1. Ye shall know the truth. John 8:32.

a. And the Truth shall make you free.

2. We know this truth to be Jesus Christ. John 14:6.

a. "Christ is the complete system of truth." Vol. 3, Selected Messages, p. 198:5.

3. How can we understand the complete system of truth? John 16:13.

a. The Holy Spirit will guide us into ALL Truth.

b. Although "Christ is the complete system of truth," there are special aspects of truth for our day. 2 Peter 1:12.

c. Who is at the forefront of receiving present truth today? Who is the most receptive of the voice of the Holy Spirit guiding into all truth? 1 Timothy 3:15.

4. This church Christ reestablished in Matthew 16:16-19.

a. Why is it so important to find the true church? Matthew 18:17,18.

b. Therefore it is important to understand who the true church of God is.

5. What does the Greek word for church (ekklesia) mean? # 1577 = a calling out.

a. The very idea of the word "church" gives the meaning of separation.

6. What are some possibilities when there are differing views in a church?

a. Reasoning together. Isaiah 1:18,19; Acts 1:13,14.

b. What other possibilities? 2 Corinthians 6:14-18; Amos 3:3.

7. Separation in the Laodicean Message. Revelation 3:14-22.

a. To whom is this letter first addressed? Revelation 3:14—angel.

b. To whom specifically is this letter addressed? "As I have of late looked around to find the humble followers of the meek and lowly Jesus, my mind has been much exercised. Many who profess to be looking for the speedy coming of Christ are becoming conformed to this world and seek more earnestly the applause of those around them than the approbation of God. They are cold and formal, like the nominal churches from which they but a short time since separated. The words addressed to the Laodicean church describe their present condition perfectly. (See Revelation 3:14-20.) They are ‘neither cold nor hot,’ but ‘lukewarm’." Early Writings, pp. 107-108.

8. The church who receives the ire of the dragon. Revelation 12:14-17.

a. 1260 years of persecution. Revelation 12:14,15.

b. Who helps the woman—the Protestant churches at that time? Revelation 12:16.

1. Advent Movement began on a prophecy of Daniel 8:14.

a. Those who accepted this prophecy, in 1844 after the disappointment, formed God’s true church.

b. What made them God’s church? "The Pharisees had declared themselves the children of Abraham. Jesus told them that this claim could be established only by doing the works of Abraham. The true children of Abraham would live, as he did, a life of obedience to God. They would not try to kill One who was speaking the truth that was given Him from God. In plotting against Christ, the rabbis were not doing the works of Abraham. A mere lineal descent from Abraham was of no value. Without a spiritual connection with him, which would be manifested in possessing the same spirit, and doing the same works, they were not his children.

"This principle bears with equal weight upon a question that has long agitated the Christian world,—the question of apostolic succession. Descent from Abraham was proved, not by name and lineage, but by likeness of character. So the apostolic succession rests not upon the transmission of ecclesiastical authority, but upon spiritual relationship. A life actuated by the apostles’ spirit, the belief and teaching of the truth they taught, this is the true evidence of apostolic succession. This is what constitutes men the successors of the first teachers of the gospel." Desire of Ages, 466:6-467:1.

2. As a result of the truth organization came. They realized that without some form of organization they would be scattered, etc.

a. Organization is indispensable, but truth is above organization.

b. Truth came first, then organization. It was not organization, then truth.

3. In the history of the Advent Movement, even before they were organized as a church, they reached a Laodicean condition. "The words addressed to the Laodicean church describe their present condition perfectly." Early Writings, pp. 107-108.

a. The only hope of the church at that time was to accept the counsel of the True witness.

b. The Condition of the church was cold and formal just like the nominal churches of which they but a short time before had separated.

c. In 1852, they were in an already backsliding condition. This condition increased.

"The pure and the base metal are now so mingled that only the discerning eye of the infinite God can with certainty distinguish between them. But the moral magnet of holiness and truth will attract together the pure metal, while it will repel the base and counterfeit."

1. To whom do these words apply? "‘The great day of the Lord is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly;’ but where do we behold the true advent spirit? Who are preparing to stand in that time of temptation which is just before us? The people to whom God has entrusted the sacred, solemn, testing truths for this time are sleeping at their post. They say by their actions: We have the truth; we are ‘rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing;’ while the True Witness declares: Thou ‘knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.’

"With what fidelity do these words portray the present condition of the church: ‘Knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.’ Messages of warning, dictated by the Holy Spirit, are borne by the servants of God, defects of character are presented before the erring; but they say: ‘That does not represent my case. I do not accept the message you bring. I am doing the best I can. I believe the truth.’" Vol. 5, Testimonies for the Church, p. 101:3, 4.

a. "present condition of the church."

2. We see that the pure and base metal are mingled in the Seventh-day Adventist church (1882).

a. They are so mingled together that only the eye of the infinite God can differentiate between them.

b. In the church there were two classes of people mingled together.

3. What will be introduced? The moral magnet of holiness.

a. What will the magnet attract? The pure metal.

b. What will it repel? The base and counterfeit metal.

4. IS THIS A SEPARATION?????????

a. Therefore a separation is predicted in the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

** In the same year she stated the situation. "‘And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.’ The very atmosphere is polluted with sin. Soon God’s people will be tested by fiery trials, and the great proportion of those who now appear to be genuine and true will prove to be base metal. Instead of being strengthened and confirmed by opposition, threats, and abuse, they will cowardly take the side of the opposers. The promise is: ‘Them that honor Me I will honor.’ Shall we be less firmly attached to God’s law because the world at large have attempted to make it void?"

