There are many people who are promoting the concept of a 7 year Great Tribulation period just before the return of Jesus Christ. Much has been said upon this idea – that it will reflect the 2 x 3.5 years periods whereby, at the mid point of the 7 years, the anti-christ will enter the temple of God which will bring about the abomination of desolation.
Scripture has been cited to uphold this believe such as Daniel 9:27; Matthew 24:15; Mark 13:14; Luke 21:20; and 2 Thessalonians 2:4. These Scriptures will be examined later.
At the commencement of this Great Tribulation period, many claim that Jesus will return, before, His Second Coming to redeem all members of His church. Both living and dead believers will ascend into heaven, thereby being sheltered from the time of trouble, such as never was [Daniel 12:1].
Daniel 12:1 ¶ And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great PRINCE which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a TIME OF TROUBLE, SUCH AS NEVER WAS since there was a nation [even] to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.
At the end of this Great Tribulation period, will be the Battle of Armageddon as recorded in the Book of Revelation:
Revelation 16:15 Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed [is] he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.
Revelation 16:16 And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue ARMAGEDDON.
Revelation 19:11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him [was] called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.
Revelation 19:12 His eyes [were] as a flame of fire, and on his head [were] many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.
Revelation 19:13 And he [was] clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.
Revelation 19:14 And the armies [which were] in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.
Revelation 19:15 And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.
Revelation 19:16 And he hath on [his] vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.
Revelation 19:17 And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the great God;
Revelation 19:18 That ye may eat the flesh of kings, and the flesh of captains, and the flesh of mighty men, and the flesh of horses, and of them that sit on them, and the flesh of all [men, both] free and bond, both small and great.
Revelation 19:19 And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against him that sat on the horse, and against his army.
Revelation 19:20 And the beast (aka “Little Horn” of Daniel 7) was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.
Revelation 19:21 And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which [sword] proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh.
Spirit of Prophecy says this about the Battle of Armageddon:
The angel, the mighty angel from heaven, is to “lighten the earth with his glory” while he cries mightily with a loud voice, “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen.” Revelation 18:2. Oh, how I wish the church to arise and shine because the glory of the Lord has risen upon her. What can we not do in God if every human agency is doing its very utmost. “Without me ye can do nothing.” {Lt112-1890} Also {1888 761.3}
We would lose faith and courage in the conflict if we were not sustained by the power of God. Every form of evil is to spring into intense activity. Evil angels unite their powers with evil men and, as they have been in constant conflict and attained an experience in the best modes of deception and battle, and have been strengthening for centuries, they will not yield the last great final contest without a desperate struggle. All the world will be on one side or the other of the question. The BATTLE of ARMAGEDDON will be fought. And that day must find none of us sleeping. Wide awake we must be, as wise virgins having oil in our vessels with our lamps. What is this? Grace, grace! The power of the Holy Ghost must be upon us and the Captain of the Lord’s host will stand at the head of the angels of heaven to direct the battle. {Lt112-1890} Also {1888 761.3}
The power of the Holy Ghost must be upon us, and the Captain of the Lord’s host will stand at the head of the angels of heaven to direct the battle. Solemn events before us are yet to transpire. Trumpet after trumpet is to be sounded, vial after vial poured out one after another upon the inhabitants of the earth. Scenes of stupendous interest are right upon us, and these things will be sure indications of the presence of Him who has directed in every aggressive movement, who has accompanied the march of His cause through all the ages, and who has graciously pledged Himself to be with His people in all their conflicts to the end of the world. He will vindicate His truth. He will cause it to triumph. He is ready to supply His faithful ones with motives and power of purpose, inspiring them with hope and courage and valor in increased activity as the time is at hand. {Lt112-1890} Also {1888 761.3 762.1}
There are only two parties in our world, those who are loyal to God, and those who stand under the banner of the prince of darkness. Satan and his angels will come down with power and signs and lying wonders to deceive those who dwell on the earth, and if possible, the very elect. The crisis is right upon us. Is this to paralyze the energies of those who have a knowledge of the truth? Is the influence of the powers of deception so far-reaching that the influence of the truth will be overpowered? {Ms172-1899}
The BATTLE of ARMAGEDDON is soon to be fought. He on whose vesture is written the name, King of kings and Lord of lords, leads forth the armies of heaven on white horses, clothed in fine linen, clean and white. {Ms172-1899}
We need to study the pouring out of the seventh vial. The powers of evil will not yield up the conflict without a struggle. But Providence has a part to act in the BATTLE of ARMAGEDDON. When the earth is lighted with the glory of the angel of Revelation eighteen, the religious elements, good and evil, will awake from slumber, and the armies of the living God will take the field. {Ms175-1899}
But will there be a Rapture and then a 7 year Great Tribulation period prior to the Second Coming of Jesus correct?
The Word of God is very plain. There is absolutely no truth in this man-made belief. The evidence will now be studied.
The word “rapture” does not occur in the Bible.
In Spirit of Prophecy the word “rapture” is always used in its true and primary meaning – a noun meaning “a feeling of intense pleasure or joy”, or “extreme pleasure and happiness or excitement”, or “ecstatic joy or delight; joyful ecstasy”.
It is never used in its secondary meaning of transporting believers to heaven at, or before, the Second Coming of Christ.
The Rapture belief emerged from a theory by John Nelson Darby in 1833, that Jesus would return to redeem all members of the church. Pre-tribulationism, as it is called, relates to the last things and end-time belief that both living and dead believers will ascend into heaven to meet Jesus Christ at, or before, the Second Coming (Parousia).
Differing viewpoints exist about the exact timing of the rapture and whether Christ’s return would occur in one event or two. Pre-tribulationism distinguishes the rapture from the second coming of Jesus Christ mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew, 2 Thessalonians, and Revelation. This view holds that the rapture would precede a 7-year Tribulation, which would culminate in Christ’s second coming.
In 1 Thessalonians, the Apostle Paul wrote that the Lord will come down from heaven and that a trumpet call will precede the rise of “the dead in Christ” (4:16).
Thereafter, “we which are alive [and] remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air” (4:17).
1 Thessalonians 4:16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
1 Thessalonians 4:17 Then we which are alive [and] remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
The origin of the term is from a Greek word [Strongs G726] [arpazw] harpazo, meaning “to snatch away” or “to seize”.
It is derived from Strongs G138: to seize (in various applications):–catch (away, up), pluck, pull, take (by force).
The Latin word rapio incorrectly accentuates this act of aggression.
Therefore a truer meaning in the biblical context would be to “pluck”, “pull” or “taken up”.
The KJV Bible translates this correctly as being “caught up” which does not imply an act of unique hostility on behalf of Jesus.
Rapture* Spirit of Prophecy searches:
All heaven was waiting the hour of triumph when Jesus should ascend to his Father. Angels came to receive the King of glory, and to escort him triumphantly to heaven. After Jesus had blessed his disciples, he was parted from them, and taken up. And as he led the way upward, the multitude of captives who were raised at his resurrection followed. A multitude of the heavenly host was in attendance; while in heaven an innumerable number of angels awaited his coming. As they ascended up to the holy city, the angels who escorted Jesus cried out, Lift up your heads, O ye gates, and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors, and the King of glory shall come in. With RAPTURE the angels in the city, who awaited his coming, cried out, Who is this King of glory? The escorting angels with triumph answered, The Lord strong and mighty! The Lord mighty in battle! Lift up your heads, O ye gates! even lift them up, ye everlasting doors, and the King of glory shall come in. Again the heavenly host cried out, Who is this King of glory? The escorting angels in melodious strains answered, The Lord of hosts! He is the King of glory! And the heavenly train passed into the city. Then all the heavenly host surrounded the Son of God, their majestic commander, and with the deepest adoration bowed, casting their glittering crowns at his feet. And then they touched their golden harps, and in sweet, melodious strains, filled all heaven with their rich music and songs to the Lamb who was slain, yet lives again in majesty and glory. {1SG 77.1 1858} Also {EW 190.2 1882}
My health was very poor, my lungs were seriously affected, and my voice failed me. The Spirit of God often rested upon me with great power and my frail body could scarcely endure the weight of glory that flooded my soul. The name of Jesus filled me with RAPTURE, I seemed to breathe in the atmosphere of Heaven. I rejoiced in the prospect of soon meeting my Redeemer and living in the light of his countenance forever. {ST, March 30, 1876 par. 13} Also {LS80 189.1 1880}
By permitting themselves to be so overcome by sleep, the disciples had lost the conversation between the Heavenly messengers and the glorified Redeemer. But as they suddenly awake from profound slumber, and behold the sublime vision before them, they are filled with RAPTURE and awe. As they look upon the radiant form of their beloved Master, they are obliged to shield their eyes with their hands, not being able otherwise to endure the inexpressible glory that clothes his person, and which emits beams of light like those of the sun. For a brief space the disciples behold their Lord glorified and exalted before their eyes, and honored by the radiant beings whom they recognize as the favored ones of God. {2SP 330.2 1877} Also {3Red 119.2 1877}
They believe that Elias has now come, according to prophecy, and that the kingdom of Christ is to be set up on earth. Even in the first glow of his amazement, Peter plans for accommodating Christ and the ancient worthies. As soon as he can command his voice he addresses Jesus thus: “Master, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.” In the joy of the moment, Peter flatters himself that the two messengers from Heaven have been sent to preserve the life of Jesus from the fate that threatens him at Jerusalem. He is overjoyed at the thought that these glorious attendants, clothed in light and power, are to protect the Son of God, and establish his kingly authority upon earth. He forgets for the time the frequent explanations given by Jesus himself of the plan of salvation, which could only be perfected through his own suffering and death. {2SP 330.3 1877} Also {3Red 120.1 1877}
While the disciples were overwhelmed with RAPTURE and amazement, “a bright cloud overshadowed them, and behold, a voice out of the cloud which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.” When the disciples beheld the awful cloud of glory, brighter than that which went before the tribes of Israel in the wilderness, and when they heard the voice of God peal from the cloud, in accents of majesty that caused the mouth to tremble as if shaken from its foundation, they could not endure the grandeur that oppressed their senses, and fell smitten to the ground. {2SP 331.1 1877} Also {3Red 120.2 1877}
If we would walk in the light, we must follow Jesus, the light of life. What constitutes the brightness of Heaven? In what will consist the happiness of the redeemed? Christ is all in all. They will gaze with RAPTURE unutterable upon the Lamb of God. They will pour out their songs of grateful praise and adoration to Him whom they loved and worshiped here. That song they learned and began to sing on earth. They learned to put their trust in Jesus while they were forming characters for Heaven. Their hearts were attuned to his will here. Their joy in Christ will be proportioned to the love and trust which they learned to repose in him here. {RH, May 30, 1882 par. 7}
“And what is the inference to be deduced from this language? Is it not that endless suffering formed no part of his religious belief?–So we conceive; and here we discover a triumphant argument in support of the more pleasing, more enlightened, more benevolent hypothesis of ultimate universal purity and peace. He was comforted, seeing his son was dead. And why so?–Because by the eye of prophecy he could look forward into the glorious future, and see that son far removed from all temptations, released from the bondage and purified from the corruptions of sin, and after being made sufficiently holy and enlightened, admitted to the assembly of ascended and rejoicing spirits. His only comfort was, that in being removed from the present state of sin and suffering, his beloved son had gone where the loftiest breathings of the Holy Spirit would be shed upon his darkened soul; where his mind would be unfolded to the wisdom of Heaven and the sweet RAPTURES of immortal love, and thus prepared with a sanctified nature to enjoy the rest and society of the heavenly inheritance. {4SP 358.2 1884} Also {GC88 538.1 1888}
As if entranced, the wicked have looked upon the coronation of the Son of God. They see in his hands the tables of the divine law, the statutes which they have despised and transgressed. They witness the outburst of wonder, RAPTURE, and adoration from the saved; and as the wave of melody sweeps over the multitudes without the city, all with one voice exclaim, “Marvelous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints;” and falling prostrate, they worship the Prince of life. {4SP 484.1 1884}
