armageddon conflict referred to in chapter 16:13, which at first is
followed by the downfall of the Mother system, the Papal hierarchy. (Rev. 16:19; 18:21.)
The "'Beast" therefore in this vision, as we have endeavored to show, represents
the last form of the fourth empire, the nations of Christendom ready to disintegrate in
anarchy. In regard to the sense in which these great systems are found warring against
Christ, one -expositor has, briefly but correctly explained the, matter. His words are:
"We are no doubt to interpret this according to the Lord's words to Saul of
Tarsus,--'Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me?"' Saul was ignorantly opposing Christ.
by persecuting His followers; and likewise these nations, etc., will be ignorantly
opposing God's purpose in endeavoring to uphold the present order. PASTOR RUSSELL,
commenting on the great Armageddon conflict in a general, way has thus very clearly
answered the question concerning the manner in which these powers, civil and
ecclesiastical, etc., are to war against Christ:
"Many noble people in this great [earthly] army will assume an
Attitude quite contrary to their preference. For a time the wheels of liberty and progress
will be turned backward and mediaeval restraints will be, considered necessary for
self-preservation--for the maintenance. of the present order of things and for the
prevention of the new-order which God has decreed, the due time for which is at hand. Even
those who may be God's people do not stop to consider whether it is His will that things
should continue as they have been for the past six thousand years. The Bible says that it
is not God's will, but that there is to be a great overturning, that a new order is coming
in."--Foreword, STUDIES, VOL. IV.
We next inquire, In what way will these-powers be op posing God's
will? In replying to this question it is necessary to keep in mind that there are two
great forces that have been gathering in the world for this great Armageddon conflict, the
one that then will seek to uphold the present order of things, the -triple-alliance, and
the other seeking to overthrow the same, the masses of the people united against this
Alliance. It will readily be seen that those forces that are seeking to overthrow the
present order, though operating more or less selfishly and ignorantly of the Divine Plan,,
their proceeding will be made to work out God's will and purpose. This latter force or
army will be the masses of the people comprising many different classes. These have for
some time past, and With a large measure of success since the great war, been mustering
their various forces and elements into one great federated union. The battle lines are
daily be coming more distinctly drawn. These have been seeking relief from wrongs, real
and fancied, through legislation. PASTOR RUSSELL speaking
of this class has said: "The masses, will. seek relief through the ballot and the
peace ful readjustment of earth's Affairs for the elimination of evil, for the placing
of monopolies and utilities and the supplies of nature in 'the hands of the people for the
public good. The crisis will be reached when the hither to upholders of the law shall
become violaters of the law' and resisters of the will of the majority as expressed by the
ballot. Fear for the future will goad the well-mean ing masses Jo desperation, and
anarchy will result when. Socialism fails."-Foreword,
STUDIES, VOL. IV.
AT THAT. TIME SHALL MICHAEL STAND UP
It will be through these causes that the present order of things will
begin to go down As the time will have then come for Messiah's Kingdom to be fully,
established it will be seen that these masses of the people will, though unaware of it, be
accomplishing God's purpose and can properly -be said in this sense to be on the Lord's
side.. PASTOR RUSSELL has thus described these peculiar conditions of the near future
"The very thing which they [the powers, civil and
ecclesiastical] sought to avert by their union, federation, etc, will be the very thing
that they *ill hasten. Other Scriptures [the principal one being that under consideration]
tell us that God will be represented [in this final conflict] by Messiah, and that He will
be on the side of the masses. 'At that time shall Michael [the God-like One-Messiah] stand
up.' (Dan. 12:1.) He will assume authority. He will take possession-of His Kingdom ml a
manner little looked for I by many of those who erroneously have been claiming to be His
Kingdom, and authorized by Him to reign in His name, and -in His stead.
"Our Lord Jesus declared, 'His servants ye are unto whom ye
render service! Some may be rendering service to Satan and to error, who claim to be
rendering service to God and to righteousness; and some may serve ignorantly, as did Saul
of Tarsus, who 'verily thought that he did God service' in persecuting the Church. The
same principle holds true reversely. As an earthly king does not hold himself responsible
for the moral character of each soldier who fights his battles, so the Lord does not vouch
for the moral character of all who enlist and fight on His side of any question. His
servants they are to whom they render service, whatever the motive or object prompting.
"The same principle will apply in the coming Battle of
Armageddon. God's side of that battle will be the people's side and that very nondescript
host, the people, will be pitted at the beginning of the battle. Anarchists, Socialists,
and hot-headed radicals of every school of reason and unreason, will be in the forefront
of that battle. He who has any knowledge of army life knows that a great army is composed
of all classes." -Foreword, STUDIES, VOL.
IV.
Indeed this host, is in Joel 2:11 called the Lord's [Jehovah's] army.