1. This is speaking of God’s people.

a. Who were God’s people in 1882? Seventh-day Adventist church.

2. The Seventh-day Adventist church will be tested by fiery trials.

3. Those who appear to be genuine and true will prove to be base metal (greatest proportion).

a. So when we speak of pure metal and base metal, we refer to pure members and base members.

1. Six years later, at the 1888 General Conference Session (Minneapolis), of those present there were formed three classes:

a. Some Rejected.

b. Some accepted.

c. Others stood neutral.

b. Conradi never changed his mind. Movement of Destiny, p. 678 gives the account of Conradi’s beliefs and convictions. Because Ellen G. White supported Jones and Waggoner, he opposed her and the Spirit of Prophecy.

2. What proportion were pure and what proportion were base metal? (1893) "It is a solemn statement that I make to the church, that not one in twenty whose names are registered upon the church books are prepared to close their earthly history, and would be as verily without God and without hope in the world as the common sinner. They are professedly serving God, but they are more earnestly serving mammon. This half-and-half work is a constant denying of Christ, rather than a confessing of Christ. So many have brought into the church their own unsubdued spirit, unrefined; their spiritual taste is perverted by their own immoral, debasing corruptions, symbolizing the world in spirit, in heart, in purpose, confirming themselves in lustful practices, and are full of deception through and through in their professed Christian life. Living as sinners, claiming to be Christians! Those who claim to be Christians and will confess Christ should come out from among them and touch not the unclean thing, and be separate. . . ." Christian Service, p. 41:1.

a. Less than 5% are pure. More than 95 % are base metal.

b. In 1893 what call was made to the General Conference Session? Christian Service, p. 41:1.

"The Sanhedrin had rejected Christ’s message and was bent upon His death; therefore Jesus departed from Jerusalem, from the priests, the temple, the religious leaders, the people who had been instructed in the law, and turned to another class to proclaim His message, and to gather out those who should carry the gospel to all nations." Desire of Ages, p 232:1.

1. The Sanhedrin rejected His message.

2. He departed from Jerusalem, priests, temple, religious leaders, and people.

3. He turned to another class.

a. Why turn to this class? "Gather out those who should carry the gospel to all nations." Prepare them for their world wide work.

4. This lesson is applicable to us today. "As the light and life of men was rejected by the ecclesiastical authorities in the days of Christ, so it has been rejected in every succeeding generation. Again and again the history of Christ’s withdrawal from Judea has been repeated. When the Reformers preached the word of God, they had no thought of separating themselves from the established church; but the religious leaders would not tolerate the light, and those that bore it were forced to seek another class, who were longing for the truth. In our day few of the professed followers of the Reformers are actuated by their spirit. Few are listening for the voice of God, and ready to accept truth in whatever guise it may be presented. Often those who follow in the steps of the Reformers are forced to turn away from the churches they love, in order to declare the plain teaching of the word of God. And many times those who are seeking for light are by the same teaching obliged to leave the church of their fathers, that they may render obedience." Desire of Ages, p. 232:2.

a. One group is forced to turn away from their churches.

b. Another group is obliged to leave.

5. This separation was before the 490 years were expired at the stoning of Stephen.

a. The purpose of separation was to gather out a group that would carry the gospel to all nations.

b. The Saviour began the first steps in organization. (Luke 6:12,13; "The first step was now to be taken in the organization of the church that after Christ’s departure was to be His representative on earth. No costly sanctuary was at their command, but the Saviour led His disciples to the retreat He loved, and in their minds the sacred experiences of that day were forever linked with the beauty of mountain and vale and sea." Desire of Ages, p. 291:2.)

1. Who separates? Those ready to take up weapons of warfare.

a. They will yield to temptation.

b. Who are they? Those who in 1900 were willing to take up weapons of warfare.

2. When does the first separation takes place in Seventh-day Adventist Church? "As the storm approaches, a large class who have professed faith in the third angel’s message, but have not been sanctified through obedience to the truth, abandon their position and join the ranks of the opposition. By uniting with the world and partaking of its spirit, they have come to view matters in nearly the same light; and when the test is brought, they are prepared to choose the easy, popular side. Men of talent and pleasing address, who once rejoiced in the truth, employ their powers to deceive and mislead souls. They become the most bitter enemies of their former brethren. When Sabbathkeepers are brought before the courts to answer for their faith, these apostates are the most efficient agents of Satan to misrepresent and accuse them, and by false reports and insinuations to stir up the rulers against them." Great Controversy, p. 608:2.

a. A storm is the same as a tempest = seven last plagues ("If such scenes as this are to come, such tremendous judgments on a guilty world, where will be the refuge for God’s people? How will they be sheltered until the indignation be overpast? John sees the elements of nature—earthquake, tempest, and political strife—represented as being held by four angels. These winds are under control until God gives the word to let them go." Testimonies to Ministers, p. 444:3)

b. At this point the storm is approaching but is not there yet.

c. These are among the events to take place while the storm (probation closing) is approaching.

d. Anywhere from 1890 to the close of probation we can expect a majority of Seventh-day Adventist to abandon their position and join the opposition in fulfillment of Great Controversy, p. 608:2.

3. How does this separation take place?

a. What was the characteristic of the faithful? "I saw some, with strong faith and agonizing cries, pleading with God. Their countenances were pale and marked with deep anxiety, expressive of their internal struggle. Firmness and great earnestness was expressed in their countenances; large drops of perspiration fell from their foreheads. Now and then their faces would light up with the marks of God’s approbation, and again the same solemn, earnest, anxious look would settle upon them.