Before entering the city of God, the Saviour bestows upon his followers the emblems of victory, and invests them with the insignia of their royal state. The glittering ranks are drawn up, in the form of a hollow square, about their King, whose form rises in majesty high above saint and angel, whose countenance beams upon them full of benignant love. Throughout the unnumbered host of the redeemed, every glance is fixed upon him, every eye beholds His glory whose “visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men.” Upon the heads of the overcomers, Jesus with his own right hand places the crown of glory. For each there is a crown, bearing his own “new name,” [Revelation 2:17.] and the inscription, “Holiness to the Lord.” In every hand are placed the victor’s palm and the shining harp. Then, as the commanding angels strike the note, every hand sweeps the harp strings with skillful touch, awaking sweet music in rich, melodious strains. RAPTURE unutterable thrills every heart, and each voice is raised in grateful praise: “Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, and hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion forever and ever.” [Revelation 1:5, 6.] {GC88 645.3 1888}
Before the ransomed throng is the holy city. Jesus opens wide the pearly gates, and the nations that have kept the truth enter in. There they behold the Paradise of God, the home of Adam in his innocency. Then that voice, richer than any music that ever fell on mortal ear, is heard, saying, “Your conflict is ended.” “Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” {GC88 646.1 1888}
Now is fulfilled the Saviour’s prayer for his disciples, “I will that they also whom thou hast given me be with me where I am.” “Faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy,” [Jude 24.] Christ presents to the Father the purchase of his blood, declaring, “Here am I, and the children whom thou hast given me.” “Those that thou gavest me I have kept.” Oh, the wonders of redeeming love! the RAPTURE of that hour when the infinite Father, looking upon the ransomed, shall behold his image, sin’s discord banished, its blight removed, and the human once more in harmony with the divine! {GC88 646.2 1888}
As if entranced, the wicked have looked upon the coronation of the Son of God. They see in his hands the tables of the divine law, the statutes which they have despised and transgressed. They witness the outburst of wonder, RAPTURE, and adoration from the saved; and as the wave of melody sweeps over the multitudes without the city, all with one voice exclaim, “Great and marvelous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints;” and falling prostrate, they worship the Prince of life. {GC88 668.4 1888}
David, in the beauty and might of his young manhood, was taking a high position with the noblest of the earth. His talents, as precious gifts from God, were employed to extol the glory of the divine Giver. His opportunities of contemplation and meditation served to enrich him with that wisdom and piety that made him beloved of God and angels. As he contemplated the perfections of his Creator, richer discoveries of God opened before his soul. As his admiration increased more and more, his heart thrilled with more fervent adoration and ecstasy. As obscure thoughts were illuminated, as difficulties were made plain, as contradictions were reconciled, as perplexities were harmonized, fresh songs of melody and praise were offered before God. Each ray of new light brought forth fresh bursts of RAPTURE, and sweeter anthems of devotion, to the glory of God and the Redeemer. The love that moved him, the sorrows which beset him, the triumphs that attended him, were all themes for his active thought, and, as he beheld the love of God in all the providences of his life, his heart beat with more fervent adoration and gratitude, his voice rang out in a richer melody, his harp was swept with more exultant joy; and the shepherd boy proceeded from strength to strength, from knowledge to knowledge; for the Spirit of the Lord was upon him. {ST, June 8, 1888 par. 9} Also {PP 642.2 1890}
Well may the children of God be filled with hope and courage, with joy and RAPTURE, as they contemplate the things which God has prepared for them that love him. “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming, for ye are our glory and joy”? “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.” “But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are the children of the light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for a helmet the hope of salvation.” “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” {RH, July 31, 1888 par. 12}
Then joy, inexpressible joy, filled heaven. The glory and blessedness of a world redeemed, outmeasured even the anguish and sacrifice of the Prince of life. Through the celestial courts echoed the first strains of that song which was to ring out above the hills of Bethlehem–“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14. With a deeper gladness now than in the RAPTURE of the new creation, “the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy.” Job 38:7. {PP 65.3 1890}
Through Christ, moral power is brought to man that will change the entire affections, and enable man to work with a will for the cause of God. Where all the power of mind and body was before concentrated to work the works of evil, by the Spirit of God a revolution is brought about. The Holy Spirit enlightens, renews, and sanctifies the soul. Angels behold with inexpressible RAPTURE the results of the working of the Holy Spirit in man. By the revelation of the attractive loveliness of Christ, by the knowledge of his love expressed to us while we were yet sinners, the stubborn heart is melted and subdued, and the sinner is transformed and becomes a child of God. Love is the agency which God uses to expel sin from the human soul. By it he changes pride into humility, enmity and unbelief into love and faith. He does not employ compulsory measures; Jesus is revealed to the soul, and if man will look in faith to the Lamb of God, he will live. {ST, June 9, 1890 par. 10}
When I was in Colorado some years since, I visited an art gallery, and there were groups of people standing before the pictures as if entranced, and praising the human artist. At evening as I was walking through the town, I saw the glory of the sunset. The bright beams were shining upon the snowcapped mountains, and it seemed as if the portals of heaven were opened, and its glory were streaming through. Persons were continually passing along the street, but none looked at the sight. My companion and myself were gazing upon it in RAPTURE. I could discern in it heaven’s beauty; I could see heaven’s glory shining from the gates ajar, that we might conceive the beauty of what was within. But the crowds did not look upon the scene. That is the way God is treated. {BEcho, November 19, 1894 par. 7}
We build on Christ by obeying His word. It is not he who merely enjoys righteousness, that is righteous, but he who does righteousness. Holiness is not RAPTURE; it is the result of surrendering all to God; it is doing the will of our heavenly Father. When the children of Israel were encamped on the borders of the Promised Land, it was not enough for them to have a knowledge of Canaan, or to sing the songs of Canaan. This alone would not bring them into possession of the vineyards and olive groves of the goodly land. They could make it theirs in truth only by occupation, by complying with the conditions, by exercising living faith in God, by appropriating His promises to themselves, while they obeyed His instruction. {MB 149.1 1896}
Satan leads people to think that because they have felt a RAPTURE of feeling, they are converted. But their experience does not change. Their actions are the same as before. Their lives show no good fruit. They pray often and long, and are constantly referring to the feelings they had at such and such a time. But they do not live the new life. They are deceived. Their experience goes no deeper than feeling. They build upon the sand, and when adverse winds come, their house is swept away. {YI, September 26, 1901 par. 3}
What wonder that joy, inexpressible joy, filled heaven! The glory and blessedness of a world renewed outmeasured even the anguish and sacrifice of the Prince of Life. Through the celestial courts echoed the first strains of that song which was to ring out above the hills of Bethlehem–“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good-will toward men.” With a deeper gladness now than in the RAPTURE of the new creation, “the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy.” {ST, November 4, 1908 par. 7}
The prophet Isaiah, looking with RAPTURE upon this glorious deliverance, exclaimed:
Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:7 Of the increase of [his] government and peace [there shall be] no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Isaiah 9:6-7. {PK 688.2 1917}
As you have seen from the above, in the Bible the word “Rapture” does not occur. In Spirit of Prophecy the word does occur but it never relates to any form of Pre-tribulationism.
In the Bible the word “Tribulation(s)” occur in the following texts:
GREAT TRIBULATION
Matthew 24:15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)
Matthew 24:16 Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains:
Matthew 24:17 Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house:
Matthew 24:18 Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes.
Matthew 24:19 And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days!
Matthew 24:20 But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day:
Matthew 24:21 For then shall be GREAT TRIBULATION, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.
Matthew 24:22 And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.
Matthew 24:23 Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here [is] Christ, or there; believe [it] not.
Matthew 24:24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if [it were] possible, they shall deceive the very elect.
Matthew 24:25 Behold, I have told you before.
Matthew 24:26 Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, [he is] in the secret chambers; believe [it] not.
Matthew 24:27 For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
Matthew 24:28 For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together.
Matthew 24:29 ¶ Immediately after the TRIBULATION of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken:
Matthew 24:30 And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
Matthew 24:31 And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
Matthew 24:32 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer [is] nigh:
Matthew 24:33 So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, [even] at the doors.
Matthew 24:34 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.
Matthew 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
Matthew 24:36 ¶ But of that day and hour knoweth no [man], no, not the angels of heaven, but MY FATHER only. [Mk13:32] {Jesus confirms God as His Father in a singular context – no plural God.} {Jesus confirms that the angels are next in rank – not any god the holy spirit.}
Matthew 24:37 But as the days of Noe [were], so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
Revelation 2:18 And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet [are] like fine brass;
Revelation 2:19 I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last [to be] more than the first.
Revelation 2:20 Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.
Revelation 2:21 And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not.
Revelation 2:22 Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into GREAT TRIBULATION, except they repent of their deeds.
Revelation 2:23 And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.
Revelation 2:24 But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden.
Revelation 2:25 But that which ye have [already] hold fast till I come.
Revelation 7:9 After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;
Revelation 7:10 And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our GOD which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb. {Salvation is in just TWO – God and Jesus; NOT in the Holy Spirit [of God].}
Revelation 7:11 And all the angels stood round about the THRONE, and [about] the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and WORSHIPPED GOD, {Even the heavenly angels worship God the Father – surely they would get things right?}.
Revelation 7:12 Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, [be] unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.
Revelation 7:13 And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they?
Revelation 7:14 And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of GREAT TRIBULATION, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
Revelation 7:15 Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.
Revelation 7:16 They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat.
Revelation 7:17 For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.
MUCH TRIBULATION
Acts 14:19 ¶ And there came thither [certain] Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew [him] out of the city, supposing he had been dead.
Acts 14:20 Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.
Acts 14:21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and [to] Iconium, and Antioch,
Acts 14:22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, [and] exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through MUCH TRIBULATION enter into the kingdom of God.
Acts 14:23 And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.
TRIBULATION(S) [Other text]
Deuteronomy 4:29 But if from thence thou shalt seek the LORD thy God, thou shalt find [him], if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul. [Deuteronomy 6:5, 30:2 6 10; Jeremiah 29:13; Matthew 22:37; Mark 12:30; Luke 10:27]
Deuteronomy 4:30 When thou art in TRIBULATION, and all these things are come upon thee, [even] in the latter days, if thou turn to the LORD thy God, and shalt be obedient unto his voice;
Deuteronomy 4:31 (For the LORD thy God [is] a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them.
Judges 10:10 ¶ And the children of Israel cried unto the LORD, saying, We have sinned against thee, both because we have forsaken our God, and also served Baalim.
Judges 10:11 And the LORD said unto the children of Israel, [Did] not [I deliver you] from the Egyptians, and from the Amorites, from the children of Ammon, and from the Philistines?
Judges 10:12 The Zidonians also, and the Amalekites, and the Maonites, did oppress you; and ye cried to me, and I delivered you out of their hand.
Judges 10:13 Yet ye have forsaken me, and served other gods: wherefore I will deliver you no more.
Judges 10:14 Go and cry unto the gods which ye have chosen; let them deliver you in the time of your TRIBULATION.
1 Samuel 10:17 ¶ And Samuel called the people together unto the LORD to Mizpeh;
1 Samuel 10:18 And said unto the children of Israel, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I brought up Israel out of Egypt, and delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians, and out of the hand of all kingdoms, [and] of them that oppressed you:
1 Samuel 10:19 And ye have this day rejected your God, who himself saved you out of all your adversities and your TRIBULATIONS; and ye have said unto him, [Nay], but set a king over us. Now therefore present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes, and by your thousands.