Jehovah's army will be made up of all those who see the errors, etc., in the civil,
ecclesiastical, political, social and- financial world, and who engage in a world wide
crusade to right them. This army will be. made up of patriots who love their countries;
reformers who see many of the social and degrading evils, who will first discuss them, and
then seek to root them out by legislation; socialists, etc., who mistakenly see in their
theories, a remedy for these evils; anarchists who have but the one purpose, the overthrow
of the whole present governmental orders; the ignorant and hopeless masses, who comprise,
the majority, and who are ready to join any movement that may seem to I them would better
their condition.
A DAY OF RECOMPENSES
However, we must not get the impression that this non-descript host
has God's sanction in their course. It Is simply a. cast in which "He makes the wrath
of men, to praise Him." These shall not escape their share of punishment. This is
plainly taught in another Scripture that describes this day of trouble under the same
symbol. This scripture is Zeph. 1:7-9, 14-18. PASTOR RUSSELL thus quotes and comments on
this prophecy:
"'The Lord hath prepared a slaughter, He hath bid His guests.
[Compare Rev. 19:17.1 And it shall come to pass in the day of the Lord's. slaughter, that
I will punish the princes and the king's children . . . and I will inflict punishment,
[also] on all those [marauders] who leap over the thrleshod on that day, who fill their
masters' houses with violence and deceit. [This shows not only that there will be a great
overthrow I of wealth and power in this time of trouble, but that those who will for the
time be the instruments of heaven in breaking down present systems! will also be punished
for their equally unjust and unrighteous course, for the coming trouble will involve all
classes, and bring distress upon the'' multitude.]' "--STUDIES, VOL. 1-315, 316.
"The attitude of
the people of God [who will witness the beginning of this conflict] should be that of,
great thankfulness to the Giver of every good. They should make provision for the great
storm that is coming and keep very quiet, not unduly interested in the side of either rich
or poor. We know in advance that the Lord is on the side of the people. He it is that will
fight the Armageddon- Battle, and His agency will be that peculiar army--all classes."--Foreword, STUDIES, VOL. IV.
On the side of the "triple-alliance" will be those who will
seek to uphold the present order, some actuated by policy, some by selfishness, and some
sincerely, not seeing how a better, order can be instituted. Ali these things have been
for some years gradually shaping themselves for this final great Armageddon conflict; and
a knowledge of them 'enables us better to comprehend the symbolic vision under
consideration, 'describing the unseen, supernatural forces operating in this great work of
overthrowing apostate Christendom.
In connection with the seventh vial St. John is shown in vision the
breaking up of this "triple-alliance" or league; probably caused by its failure
to accomplish its purpose of holding in check the turbulent masses. This is described
under the symbol of the "Great City," Christendom, becoming divided into three
parts.. (Rev. 16:19; H ' 20-232.) It is necessary to keep in mind that it is in connection
with or immediately following the disruption of this "triple-alliance," _that
great Babylon, the Mother system, in its governmental aspect frequently designated the
"Beast," comes in remembrance before God and is destroyed. (Compare Rev. 16:19
With Rev. 18:21.) This great event is brought about, doubtless, by a revolutionary
uprising. of the Italian peoples: Those who are carefully watching recognize that the
present condition of affairs in Italy is gradually approaching a crisis which shows the
trend of events in this direction. The following from the Boston American, of September 25 is very
significant in this connection:
"In Rome which has just. passed the fiftieth anniversary of the
city's existence as capital of united Italy, there are problems more difficult than those
faced by England with her labor and Irish troubles, or by Germany with the load of defeat
on her back. . . . The mast serious Italian trouble appears to be an outbreak of the most
radical element against religion and all that represents it, as shown in the effort to
break into the churches. There is more danger of trouble, serious and, not to he remedied,
from that direction than from any outbreak of 'Sovietism' in the factories."'
In the interview that the Knights of Columbus were permitted to have
recently with Pope Benedict, the Glornale d'Italia said, "The Knights of Columbus
gave the Pope to understand that if grave troubles should arise in Italy, be. could find
protection and. hospitality in America. After Rome was occupied. by. Italian troops in
1870, a French vessel awaited the-orders of Pope Pius for a year at Civita Vecchia, and
the: Knights said that in the event of a new, crisis. An American ship would take.a,
similar position." All three of these events-the completion of the triple-alliance,
the breaking up of the same', and the fall of the Papal government--seem clearly to he yet
future, and must meet their fulfillment before the conditions in Christendom, described in
the vision, under, consideration, will have obtained. In other words, it is our
understanding that these three great events meet their fulfillment before the Marriage of the Lamb takes place, and of course,
before the manifestation of Christ in judgment against the present order,, which we
understand is described in the vision under -consideration. It would seem that all the
various features of the great Armageddon conflict, will, until that -stage of it
described in this vision as the casting of 'the
Beast and False Prophet into the, "lake of fire," be looked upon by the world in
I general as natural occurrences, indeed, that they are in no sense to be understood as
specialty directed by God, or the result of Messiah's exercising His great power, than
have all similar occurrences of past history.