"Evil angels crowded around, pressing darkness upon them to shut out Jesus from their view, that their eyes might be drawn to the darkness that surrounded them, and thus they be led to distrust God and murmur against Him. Their only safety was in keeping their eyes directed upward. Angels of God had charge over His people, and as the poisonous atmosphere of evil angels was pressed around these anxious ones, the heavenly angels were continually wafting their wings over them to scatter the thick darkness." Early Writings, p. 269:1, 2.

b. There was a separation, a shaking. What caused it? "I asked the meaning of the shaking I had seen and was shown that it would be caused by the straight testimony called forth by the counsel of the True Witness to the Laodiceans. This will have its effect upon the heart of the receiver, and will lead him to exalt the standard and pour forth the straight truth. Some will not bear this straight testimony. They will rise up against it, and this is what will cause a shaking among God’s people." Early Writings, p. 270:2.

c. What was the result of the praying pleading ones accepting the Message to Laodicea? Early Writings, p. 270:2.

d. When the standard is lifted, one class rise up against it and this causes the shaking.

e. Catholics accused the Protestants of separating. "Romanists have persisted in bringing against Protestants the charge of heresy and willful separation from the true church. But these accusations apply rather to themselves. They are the ones who laid down the banner of Christ and departed from ‘the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.’ Jude 3." Great Controversy, p. 51:2.

e. This little company was mightily shaken. "Said the angel, ‘List ye!’ Soon I heard a voice like many musical instruments all sounding in perfect strains, sweet and harmonious. It surpassed any music I had ever heard, seeming to be full of mercy, compassion, and elevating, holy joy. It thrilled through my whole being. Said the angel, ‘Look ye!’ My attention was then turned to the company I had seen, who were mightily shaken. I was shown those whom I had before seen weeping and praying in agony of spirit. The company of guardian angels around them had been doubled, and they were clothed with an armor from their head to their feet. They moved in exact order, like a company of soldiers. Their countenances expressed the severe conflict which they had endured, the agonizing struggle they had passed through. Yet their features, marked with severe internal anguish, now shone with the light and glory of heaven. They had obtained the victory, and it called forth from them the deepest gratitude and holy, sacred joy." Early Writings, pp. 270-271.

f. Parallel statement. "The time has come for a thorough reformation to take place. When this reformation begins, the spirit of prayer will actuate every believer and will banish from the church the spirit of discord and strife. Those who have not been living in Christian fellowship will draw close to one another. One member working in right lines will lead other members to unite with him in making intercession for the revelation of the Holy Spirit. There will be no confusion, because all will be in harmony with the mind of the Spirit. The barriers separating believer from believer will be broken down, and God’s servants will speak the same things. The Lord will co-operate with His servants. All will pray understandingly the prayer that Christ taught His servants: ‘Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.’ Matthew 6:10." Vol. 8, Testimonies to the Church, p. 251:1.

g. Then they go out. "The numbers of this company had lessened. Some had been shaken out and left by the way. The careless and indifferent, who did not join with those who prized victory and salvation enough to perseveringly plead and agonize for it, did not obtain it, and they were left behind in darkness, and their places were immediately filled by others taking hold of the truth and coming into the ranks. Evil angels still pressed around them, but could have no power over them.

"I heard those clothed with the armor speak forth the truth with great power. It had effect. Many had been bound; some wives by their husbands, and some children by their parents. The honest who had been prevented from hearing the truth now eagerly laid hold upon it. All fear of their relatives was gone, and the truth alone was exalted to them. They had been hungering and thirsting for truth; it was dearer and more precious than life. I asked what had made this great change. An angel answered, ‘It is the latter rain, the refreshing from the presence of the Lord, the loud cry of the third angel.’" Early Writings, p. 271:1,2.

h. Separation and unity. "As trials thicken around us, both separation and unity will be seen in our ranks. Some who are now ready to take up weapons of warfare will in times of real peril make it manifest that they have not built upon the solid rock; they will yield to temptation. Those who have had great light and precious privileges, but have not improved them, will, under one pretext or another, go out from us. Not having received the love of the truth, they will be taken in the delusions of the enemy; they will give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils, and will depart from the faith. But, on the other hand, when the storm of persecution really breaks upon us, the true sheep will hear the true Shepherd’s voice. Self-denying efforts will be put forth to save the lost, and many who have strayed from the fold will come back to follow the great Shepherd. The people of God will draw together and present to the enemy a united front. In view of the common peril, strife for supremacy will cease; there will be no disputing as to who shall be accounted greatest. No one of the true believers will say: ‘I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas.’ The testimony of one and all will be: ‘I cleave unto Christ; I rejoice in Him as my personal Saviour.’" Vol. 6, Testimonies for the Church, pp. 400 -401.