1 Samuel 10:20 And when Samuel had caused all the tribes of Israel to come near, the tribe of Benjamin was taken.
1 Samuel 10:21 When he had caused the tribe of Benjamin to come near by their families, the family of Matri was taken, and Saul the son of Kish was taken: and when they sought him, he could not be found.
1 Samuel 10:22 Therefore they inquired of the LORD further, if the man should yet come thither. And the LORD answered, Behold, he hath hid himself among the stuff.
1 Samuel 10:23 And they ran and fetched him thence: and when he stood among the people, he was higher than any of the people from his shoulders and upward.
1 Samuel 10:24 And Samuel said to all the people, See ye him whom the LORD hath chosen, that [there is] none like him among all the people? And all the people shouted, and said, God save the king.
1 Samuel 10:25 Then Samuel told the people the manner of the kingdom, and wrote [it] in a book, and laid [it] up before the LORD. And Samuel sent all the people away, every man to his house.
1 Samuel 26:21 ¶ Then said Saul, I have sinned: return, my son David: for I will no more do thee harm, because my soul was precious in thine eyes this day: behold, I have played the fool, and have erred exceedingly.
1 Samuel 26:22 And David answered and said, Behold the king’s spear! and let one of the young men come over and fetch it.
1 Samuel 26:23 The LORD render to every man his righteousness and his faithfulness: for the LORD delivered thee into [my] hand to day, but I would not stretch forth mine hand against the LORD’S anointed.
1 Samuel 26:24 And, behold, as thy life was much set by this day in mine eyes, so let my life be much set by in the eyes of the LORD, and let him deliver me out of all TRIBULATION.
1 Samuel 26:25 Then Saul said to David, Blessed [be] thou, my son David: thou shalt both do great [things], and also shalt still prevail. So David went on his way, and Saul returned to his place.
Matthew 13:18 ¶ Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.
Matthew 13:19 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth [it] not, then cometh the wicked [one], and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.
Matthew 13:20 But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;
Matthew 13:21 Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when TRIBULATION or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.
Matthew 13:22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.
Matthew 13:23 But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth [it]; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.
Mark 13:18 And pray ye that your flight be not in the winter.
Mark 13:19 For [in] those days shall be affliction, such as was not from the beginning of the creation which God created unto this time, neither shall be.
Mark 13:20 And except that the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect’s sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the days.
Mark 13:21 And then if any man shall say to you, Lo, here [is] Christ; or, lo, [he is] there; believe [him] not:
Mark 13:22 For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall show signs and wonders, to seduce, if [it were] possible, even the elect.
Mark 13:23 But take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things.
Mark 13:24 ¶ But in those days, after that TRIBULATION, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light,
Mark 13:25 And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken.
Mark 13:26 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory.
Mark 13:27 And then shall he send his angels, and shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from the uttermost part of the earth to the uttermost part of heaven.
Mark 13:28 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near:
Mark 13:29 So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh, [even] at the doors.
Mark 13:30 Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass, till all these things be done.
Mark 13:31 Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.
Mark 13:32 ¶ But of that day and [that] hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the SON, but the FATHER. [Mt24:36] {Again, no Holy Spirit}
John 16:32 Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me.
John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have TRIBULATION: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
Romans 2:9 Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;
Romans 5:1 ¶ Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
Romans 5:2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory to GOD.
Romans 5:3 And not only [so], but we glory in TRIBULATIONS also: knowing that TRIBULATION worketh patience;
Romans 5:4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
Romans 5:5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
Romans 8:31 What shall we then say to these things? If God [be] for us, who [can be] against us?
Romans 8:32 HE THAT SPARED NOT HIS OWN SON, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
Romans 8:33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? [It is] God that justifieth.
Romans 8:34 Who [is] he that condemneth? [It is] Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
Romans 8:35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? [shall] TRIBULATION, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
Romans 8:36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. [Psalm 44:22]
Romans 8:37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
Romans 8:38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
Romans 8:39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 12:4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:
Romans 12:5 So we, [being] many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
Romans 12:6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, [let us prophesy] according to the proportion of faith;
Romans 12:7 Or MINISTRY, [let us wait] on [our] ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
Romans 12:8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, [let him do it] with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness.
Romans 12:9 [Let] love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
Romans 12:10 [Be] kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;
Romans 12:11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
Romans 12:12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in TRIBULATION; continuing instant in prayer;
Romans 12:13 Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
Romans 12:14 Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
Romans 12:15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
Romans 12:16 [Be] of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
2 Corinthians 1:1 ¶ Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy [our] brother, unto the CHURCH OF GOD which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia:
2 Corinthians 1:2 Grace [be] to you and peace from GOD OUR FATHER, and [from] the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
2 Corinthians 1:3 Blessed [be] God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;
2 Corinthians 1:4 Who comforteth us in all our TRIBULATION, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
2 Corinthians 1:5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.
2 Corinthians 1:6 And whether we be afflicted, [it is] for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, [it is] for your consolation and salvation.
2 Corinthians 1:7 And our hope of you [is] stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so [shall ye be] also of the consolation.
2 Corinthians 7:1 ¶ Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
2 Corinthians 7:2 Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.
2 Corinthians 7:3 I speak not [this] to condemn [you]: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with [you].
2 Corinthians 7:4 Great [is] my boldness of speech toward you, great [is] my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our TRIBULATION.
2 Corinthians 7:5 For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without [were] fightings, within [were] fears.
Ephesians 3:8 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;
Ephesians 3:9 And to make all [men] see what [is] the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in GOD, who created all things by JESUS CHRIST:
Ephesians 3:10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly [places] might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,
Ephesians 3:11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:
Ephesians 3:12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.
Ephesians 3:13 Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my TRIBULATIONS for you, which is your glory.
Ephesians 3:14 For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
Ephesians 3:15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,
Ephesians 3:16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;
Ephesians 3:17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,
1 Thessalonians 3:1 ¶ Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone;
1 Thessalonians 3:2 And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:
1 Thessalonians 3:3 That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.
1 Thessalonians 3:4 For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer TRIBULATION; even as it came to pass, and ye know.
1 Thessalonians 3:5 For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain.
2 Thessalonians 1:3 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth;
2 Thessalonians 1:4 So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and TRIBULATIONS that ye endure:
2 Thessalonians 1:5 [Which is] a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:
2 Thessalonians 1:6 Seeing [it is] a righteous thing with God to recompense TRIBULATION to them that trouble you;
2 Thessalonians 1:7 And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,
2 Thessalonians 1:8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:
2 Thessalonians 1:9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;
2 Thessalonians 1:10 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.
Revelation 1:7 Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they [also] which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen. {Jesus returns as a man – every eye shall see Him.}
Revelation 1:8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.
Revelation 1:9 I John, who also am your brother, and companion in TRIBULATION, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.
Revelation 1:10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet,
Revelation 1:11 Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send [it] unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.
Revelation 2:8 And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive;
Revelation 2:9 I know thy works, and TRIBULATION, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and [I know] the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but [are] the synagogue of Satan.
Revelation 2:10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast [some] of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have TRIBULATION ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.
Revelation 2:11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.
Spirit of Prophecy search on “GREAT TRIBULATION” but excluding “such as was not since the beginning” and “washed their robes” and “except they repent of their deeds” as these just quote the above Bible texts. The main ones are below:
It is of no use, my children, to make child’s play of the service of Christ. If you ever stand in the kingdom of glory among the blood-washed throng who have come up through GREAT TRIBULATION, you will know what heart anguish is in battling with selfishness and sin. Favorite sins will have to be overcome and self crucified. The spirit of humility and meekness and true holiness must characterize your lives. It is, with you, now or never. “Turn ye, turn ye, for why will ye die?” {Lt66-1874}
They are before the throne enjoying the sunless splendors of eternal day, not as a scattered, feeble company to suffer by the Satanic passions of a rebellious world, expressing the sentiments, the doctrines, and [the] councils of demons. Strong and terrible have become the masters of iniquity in the world under the control of Satan, but strong is the Lord God who judgeth Babylon. The just have no longer any thing to fear from force or fraud as long as they are loyal and true. A mightier than the strong man armed is set for their defense. All power and greatness and excellence of character will be given to those who have believed and stood in defense of the truth, standing up and firmly defending the laws of God. {Lt6-1884}
Another heavenly being exclaimed with firm and musical voice, “They have come out of GREAT TRIBULATION. They have walked in the fiery furnace in the world, heated intensely by the passions and caprices of men who would enforce upon them the worship of the beast and his image, who would compel them to be disloyal to the God of heaven. {Lt6-1884}
“They have come from the mountains, from the rocks, from the dens and caves of the earth, from dungeons, from prisons, from secret councils, from the torture chamber, [from] hovels, from garrets. They have passed through sore affliction, deep self-denial, and deep disappointment. They are no longer to be the sport and ridicule of wicked men. They are no longer mean and sorrowful in the eyes of those who despise them. “Remove the filthy garments from them, with which men have delighted to clothe them. Give them a change of raiment, even the white robes of righteousness, and set a fair mitre upon their heads.” {Lt6-1884}
They were clothed in richer robes than earthy beings had ever worn. They were crowned with diadems of glory such as human beings had never seen. The days of suffering, of reproach, of want, of hunger, are no more; weeping is past. Then they break forth in songs loud, clear, and musical. They wave the palm branches of victory and exclaim, “Salvation to our God, that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.” {Lt6-1884}
The test of faith and obedience will come to all the people of God. Like the apostle Paul, we must obey the divine voice, whatever that obedience may cost us. Upon all who are partakers of His grace, the Lord enjoins duties that involve peril and sacrifice. Christ Himself has trodden the path before us, and we should not expect to share His glory if we refuse to partake of His sufferings. The most exalted of the redeemed host that stand before the throne of God and the Lamb have gained their white robes and starry crowns only through “GREAT TRIBULATION.” {Ms12-1884}
Here are the words of David: Lord, it is time for Thee to work, for they have made void Thy law. David refers to the last days, at the very time when we are to know and be sanctified by the truth. We must cling to the truth. We must not let go the truth for friend or foe. There is a time coming when there will be GREAT TRIBULATION, such as never was or ever will be. Men will come claiming to be Christ. And here is a class that says, I am sinless, I am holy. I have never heard one claim that that was not a sinner. They are not doers of the Word. {Ms5-1885}
Jesus said at the close of His earthy ministry, “I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” Neither the Saviour nor His followers ever broke the law of the Sabbath. Had the Jews been able to sustain their charge against Christ as a Sabbath breaker, as they tried to do, they would have had no need of bringing false witnesses in order that they might secure His condemnation and death. But because no fault could be found with Him, in order to secure His death, it was necessary that men should perjure their souls by testifying to a lie. {Ms91-1894}