THE FOURTH BEAST OF DANIEL'S VISION
It will, therefore, be seen that if we are correct in our
interpretation of the order of these coming events, then the Beast in the vision we are
considering, represents the fourth power of, Daniel's vision, (Dan., 7) about to assume
its last or eighth form. -Keeping in mind the several forms or aspects assumed by the one
symbolic "Beast" in its long career of deception and blood, will enable us to
understand better the words of verse 20. Thus we would read these words: "And the
[fourth] Beast [of Dan. 7 in its last, eighth form] was [at-last] captured, and He who was
with Him, That False Prophet [Federated Protestantism] who [in its aspect of the
two-horned Beast] performed the Signs in His presence, with which he deceived those who
received the Mark of the Beast, and those who-Worship His Image."--H '20-41, 57, 59.
As St. John, in the visions that passed before His mind, watched with
burning and absorbing interest the checkered career of this "Beast" in its
various forms and aspects, as it warred against the saints of God , persecuting them unto
death, and deceiving and blinding the people of the world respecting God and His
character, we can imagine something of his feeling of rejoicing when he saw the
"Beast" at last taken, "captured," and cast alive, into the symbolical
"lake of fire." And likewise it is the privilege of the saints of God at the
present time, to re joice, as they look back in history and see the black and dreadful
crimes of the power symbolized by this Beast in its varied forms, and realize now that its
career and dominion will soon be ended, and that it is to be destroyed forever, and give
place to the Kingdom of God's dear Son, and His Bride. Then will begin to come the
blessings of Messiah's rule to those who once ignorantly upheld and blindly worshiped at
the altars of the Beast and its Image.
THE LAKE OF FIRE AND BRIMSTONE
We inquire. finally, What is symbolized by the "Lake of
Fire," in-to which these civil and ecclesiastical hosts shall be cast? We answer that
the "Lake of Fire," like the other features of the vision, is symbolical. PASTOR
RUSSELL has thus most reasonably -explained it:
"And 'the Beast and False Prophet,' the great false systems,
which have long oppressed and misled nominal Christendom, shall never escape from it.
These systems [not both at the same time but at different intervals] are said to be cast
'alive' -(that is, while they are still organized and operative) into the Lake of Fire
burning with brimstone.--Rev. 19:20.
"The great time of trouble, the Lord's judgment, which will
utterly destroy these systems, will undoubtedly cause great social, financial and
religious difficulty and pain to all those identified with these deceived and deceiving
systems, before they are, utterly destroyed.
"The Beast and False Prophet systems, which during the Gospel
Age have deceived, and. led astray, win'. be, cast into a great, consuming trouble in the
close of this Gospel Age. The torment of those systems wilt be aianion, i. e., lasting. It will continue as, long as they.last, until they. are utterly,
consumed."--H '19-185, 186.
"And the Rest were killed with That Broadsword of Him Who Sits
on the Horse, which Went Forth out of His Mouth; and all the Birds were satiated with
their Flesh."--V. 21.
A comparison of this verse with that of verse 18 seems. to show that
the supporters of the present Order, the supporters of the Beast power before its
disintegration, is referred to. These were explained by us to be the civil,,
ecclesiastical potentates, the great financial I kings, as individuals, and those standing
with them. The Broadsword of the truth and judgment would-cause these to see that it is
God's. Kingdom they are Opposing, and after their complete fall from the positions of
prominence, they would yield, some willingly we believe, and give allegiance to the new
order.
Thus it will be seen that this remarkable vision, teaches. that
before the incoming of the new order the great anti Christian systems, etc., 'which have
so long opposed and misrepresented, unwittingly to a large extent, the Gospel. and its
'great Author--who had persecuted the saints, and the supporters of the same, must be
destroyed that the masses bound up in those systems may be given opportunity to yield
obedience to the Divine authority of the Kingdom. And in this great conflict of the near
future, the Truth and its supporters will 'be as victorious as though in a literal se use
the Lord Jesus Christ should wage battle with these opposing forces, overthrow them with
great slaughter, capture their leaders, imprison and finally destroy them.
This great destruction is closely associated in point of time with
Jacob's trouble which takes place in Israel's land. Let the reader note PASTOR RUSSELL'S
words respecting this matter and at the same time bear in mind the significant events that
have occurred since these words were written, namely, the capture of Jerusalem, the
liberation of the land of Palestine from Mohammedan control, and its being given to God's
ancient people for the purpose of forming a Jewish State. His words are:
"Still another thing intervenes. Although the Jews are gradually
flowing into Palestine, gradually obtaining control of the land of, Canaan, and although
reports say that, already nineteen millionaires are there, nevertheless, prophecy requires
an evidently larger number of wealthy Hebrews to be there before the Armageddon crisis be
reached. Indeed, we understand that 'Jacob's trouble' in the Holy Land will come at the very close of Armageddon. Then
Messiah's Kingdom. will begin to be manifested. Thenceforth Israel in the Land of Promise
will -gradually rise from the ashes; of the past to the grandeur of prophecy. Through its
Divinely appointed, princes, Messiah's Kingdom, all-powerful, but invisible, will begin to
roll away the curse, and to lift up mankind, and to give beauty for ashes,."' -Foreword,, STUDIES, VOL. IV.