1. First Separation in the Seventh-day Adventist church.

2. The little company is separated from the Seventh-day Adventist church and is completely pure = all wheat.

3. Then the Latter Rain comes.

4. Then the Sunday Law is enacted.

5. Then there is another separation in the Seventh-day Adventist church and the remainder of the faithful leave.

6. Then the little time of trouble. "I saw that God had children who do not see and keep the Sabbath. They have not rejected the light upon it. And at the commencement of the time of trouble, we were filled with the Holy Ghost as we went forth and proclaimed the Sabbath more fully. This enraged the churches and nominal Adventists, as they could not refute the Sabbath truth. And at this time God’s chosen all saw clearly that we had the truth, and they came out and endured the persecution with us. I saw the sword, famine, pestilence, and great confusion in the land. The wicked thought that we had brought the judgments upon them, and they rose up and took counsel to rid the earth of us, thinking that then the evil would be stayed." Early Writings, pp. 33-34.

a. This time of trouble is not Jacob’s trouble. "This view was given in 1847 when there were but very few of the Advent brethren observing the Sabbath, and of these but few supposed that its observance was of sufficient importance to draw a line between the people of God and unbelievers. Now the fulfilment of that view is beginning to be seen. ‘The commencement of that time of trouble,’ here mentioned does not refer to the time when the plagues shall begin to be poured out, but to a short period just before they are poured out, while Christ is in the sanctuary. At that time, while the work of salvation is closing, trouble will be coming on the earth, and the nations will be angry, yet held in check so as not to prevent the work of the third angel. At that time the ‘latter rain,’ or refreshing from the presence of the Lord, will come, to give power to the loud voice of the third angel, and prepare the saints to stand in the period when the seven last plagues shall be poured out." Early Writings, pp. 85-86.

7. Greatest power = time of Latter Rain. "Thus the message of the third angel will be proclaimed. As the time comes for it to be given with greatest power, the Lord will work through humble instruments, leading the minds of those who consecrate themselves to His service. The laborers will be qualified rather by the unction of His Spirit than by the training of literary institutions. Men of faith and prayer will be constrained to go forth with holy zeal, declaring the words which God gives them. The sins of Babylon will be laid open. The fearful results of enforcing the observances of the church by civil authority, the inroads of spiritualism, the stealthy but rapid progress of the papal power—all will be unmasked. By these solemn warnings the people will be stirred. Thousands upon thousands will listen who have never heard words like these. In amazement they hear the testimony that Babylon is the church, fallen because of her errors and sins, because of her rejection of the truth sent to her from heaven. As the people go to their former teachers with the eager inquiry, Are these things so? the ministers present fables, prophesy smooth things, to soothe their fears and quiet the awakened conscience. But since many refuse to be satisfied with the mere authority of men and demand a plain ‘Thus saith the Lord,’ the popular ministry, like the Pharisees of old, filled with anger as their authority is questioned, will denounce the message as of Satan and stir up the sin-loving multitudes to revile and persecute those who proclaim it." Great Controversy, pp. 606-607.

a. The Latter Rain comes before the Sunday Decree. The Latter Rain provokes the Sunday decree. "As the controversy extends into new fields and the minds of the people are called to God’s downtrodden law, Satan is astir. The power attending the message will only madden those who oppose it. The clergy will put forth almost superhuman efforts to shut away the light lest it should shine upon their flocks. By every means at their command they will endeavor to suppress the discussion of these vital questions. The church appeals to the strong arm of civil power, and, in this work, papists and Protestants unite. As the movement for Sunday enforcement becomes more bold and decided, the law will be invoked against commandment keepers. They will be threatened with fines and imprisonment, and some will be offered positions of influence, and other rewards and advantages, as inducements to renounce their faith. But their steadfast answer is: ‘Show us from the word of God our error’—the same plea that was made by Luther under similar circumstances. Those who are arraigned before the courts make a strong vindication of the truth, and some who hear them are led to take their stand to keep all the commandments of God. Thus light will be brought before thousands who otherwise would know nothing of these truths." Great Controversy, p. 607:1

b. Then the church appeals to the civil power.

(First the Sunday law in America, then a universal decree in every country. "Brethren and sisters, would that I might say something to awaken you to the importance of this time, the significance of the events that are now taking place. I point you to the aggressive movements now being made for the restriction of religious liberty. God’s sanctified memorial has been torn down, and in its place a false sabbath, bearing no sanctity, stands before the world. And while the powers of darkness are stirring up the elements from beneath, the Lord God of heaven is sending power from above to meet the emergency by arousing His living agencies to exalt the law of heaven. Now, just now, is our time to work in foreign countries. As America, the land of religious liberty, shall unite with the papacy in forcing the conscience and compelling men to honor the false sabbath, the people of every country on the globe will be led to follow her example. Our people are not half awake to do all in their power, with the facilities within their reach, to extend the message of warning." Vol. 6, Testimonies for the Church, p. 18:2).

c. This is the final test. It comes to every soul. "The time is not far distant when the test will come to every soul. The mark of the beast will be urged upon us. Those who have step by step yielded to worldly demands and conformed to worldly customs will not find it a hard matter to yield to the powers that be, rather than subject themselves to derision, insult, threatened imprisonment, and death. The contest is between the commandments of God and the commandments of men. In this time the gold will be separated from the dross in the church. True godliness will be clearly distinguished from the appearance and tinsel of it. Many a star that we have admired for its brilliancy will then go out in darkness. Chaff like a cloud will be borne away on the wind, even from places where we see only floors of rich wheat. All who assume the ornaments of the sanctuary, but are not clothed with Christ’s righteousness, will appear in the shame of their own nakedness." Vol. 5, Testimonies for the Church, p. 81:1

c. Where will the gold go? "I saw that God has honest children among the nominal Adventists and the fallen churches, and before the plagues shall be poured out, ministers and people will be called out from these churches and will gladly receive the truth. Satan knows this; and before the loud cry of the third angel is given, he raises an excitement in these religious bodies, that those who have rejected the truth may think that God is with them. He hopes to deceive the honest and lead them to think that God is still working for the churches. But the light will shine, and all who are honest will leave the fallen churches, and take their stand with the remnant." Early Writings, p. 261:1.