Christ not only honored the Sabbath throughout His life upon the earth, but He provided that its sacred claims should be remembered and honored after His death and resurrection. When warning His disciples of the destruction of Jerusalem, which did not take place until forty years after His ascension, He said, “But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day; for then shall be GREAT TRIBULATION, such as was not from the beginning of the world to this time.” In accordance with His instruction, the followers of Christ were enabled to depart from the besieged city, and escape to the mountains, not taking their flight either in the winter, or upon the Sabbath day. After the death of Christ the disciples “rested the sabbath day according to the commandment.” After the ascension of Christ, Paul the great apostle to the Gentiles preached to both Jews and Gentiles “on the sabbath day.” {Ms91-1894}
Then how can we account for the observance of the first day of the week by the majority of professed Christians, when the Bible presented no authority for this change either in the precepts or in the example of Christ or His followers? We can account for it in the fact that the world has followed the traditions of men instead of a “Thus saith the Lord.” This has been the work that Satan has always sought to accomplish—to lead men away from the commandments of God to the veneration and obedience of the traditions of the world. {Ms91-1894}
In this life we must meet fiery trials and make costly sacrifices, but the peace of Christ is the reward. There has been so little self-denial, so little suffering for Christ’s sake, that the cross is almost entirely forgotten. We must be partakers with Christ of His sufferings, if we would sit down in triumph with Him on His throne. So long as we choose the easy path of self-indulgence, and are frightened at self-denial, our faith will never become firm, and we cannot know the peace of Jesus, nor the joy that comes through conscious victory. The most exalted of the redeemed host that stand before the throne of God and the Lamb, clad in white, know the conflict of overcoming, for they have come up through GREAT TRIBULATION. Those who have yielded to circumstances rather than engage in this conflict, will not know how to stand in that day when anguish will be upon every soul, when, though Noah, Job, and Daniel were in the land, they could save neither son nor daughter, for everyone must deliver his soul by his own righteousness. {CET 189.4 1922}
No one need say that his case is hopeless, that he cannot live the life of a Christian. Ample provision is made by the death of Christ for every soul. Jesus is our ever-present help in time of need. Only call upon Him in faith, and He has promised to hear and answer your petitions. {CET 190.1 1922}
This temple was supported by seven pillars, all of transparent gold, set with pearls most glorious. The wonderful things I there saw I cannot describe. Oh, that I could talk in the language of Canaan, then could I tell a little of the glory of the better world. I saw there tables of stone in which the names of the 144,000 were engraved in letters of gold. After we beheld the glory of the temple, we went out, and Jesus left us and went to the city. Soon we heard His lovely voice again, saying, “Come, My people, you have come out of GREAT TRIBULATION, and done My will; suffered for Me; come in to supper, for I will gird Myself, and serve you.” We shouted, “Alleluia! glory!” and entered into the city. And I saw a table of pure silver; it was many miles in length, yet our eyes could extend over it. I saw the fruit of the tree of life, the manna, almonds, figs, pomegranates, grapes, and many other kinds of fruit. I asked Jesus to let me eat of the fruit. He said, “Not now. Those who eat of the fruit of this land go back to earth no more. But in a little while, if faithful, you shall both eat of the fruit of the tree of life and drink of the water of the fountain.” And He said, “You must go back to the earth again and relate to others what I have revealed to you.” Then an angel bore me gently down to this dark world. Sometimes I think I can stay here no longer; all things of earth look so dreary. I feel very lonely here, for I have seen a better land. Oh, that I had wings like a dove, then would I fly away and be at rest! {EW 19.1 1882} Also {CET 64.3 1922}
The persecution of the church did not continue throughout the entire period of the 1260 years. God in mercy to his people cut short the time of their fiery trial. In foretelling the “GREAT TRIBULATION” to befall the church, the Saviour said, “Except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.” [Matthew 24:22.] Through the influence of the Reformation, the persecution was brought to an end prior to 1798. {GC88 266.3 1888}
The parable of the ten virgins of Matthew 25, also illustrates the experience of the Adventist people. In Matthew 24, in answer to the question of his disciples concerning the sign of his coming and of the end of the world, Christ had pointed out some of the most important events in the history of the world and of the church from his first to his second advent; namely, the destruction of Jerusalem, the GREAT TRIBULATION of the church under the pagan and papal persecutions, the darkening of the sun and moon, and the falling of the stars. After this he spoke of his coming in his kingdom, and related the parable describing the two classes of servants who look for his appearing. Chapter 25 opens with the words, “Then shall the kingdom of Heaven be likened unto ten virgins.” Here is brought to view the church living in the last days, the same that is pointed out in the close of chapter 24. In this parable their experience is illustrated by the incidents of an Eastern marriage. {GC88 393.1 1888}
“All who remain pure and uncorrupted from the spirit and influence prevailing at this time, will have stern conflicts. They will come through GREAT TRIBULATION; they will wash their robes of character, and make them white in the blood of the Lamb. These will sing the song of triumph in the kingdom of glory. Those who suffer with Christ will be partakers of His glory.” [REVIEW AND HERALD, OCT. 16, 1883.] {LS 271.3 1915}
The Saviour knows what is best. Faith grows by conflict with doubt and difficulty and trial. Virtue gathers strength by resistance to temptation. The life of the faithful soldier is a battle and a march. No rest, fellow pilgrim, this side the heavenly Canaan. . . . But John in holy vision beholds the faithful souls that come up out of GREAT TRIBULATION, surrounding the throne of God, clad in white robes, and crowned with immortal glory. What though they have been counted the offscouring of the earth? In the investigative judgment their lives and characters are brought in review before God, and that solemn tribunal reverses the decision of their enemies. Their faithfulness to God and to His Word stands revealed, and Heaven’s high honors are awarded them as conquerors in the strife with sin and Satan. {OHC 361.4 1961}
The temple was supported by seven pillars, all of transparent gold, set with pearls most glorious. The things I saw there I cannot describe. O that I could talk in the language of Canaan, then could I tell a little of the glory of the better world. I saw there tables of stone in which the names of 144,000 were engraved in letters of gold. After we beheld the glory of the temple, we went out, and Jesus left us, and went to the City. Soon we heard his lovely voice again, saying, “Come, my people, you have come out of GREAT TRIBULATION, and done my will; suffered for me; come in to supper; for I will gird myself and serve you.” We shouted Alleluia, glory, and entered into the City. And I saw a table of pure silver, it was many miles in length, yet our eyes could extend over it. I saw the fruit of the tree of life, the manna, almonds, figs, pomegranates, grapes, and many other kinds of fruit. I asked Jesus to let me eat of the fruit. He said, Not now. Those who eat of the fruit of this land, go back to earth no more. But in a little while, if faithful, you shall both eat of the fruit of the tree of life, and drink of the water of the fountain. And he said, You must go back to earth again, and relate to others what I have revealed to you. Then an angel bore me gently down to this dark world. {2SG 54.1 1860}
I have been shown the high and responsible position which God’s people should occupy. They are the salt of the earth and the light of the world, and they must walk even as Christ walked. They will come up through GREAT TRIBULATION. The present is a time of warfare and trial. Our Saviour says in Revelation 3:21: “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne.” The reward is not given to all who profess to be followers of Christ, but to those who overcome even as He overcame. We must study the life of Christ and learn what it is to confess Him before the world. {1T 303.1 1855-1868}
In this life we must meet fiery trials and make costly sacrifices, but the peace of Christ is the reward. There has been so little self-denial, so little suffering for Christ’s sake, that the cross is almost entirely forgotten. We must be partakers with Christ of His sufferings if we would sit down in triumph with Him on His throne. So long as we choose the easy path of self-indulgence and are frightened at self-denial, our faith will never become firm, and we cannot know the peace of Jesus nor the joy that comes through conscious victory. The most exalted of the redeemed host that stand before the throne of God and the Lamb, clad in white, know the conflict of overcoming, for they have come up through GREAT TRIBULATION. Those who have yielded to circumstances rather than engage in this conflict will not know how to stand in that day when anguish will be upon every soul, when, though Noah, Job, and Daniel were in the land, they could save neither son nor daughter, for everyone must deliver his soul by his own righteousness. {5T 215.1 1882-1889}
Every one who shall be found with the wedding garment on, will have come out of GREAT TRIBULATION. The mighty surges of temptation will beat upon all the followers of Christ; and unless they are riveted to the eternal Rock, they will be borne away. Do not think you can safely drift with the current; you must stem the tide, or you will surely become a helpless prey to Satan’s power. You are not safe in placing your feet on the ground of the enemy, but should direct your path in the way cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in. Even in the path of holiness you will be tried; your faith, your love, your patience, your constancy, will be tested. By diligent searching of the Scriptures, by earnest prayer for divine help, prepare the soul to resist temptation. The Lord will hear the sincere prayer of the contrite soul, and will lift up a standard for you against the enemy. {BEcho, January 1, 1893 par. 1}
Every one who shall be found with the wedding garment on, will have come out of GREAT TRIBULATION. The mighty surges of temptation will beat upon all, and unless they are riveted to the eternal Rock, they will be borne away. Do not think that you can safely drift with the current. If you do, you will surely become the helpless prey of Satan’s devices. By diligent searching of the Scriptures, and earnest prayer for divine help, prepare the soul to resist temptation. The Lord will hear the sincere prayer of the contrite soul, and will lift up a standard for you against the enemy. But you will be tried; your faith, your love, your patience, your constancy will be tested. {RH, January 8, 1884 par. 14}
But remember that every one who shall be found with the wedding garment on will have come out of GREAT TRIBULATION. The mighty surges of temptation will beat upon all. But the long night of watching, of toil, of hardship, is nearly past. Christ is soon to come. Get ready! The angels of God are seeking to attract you from yourself and from earthly things. Let them not labor in vain. Faith, living faith, is what you need; the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Remember Calvary and the awful, the infinite sacrifice there made for man. Jesus now invites you to come to him, just as you are, and make him your strength and your everlasting Friend. {RH, April 17, 1894 par. 12} Also {YRP 371.5 1995}
Some of those who suffered persecution during Manasseh’s reign, were commissioned to bear special messages of reproof and of judgment. The king of Judah, the prophets declared, “hath done wickedly above all . . . which were before him.” Because of this wickedness, his kingdom was nearing a crisis; soon the inhabitants of the land were to be carried captive to Babylon, there to become “a prey and a spoil to all their enemies.” 2 Kings 21:11, 14. But the Lord would not utterly forsake those who in a strange land should acknowledge him as their Ruler; they might suffer GREAT TRIBULATION, yet he would bring deliverance to them in his appointed time and way. Those who should learn to put their trust wholly in him, would find a sure refuge. {RH, July 8, 1915 par. 4} {PK 382.2 1917}
In tracing down the history of the church from the fall of Adam to our own time, we see that the righteous have been the objects of the assaults of evil angels and evil men. It is a settled plan of the enemy to seek for the corruption of the souls of those who would vindicate the honor of God; and when he could not accomplish this, he has caused them to be put to death. Satan has manifested the greatest activity in order that the true worshipers of God might be swept from the earth; but he has not fully carried out his designs, for God has put a limit to his power. There have been tares sown with the wheat, but the wheat has been preserved. Faithful men have passed through fire and sword, heresy and delusion, and have come forth from GREAT TRIBULATION with their robes washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. Thousands have fallen at the stake, but others have arisen to take their places. Staunch advocates of truth have stood the conflict of battle, and the controversy has been brought down to our own day. The light of truth has shone upon us, that we may reflect it upon others. {ST, September 21, 1888 par. 9}
Spirit of Prophecy search on “THREE” “HALF” “YEARS”. The main ones are below:
When Elijah saw Elisha in the field with the servants, plowing with his twelve yoke of oxen, he went to the field of labor, and while passing by he unfastened his mantle and threw it upon the shoulders of Elisha. During the THREE and a HALF YEARS of barrenness and famine, the family of Shaphat became familiar with the work and mission of Elijah the prophet. The Spirit of God impressed the heart of Elisha in regard to the meaning of this action. This was his signal that God had called him to be the successor of Elijah. It was similar to the commission of Christ to the young ruler to leave all—houses, lands, friends, riches, comforts, and ease, “and come and follow me.” {CTr 167.2 1990}
Then, said the angel, “He shall confirm the covenant with many for one week [seven YEARS].” For seven YEARS after the Saviour entered on His ministry, the gospel was to be preached especially to the Jews; for THREE and a HALF YEARS by Christ Himself; and afterward by the apostles. “In the midst of the week He shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease.” Daniel 9:27. In the spring of A. D. 31, Christ the true sacrifice was offered on Calvary. Then the veil of the temple was rent in twain, showing that the sacredness and significance of the sacrificial service had departed. The time had come for the earthly sacrifice and oblation to cease. {DA 233.2 1898}