These stupendous events are rapidly hastening to their culmination,
and - when accomplished will, as taught in these words we have quoted, have prepared the
way, so far as human opposition is concerned, for the thousand year reign of Christ and,
His glorified 'saints. These enemies being removed, there, would still remain one more
enemy to be disposed of., This is the "Dragon" expressly stated in the next
chapter to be that Serpent of old) Satan, the Devil.--Rev. 20:1-3.
[The plan here proposed we designate "GOOD HOPES because nothing
is actually promised--only your generou's hopes expressed, based upon your future
prospects as they now appear to you. The plan has proven not only so beneficial to the
cause of truth, but also so blessed to the hopers, in the past, that we again commend it
to all as Scriptural and good. Those who desire to make use of this plan can fill out both
of these memoranda. One should be kept for the refreshment of your memory; the other mail
to us.]
To the
"PASTORAL BIBLE
INSTITUTE."
Dear Friends:-I have read with interest of the privilege and
opportunities that are opening up for the spread of the truth. I need not tell you that I
am deeply interested in the spread of the Glad Tidings of the lengths and breadths, the
heights and depths of redeeming love expressed for us in God's great Plan of the Ages.
I am anxious to use myself-every power, every talent, voice, time,
money, influence, all -- to give to others this knowledge, which has so greatly blessed,
cheered and comforted my own heart and placed my feet firmly upon the Rock of Ages.
I have been considering carefully, and praying to be instructed, how
to use my various talents more to my Redeemer's glory and for the service of His
people-those blinded by human tradition who are, nevertheless, hunger ing for "the
good Word of God," and those also who are naked, not having on the wedding garment of
Christ's im puted righteousness, the unjustified, who stand at best in the filthy rags
of their own righteousness. I have decided that so far as -my "money talent" goes, I will follow the
rule so clearly -laid down for us by the great Apostle Paul (I Cor. 16:2) , and will lay
aside on the first day of each week, ac cording to my thankful appreciation of the
Lord's blessings during the preceding week. Out of this fund I wish to con tribute to
the several parts of the Lord's work. Of course, I cannot in advance judge or state
particularly what the Lord's bounty may enable me to
set apart weekly, and hence you will understand the sum indicated to be merely my
conjecture or hope,- based upon present prospects. I will endeavor to contribute more than
I here specify; and should I not succeed in doing as well, the Lord will know my heart,
and you, also, will know of my endeavors.
My only object in specifying in advance what I hope to be able to do in this cause is to enable
those in charge of the work of publishing and circulating the truth, etc., to form
estimates, lay plans, make contracts, etc., with some idea of what I will at least try to do in the exercise of this my highly
appreciated privilege.
My present judgment is that during the coming year, by self-denial
and cross-bearing, I shall be able to lay aside on the first day of each week for Home and
Foreign Mission Work (to assist in the general circulation of the truth, and in publishing
free literature in various languages, and in supplying these gratuitously to Brethren who
have the heart and opportunity to circulate them widely, and in meeting the expenses of
Brethren sent out as- "Pilgrims" to preach the Divine Plan of Salvation, and in
general to be expended as the officers of the Institute may deem best), the amount of
________ per week.
To comply with United States Postal Laws, all or any portion of my
donation may be applied as subscription price for. The Herald or free literature sent to
the Lord's Poor or others, as the Institute's officers may deem advisable.
That the work be not hindered, I will endeavor to send you what I
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PASTORAL BIBLE INSTITUTE,
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STUDY XLII-DECEMEBER
19
THE SEVEN THUNDERS
(206) What were the results following the Reformation Movement? and
explain how these would seem to be a fulfillment of the "Seven Thunders"
uttering their voices. H '19-278.
(207) Is there anything in the text to indicate that the Seven
Thunder voices proceeded from a holy or righteous source? and point out the error of a
recent expositor with regard to this feature. H '19-278.
(208) Why was St. John forbidden to write the utterances of the Seven
Thunders?- H '19-278.
(209) What would seem to be the relationship between the Seven
Thunders and the Angel's solemn oath? H '19-279.
(210) What is a more correct rendering of the language as found in
the common version "that there should be time no longer"? and explain its
significance and in what way this statement would seem to have a chronological bearing. H
'19-27-9, 280.
STUDY XLIII-DECEMBER
26
THE EATING OF THE LITTLE BOOK
(211) What is the significance of the statement, "In the days of
the voice of the seventh Angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be
finished"?
(212) What is the significance of the little book in the hand of the
Angel, and what lesson do we draw from the fact that the book was given to St. John to
eat? At what point in the history of the Church do we locate the fulfillment of this part
of the vision? H '19-263, 280.
(213) What statement by PASTOR RUSSELL assists us in determining the
time when the little book was symbolically eaten by the saints? H '19-280.
(214) What is the symbolical significance of the sweetness and
bitterness that St. John experienced as a result of eating the little book? H '19-263.
(215) Has the commission to again prophesy to peoples and nations and
kings yet been fulfilled? If so, when? H '19-281.
STUDY XLIV-JANUARY 2
MEASURING THE TEMPLE OF GOD
(216) What symbols are brought to our attention in chapter 11:1, 2,
and what general picture is at once suggested to the mind? H '19-281
(217) What is the symbolical significance of the Temple of God, the
Altar, and those who worship in it? H '19-282.
(218) What lesson is taught by the fact that St. John was commanded
to arise and measure these? H '19-282.
(219) What incidents and experiences in the life of PASTOR RUSSELL
would seem to have a bearing on the fulfillment of this matter of' measuring the Temple of
God,- etc.? What have been some of the results that have followed? H '19-282, 283.
(220) What, if any, is the relationship between the command to
measure the Temple of God, etc., and the preceding line of thought concerning the eating
of the little book? 'H '19-281, 282.
--JANUARY 2--MATTHEW
18:1-14--
Golden Text.-"Whosoever
therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is the greatest in "the Kingdom of Heaven."--Matt. 18:4.
IT was following. closely the event of the vision in 'the Holy Mount'
and the incident of Peter's receiving the shekel from the fish's mouth to pay tribute for
the Lord and himself that the discussion arose amongst the Apostles as to who should be
greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. Probably the disciples who were not with the Lord on
the Mount of Transfiguration felt a little envious of those, who had seen the vision and
who subsequently told them. Could this mean that Peter, James and John, who were with the
Lord on the Mount, would be more highly favored than the remainder of the disciples when
the Kingdom should be established? And perhaps also Jesus addressing Peter regarding the
matter of providing tribute for Peter and Himself to the exclusion of the others may have,
become a further occasion for the accentuation of the feeling of jealousy. As they
journeyed, following Jesus at a little, distance, the dispute. grew quite warm with
arguments on the one side and on the other respecting which should be the greatest in the
coming Kingdom. Our Lord doubtless knew at the time their arguments in the dispute, but
instead of administering a personal rebuke to those most at fault, He chose rather to make
of the matter a general lesson, profitable, helpful, strengthening to them all. And is not
His example valuable to all of His followers? Is it not wise on our part so far as
possible to avoid personalities and the holding up of any individual to special criticism?
All mankind have faults and blemishes, some in one particular and some in another, and it is very rarely wise to single out an individual in
the Body of Christ for a special reprimand; it is generally better to do as our Master did
in this instance-to give a general lesson on the
subject which will be helpful to all, not only to those who are taking the wrong
course, but also to those who are more nearly right in their views and conclusions.
"AS A LITTLE CHILD"
Our Lord inquired of the disciples what topic was so greatly
absorbing their attention and leading to such warm discussion. It is to the credit of the
Apostles that they were ashamed to acknowledge that they had been disputing concerning
which should be chief or greatest in the Kingdom. The whole matter was to be -a favor to
them anyway; they realized that they had done nothing to merit so great an honor, that the
call to a place in the Kingdom was of grace, of favor. Why should they quarrel with each
other respecting the Master's distribution of His royal favors? They felt abashed, and
Jesus did not press the question. Knowing. of the matter He allowed them to see that He
had a knowledge, not only of their words, but also of their very hearts and. intentions.
Most skillfully, most gently, did He administer a rebuke; -not in coarse, harsh terms did
He berate those who were inclined to be self-seeking; He did not threaten them.
A child was near. He took it and set it in their midst. Afterwards,
says Luke, He took it in His arms. Their attention riveted by this. peculiar proceeding,
they were prepared for the lesson--which many to-day misunderstand when 'they suppose that
our Lord meant that the Kingdom of Heaven. would be composed mainly of little children.
No. such words were uttered by our Lord and no such thoughts were communicated to His
disciples, On the contrary, Jesus never called little children to be His disciples; He
Himself did not begin His ministry as a child but when He was, thirty years of age.:
Nothing. In this, however, signifies that our, Lord had not a deep sympathy with children,
as is illustrated by His taking some of them into His arms and blessing them and saying,
"Suffer 'the little children to come unto me and forbid them not, for of such [like]
is the Kingdom of Heaven." Our Lord loved the innocency and simplicity of a little
child, and was quite willing to show His own humility in acceding to the wishes of the
mothers that He notice their children and. give, them His blessing. Indeed we can rest
assured that no good man or woman could be without love for the innocency and simplicity
of childhood.
GREATEST IN THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN
Neither should we understand that because Jesus' ministry began at
thirty, and because those whom He called to be His disciples were of mature years, that
this would limit the age of any who might become the followers of Christ during this
Gospel Age. Quite to the contrary, we believe that some of very tender years have received
a. sufficiency of information respecting our Lord and His work of redemption and His
invitation to followers to intelligently take their stand with-Jesus' disciples by full
consecration of heart and life and every interest, with apparently quite a clear
conception of-what they were doing. Indeed, we feel like encouraging those of the young
who, are disposed to make a full consecration of their lives to the Lord to believe that
in so doing they are not only acceptable, but that additionally they the sooner enter into
the rest of faith, and are spared many of the unfavorable experiences which come to those
who first seek the world and the pleasures thereof.
In this lesson, however, we should distinctly note that the Lord- is
neither addressing little children nor discussing them, except as an example or
illustration of simplicity, docility and teachableness, and freedom from pride and
ambition. This was impressed upon the disciples as they looked at the little child sitting
there unconscious of the great honor thrust upon it, unconscious of being used by the
glorious King of kings to illustrate a lesson. The thought of our. Lord is clearly given
in the fourth verse, which says, "Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this
little child, the same is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven."
Let us not lose sight of the fact that it is the Kingdom of Heaven
that the Lord is discussing and not the world. This was the same thought the Apostles had,
not which of them would get into the Kingdom of Heaven and which would not get. into the.
Kingdom, but-supposing that all were going to be in the Kingdom--which would be the
greatest? The Lord's reply to this question is along this line, namely, that the one of
them who would be the most childlike, most humble, most unpretentious, most willing to be
taught and guided, would be the one who would be greatest. This thought applies to the
Church both in its present and in its future conditions. At the present time, the Church,
the Kingdom, is in an embryo condition, not glorified, 'not recognized even by the world,
but recognized by each other and by the Lord. Humility and childlikeness amongst the
brethren now should be esteemed as a mark of true greatness from the Lord's standpoint.
Such as are of this childlike class we may know assuredly will be proportionately highly
honored in the future, when the Kingdom shall be estab-lished in power and great glory as
God's agency for the blessing of -all the families of the earth.
In harmony with this thought that the humble, -- the teachable, the
simple, -- the unpretentious should be esteemed the greatest, we should expect to find in
all the ecclesias, in all the companies of the Lord's people, that those chosen to the
place of eldership and prominence in the Church would be amongst the most humble of mind
and of conduct in the Whole company. Any other condition than this would imply that the
congregation had not rightly understood and appreciated And obeyed our Lord's sentiments-
expressed - in connection with the incidents' of our lesson.
This does not mean, however, that the brother possessing five talents
should be entirely unconscious and neglect to use them. It does not mean that he should be
blind to the fact that some others of the brethren have fewer talents, but it does mean
that he should have such love, such humility, that his only desire in connection with his
talents would be to use them for the good of the Lord's cause-that he would be so humble
minded, so zealous for the Lord, that he would not for a moment think of using his talents
to serve personal ambitions, to vaunt himself or to in any measure or degree seek to
suppress the talents, opportunities and privileges of others that his own talents might
alone be recognized. It does mean that if he have five talents, and if of the right,
childlike, humble spirit, he will have such interest in the dear brethren that he will do
all reasonably within his power for the good of the whole cause, for the exercise of the
various talents of the different brothers and sisters in such manner as will be to their
upbuilding, strengthening and mutual edification, that the whole body of Christ may thus
minister to its wants and necessities and comforts in faith and hope- and love.
"EXCEPT YE BE CONVERTED"
The word converted signifies to turn about, to experience a change,
but many fail to recognize this broad meaning of the word, and instead think of it as
signifying the leaving of a relationship to the world and the devil and coming into
relationship with God. The Lord did not mean to say to His Apostles, that they were not
converted in this latter sense-that they were aliens, strangers and foreigners from God.
He already knew them to be Israelites indeed. In His prayer He declares, "Thine they,
were and thou gavest them to me, and I have kept them." What He did mean was that
they must be turned from their present attitude of mind in respect to ambition for place
and honor in the Kingdom, else they would never enter into it. Already they were in His
embryo Kingdom, and hence His meaning as that unless in the embryo Kingdom His followers
should develop a childlike, humble spirit and turn from the selfish and ambitious spirit,
they would utterly fail of getting into the Kingdom of glory, the Millennial Kingdom.
What a lesson there is here for the Lord's followers -- His
"little ones." He shows us that while He has invited u's to the greatest and
grandest of all honors and privileges, nevertheless the attainment of this High Calling,
the making of this calling and election sure, will depend upon the way in which we receive
the honors; privileges, blessings, the call. If it stirs up in us selfish ambition for
greatness and power and honor amongst men, it is having the wrong, the undesigned effect.-
The effect which God designs is that we should realize our own insignificance and
unworthiness of such great honors that we should feel ourselves very little indeed in
the sight of God, and wonder that He would so condescend as to take from the fallen race a
little company to constitute the Bride, the Lamb's Wife in glory, joint-heirs in His
Kingdom. As in the school of Christ they grow in grace and grow in knowledge, this
humility, this childlikeness, must not depart, but rather it must increase more and more.
They must realize their own. unfitness and unworthiness of such great honor, they must
receive all of God's favors as of His bounty, His 'grace.
The moving power with the proper disciples of Christ, who would
maintain the love and favor of their Lord and ultimately make sure their calling and,
election in His Kingdom, must not be selfishness, love of position and power, name and
fame. What, then, must it be? We reply, the moving power must be love-love for God, love
for the brethren, and at least sympathetic love for the whole world of mankind, even
including our enemies, many of whom are doubtless such because of blindness. The Apostle
expresses this ruling, propelling power in the true followers of Jesus, saying, "The
love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge that if one died for all then were
all dead: and that He died for all that they which live should henceforth not live unto
themselves but unto Him which died for them and rose again."--2 Cor. 5:14, 15.
Our Lord's discourse continues on the same lines when He says,
"Whosoever receiveth one such little child in my name receiveth me." He is not
referring to the receiving of infants in His name but the receiving of disciples in His
name--the receiving of such disciples as have this child-like character and thus have the
mark of being the true followers of Jesus. Whoever receives one of these humble, faithful
unpretentious ones, not because of worldly name or fame, not because of boasts of being
some great one, but because they are the Lord's, because they give evidence that they have
His Spirit-whoever receives such, the Lord says, should be considered and rewarded as
though they had received the Master Himself.
WOE UNTO THE WORLD FROM SNARES
After telling us in verse 6 how serious a matter it will be for
anyone to injure one of the Lord's little ones, one of His specially consecrated
disciples, the Great Teacher in verse 7 applies His lesson to the world, and declares that
a large part of the world's difficulty and woe comes to it along similar lines "skandalon." These snares or traps or
injurious misrepresentations, etc., cause a large part of the world's present discomfort,
but they must needs be, they are a necessary part of the general trouble through sin,
which are to cause mankind to ultimately hate sin and to long for the rule, the feign of
righteousness, the Kingdom. But our Lord adds, while these of fences or stumblings will
cause special woes to many throughout the world, they will be specially injurious to the
ones who started them, "To that man by whom the stumbling cometh."
When our Lord would intimate why His humblest followers should not be
despised, the illustration He uses implies that they are the special objects of the
Heavenly Father's care and love, and that to despise them or to do anything demeaning
toward them would surely bring some kind of retribution either in the present life or in a
future one. The matter -is put as though the Lord would say, You cannot even despise one
of my "little ones" without the Father knowing it very quickly. He says,
"In heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father." These. angels
have no difficulty in bringing to His attention the difficulties, trials or persecutions
of His faithful ones. Some, from this statement, have presumed the Lord to mean that every
human being has a guardian angel looking after his interest, and that as now the world,
numbers 1,600,000,000, it would imply that there is a similar number of angelic beings
looking after the interests of these.
This is wholly erroneous; the Lord does not anywhere intimate any
special guardianship of the interests of the world. He does tell us that He has arranged
for the redemption and restitution of mankind in due time; but any special supervision
intimated in the Scriptures is only over those who belong to the Lord in the sense that is
mentioned in. this Scripture, namely, as His "little ones." It is respecting
these "little ones" that we read, "The .angel of the Lord encampeth round
about them that fear Him, and, delivereth them." (Psa. 34:7.) And again, "'The
angels are ministering spirits sent forth to minister [serve] to the heirs of
salvation." (Heb. 1: 14.) It would not at all surprise us if there were a guardian
angel for each member of the Lord's little flock, the Lord's consecrated, His "little
ones." However, we are to remember that the word angel is one of wide significance,
and might include all the powers of God both animate and inanimate, by which He could take
knowledge of and render assistance to those who are His.
In any event, however, the thought of the picture the Lord here shows
is that His "little ones" are never for gotten, and that all their trials and
difficulties are speedily brought to the Father's attention through. the angels or
agencies of Divine arrangement. What a comfort this is to those who are seeking to walk in
the footsteps of Jesus and who find- themselves frequently misunderstood or slandered or
despised or neglected! Any good done to this class will never be forgotten by the Lord;
any in jury done to them will also be known and will not I go. un punished and the
punishment will be in proportion to the degree of intelligence and willfulness of the
wrongdoer. "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, saith the Lord." There fore,
brethren, avenge not yourselves; leave all in the hands of the Lord as you suffer injury
patiently and learn advantageous lessons therefrom; but at all times be careful, vigilant,
that you yourself shall stumble, injure none.
THESE "LITTLE ONES" NOT TO PERISH
Verse 11 is omitted from the revised version, because it is not found
in the oldest manuscripts, and this is good authority for omitting it. The same words do
occur in Luke .19:10, and they represent an eternal truth. They were probably introduced
here by some one who thought that Matthew had overlooked the words and that this would be
an appropriate place for recording them. However, there are various diversions between
this account of a hundred sheep and the other account of Luke 15:3-7. The one was
apparently made to the Scribes and Pharisees; this narrative on the contrary was made to
the disciples. We have elsewhere discussed the parable addressed to the Pharisees, showing
that the hundred sheep properly represented the entire family of God, and that the one
sheep that went astray represented properly enough humanity, which fell from Divine
likeness and favor through Adam's disobedience.
The parable shows the Lord's love and mercy in pursaing after the
lost sheep, humanity, and intimates its recovery in the end-not that. all will be
universally and everlastingly saved, but that all will be brought to conditions of
salvation, to a clear knowledge of the truth and to a full opportunity for accepting the
same, so that the rejection will be a just cause- for their sharing the Second Death.
This statement respecting the hundred sheep is applied in a totally
different manner, as the context shows. Here it refers to all of the Lord's "little
ones," all who become His followers, His sheep. Should one of them be stumbled,
should one of them stray, the Lord in His providence will not abandon him, but will purify
him if possibly he may be recovered. And all who are in harmony with the Lord should have,
this. same thought and interest in one another, that they would be willing to spend and be
spent in the recovery of a brother from the snare of the Adversary. Verse 14 sets the
matter forth very clearly, saying, "Even so it is not the will of your Father which
is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish." Hence, as the Apostle
explains, he that recovereth a sinner from the error of his ways, saves a soul from death
and hides a multitude of sins. (Jas. 5:20.) This is not referring to the souls of
the-world in general, which are still under the sentence of death, but it is. referring to
the souls of believers, who through faith have been justified and consecrated to the Lord.
If they shall fall away, shall stumble by any means, all the faithful are. to be energetic
in their endeavors to recover such, to bring them back into full accord with the Lord.
Its assurance further is that it is not the will of the Father that
they should perish, and hence we may rely upon it that any and every reasonable and proper
thing in their interests will be done rather than that they should be abandoned. This same
spirit at work in the household of faith amongst the "little ones" would lead
them, not to strive as to which of them would be greatest, but rather lead them to mutual
helpfulness, that each and all might gain the prize of the high calling. It is in
accordance with this thought that the Lord does not wish these to perish that He provides
that those of His consecrated ones who do not follow voluntarily in the work of sacrifice
shall not be abandoned, but shall be put through trying experiences, and wash their robes
and make them white in the blood of the Lamb.
Our dear brethren of the BIBLE STUDENTS COMMITTEE, representing the
friends in Great Britain, have assured us of their full and hearty co-operation in the
ministry and service that our INSTITUTE is endeavoring to carry forward in behalf of the
Lord's people the world over. They have kindly offered their services, and to assist
especially in the direction of encouraging subscriptions for the HERALD amongst the
friends throughout Great Britain, and to act in more or less of a representative way. This
loving co-operation we will of course, greatly appreciate. We have no doubt that the B1BLE
STUDENTS COMMITTEE can I very materially assist this ministry in their country; and this
uniting of our endeavors in this general way surely will be productive of greater and more
lasting results. We have already considerable of a list of' subscribers amongst our
English brethren, but we believe that many more might be added.
In view of the above we suggest that all the friends throughout
England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales who desire to send subscriptions, either as new
subscribers to the HERALD- or as renewals, shall forward them, together with the
remittance, direct. to the BIBLE STUDENTS COMMITTEE, 23 High Street, Marylebone W. 1,
London, Eng., and they in turn will communicate with us. there need not be any more delay
in your subscriptions reaching us in this way than if you forwarded them direct to our
office in America.
The BIBLE STUDENTS COMMITTEE will also keep on hand an extra supply
of the special issue, June 1-15, 1919, treating the subject of the Second Coming of Christ
and All about Hell; additionally, extra copies of the recent double number, Nov. 1-15, can
be had by sending direct to London.
We will here take occasion to say that we find it necessary. to ask
the British brethren to remit 6s. henceforth instead of 4s. This does not mean that we
have really advanced the price of the HERALD--it is still $1.00 per year American money,
but on account of -the continued increase of. the cost of exchange this additional amount
in English money is made necessary.
We will continue to appreciate the loving and encouraging messages
from the friends abroad just the same, even though you send your subscriptions direct to
the BIBLE STUDENTS COMMITTEE.
1920 Index |