d. The largest portion are missionaries but all are perfect? "I was shown that the manner of Achan’s confession was similar to the confessions that some among us have made and will make. They hide their wrongs and refuse to make a voluntary confession until God searches them out, and then they acknowledge their sins. A few persons pass on in a course of wrong until they become hardened. They may even know that the church is burdened, as Achan knew that Israel were made weak before their enemies because of his guilt. Yet their consciences do not condemn them. They will not relieve the church by humbling their proud, rebellious hearts before God and putting away their wrongs. God’s displeasure is upon His people, and He will not manifest His power in the midst of them while sins exist among them and are fostered by those in responsible positions." Vol. 3, Testimonies for the Church, p. 270:2;

8. In the Seventh-day Adventist church faithful ministers will be removed. "Many will stand in our pul-pits with the torch of false prophecy in their hands, kindled from the hellish torch of Satan. If doubts and unbelief are cherished, the faithful ministers will be removed from the people who think they know so much. ‘If thou hadst known,’ said Christ, ‘even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.’" Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 409-410.

a. Who then remains?

b. But this is not a separation after which a work of reformation takes place.

"It is in a crisis that character is revealed. When the earnest voice proclaimed at midnight, ‘Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him,’ and the sleeping virgins were roused from their slumbers, it was seen who had made preparation for the event. Both parties were taken unawares; but one was prepared for the emergency, and the other was found without preparation. So now, a sudden and unlooked-for calamity, something that brings the soul face to face with death, will show whether there is any real faith in the promises of God. It will show whether the soul is sustained by grace. The great final test comes at the close of human probation, when it will be too late for the soul’s need to be supplied." Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 412:1.

c. This is the Sunday decree. "The Sabbath will be the great test of loyalty, for it is the point of truth especially controverted. When the final test shall be brought to bear upon men, then the line of distinction will be drawn between those who serve God and those who serve Him not. While the observance of the false sabbath in compliance with the law of the state, contrary to the fourth commandment, will be an avowal of allegiance to a power that is in opposition to God, the keeping of the true Sabbath, in obedience to God’s law, is an evidence of loyalty to the Creator. While one class, by accepting the sign of submission to earthly powers, receive the mark of the beast, the other choosing the token of allegiance to divine authority, receive the seal of God." Great Controversy, p. 605:2.

d. After the final test, then comes the close of probation.

e. In this time there is not time for preparation. Just time to leave families, churches, etc.

f. In the second separation there is no more time left for a reformation.

g. But in the first separation there is time for a reformation.

9. There is time to develop character in the first separation.

a. They are then fitted for the loud cry.

b. In the second separation, there is no time for the development of character.

c. The Mark of the Beast comes as a consequence of proclaiming the third angel’s message. "In God's word we are shown the consequences of proclaiming the third angel’s message. ‘The dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.’ Revelation 12:17. A refusal to obey the commandments of God, and a determination to cherish hatred against those who proclaim these commandments, leads to the most determined war on the part of the dragon, whose whole energies are brought to bear against the commandment-keeping people of God. ‘He causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: and that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.’ Revelation 13:16, 17." Vol 8, Testimonies for the Church, 117:2.

1. Why can’t the Sunday decree cannot come before the Latter Rain.

a. "But not one is made to suffer the wrath of God until the truth has been brought home to his mind and conscience, and has been rejected. There are many who have never had an opportunity to hear the special truths for this time. The obligation of the fourth commandment has never been set before them in its true light. He who reads every heart and tries every motive will leave none who desire a knowledge of the truth, to be deceived as to the issues of the controversy. The decree is not to be urged upon the people blindly. Everyone is to have sufficient light to make his decision intelligently." Great Controversy, p. 605:1.

b. "I saw that God had children who do not see and keep the Sabbath. They have not rejected the light upon it. And at the commencement of the time of trouble, we were filled with the Holy Ghost as we went forth and proclaimed the Sabbath more fully. This enraged the churches and nominal Adventists, as they could not refute the Sabbath truth. And at this time God’s chosen all saw clearly that we had the truth, and they came out and endured the persecution with us. I saw the sword, famine, pestilence, and great confusion in the land. The wicked thought that we had brought the judgments upon them, and they rose up and took counsel to rid the earth of us, thinking that then the evil would be stayed." Early Writings, pp. 33-34:

c. "Never did this message apply with greater force than it applies today. More and more the world is setting at nought the claims of God. Men have become bold in transgression. The wickedness of the inhabitants of the world has almost filled up the measure of their iniquity. This earth has almost reached the place where God will permit the destroyer to work his will upon it. The substitution of the laws of men for the law of God, the exaltation, by merely human authority, of Sunday in place of the Bible Sabbath, is the last act in the drama. When this substitution becomes universal, God will reveal Himself. He will arise in His majesty to shake terribly the earth. He will come out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the world for their iniquity, and the earth shall disclose her blood and shall no more cover her slain." Vol. 7, Testimonies for the Church, p. 141:1.

2. Before they are sealed they must be tested. They cannot be tested till they understand it clearly. But this is not the test on God’s remnant church. This is the final test.

a. But when is God’s church tested? Early Writings, p. 42:2.

b. When did the test begin upon God’s church? Since 1844.