The one week–seven YEARS–ended in A. D. 34. Then by the stoning of Stephen the Jews finally sealed their rejection of the gospel; the disciples who were scattered abroad by persecution “went everywhere preaching the word” (Acts 8:4); and shortly after, Saul the persecutor was converted, and became Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles. {DA 233.3 1898}
But before the crown must come the cross. Not the inauguration of Christ as king, but the decease to be accomplished at Jerusalem, is the subject of their conference with Jesus. Bearing the weakness of humanity, and burdened with its sorrow and sin, Jesus walked alone in the midst of men. As the darkness of the coming trial pressed upon Him, He was in loneliness of spirit, in a world that knew Him not. Even His loved disciples, absorbed in their own doubt and sorrow and ambitious hopes, had not comprehended the mystery of His mission. He had dwelt amid the love and fellowship of heaven; but in the world that He had created, He was in solitude. Now heaven had sent its messengers to Jesus; not angels, but men who had endured suffering and sorrow, and who could sympathize with the Saviour in the trial of His earthly life. Moses and Elijah had been colaborers with Christ. They had shared His longing for the salvation of men. Moses had pleaded for Israel: “Yet now, if Thou wilt forgive their sin–; and if not, blot me, I pray Thee, out of Thy book which Thou hast written.” Exodus 32:32. Elijah had known loneliness of spirit, as for THREE YEARS and a HALF of famine he had borne the burden of the nation’s hatred and its woe. Alone he had stood for God upon Mount Carmel. Alone he had fled to the desert in anguish and despair. These men, chosen above every angel around the throne, had come to commune with Jesus concerning the scenes of His suffering, and to comfort Him with the assurance of the sympathy of heaven. The hope of the world, the salvation of every human being, was the burden of their interview. {DA 422.2 1898}
By one failure of his faith, Elijah cut short his lifework. Heavy was the burden that he had borne in beHALF of Israel; faithful had been his warnings against the national idolatry; and deep was his solicitude as during THREE YEARS and a HALF of famine he watched and waited for some token of repentance. Alone he stood for God upon Mount Carmel. Through the power of faith, idolatry was cast down, and the blessed rain testified to the showers of blessing waiting to be poured upon Israel. Then in his weariness and weakness he fled before the threats of Jezebel and alone in the desert prayed that he might die. His faith had failed. The work he had begun he was not to complete. God bade him anoint another to be prophet in his stead. {Ed 151.1 1903}
When France publicly prohibited the Bible, wicked men and spirits of darkness exulted in their attainment of the object so long desired,—a kingdom free from the restraints of the law of God. Because sentence against an evil work was not speedily executed, therefore the heart of the sons of men was “fully set in them to do evil.” [Ecclesiastes 8:11-13.] But the transgression of a just and righteous law must inevitably result in misery and ruin. Though not visited at once with judgments, the wickedness of men was nevertheless surely working out their doom. Centuries of apostasy and crime had been treasuring up wrath against the day of retribution; and when their iniquity was full, the despisers of God learned too late that it is a fearful thing to have worn out the divine patience. The restraining Spirit of God, which imposes a check upon the cruel power of Satan, was in a great measure removed, and he whose only delight is the wretchedness of men, was permitted to work his will. Those who had chosen the service of rebellion, were left to reap its fruits, until the land was filled with crimes too horrible for pen to trace. From devastated provinces and ruined cities a terrible cry was heard,—a cry of bitterest anguish. France was shaken as if by an earthquake. Religion, law, social order, the family, the State, and the Church,—all were smitten down by the impious hand that had been lifted against the law of God. Truly spake the wise man: “The wicked shall fall by his own wickedness.” “Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his days be prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, which fear before him; but it shall not be well with the wicked.” [Ecclesiastes 8:11-13.] “They hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the Lord;” “therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices.” [Proverbs 1:29, 31.] {GC88 285.5 1888}
God’s faithful witnesses, slain by the blasphemous power that “ascendeth out of the bottomless pit,” were not long to remain silent. “After THREE days and a HALF, the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them.” [Revelation 11:11.] It was in 1793 that the decree which prohibited the Bible passed the French Assembly. THREE YEARS and a HALF later a resolution rescinding the decree, and granting toleration to the Scriptures, was adopted by the same body. The world stood aghast at the enormity of guilt which had resulted from a rejection of the Sacred Oracles, and men recognized the necessity of faith in God and his Word as the foundation of virtue and morality. Saith the Lord, “Whom hast thou reproached and blasphemed? and against whom hast thou exalted thy voice, and lifted up thine eyes on high? even against the Holy One of Israel.” [Isaiah 37:23.] “Therefore, behold, I will this once cause them to know, I will cause them to know mine hand and my might; and they shall know that my name is Jehovah.” [Jeremiah 16:21.] {GC88 286.1 1888}
These and other scriptures clearly proved to Miller’s mind, that the events which were generally expected to take place before the coming of Christ, such as the universal reign of peace, and the setting up of the kingdom of God upon the earth, were to be subsequent to the second advent. Furthermore, all the signs of the times and the condition of the world corresponded to the prophetic description of the last days. He was forced to the conclusion, from the study of Scripture alone, that the period allotted for the continuance of the earth in its present state was about to close. {GC88 323.1 1888}
“Another evidence that vitally affected my mind,” he says, “was the chronology of the Scriptures. I found that predicted events, which had been fulfilled in the past, often occurred within a given time. The one hundred and twenty YEARS to the flood, Genesis 6:3; the seven days that were to precede it, with forty days of predicted rain, Genesis 7:4; the four hundred YEARS of the sojourn of Abraham’s seed, Genesis 15:13; the THREE days of the butler’s and baker’s dreams, Genesis 40:12-20; the seven YEARS of Pharaoh’s, Genesis 41:28-54; the forty YEARS in the wilderness, Numbers 14:34; the THREE and a HALF YEARS of famine, 1 Kings 17:1; [See Luke 4:25.] the seventy YEARS’ captivity, Jeremiah 25:11; Nebuchadnezzar’s seven times, Daniel 4:13-16; and the seven weeks, THREEscore and two weeks, and the one week, making seventy weeks, determined upon the Jews, Daniel 9:24-27; the events limited by these times were all once only a matter of prophecy, and were fulfilled in accordance with the predictions.” {GC88 323.2 1888}
When, therefore, he found in his study of the Bible, various chronological periods that, according to his understanding of them, extended to the second coming of Christ, he could not but regard them as the “times before appointed,” which God had revealed unto his servants. “The secret things,” says Moses, “belong unto the Lord our God; but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children forever,” [Deuteronomy 29:29.] and the Lord declares by the prophet Amos, that he “will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.” [Amos 3:7.] The students of God’s Word may then confidently expect to find the most stupendous event to take place in human history clearly pointed out in the Scriptures of truth. {GC88 323.3 1888}
To accept this conclusion was to renounce the former reckoning of the prophetic periods. The 2300 days had been found to begin when the commandment of Artaxerxes for the restoration and building of Jerusalem went into effect, in the autumn of B. C. 457. Taking this as the starting-point, there was perfect harmony in the application of all the events foretold in the explanation of that period in Daniel 9:25-27. Sixty-nine weeks, the first 483 of the 2300 YEARS, were to reach to the Messiah, the Anointed One; and Christ’s baptism and anointing by the Holy Spirit, A. D. 27, exactly fulfilled the specification. In the midst of the seventieth week, Messiah was to be cut off. THREE and a HALF YEARS after his baptism, Christ was crucified, in the spring of A. D. 31. The seventy weeks, or 490 YEARS, were to pertain especially to the Jews. At the expiration of this period, the nation sealed its rejection of Christ by the persecution of his disciples, and the apostles turned to the Gentiles, A. D. 34. The first 490 YEARS of the 2300 having then ended, 1810 YEARS would remain. From A. D. 34, 1810 YEARS extend to 1844. “Then,” said the angel, “shall the sanctuary be cleansed.” All the preceding specifications of the prophecy had been unquestionably fulfilled at the time appointed. With this reckoning, all was clear and harmonious, except that it was not seen that any event answering to the cleansing of the sanctuary had taken place in 1844. To deny that the days ended at that time was to involve the whole question in confusion, and to renounce positions which had been established by unmistakable fulfillments of prophecy. {GC88 409.3 1888}
Before the drought, Mount Carmel had been a place of beauty, its streams fed from never-failing springs, and its fertile slopes covered with fair flowers and flourishing groves. But now its beauty languished under a withering curse. The altars erected to the worship of Baal and Ashtoreth stood now in leafless groves. On the summit of one of the highest ridges, in sharp contrast with these was the broken-down altar of Jehovah. {PK 144.1 1917}
Carmel overlooked a wide expanse of country; its heights were visible from many parts of the kingdom of Israel. At the foot of the mount there were vantage points from which could be seen much of what took place above. God had been signally dishonored by the idolatrous worship carried on under cover of its wooded slopes; and Elijah chose this elevation as the most conspicuous place for the display of God’s power and for the vindication of the honor of His name. {PK 144.2 1917}
Early on the morning of the day appointed, the hosts of apostate Israel, in eager expectancy, gather near the top of the mountain. Jezebel’s prophets march up in imposing array. In regal pomp the king appears and takes his position at the head of the priests, and the idolaters shout his welcome. But there is apprehension in the hearts of the priests as they remember that at the word of the prophet the land of Israel for THREE YEARS and a HALF has been destitute of dew and rain. Some fearful crisis is at hand, they feel sure. The gods in whom they have trusted have been unable to prove Elijah a false prophet. To their frantic cries, their prayers, their tears, their humiliation, their revolting ceremonies, their costly and ceaseless sacrifices, the objects of their worship have been strangely indifferent. {PK 144.3 1917}
Facing King Ahab and the false prophets, and surrounded by the assembled hosts of Israel, Elijah stands, the only one who has appeared to vindicate the honor of Jehovah. He whom the whole kingdom has charged with its weight of woe is now before them, apparently defenseless in the presence of the monarch of Israel, the prophets of Baal, the men of war, and the surrounding thousands. But Elijah is not alone. Above and around him are the protecting hosts of heaven, angels that excel in strength. {PK 147.1 1917}
The judgment threatened was so unexpected, so terrible, so sudden, that Ahab seemed paralyzed, and he did not realize that the prophet had left his presence unrebuked, until the man of God had gone beyond recall. Then the king roused his servants, and called for the man who had declared that heaven was shut up according to his word. But Elijah was not to be found, and neither dew nor rain fell upon the land of Israel for THREE YEARS and a HALF. {RH, May 26, 1891 par. 4}
The object of this affliction was to arouse Israel to a realization of their sin, to bring them to repentance, and turn them to God, that they might honor Jehovah as the only true and living God. After THREE YEARS and a HALF of drought, the Lord said to Elijah, “Go, show thyself unto Ahab; and I will send rain upon the earth.” “And it came to pass, when Ahab saw Elijah, that Ahab said unto him, Art thou he that troubleth Israel? And he answered, I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim. Now therefore send, and gather to me all Israel unto mount Carmel, and the prophets of Baal four hundred and fifty, and the prophets of the groves four hundred, which eat at Jezebel’s table.” The king obeys this command as though he were the servant, and Elijah the king. Then Elijah orders them to bring two bullocks, one for the prophets of Baal, and one for himself, and he bids the prophets dress their bullock and put it on the altar, and call upon Baal for fire. He says, “Call ye on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the Lord: and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God. And all the people answered and said, It is well.” {RH, May 26, 1891 par. 5}
During the THREE YEARS and a HALF of barrenness and famine, the family of Shaphat had become familiar with the mission of Elijah the prophet; and the Spirit of God impressed the heart of Elisha in regard to the meaning of this action. This was the signal that God had called him to be the successor of Elijah. He hastened after the prophet, and overtaking him, asked permission to take leave of his parents and bid farewell to his family. {YI, April 21, 1898 par. 2}
The answer of Elijah was, “Go back again: for what have I done to thee?” This was not a repulse, but a test. If Elisha’s heart clung to his home and its advantages, he was at liberty to remain there. But Elisha was prepared to hear the call of God. He had not been disorderly, running before the call had come; and when he was called, he showed that he would not hesitate nor draw back. {YI, April 21, 1898 par. 3}
When Elijah saw Elisha in the field with the servants, ploughing with his twelve yoke of oxen, he came to the field of labor, and while passing by, he unfastened his mantle and threw it upon the shoulders of Elisha. During the THREE YEARS and a HALF of barrenness and famine, the family of Shaphat became familiar with the work and mission of Elijah the prophet. The Spirit of God impressed the heart of Elisha in regard to the meaning of this action. This was his signal that God had called him to be the successor of Elijah. It was similar to the commission of Christ to the young ruler to leave all—houses, lands, friends, riches, comforts, and ease, “and come and follow me.” {Lt12-1897}
Elijah passed on as if that were the end of the matter. But he knew that Elisha had understood the significance of the action, and he left him, without speaking a word, to decide whether he would accept the call or reject it. Elisha hastened after the prophet, and overtaking him, asked permission to take leave of his parents, and bid farewell to his family. {Lt12-1897}
Spirit of Prophecy search on “forty-two months” or “42 months” gives no finds.
Spirit of Prophecy search on “1260” or “ONE THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED AND SIXTY” or “THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED AND THREESCORE”. The main ones are below:
In the sixth century the papacy had become firmly established. Its seat of power was fixed in the imperial city, and the bishop of Rome was declared to be the head over the entire church. Paganism had given place to the papacy. The dragon had given to the beast “his power, and his seat, and great authority.” [Revelation 13:2] And now began the 1260 YEARS of papal oppression foretold in the prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation. [Daniel 7:25; Revelation 13:5-7.] Christians were forced to choose, either to yield their integrity and accept the papal ceremonies and worship, or to wear away their lives in dungeons or suffer death by the rack, the fagot, or the headsman’s ax. Now were fulfilled the words of Jesus, “Ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake.” [Luke 21:16, 17.] Persecution opened upon the faithful with greater fury than ever before, and the world became a vast battle-field. For hundreds of YEARS the church of Christ found refuge in seclusion and obscurity. Thus says the prophet: “The woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED AND THREESCORE days.” [Revelation 12:6.] {GC88 54.2 1888}
Said the angel of the Lord: “The holy city [the true church] shall they tread under foot forty and two months. And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED AND THREESCORE days, clothed in sackcloth. . . .And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them. And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. . . . And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth. And after THREE days and a HALF the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them.” [Revelation 11:2-11.] {GC88 266.1 1888}
The periods here mentioned—“forty and two months,” and “a THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED AND THREESCORE days”—are the same, alike representing the time in which the church of Christ was to suffer oppression from Rome. The 1260 YEARS of papal supremacy began with the establishment of the papacy in A. D. 538, and would therefore terminate in 1798. At that time a French army entered Rome, and made the pope a prisoner, and he died in exile. Though a new pope was soon afterward elected, the papal hierarchy has never since been able to wield the power which it before possessed. {GC88 266.2 1888}
The persecution of the church did not continue throughout the entire period of the 1260 YEARS. God in mercy to his people cut short the time of their fiery trial. In foretelling the “great tribulation” to befall the church, the Saviour said, “Except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.” [Matthew 24:22.] Through the influence of the Reformation, the persecution was brought to an end prior to 1798. {GC88 266.3 1888}
Concerning the two witnesses, the prophet declares further, “These are the two olive-trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.” “Thy Word,” said the psalmist, “is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” [Revelation 11:4; Psalm 119:105.] The two witnesses represent the Scriptures of the Old and the New Testament. Both are important testimonies to the origin and perpetuity of the law of God. Both are witnesses also to the plan of salvation. The types, sacrifices, and prophecies of the Old Testament point forward to a Saviour to come. The Gospels and Epistles of the New Testament tell of a Saviour who has come in the exact manner foretold by type and prophecy. {GC88 267.1 1888}
“They shall prophesy a THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED AND THREESCORE days, clothed in sackcloth.” During the greater part of this period, God’s witnesses remained in a state of obscurity. The papal power sought to hide from the people the Word of truth, and set before them false witnesses to contradict its testimony. When the Bible was proscribed by religious and secular authority; when its testimony was perverted, and every effort made that men and demons could invent to turn the minds of the people from it; when those who dared proclaim its sacred truths were hunted, betrayed, tortured, buried in dungeon cells, martyred for their faith, or compelled to flee to mountain fastnesses, and to dens and caves of the earth,—then the faithful witnesses prophesied in sackcloth. Yet they continued their testimony throughout the entire period of 1260 YEARS. In the darkest times there were faithful men who loved God’s Word, and were jealous for his honor. To these loyal servants were given wisdom, power, and authority to declare his truth during the whole of this time. {GC88 267.2 1888}
Now we return to those 4 Bible texts that are used to support the anti-christ entering the temple of God at the mid point of the 7 years of Tribulation:
Daniel 9:27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of ABOMINATIONS he shall make [it] DESOLATE, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
Matthew 24:15 When ye therefore shall see the ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)
Mark 13:14 ¶ But when ye shall see the ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains:
Luke 21:20 And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the DESOLATION thereof is nigh.
2 Thessalonians 2:4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that HE AS GOD SITTETH IN THE TEMPLE OF GOD, showing himself that he is God.
Spirit of Prophecy is definitive in that the 7 year period was fulfilled in the year 34 AD:
Then, said the angel, “HE SHALL CONFIRM THE COVENANT WITH MANY FOR ONE WEEK [SEVEN YEARS].” FOR SEVEN YEARS AFTER THE SAVIOUR ENTERED ON HIS MINISTRY, THE GOSPEL WAS TO BE PREACHED ESPECIALLY TO THE JEWS; FOR THREE AND A HALF YEARS BY CHRIST HIMSELF; AND AFTERWARD BY THE APOSTLES. “IN THE MIDST OF THE WEEK HE SHALL CAUSE THE SACRIFICE AND THE OBLATION TO CEASE.” DANIEL 9:27. IN THE SPRING OF A. D. 31, CHRIST THE TRUE SACRIFICE WAS OFFERED ON CALVARY. Then the veil of the temple was rent in twain, showing that the sacredness and significance of the sacrificial service had departed. The time had come for the earthly sacrifice and oblation to cease. {DA 233.2 1898} Also {PK 699.1}
THE ONE WEEK–SEVEN YEARS–ENDED IN A. D. 34. Then by the stoning of Stephen the Jews finally sealed their rejection of the gospel; the disciples who were scattered abroad by persecution “went everywhere preaching the word” (Acts 8:4); and shortly after, Saul the persecutor was converted, and became Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles. {DA 233.3 1898} Also {PK 699.2}
Spirit of Prophecy is definitive in that the Desolation of the Temple at Jerusalem was fulfilled in the year 70 AD:
The future was mercifully veiled from the disciples. Had they at that time fully comprehended the two awful facts,— the Redeemer’s sufferings and death and the destruction of their city and temple,—they would have been overwhelmed with horror. Christ presented before them an outline of the prominent events to take place before the close of time. His words were not then fully understood; but their meaning was to be unfolded as his people should need the instruction therein given. THE PROPHECY WHICH HE UTTERED WAS TWOFOLD IN ITS MEANING: WHILE FORESHADOWING THE DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM, IT PREFIGURED ALSO THE TERRORS OF THE LAST GREAT DAY. {GC88 25.4 1888}
JESUS DECLARED TO THE LISTENING DISCIPLES THE JUDGMENTS THAT WERE TO FALL UPON APOSTATE ISRAEL, and especially the retributive vengeance that would come upon them for their rejection and crucifixion of the Messiah. Unmistakable signs would precede the awful climax. THE DREADED HOUR WOULD COME SUDDENLY AND SWIFTLY. And the Saviour warned his followers: “When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place (whoso readeth, let him understand), then let them which be in Judea flee into the mountains.” [Matthew 24:15, 16; Luke 21:20.] WHEN THE IDOLATROUS STANDARDS OF THE ROMANS SHOULD BE SET UP IN THE HOLY GROUND, WHICH EXTENDED SOME FURLONGS OUTSIDE THE CITY WALLS, THEN THE FOLLOWERS OF CHRIST WERE TO FIND SAFETY IN FLIGHT. When the warning sign should be seen, those who would escape must make no delay. Throughout the land of Judea, as well as in Jerusalem itself, the signal for flight must be immediately obeyed. He who chanced to be upon the housetop must not go down into his house, even to save his most valued treasures. Those who were working in the fields or vineyards must not take time to return for the outer garment laid aside while they should be toiling in the heat of the day. THEY MUST NOT HESITATE A MOMENT, LEST THEY BE INVOLVED IN THE GENERAL DESTRUCTION. {GC88 26.1 1888}
NOT ONE CHRISTIAN PERISHED IN THE DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM. Christ had given his disciples warning, and all who believed his words watched for the promised sign. “When ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies,” said Jesus, “then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. Then let them which are in Judea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out.” [Luke 21:20, 21.] After the Romans under Cestius had surrounded the city, they unexpectedly abandoned the siege when everything seemed favorable for an immediate attack. The besieged, despairing of successful resistance, were on the point of surrender, when the Roman general withdrew his forces, without the least apparent reason. But God’s merciful providence was directing events for the good of his own people. The promised sign had been given to the waiting Christians, and now an opportunity was afforded for all who would to obey the Saviour’s warning. Events were so overruled that neither Jews nor Romans should hinder the flight of the Christians. Upon the retreat of Cestius, the Jews, sallying from Jerusalem, pursued after his retiring army, and while both forces were thus fully engaged, the Christians had an opportunity to leave the city. At this time the country also had been cleared of enemies who might have endeavored to intercept them. At the time of the siege, the Jews were assembled at Jerusalem to keep the Feast of Tabernacles, and thus the Christians throughout the land were able to make their escape unmolested. Without delay they fled to a place of safety,—the city of Pella, in the land of Perea, beyond Jordan. {GC88 30.4 1888}
BEFORE THE DESTRUCTION OF SODOM, GOD SENT A MESSAGE TO LOT, “Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed.” THE SAME VOICE OF WARNING WAS HEARD BY THE DISCIPLES OF CHRIST BEFORE THE DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM: “When ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. Then let them which are in Judea flee to the mountains.” Luke 21:20, 21. They must not tarry to secure anything from their possessions, but must make the most of the opportunity to escape. {PP 166.3 1890}
There was a coming out, a decided separation from the wicked, an escape for life. SO IT WAS IN THE DAYS OF NOAH; SO WITH LOT; SO WITH THE DISCIPLES PRIOR TO THE DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM; AND SO IT WILL BE IN THE LAST DAYS. Again the voice of God is heard in a message of warning, bidding His people separate themselves from the prevailing iniquity. {PP 166.4 1890}
After the settlement of the Hebrews in Canaan, THE TABERNACLE WAS REPLACED BY THE TEMPLE OF SOLOMON, which, though a permanent structure and upon a larger scale, observed the same proportions, and was similarly furnished. IN THIS FORM THE SANCTUARY EXISTED—EXCEPT WHILE IT LAY IN RUINS IN DANIEL’S TIME—UNTIL ITS DESTRUCTION BY THE ROMANS, A. D. 70. {GC88 412.3 1888}
THIS IS THE ONLY SANCTUARY THAT EVER EXISTED ON THE EARTH, OF WHICH THE BIBLE GIVES ANY INFORMATION. This was declared by Paul to be the sanctuary of the first covenant. But has the new covenant no sanctuary? {GC88 412.4 1888}
Turning again to the book of Hebrews, the seekers for truth found that the existence of a second, or new-covenant sanctuary was implied in the words of Paul already quoted: “Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary.” And the use of the word also intimates that Paul has before made mention of this sanctuary. Turning back to the beginning of the previous chapter they read: “Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; a minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.” [Hebrews 8:1, 2.] {GC88 412.5 1888}
Here is revealed THE SANCTUARY OF THE NEW COVENANT. The sanctuary of the first covenant was pitched by man, built by Moses; this IS PITCHED BY THE LORD, NOT BY MAN. In that sanctuary the earthly priests performed their service; in this, CHRIST, OUR GREAT HIGH PRIEST, MINISTERS AT GOD’S RIGHT HAND. ONE SANCTUARY WAS ON EARTH, THE OTHER IS IN HEAVEN. {GC88 413.1 1888}
The Bible is very explicit as to how the Second Coming of Jesus will occur:
“come quickly” – 4 times in the Bible – All in the Book of Revelation:
Revelation 3:10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.