3. The Latter Rain comes before the Sunday Decree. The Latter Rain provokes the Sunday decree. "As the controversy extends into new fields and the minds of the people are called to God’s downtrodden law, Satan is astir. The power attending the message will only madden those who oppose it. The clergy will put forth almost superhuman efforts to shut away the light lest it should shine upon their flocks. By every means at their command they will endeavor to suppress the discussion of these vital questions. The church appeals to the strong arm of civil power, and, in this work, papists and Protestants unite. As the movement for Sunday enforcement becomes more bold and decided, the law will be invoked against commandment keepers. They will be threatened with fines and imprisonment, and some will be offered positions of influence, and other rewards and advantages, as inducements to renounce their faith. But their steadfast answer is: ‘Show us from the word of God our error’—the same plea that was made by Luther under similar circumstances. Those who are arraigned before the courts make a strong vindication of the truth, and some who hear them are led to take their stand to keep all the commandments of God. Thus light will be brought before thousands who otherwise would know nothing of these truths." Great Controversy, p. 607:1

a. Then the church appeals to civil power.

b. (First the Sunday law in America; then the universal decree in every country. Vol. 6, Testimonies for the Church, p. 18:2).

c. Then comes the little time of trouble. "I saw that God had children who do not see and keep the Sabbath. They have not rejected the light upon it. And at the commencement of the time of trouble, we were filled with the Holy Ghost as we went forth and proclaimed the Sabbath more fully. This enraged the churches and nominal Adventists, as they could not refute the Sabbath truth. And at this time God’s chosen all saw clearly that we had the truth, and they came out and endured the persecution with us. I saw the sword, famine, pestilence, and great confusion in the land. The wicked thought that we had brought the judgments upon them, and they rose up and took counsel to rid the earth of us, thinking that then the evil would be stayed." Early Writings, pp. 33-34.

d. Results in the final test. It comes to every soul. Vol. 5, Testimonies for the Church, p. 81:1

(b) Who then remains when these faithful ministers are removed?

1. This remnant identified as pleading in agony of spirit.

a. What is the purpose of the shaking? To throw out the base metal.

2. First attention is drawn to the ultimate condition of this company.

a. What is the result? It is clothed in armor completely.

3. But what till then? The shaking did not stop.

a. Now she places her focus again on the shaking. Early Writings, p. 271:1.

b. Parallel prophecy. "God has not changed toward His faithful servants who are keeping their garments spotless. But many are crying, ‘Peace and safety,’ while sudden destruction is coming upon them. Unless there is thorough repentance, unless men humble their hearts by confession and receive the truth as it is in Jesus, they will never enter heaven. When purification shall take place in our ranks, we shall no longer rest at ease, boasting of being rich and increased with goods, in need of nothing."

"Who can truthfully say: ‘Our gold is tried in the fire; our garments are unspotted by the world’? I saw our Instructor pointing to the garments of so-called righteousness. Stripping them off, He laid bare the defilement beneath. Then He said to me: ‘Can you not see how they have pretentiously covered up their defilement and rottenness of character? ‘How is the faithful city become an harlot!’ My Father’s house is made a house of merchandise, a place whence the divine presence and glory have departed! For this cause there is weakness, and strength is lacking.’"

"Unless the church, which is now being leavened with her own backsliding, shall repent and be converted, she will eat of the fruit of her own doing, until she shall abhor herself. When she resists the evil and chooses the good, when she seeks God with all humility and reaches her high calling in Christ, standing on the platform of eternal truth and by faith laying hold upon the attainments prepared for her, she will be healed. She will appear in her God-given simplicity and purity, separate from earthly entanglements, showing that the truth has made her free indeed. Then her members will indeed be the chosen of God, His representatives.

"The time has come for a thorough reformation to take place. When this reformation begins, the spirit of prayer will actuate every believer and will banish from the church the spirit of discord and strife. Those who have not been living in Christian fellowship will draw close to one another. One member working in right lines will lead other members to unite with him in making intercession for the revelation of the Holy Spirit. There will be no confusion, because all will be in harmony with the mind of the Spirit. The barriers separating believer from believer will be broken down, and God’s servants will speak the same things. The Lord will co-operate with His servants. All will pray understandingly the prayer that Christ taught His servants: ‘Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.’ Matthew 6:10." Vol. 8, Testimonies for the Church, pp. 250:1-251:1

4. The main sifting began in 1888 in the church and then the shaking continues in the church which undertakes the reformation.

a. The result of shaking is separation. After the separation shaking continues in the remnant church not in the one lost sight of.

5. Reformation, revival, purification, preparation continues.

a. How long will the shaking, sifting, or fanning continue?

b. Will the church of God be a clean church?

6. When the church is finally pure, what is the next thing that will happen? "Not one of us will ever receive the seal of God while our characters have one spot or stain upon them. It is left with us to remedy the defects in our characters, to cleanse the soul temple of every defilement. Then the latter rain will fall upon us as the early rain fell upon the disciples on the Day of Pentecost." Vol. 5, Testimonies for the Church, p. 214:2—Sealing and the Latter Rain.

a. When every member of the church reaches this condition, then the church will be pure and the Latter rain will come.

7. The Holy Spirit cannot be poured out till the remnant church as a whole reaches this condition. "The great outpouring of the Spirit of God, which lightens the whole earth with His glory, will not come until we have an enlightened people, that know by experience what it means to be laborers together with God. When we have entire, wholehearted consecration to the service of Christ, God will recognize the fact by an outpouring of His Spirit without measure; but this will not be while the largest portion of the church are not laborers together with God.—Review and Herald, July 21, 1896." Christian Service, p. 253:2.

a. They must even be tried to see if they can live without dishonoring God first. "Before giving us the baptism of the Holy Spirit, our heavenly Father will try us, to see if we can live without dishonoring Him. —Letter 22, 1902." Vol. 3, Selected Messages, pp. 426-427.

b. There must first be a major separation in the Seventh-day Adventist church. Then the reformation church must also be mightily shaken.

c. When the Holy Spirit is poured out, the cases in God’s church are already decided. Acts 3:19.

8. The Sunday Decree is the final test. "The Sabbath will be the great test of loyalty, for it is the point of truth especially controverted. When the final test shall be brought to bear upon men, then the line of distinction will be drawn between those who serve God and those who serve Him not. While the observance of the false sabbath in compliance with the law of the state, contrary to the fourth commandment, will be an avowal of allegiance to a power that is in opposition to God, the keeping of the true Sabbath, in obedience to God’s law, is an evidence of loyalty to the Creator. While one class, by accepting the sign of submission to earthly powers, receive the mark of the beast, the other choosing the token of allegiance to divine authority, receive the seal of God." Great Controversy, p. 605:2.

a. It is called the final test when the Sabbath is the great test of loyalty; or the Sabbath/Sunday Issue.

b. The Sunday decree cannot be urged upon the people until all have received sufficient light and the message is preached more fully. "But not one is made to suffer the wrath of God until the truth has been brought home to his mind and conscience, and has been rejected. There are many who have never had an opportunity to hear the special truths for this time. The obligation of the fourth commandment has never been set before them in its true light. He who reads every heart and tries every motive will leave none who desire a knowledge of the truth, to be deceived as to the issues of the controversy. The decree is not to be urged upon the people blindly. Everyone is to have sufficient light to make his decision intelligently." Great Controversy, p. 605:1.

c. At the close of probation consider: "It is in a crisis that character is revealed. When the earnest voice proclaimed at midnight, ‘Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him,’ and the sleeping virgins were roused from their slumbers, it was seen who had made preparation for the event. Both parties were taken unawares; but one was prepared for the emergency, and the other was found without preparation. So now, a sudden and unlooked-for calamity, something that brings the soul face to face with death, will show whether there is any real faith in the promises of God. It will show whether the soul is sustained by grace. The great final test comes at the close of human probation, when it will be too late for the soul’s need to be supplied." Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 412:1.

9. "The great final test" [Universal Sunday Decree]. Why is it called the great final test?

a. Because there were previous tests before it. The test for God’s church began in 1844 and finishes just before the close of probation. ("I saw that Jesus had shut the door of the holy place, and no man can open it; and that He had opened the door into the most holy, and no man can shut it (Revelation 3:7, 8); and that since Jesus has opened the door into the most holy place, which contains the ark, the commandments have been shining out to God’s people, and they are being tested on the Sabbath question.

"I saw that the present test on the Sabbath could not come until the mediation of Jesus in the holy place was finished and He had passed within the second veil; therefore Christians who fell asleep before the door was opened into the most holy, when the midnight cry was finished, at the seventh month, 1844, and who had not kept the true Sabbath, now rest in hope; for they had not the light and the test on the Sabbath which we now have since that door was opened. I saw that Satan was tempting some of God’s people on this point. Because so many good Christians have fallen asleep in the triumphs of faith and have not kept the true Sabbath, they were doubting about its being a test for us now." Early Writings, p. 42:2-43:0.)

b. After the Sunday Decree, there will be no more time for the work of reformation.

c. Then is the final time to work for other souls in other folds. John 10:16.

d. Back to the universal Sunday decree. It is the final test. No more events are to take place before the close of probation—except just to come out and join the remnant. "I was shown that if God’s people make no efforts on their part, but wait for the refreshing to come upon them and remove their wrongs and correct their errors; if they depend upon that to cleanse them from filthiness of the flesh and spirit, and fit them to engage in the loud cry of the third angel, they will be found wanting. The refreshing or power of God comes only on those who have prepared themselves for it by doing the work which God bids them, namely, cleansing themselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." Vol. 1, Testimonies for the Church, p. 619:1.

1. "The time is not far distant when the test will come to every soul. The mark of the beast will be urged upon us." Vol. 5, Testimonies for the Church, p. 81:1.—This is the final test.

a. Mark of the beast is not urged till all intelligently understand the issue. "The decree is not to be urged upon the people blindly. Everyone is to have sufficient light to make his decision intelligently." Great Controversy, p. 605:1.

b. After this every soul will be tested.

2. Now comes the other class. "Those who have step by step. . . ."

a. This is the large class of Seventh-day Adventist’s in Great Controversy, p. 608:2. "As the storm approaches, a large class who have professed faith in the third angel’s message, but have not been sanctified through obedience to the truth, abandon their position and join the ranks of the opposition. By uniting with the world and partaking of its spirit, they have come to view matters in nearly the same light; and when the test is brought, they are prepared to choose the easy, popular side."

b. "In this time, the gold will be separated from the dross in the church." Vol. 5, Testimonies, p. 81:1.

c. After the Sunday decree is issued, there is a Seventh-day Adventist church in which was contained both the gold and the dross.