Revelation 3:11 Behold, I COME QUICKLY: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.
Revelation 22:6 And he said unto me, These sayings [are] faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to show unto his servants the things which must shortly be done.
Revelation 22:7 Behold, I COME QUICKLY: blessed [is] he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book.
Revelation 22:12 And, behold, I COME QUICKLY; and my reward [is] with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.
Revelation 22:20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I COME QUICKLY. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
“not tarry” – 3 times in the Bible:
Isaiah 46:12 ¶ Hearken unto me, ye stouthearted, that [are] far from righteousness:
Isaiah 46:13 I bring near my righteousness: it shall not be far off, and my salvation shall NOT TARRY: and I will place salvation in Zion for Israel my glory.
Habakkuk 2:1 ¶ I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower, and will watch to see what he will say unto me, and what I shall answer when I am reproved.
Habakkuk 2:2 And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make [it] plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.
Habakkuk 2:3 For the vision [is] yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will NOT TARRY.
Habakkuk 2:4 Behold, his soul [which] is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith. [Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11; Hebrews 10:38]
Hebrews 10:37 For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will NOT TARRY.
Hebrews 10:38 Now the just shall live by faith: but if [any man] draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. [Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11; Hebrews 2:4]
Hebrews 10:39 But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.
Other Scripture confirming how Jesus will come:
Matthew 24:27 For AS THE LIGHTNING COMETH out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; SO SHALL ALSO THE COMING OF THE SON OF MAN BE.
Matthew 24:44 Therefore be ye also ready: for in SUCH AN HOUR AS YE THINK NOT the Son of man cometh.
Matthew 25:4 But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.
Matthew 25:5 While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.
Matthew 25:6 And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.
Matthew 25:13 Watch therefore, for YE KNOW NEITHER THE DAY NOR THE HOUR wherein the Son of man cometh.
Mark 13:33 Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.
Mark 13:34 [For the Son of man is] as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch.
Mark 13:35 Watch ye therefore: for YE KNOW NOT WHEN the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning:
Mark 13:36 Lest COMING SUDDENLY he find you sleeping.
Luke 12:40 Be ye therefore ready also: FOR THE SON OF MAN COMETH AT AN HOUR WHEN YE THINK NOT.
And finally:
1 Thessalonians 5:2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a THIEF IN THE NIGHT.
2 Peter 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come as a THIEF IN THE NIGHT; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
The 7 year time of Tribulation would constitute a Time Prophecy in so far that, from its beginning, the people of God would know that in 7 years time, Jesus would come. Spirit of Prophecy has the following to say about Time Prophecies:
And has not this testimony been fulfilled in every particular? THE FIRST-DAY ADVENTISTS HAVE SET TIME AFTER TIME, and notwithstanding the repeated failures, they have gathered courage to set new times. God has not led them in this. Many of them have rejected the true prophetic time, and ignored the fulfillment of prophecy, because the time passed in 1844, and did not bring the expected event. They rejected the truth, and the enemy has had power to bring strong delusions upon them that they should believe a lie. THE GREAT TEST ON TIME WAS IN 1843 AND 1844; AND ALL WHO HAVE SET TIME SINCE THEN HAVE BEEN DECEIVING THEMSELVES AND DECEIVING OTHERS. {1T 73.1 1855-1868}
“At this time visions were given me to correct the errors of those who had taken extreme views of some texts of scripture, and refrained wholly from labor, and rejected all those who would not receive their views on this point, and some other things which they held to be religious duties. God revealed these errors to me in vision, and sent me to his erring children to declare them; but many of them wholly rejected the message, and charged me with conforming to the world. On the other hand, the nominal Adventists charge me with fanaticism, and I was falsely, and by some, wickedly, represented as being the leader of the fanaticism I was laboring constantly to arrest by bearing my testimony given me of God. DIFFERENT TIMES WERE SET FOR THE LORD TO COME, and were urged upon the brethren. BUT THE LORD SHOWED ME THAT THEY WOULD PASS BY, FOR THE TIME OF TROUBLE MUST COME BEFORE THE COMING OF CHRIST, AND THAT EVERY TIME THAT WAS SET, AND PASSED, WOULD ONLY WEAKEN THE FAITH OF GOD’S PEOPLE. For this I was charged with being the evil servant that said, ‘My Lord delayeth his coming.’ {LS80 220.2 1880}
“The above, relative to time-setting, was printed nearly thirty years ago, and the books have been circulated everywhere. Yet some ministers claiming to be well acquainted with me, make the statements that I have set time after time for the Lord to come and those times have passed, therefore my visions are false. These false statements no doubt are received by many as truth. Those who know me and are acquainted with my labors will make no such report in candor. This is the testimony I have borne ever since the passing of the time in 1844: ‘TIME AFTER TIME WILL BE SET BY DIFFERENT ONES WHICH WILL PASS BY; AND THE INFLUENCE OF THIS TIME-SETTING WILL BE TO DESTROY THE FAITH OF GOD’S PEOPLE.’ If I had seen in vision, and borne my testimony to definite time, I could not have written and published, in the face of this testimony, that all times that should be set would pass, for the time of trouble must come before the coming of Christ. Certainly for the last thirty years, that is, since the publication of this statement, I would not be inclined to set time for Christ to come, and thus place myself under the same condemnation with those whom I was reproving. {LS80 221.1a 1880}
I HAD NO VISION UNTIL 1845 which was after the passing of the time of general expectation in 1844. I WAS THEN SHOWN THAT MANY WOULD BE DECEIVED, AND WOULD SET DIFFERENT TIMES FOR THE LORD TO COME, AND URGE THEM UPON THEIR BRETHREN. BUT THE LORD SHOWED ME THAT THESE TIMES WOULD PASS; FOR THE TIME OF TROUBLE MUST COME BEFORE THE COMING OF CHRIST; AND THAT EVERY TIME THUS SET AND PASSED, WOULD ONLY WEAKEN THE FAITH OF GOD’S PEOPLE. Has not this testimony which has been before the public nearly thirty years in published form been fulfilled in every particular? The First-day Adventists have set time after time, and notwithstanding the repeated failures, they have gathered courage to set new times. God has not led them in this. Many of them have denounced the prophetic time, and the fulfillment of marked events in prophecy, because the time passed in 1844, and did not bring the expected event. They rejected the true prophetic time, and the enemy has had power to bring strong delusions upon them that they should believe a lie. I have borne the testimony since the passing of the time in 1844, that there should be no definite time set by which to test God’s people. THE GREAT TEST ON TIME WAS IN 1843 AND 1844; AND ALL WHO HAVE SET TIME SINCE THESE GREAT PERIODS MARKED IN PROPHECY WERE DECEIVING AND BEING DECEIVED. {LS80 221.1b 1880}
But since 1798 the book of Daniel has been unsealed, knowledge of the prophecies has increased, and many have proclaimed the solemn message of the Judgment near. {GC88 356.2 1888}
“At this time visions were given me to correct the errors of those who had taken extreme views of some texts of Scripture, and refrained wholly from labor, and rejected all those who would not receive their views on this point and some other things which they held to be religious duties. God revealed these errors to me in vision, and sent me to his erring children to declare them; but many of them wholly rejected the message, and charged me with conforming to the world. On the other hand, the nominal Adventists charged me with fanaticism, and I was falsely, and by some, wickedly, represented as being the leader of the fanaticism I was laboring constantly to arrest by bearing the testimony given me of God. Different times were set for the Lord to come, and were urged upon the brethren. But THE LORD SHOWED ME THAT THEY WOULD PASS BY, FOR THE TIME OF TROUBLE MUST COME BEFORE THE COMING OF CHRIST, and that EVERY TIME THAT WAS SET, AND PASSED, WOULD ONLY WEAKEN THE FAITH OF GOD’S PEOPLE. For this I was charged with being the evil servant that said, ‘My Lord delayeth his coming.’ {LS88 220.2 1888}
“The above, relative to time-setting, was printed more than 30 years ago, and the books have been circulated everywhere. Yet some ministers claiming to be well acquainted with me, make the statement that I have often set the time for the Lord to come, and those times have passed; therefore my visions are false. Such false statements are no doubt received by many as truth. Those who know me and are acquainted with my labors will make no such report in candor. This is the testimony I have borne ever since the passing of the time in 1844: ‘TIME AFTER TIME WILL BE SET BY DIFFERENT ONES, WHICH WILL PASS BY; AND THE INFLUENCE OF THIS TIME-SETTING WILL BE TO DESTROY THE FAITH OF GOD’S PEOPLE.’ If I had seen in vision, and borne my testimony to definite time, I could not have written and published, in the face of this testimony, that ALL TIMES THAT SHOULD BE SET WOULD PASS, FOR THE TIME OF TROUBLE MUST COME BEFORE THE COMING OF CHRIST. Certainly for the last thirty years, that is, since the publication of this statement, I would not be inclined to set a time for Christ to come, and thus place myself under the same condemnation with those whom I was reproving. I had no vision until 1845, which was after the passing of the time of general expectation in 1844. I WAS THEN SHOWN THAT MANY WOULD BE DECEIVED, AND WOULD SET DIFFERENT TIMES FOR THE LORD TO COME, and urge them upon their brethren.