3. When the gold is separated from the dross, then where will it go? "I saw that God has honest children among the nominal Adventists and the fallen churches, and before the plagues shall be poured out, ministers and people will be called out from these churches and will gladly receive the truth. Satan knows this; and before the loud cry of the third angel is given, he raises an excitement in these religious bodies, that those who have rejected the truth may think that God is with them. He hopes to deceive the honest and lead them to think that God is still working for the churches. But the light will shine, and all who are honest will leave the fallen churches, and take their stand with the remnant." Early Writings, p. 261:1.

a. There are three classes.

b. From the nominal Adventists and the fallen churches, the ministers and the people will be given the final calling out.

c. Why do they need to be called out of these churches?

d. When did the remnant come to existence?

e. Who are the fallen churches? All Sunday keeping ones.

1. Closing events are quoted in order in "When the third angel’s message closes, mercy no longer pleads for the guilty inhabitants of the earth. The people of God have accomplished their work. They have received ‘the latter rain,’ ‘the refreshing from the presence of the Lord,’ and they are prepared for the trying hour before them. Angels are hastening to and fro in heaven. An angel returning from the earth announces that his work is done; the final test has been brought upon the world, and all who have proved themselves loyal to the divine precepts have received ‘the seal of the living God.’ Then Jesus ceases His intercession in the sanctuary above. He lifts His hands and with a loud voice says, ‘It is done;’ and all the angelic host lay off their crowns as He makes the solemn announcement: ‘He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.’ Revelation 22:11. Every case has been decided for life or death. Christ has made the atonement for His people and blotted out their sins. The number of His subjects is made up; ‘the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven,’ is about to be given to the heirs of salvation, and Jesus is to reign as King of kings and Lord of lords." Great Controversy, p. 613:2.

a. What is their Work? "I was shown that if God’s people make no efforts on their part, but wait for the refreshing to come upon them and remove their wrongs and correct their errors; if they depend upon that to cleanse them from filthiness of the flesh and spirit, and fit them to engage in the loud cry of the third angel, they will be found wanting. The refreshing or power of God comes only on those who have prepared themselves for it by doing the work which God bids them, namely, cleansing themselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." Vol. 1, Testimonies for the Church, p. 619:1.

b. After they have accomplished their work, then: Great Controversy, p. 613-614.

2. "Wonderful events are soon to open upon the world. The end of all things is at hand. The time of trouble is about to come upon the people of God. Then it is the decree will go forth forbidding those who keep the Sabbath of the Lord to buy or sell, and threatening them with punishment, and even death, if they do not observe the first day of the week as the Sabbath.

"And at that time shall Michael stand up." Review and Herald, November 19, 1908 (Week of Prayer edition): 12, 13.

a. When does Michael stand up?: At the close of probation; there is no more time then for any work or repentance or reformation.

b. "When Jesus leaves the most holy, His restraining Spirit is withdrawn from rulers and people. They are left to the control of evil angels. Then such laws will be made by the counsel and direction of Satan, that unless time should be very short, no flesh could be saved." Vol. 1, Testimonies for the Church, p. 204:0.

1. Warning regarding the faithful ministers being removed. "Unsanctified ministers are arraying themselves against God. They are praising Christ and the god of this world in the same breath. While professedly they receive Christ, they embrace Barabbas, and by their actions say, ‘Not this Man, but Barabbas.’ Let all who read these lines, take heed. Satan has made his boast of what he can do. He thinks to dissolve the unity which Christ prayed might exist in His church. He says, ‘I will go forth and be a lying spirit to deceive those that I can, to criticize, and condemn, and falsify.’ Let the sin of deceit and false witness be entertained by a church that has had great light, great evidence, and that church will discard the message the Lord has sent, and receive the most unreasonable assertions and false suppositions and false theories. Satan laughs at their folly, for he knows what truth is.

"Many will stand in our pulpits with the torch of false prophecy in their hands, kindled from the hellish torch of Satan. If doubts and unbelief are cherished, the faithful ministers will be removed from the people who think they know so much. ‘If thou hadst known,’ said Christ, ‘even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.’" Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 409:2-410:0.

a. When this takes place, the Seventh-day Adventist church will no longer bear the ark. "The patience of God has an object, but you are defeating it. He is allowing a state of things to come that you would fain see counteracted by and by, but it will be too late. God commanded Elijah to anoint the cruel and deceitful Hazael king over Syria, that he might be a scourge to idolatrous Israel. Who knows whether God will not give you up to the deceptions you love? Who knows but that the preachers who are faithful, firm, and true may be the last who shall offer the gospel of peace to our unthankful churches? It may be that the destroyers are already training under the hand of Satan and only wait the departure of a few more standard-bearers to take their places, and with the voice of the false prophet cry, Peace, peace,’ when the Lord hath not spoken peace. I seldom weep, but now I find my eyes blinded with tears; they are falling upon my paper as I write. It may be that erelong all prophesyings among us will be at an end, and the voice which has stirred the people may no longer disturb their carnal slumbers.

"When God shall work His strange work on the earth, when holy hands bear the ark no longer, woe will be upon the people." Vol. 5, Testimonies for the Church, pp. 77:1-78:0.

2. But God has a people who will bear the ark of God. "Satan has laid every measure possible that nothing shall come among us as a people to reprove and rebuke us, and exhort us to put away our errors. But there is a people who will bear the ark of God. Some will go out from among us who will bear the ark no longer. But these cannot make walls to obstruct the truth; for it will go onward and upward to the end. In the past God has raised up men, and He still has men of opportunity waiting, prepared to do His bidding—men who will go through restrictions which are only as walls daubed with untempered mortar. When God puts His Spirit upon men, they will work. They will proclaim the word of the Lord; they will lift up their voice like a trumpet. The truth will not be diminished or lose its power in their hands. They will show the people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sins." Testimonies to Ministers, p. 411:1.