BUT THE LORD SHOWED ME THAT THESE TIMES WOULD PASS; FOR THE TIME OF TROUBLE MUST COME BEFORE THE COMING OF CHRIST; AND THAT EVERY TIME THUS SET AND PASSED, WOULD ONLY WEAKEN THE FAITH OF GOD’S PEOPLE. Has not this testimony, which has been before the public for over 30 years, in published form, been fulfilled in every particular? THE FIRST-DAY ADVENTISTS HAVE OFTEN SET THE TIME, and notwithstanding the repeated failures, they have gathered courage to set new times. God has not led them in this. Many of them have denied the prophetic time and the fulfilment of prophecy, because the time passed in 1844, and did not bring the expected event. They rejected the true prophetic time, and the enemy has brought strong delusions upon them that they should believe a lie. I HAVE BORNE THE TESTIMONY SINCE THE PASSING OF THE TIME IN 1844, THAT THERE SHOULD BE NO DEFINITE TIME SET BY WHICH TO TEST GOD’S PEOPLE. THE GREAT TEST ON TIME WAS IN 1843 AND 1844; AND ALL WHO HAVE SET TIME SINCE THIS GREAT PERIOD MARKED IN PROPHECY, WERE DECEIVING AND BEING DECEIVED. {LS88 221.1 1888}
The Last Crisis
We are living in the time of the end. The fast-fulfilling signs of the times declare that the coming of Christ is near at hand. The days in which we live are solemn and important. The Spirit of God is gradually but surely being withdrawn from the earth. PLAGUES and JUDGMENTS are already falling upon the despisers of the grace of God. The CALAMITIES BY LAND AND SEA, the UNSETTLED STATE OF SOCIETY, the ALARMS OF WAR, are portentous. They forecast approaching events of the greatest magnitude. {9T 11.1 1909}
The agencies of evil are combining their forces and consolidating. They are strengthening for the last great crisis. GREAT CHANGES ARE SOON TO TAKE PLACE IN OUR WORLD, AND THE FINAL MOVEMENTS WILL BE RAPID ONES. {9T 11.2 1909}
The condition of things in the world shows that troublous times are right upon us. The daily papers are full of indications of a TERRIBLE CONFLICT in the near future. Bold ROBBERIES are of frequent occurrence. STRIKES are common. THEFTS and MURDERS are committed on every hand. MEN POSSESSED OF DEMONS are taking the lives of men, women, and little children. Men have become infatuated with VICE, and EVERY SPECIES OF EVIL PREVAILS. {9T 11.3 1909}
The enemy has succeeded in PERVERTING JUSTICE and in filling men’s hearts with the desire for SELFISH GAIN. “Justice standeth afar off: for truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter.” Isaiah 59:14. In the great cities there are multitudes living in POVERTY and WRETCHEDNESS, well-nigh DESTITUTE OF FOOD, SHELTER, AND CLOTHING; while in the same cities are those who have more than heart could wish, who LIVE LUXURIOUSLY, spending their money on RICHLY FURNISHED HOUSES, on PERSONAL ADORNMENT, or worse still, upon the GRATIFICATION OF SENSUAL APPETITES, upon LIQUOR, TOBACCO, AND OTHER THINGS that destroy the powers of the brain, unbalance the mind, and debase the soul. THE CRIES OF STARVING HUMANITY ARE COMING UP BEFORE GOD, WHILE BY EVERY SPECIES OF OPPRESSION AND EXTORTION MEN ARE PILING UP COLOSSAL FORTUNES. {9T 11.4 1909}
The days in which we live are solemn and important. The Spirit of God is gradually but surely being withdrawn from the earth. PLAGUES and JUDGMENTS are already falling upon the despisers of the grace of God. The CALAMITIES BY LAND AND SEA, the UNSETTLED STATE OF SOCIETY, the ALARMS OF WAR, are portentous. They forecast approaching events of the greatest magnitude. The agencies of evil are combining their forces, and consolidating. They are strengthening for the last great crisis. GREAT CHANGES ARE SOON TO TAKE PLACE IN OUR WORLD, AND THE FINAL MOVEMENTS WILL BE RAPID ONES.–Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 11. {ChS 52.2 1925}
I PLAINLY STATED AT THE JACKSON CAMP MEETING to these fanatical parties that they were doing the work of the adversary of souls; they were in darkness. They claimed to have great light that probation would close in October, 1884. {2SM 73.2 1958}
I there stated in public THAT THE LORD HAD BEEN PLEASED TO SHOW ME THAT THERE WOULD BE NO DEFINITE TIME IN THE MESSAGE GIVEN OF GOD SINCE 1844; and that I knew that this message, which four or five were engaged in advocating with great zeal, was heresy. The visions of this poor child were not of God. This light came not from heaven. Time was short; but the end was not yet. A great work was to be accomplished to prepare a people to be sealed with the seal of the living God.–An Exposure of Fanaticism and Wickedness (Pamphlet), pp. 9, 10 (1885). {2SM 73.3 1958}
The CALAMITIES BY LAND AND SEA, the UNSETTLED STATE OF SOCIETY, the ALARMS OF WAR, are portentous. They forecast approaching events of the greatest magnitude. The agencies of evil are combining their forces and consolidating. They are strengthening for the last great crisis. GREAT CHANGES ARE SOON TO TAKE PLACE IN OUR WORLD, AND THE FINAL MOVEMENTS WILL BE RAPID ONES.–9T 11 (1909). {LDE 11.2 1992}
Troublous Times Soon to Come
THE TIME OF TROUBLE, which iS TO INCREASE UNTIL THE END, is very near at hand. We have no time to lose. The world is stirred with the SPIRIT OF WAR. The prophecies of the eleventh of Daniel have almost reached their final fulfillment.–RH Nov. 24, 1904. {LDE 12.1 1992}
I PLAINLY STATED AT THE JACKSON CAMP MEETING to these fanatical parties that they were doing the work of the adversary of souls; they were in darkness. They claimed to have great light that probation would close in October, 1884. I there stated in public that the Lord had been pleased to show me that there would be NO DEFINITE TIME IN THE MESSAGE GIVEN OF GOD SINCE 1844.–2SM 73 (1885). {LDE 35.3 1992}
Conclusion
In both the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy we have not found any supportive evidence of a Rapture nor of a 7 year Tribulation occurring just prior to the Second Coming of Jesus. On the contrary, from God’s Word, we have seen must which disproves these beliefs.
So how did all this man-made nonsense start?
Just before an event of God occurs, Satan does his best impersonate the event. An example soon to occur now follows:
Rebellion and apostasy are in the very air we breathe. We shall be affected by it unless we by faith hang our helpless souls upon Christ. If men are so easily misled, how will they stand when SATAN SHALL PERSONATE CHRIST, AND WORK MIRACLES? Who will be unmoved by his misrepresentations? Professing to be Christ when it is only Satan assuming the person of Christ, and apparently WORKING THE WORKS OF CHRIST? What will hold God’s people from giving their allegiance to false Christs? “Go not ye after them.” (Luke 21:8) 2SM 394 (1897). Also {1BC 1114.5 1953}
The conflict is to wax fiercer and fiercer. SATAN WILL take the field and personate Christ. He will MISREPRESENT, MISAPPLY, AND PERVERT EVERYTHING HE POSSIBLY CAN, TO DECEIVE, if possible, the very elect. … {TM 411.2 1923}
When Jesus was on earth, Satan led the people to reject the Son of God, and to choose Barabbas, who in character represented Satan, the god of this world. The Lord Jesus Christ came to dispute the usurpation of Satan in the kingdoms of the world. The conflict is not yet ended; and as we draw near the close of time, the battle waxes more intense. As the second appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ draws near, satanic agencies are moved from beneath. SATAN WILL NOT ONLY APPEAR AS A HUMAN BEING, BUT HE WILL PERSONATE JESUS CHRIST, and THE WORLD that has rejected the truth WILL RECEIVE HIM as the Lord of lords and King of kings. He will exercise his power, and work upon the human imagination. HE WILL CORRUPT BOTH THE MINDS AND THE BODIES OF MEN, and will work through the children of disobedience, fascinating and charming, as does a serpent. What a spectacle will the world be for heavenly intelligences! What a spectacle for God, the Creator of the world, to behold! {5BC 1105.8 (1900) 1956} Also {LDE 168.3 1992}
The form Satan assumed in Eden when leading our first parents to transgress, was of a character to BEWILDER AND CONFUSE THE MIND. He will work in as subtle a manner as we near the end of earth’s history. All his deceiving power will be brought to bear upon human subjects, to COMPLETE THE WORK OF DELUDING THE HUMAN FAMILY. So deceptive will be his working, that men will do as they did in the days of Christ; and when asked, Whom shall I release unto you, Christ or Barabbas? the almost universal cry will be, Barabbas, Barabbas! And when the question is asked, “What will ye then that I shall do unto him whom ye call the King of the Jews?” the cry again will be, “Crucify him!” {5BC 1106.1 1956}
However, Satan will appear as Christ walking as a man. He is not permitted to come on a cloud and remain “in the air”.
1 Thessalonians 4:17 Then we which are alive [and] remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
But the people of God will not be misled. The teachings of this false christ are not in accordance with the Scriptures. His blessing is pronounced upon the worshipers of the beast and his image,–the very class upon whom the Bible declares that God’s unmingled wrath shall be poured out. And, furthermore, SATAN IS NOT PERMITTED TO COUNTERFEIT THE MANNER OF CHRIST’S ADVENT. The Scriptures teach that “as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the SON OF MAN be;” [Matthew 24:27.] that he “COMETH WITH CLOUDS; AND EVERY EYE SHALL SEE HIM;” [Revelation 1:7.] that he will “descend from Heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God;” [1 Thessalonians 4:16.] that he will “come in his glory, and all the HOLY ANGELS WITH HIM,” [Matthew 25:31.] and will “send his angels with a great SOUND OF A TRUMPET, and they shall gather together his elect.” [Matthew 24:31.] Those who have received the love of the truth will be shielded from the powerful delusion that takes the world captive. By the testimony of the Scriptures they will detect the deceiver in his disguise. {4SP 443.1 1884}
Now back to the events of the 1830’s and 1840’s:
Ellen Gould White (nee Harmon; November 26, 1827 – July 16, 1915) was an American author and co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
In December 1844, Ellen G. Harmon experienced the first of what she would later claim were some 2,000 visions from God.
Our brethren should be willing to investigate in a candid way every point of controversy. If a brother is teaching error, those who are in responsible positions ought to know it; and if he is teaching truth, they ought to take their stand at his side. We should all know what is being taught among us; for if it is truth, we need it. We are all under obligation to God to know what He sends us. He has given directions by which we may test every doctrine,–Isaiah 8:20 TO THE LAW AND TO THE TESTIMONY: IF THEY SPEAK NOT ACCORDING TO THIS WORD, [IT IS] BECAUSE [THERE IS] NO LIGHT IN THEM. If the light presented meets this test, we are not to refuse to accept it because it does not agree with our ideas. {GW 300.4 1915}
SATAN HOPES TO INVOLVE THE REMNANT PEOPLE OF GOD IN THE GENERAL RUIN THAT IS COMING UPON THE EARTH. AS THE COMING OF CHRIST DRAWS NIGH, HE WILL BE MORE DETERMINED AND DECISIVE IN HIS EFFORTS TO OVERTHROW THEM. MEN AND WOMEN WILL ARISE PROFESSING TO HAVE SOME NEW LIGHT OR SOME NEW REVELATION WHOSE TENDENCY IS TO UNSETTLE FAITH IN THE OLD LANDMARKS. Their doctrines will not bear the test of God’s word, yet souls will be deceived. False reports will be circulated, and some will be taken in this snare. They will believe these rumors and in their turn will repeat them, and thus a link will be formed connecting them with the archdeceiver. This spirit will not always be manifested in an open defiance of the messages that God sends, but a settled unbelief is expressed in many ways. Every false statement that is made feeds and strengthens this unbelief, and through this means many souls will be balanced in the wrong direction. {5T 295.3 1882-1889}
Just prior to 1844, there were a lot of “new light” revelations, including one in 1833.
John Nelson Darby (18 November 1800 – 29 April 1882) was an Anglo-Irish Bible teacher, one of the influential figures among the original Plymouth Brethren and the founder of the Exclusive Brethren. He is considered to be the father of modern Dispensationalism and Futurism. PRE-TRIBULATION RAPTURE THEOLOGY was popularized extensively in the 1830s by John Nelson Darby and the Plymouth Brethren, and further popularized in the United States in the early 20th century by the wide circulation of the Scofield Reference Bible.
As we proceed towards Christ’s Second Coming, we shall see many more of these man-made theologies.
Ephesians 4:11 And he gave some, APOSTLES; and some, PROPHETS; and some, EVANGELISTS; and some, PASTORS and TEACHERS;
Ephesians 4:12 FOR THE PERFECTING OF THE SAINTS, for the work of the MINISTRY, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Ephesians 4:13 TILL we all come in the UNITY of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
Ephesians 4:14 That we [henceforth] be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with EVERY WIND OF DOCTRINE, by the sleight of men, [and] cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
Ephesians 4:15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, [even] Christ:
