1900
New Year Sermon
Rev. Alford Porter last evening delivered a sermon on the topic of "The Angel of Time" at the First Baptist Church. He said in part:
Rev. 10:5-6: "And the angel which I saw standing upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his right hand to heaven and sware by Him that liveth forever and ever that there shall be time no longer."
"Wonderful" is the only word for this mystic book of Revelation, and wonderful has been its effect upon the minds of men. It has made popes shudder and toss upon their midnight-pillows. It has made conquerors tremble and pale as they thought they saw their own doom speeding down upon them out of the open mouths of the vials of wrath. It has made all men dizzy and awe-struck by its succession of rushing noises and colossal figures. Of all that procession there is no scene more thrilling, no figure more majestic than appears in our text.
It represents a mighty angel, with a face like the sun and feet like pillars of flame, crowned with the token of mercy — a rainbow, and clothed with the emblem of judgment — a cloud. The mighty Colossus stands with his left foot on the land and his right foot on the sea; his left hand holds an open Bible, while his right hand is uplifted to heaven appealing to God for ratification of his solemn oath that "there shall be time no longer."
On this solemn night let the vision of the angel of time confront us with his assertion that time is about to end, and eternity about to begin.
Time, as far as this passing year is concerned, shall soon be no longer. The year is winging to its close, and is even now hovering on the brink of eternity. It has seen its last sunrise, its last sunset. How rapid its passage! Stay, stay, thou flying year; stay thy swift wings, for I am bewildered by this giddy sound, and would pause for a space and breathe." The winged year sweeps on, and will not stop. Turn now, everyone, and bid good-bye to the passing year. Good-bye to the companion who one year ago was an angel in your home and tonight is an angel in the long home! Good-bye to the child that twelve months ago was clasped in your arms and tonight is cradled in the everlasting arms! Good-bye to our Christian brothers who walked these aisles with us and tonight are walking the aisles of the heavenly temple! Good-bye! Good-bye! Year, thy comedy and thy tragedy alike are ended. Vanish! We shall meet but once again, when they record is unfolded in the dazzling light of the all-judging day.
Time, considered as a whole, shall be no longer. Time is the age of the visible world. It began with the flat, "Let there be light," and it will end with the summons, "Come, ye blessed of my Father," and "Depart, ye cursed." Time is the age of this visible creation, but eternity is the age of God: "Before time was, and when time shall end, He is." The age of time is winding up by minutes, days and years. On, on it is hastening, soon to be swallowed up in eternity. For aught we know the hammer is about to strike the last hour, and shiver the universe asunder.
When Lord Nelson was buried in St. Paul's cathedral in London, it is said that the heart of all England was touched to the core. The procession passed on amid a nation's sobs. There were thirty trumpeters stationed at the door of the cathedral, with trumpets at hand, waiting for the signal, and when the illustrious dead arrived at the gates these thirty trumpeters gave one united blast, and then all was silent. Yet the dead warrior slept right on. But none shall sleep when the trumpet that shall call all men to judgment shall sound in our ears. The clock of the universe has struck 8, 9, 10, 11. It shall strike once more, and time shall be no longer.
Time, as far as each one here present is concerned, shall soon be no longer. From life's beginning we have been on the borderland of eternity. With one hand the mother touches the cradle and with the other hand the tomb. The fragile floor of our life is built upon eternity. Look at the cracks! You can see eternity shining through.
"Great God, on what a slender thread
Hang everlasting things."
How frail our tenure of time, which above and beneath us is an eternity so vast that arithmetic has not figures enough to express its length or breadth or depth or height.
We are always complaining our days are so few, yet squandering them as though there were no end of them. Napoleon beat the Austrians because they never knew the value of time. While they dawdled he overthrew them. The devil will defeat some of you, I fear, for the same reason. See those incandescent lights! One of them awhile ago burned out. A little while ago, and it was blazing like the rest; but it is gone. And where will you be, my hearers, when the fires of your life have burned out like that vanished spark? Let us cry, as did Bunyan, stopping our ears to earth's siren voices, "Life, life, eternal life."
"There's an end to all that the world can give,
When the house we build shall fall;
How great is the wreck and the ruin then,
When the dark-flood swallows all."
—Cedar Rapids Evening Gazette, Cedar Rapids, IA, Jan. 1, 1900, p. 5.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Thought for the Week
1950'Blood of the Lamb' Price of Redemption
In the last book of the Bible, the book of Revelation, the Lamb of God is the dominant personality. The Lamb, standing as though he had been slain, opens the Seven-sealed Book, of human destiny. The Lamb makes war on the Beast and all the enemies of God. The terror of the judgment is the wrath of the Lamb. The followers of Christ overcame Satan through the Blood of the Lamb. The ten thousand times ten thousand in Heaven sing their praises to the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
The Redeemed are they whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life.
Here in this passage from which we take the text the company of the saved are they who have washed their robes and made them white in the Blood of the Lamb.
Here, then, we have the sublime truth of the Atonement, what Christ did for us on the Cross, and how the Blood of the Lamb, that is Christ offered for our sins, is the ground for our pardon and forgiveness; how it redeems us from the bondage of sin, reconciles us to God, and cleanses our souls from the stain of sin.
The first salutation given to Christ by man, (was) "Behold the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world." The Lamb of God as He always appears in the Bible is the Son of God, our Redeemer. This truth is the length, and the breadth and the depth and the height of the Christian faith.
What the blood does? I shall mention four things the blood does:
1. The Blood of the Lamb, Redeems us.
2. The Blood of the Lamb, Cleanses us.
3. The Blood of the Lamb, Justifies us.
4. The Blood of the Lamb, Reconciles us.
The precious Blood of Christ was the price paid for our redemption. Jesus said that He came to lay down His life a ransom, a redemption, for many; and the Apostle Peter said that "We have been redeemed, not with corruptible things as silver and gold, but with the precious Blood of Christ, as of a Lamb without blemish and without spot."
Every believer in Jesus has an obligation to Him and to His Church. We have no right to say no to the demands of Christian service; and the reason is that given by St. Paul, when he said, "Ye are not your own. Ye have been bought with a price."
Friends, if you have not accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour, if you are an unsaved person, allow me to point you to the Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world. If we confess our sin, he is just and faithful to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
And here in this great passage from the Apocalypse, the Redeemed who stand in the presence of God are described as those who have "washed their robes and made them white in the Blood of the Lamb."
By REV. B. E. JONES,
Grant Chapel, A. M. E. Church.
Written for the Call of the Church.
--Long Beach Press-Telegram, Long Beach, CA, June 10, 1950, p. 8.
Dr. Leon Tucker Gives Third Talk On Revelations
1925
The third of a series of sermons on the book of Revelations was delivered by Dr. Leon Tucker at the First Evangelical church last night.
"The book of Revelation is an uplifted veil," Dr. Tucker said. "It deals with things that are to come. It is the completion of every other book in the Bible, or in other words the book of consummation. God gave it to Christ, Christ gave it to an angel, an angel gave it to John, and John gave it to his servants. Some people believe the book of Revelation to be folklore or a fable, but I know that John did not borrow it from the heathen."
"I know that salvation by regeneration is the only restorative and only remedy under heaven," he continued. "I don't spend my time in reforms. I am too busy telling men of a new life in Christ."
Tomorrow night Dr. Tucker's subject will be, "The Four Horsemen the Apocalypse."
—Olean Times, Olean, NY, April 2, 1925, p. 3.
Note: The article puts the 's' on Revelation. I took it out of Dr. Tucker's quote, since he was probably smart enough not actually to have added it.
The third of a series of sermons on the book of Revelations was delivered by Dr. Leon Tucker at the First Evangelical church last night.
"The book of Revelation is an uplifted veil," Dr. Tucker said. "It deals with things that are to come. It is the completion of every other book in the Bible, or in other words the book of consummation. God gave it to Christ, Christ gave it to an angel, an angel gave it to John, and John gave it to his servants. Some people believe the book of Revelation to be folklore or a fable, but I know that John did not borrow it from the heathen."
"I know that salvation by regeneration is the only restorative and only remedy under heaven," he continued. "I don't spend my time in reforms. I am too busy telling men of a new life in Christ."
Tomorrow night Dr. Tucker's subject will be, "The Four Horsemen the Apocalypse."
—Olean Times, Olean, NY, April 2, 1925, p. 3.
Note: The article puts the 's' on Revelation. I took it out of Dr. Tucker's quote, since he was probably smart enough not actually to have added it.
A Disillusioned World Needs Support of True Faith
By WILLIAM T. ELLIS and EARL L. DOUGLASS
Nothing reveals the audacity of the Bible better than its picture of heaven. Jasper columns and streets of gold! How far removed these concepts are from the ordinary thoughts of men. But we must always bear in mind that the apostle John was in these latter verses of Revelation trying to describe infinite reality in finite terms. The best he could do was to describe his vision in terms of a brilliant and shining glory far surpassing anything man had ever before looked upon.
New Lesson From Old Book
There are a thousand beautiful reflections to be drawn incidentally from the study of Revelation: the possibility of making a Patmos of every prison experience of the soul; the visions that come to one who is "in the spirit on the Lord's day;" the fellowship of suffering which all Christians may share with the saints, living and dead, and with the Saviour Himself. "Lessons," however, must wait on the facts. Unless we get a grasp upon the main purposes of the book and the conditions attendant upon its writing, we shall miss the real significance of the teaching. So the first truth to be borne in mind is that this Christian leader, the apostle John, the beloved, was in prison on the Isle of Patmos for his faith in Jesus. His churches were suffering worse than he. The fires of persecution were raging fiercely. Nero had bared his cruel sword to the Christians, and now Domitian, in turn, had interdicted the new faith. All the horrors of Roman martyrdom were being undergone by the friends of Christ. It seemed as if heathen hate might really wipe out the Church of Christ.
John was giving them comfort in their darkest hour. In the Book of Revelation he wrote to buoy their sinking hearts. For the encouragement of their faith, John drew aside the veil that shut off the near and distant future. He invited men to look upon the vision he hid beheld — Christ triumphant, the Church victorious, her enemies cast down.
Heaven A Reality
This is a significant passage of Scripture to study on the last Sunday of the year. The modern Christian thinks all too little of heaven. Often the Biblical promises have been caricatured and John's celestial vision spoken of in such jocular terms that many believers know but little of what the Bible teaches about heaven and care less. Many of them shrug their shoulders and say, "Heaven is not a place but a state." But Jesus declared, "I go to prepare a place for you." This glorious description by John of what he saw on the Isle of Patmos is not the description of a state of mind but of supernatural realities, so far above human experience that human language cannot adequately describe it nor the human mind comprehend it. But we can realize what it means utterly to be free of pain, to have our tears dried forever, our wounds healed.
The hope of an eternal life with Christ inspired the early Christian believer and strengthened him to endure persecution fantastic in its horrors. The hope of a heaven which will give full development of all our latent powers and eternal rescue from life's ravages is meant to be our support today.
As the world shakes about us; as Communism with its atheistic teachings and its cruel tyranny so like Nero's pushes itself impudently into the foreground; as high wages, full employment, and lush dividends send our population tripping gaily along the pathways of pleasure with small regard for moral standards, let us ponder the Biblical assurance that there will someday be an end of all these things. Spiritual values are destined to triumph. The joy and security of heaven will be the precious possession of those who have been faithful.
As if delighting to set at naught all common conceptions, the Revelation's final portrayal of the triumph and bliss of the kingdom of Christ is a city, and a city without a church. To our way of thinking, the Church is the saving salt of the city, the best thing about a bad case. Nevertheless, in heaven there will be no Church as we know the Church. But all that the Church typifies and seeks will be there. The spiritual values which here are sporadic and local will there be continuous and general.
The purpose of the Book of Revelation is to portray the final triumph of the Gospel of Christ. All the wealth of oriental imagery is here employed to depict the surpassing excellence of the glory that is in store for the friends of Christ. The Book of Revelation is an illustration of the truth that "Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him."
—Logansport Press, Logansport, IN, Dec. 27, 1947, p. 4.
Nothing reveals the audacity of the Bible better than its picture of heaven. Jasper columns and streets of gold! How far removed these concepts are from the ordinary thoughts of men. But we must always bear in mind that the apostle John was in these latter verses of Revelation trying to describe infinite reality in finite terms. The best he could do was to describe his vision in terms of a brilliant and shining glory far surpassing anything man had ever before looked upon.
New Lesson From Old Book
There are a thousand beautiful reflections to be drawn incidentally from the study of Revelation: the possibility of making a Patmos of every prison experience of the soul; the visions that come to one who is "in the spirit on the Lord's day;" the fellowship of suffering which all Christians may share with the saints, living and dead, and with the Saviour Himself. "Lessons," however, must wait on the facts. Unless we get a grasp upon the main purposes of the book and the conditions attendant upon its writing, we shall miss the real significance of the teaching. So the first truth to be borne in mind is that this Christian leader, the apostle John, the beloved, was in prison on the Isle of Patmos for his faith in Jesus. His churches were suffering worse than he. The fires of persecution were raging fiercely. Nero had bared his cruel sword to the Christians, and now Domitian, in turn, had interdicted the new faith. All the horrors of Roman martyrdom were being undergone by the friends of Christ. It seemed as if heathen hate might really wipe out the Church of Christ.
John was giving them comfort in their darkest hour. In the Book of Revelation he wrote to buoy their sinking hearts. For the encouragement of their faith, John drew aside the veil that shut off the near and distant future. He invited men to look upon the vision he hid beheld — Christ triumphant, the Church victorious, her enemies cast down.
Heaven A Reality
This is a significant passage of Scripture to study on the last Sunday of the year. The modern Christian thinks all too little of heaven. Often the Biblical promises have been caricatured and John's celestial vision spoken of in such jocular terms that many believers know but little of what the Bible teaches about heaven and care less. Many of them shrug their shoulders and say, "Heaven is not a place but a state." But Jesus declared, "I go to prepare a place for you." This glorious description by John of what he saw on the Isle of Patmos is not the description of a state of mind but of supernatural realities, so far above human experience that human language cannot adequately describe it nor the human mind comprehend it. But we can realize what it means utterly to be free of pain, to have our tears dried forever, our wounds healed.
The hope of an eternal life with Christ inspired the early Christian believer and strengthened him to endure persecution fantastic in its horrors. The hope of a heaven which will give full development of all our latent powers and eternal rescue from life's ravages is meant to be our support today.
As the world shakes about us; as Communism with its atheistic teachings and its cruel tyranny so like Nero's pushes itself impudently into the foreground; as high wages, full employment, and lush dividends send our population tripping gaily along the pathways of pleasure with small regard for moral standards, let us ponder the Biblical assurance that there will someday be an end of all these things. Spiritual values are destined to triumph. The joy and security of heaven will be the precious possession of those who have been faithful.
As if delighting to set at naught all common conceptions, the Revelation's final portrayal of the triumph and bliss of the kingdom of Christ is a city, and a city without a church. To our way of thinking, the Church is the saving salt of the city, the best thing about a bad case. Nevertheless, in heaven there will be no Church as we know the Church. But all that the Church typifies and seeks will be there. The spiritual values which here are sporadic and local will there be continuous and general.
The purpose of the Book of Revelation is to portray the final triumph of the Gospel of Christ. All the wealth of oriental imagery is here employed to depict the surpassing excellence of the glory that is in store for the friends of Christ. The Book of Revelation is an illustration of the truth that "Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him."
—Logansport Press, Logansport, IN, Dec. 27, 1947, p. 4.
Battle To Bring End of World
1913
Evangelist McComas Speaks at Tabernacle Tent Meeting
"The Turk will leave Europe and go to Jerusalem. The nations will plunge into the great battle of Armageddon, which brings the end of the world and the second coming of Christ." This statement was made, by Evangelist McComas at the tabernacle tent last evening, to a large audience. He said: "The reason for this statement is the end of this world will come some time, and before this great event Christ gave us this great message in Luke 21:25: 'And there shall be signs in the sun, moon and stars and upon the earth distress of nations.' Again, in Revelation 11:18, the prophet says: 'And the nations were angry and Thy wrath is come'. But in this time of profoundest peace, what indicates that the nations are angry? Joel 3:9 to 18, 'Prepare war, wake up the mighty men, let all the men of war draw near'. And at this time, when immense preparation for war is being made, the eyes of all the nations will be turned toward the Ottoman Empire. 'Let the heathen be awakened and come up to the valley of Jehoshaphat'. This valley is just outside of Jerusalem, the future home for a short time of the old Sultan, and now the nations that have been contented to sleep for centuries have awakened.
"Says China: 'In the name of Christ, you have sounded the call to arms; in the name of Confucius, we respond. Oh do not doubt that we shall learn the lesson, and woe to Europe when we have acquired it. You are arming a nation of four million. A nation which until you came had no better wish than to live at peace with itself and all the World.' We find Uncle Sam last year spending a hundred and thirty two million dollars to prepare for war and at the same time spending seven and one-half millions to spread the gospel of peace of all the world. As Christ looked down to the end of time and saw the bloodiest conflict that is ever to take place on this earth, He saw the Turk playing a very prominent part in the closing up of this earth's history, on the stage before all the world. So in Rev. 16:12 to 16: the Euphrates river is to be dried up, which represents Turkey, and the drying up of this river prepares the World for the great Armageddon. The territory of the Turk has been sliced off, piece by piece, until today the Balkan states are just ready to push the Sultan off into the Bosphorus, and then, says the prophet, Dan. 11:45: 'He shall plant the tabernacles of his palace between the seas in the glorious holy mountain (or Jerusalem), yet he (the Turk) shall come to his end and none shall help him. And at that time shall Michael (Christ) 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. And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life and some to shame and everlasting contempt.'"
The subject at the tent tonight will be, "Will the Jews Return to Jerusalem?" A welcome is extended to all.
—The Evening Gazette, Cedar Rapids, IA, July 28, 1913, p. 7.
Evangelist McComas Speaks at Tabernacle Tent Meeting
"The Turk will leave Europe and go to Jerusalem. The nations will plunge into the great battle of Armageddon, which brings the end of the world and the second coming of Christ." This statement was made, by Evangelist McComas at the tabernacle tent last evening, to a large audience. He said: "The reason for this statement is the end of this world will come some time, and before this great event Christ gave us this great message in Luke 21:25: 'And there shall be signs in the sun, moon and stars and upon the earth distress of nations.' Again, in Revelation 11:18, the prophet says: 'And the nations were angry and Thy wrath is come'. But in this time of profoundest peace, what indicates that the nations are angry? Joel 3:9 to 18, 'Prepare war, wake up the mighty men, let all the men of war draw near'. And at this time, when immense preparation for war is being made, the eyes of all the nations will be turned toward the Ottoman Empire. 'Let the heathen be awakened and come up to the valley of Jehoshaphat'. This valley is just outside of Jerusalem, the future home for a short time of the old Sultan, and now the nations that have been contented to sleep for centuries have awakened.
"Says China: 'In the name of Christ, you have sounded the call to arms; in the name of Confucius, we respond. Oh do not doubt that we shall learn the lesson, and woe to Europe when we have acquired it. You are arming a nation of four million. A nation which until you came had no better wish than to live at peace with itself and all the World.' We find Uncle Sam last year spending a hundred and thirty two million dollars to prepare for war and at the same time spending seven and one-half millions to spread the gospel of peace of all the world. As Christ looked down to the end of time and saw the bloodiest conflict that is ever to take place on this earth, He saw the Turk playing a very prominent part in the closing up of this earth's history, on the stage before all the world. So in Rev. 16:12 to 16: the Euphrates river is to be dried up, which represents Turkey, and the drying up of this river prepares the World for the great Armageddon. The territory of the Turk has been sliced off, piece by piece, until today the Balkan states are just ready to push the Sultan off into the Bosphorus, and then, says the prophet, Dan. 11:45: 'He shall plant the tabernacles of his palace between the seas in the glorious holy mountain (or Jerusalem), yet he (the Turk) shall come to his end and none shall help him. And at that time shall Michael (Christ) 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. And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life and some to shame and everlasting contempt.'"
The subject at the tent tonight will be, "Will the Jews Return to Jerusalem?" A welcome is extended to all.
—The Evening Gazette, Cedar Rapids, IA, July 28, 1913, p. 7.
Truth for Today
1952
LET'S ASK THE BIBLE
Natalie became very concerned at the first threat of atomic war and made a firm resolve to "give up her sins" because "no one knew what the next hour would bring." But now, there has been so much talk and so little happening that Natalie "believes it will be all right to go on as we are for a while and enjoy life as usual."
Apocalypse 10:5-6; 12:1,5,10,11: And the angel, whom I saw standing upon the sea and upon the earth, lifted up his hand to heaven, And he swore by Him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things which are therein; and the earth, and the sea, and the things therein; That time shall be no longer. And a great sign appeared in the heavens, A woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars, . . . And she brought forth a man Child, who was to rule all nations with an iron rod and her Son was taken up to God, and to His throne. . . . And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ.
The Apostle John had the terrible last days of the earth shown to him by divine revelation. For centuries various alarmists predicted wrongly that these days had come, but few persons took any note of it. Now, however, the oldest and most conservative of religions declare that it is more than wise to prepare with all haste, for the time of utter destruction may be at hand. It is a sobering thought. God may avert this world disaster which we have brought upon ourselves if men amend their lives, give up their easy sins, ask pardon, and do sacrifices and good works for all their past offenses. Nineveh was to be destroyed in 40 days but when Jonah brought the news, the king told the people to do great penance and to give up the evil and iniquity in their hearts — and they did. Nineveh was spared.
—The Daily Mail, Hagerstown, MD, Feb. 11, 1952, p. 10.
LET'S ASK THE BIBLE
Natalie became very concerned at the first threat of atomic war and made a firm resolve to "give up her sins" because "no one knew what the next hour would bring." But now, there has been so much talk and so little happening that Natalie "believes it will be all right to go on as we are for a while and enjoy life as usual."
Apocalypse 10:5-6; 12:1,5,10,11: And the angel, whom I saw standing upon the sea and upon the earth, lifted up his hand to heaven, And he swore by Him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things which are therein; and the earth, and the sea, and the things therein; That time shall be no longer. And a great sign appeared in the heavens, A woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars, . . . And she brought forth a man Child, who was to rule all nations with an iron rod and her Son was taken up to God, and to His throne. . . . And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ.
The Apostle John had the terrible last days of the earth shown to him by divine revelation. For centuries various alarmists predicted wrongly that these days had come, but few persons took any note of it. Now, however, the oldest and most conservative of religions declare that it is more than wise to prepare with all haste, for the time of utter destruction may be at hand. It is a sobering thought. God may avert this world disaster which we have brought upon ourselves if men amend their lives, give up their easy sins, ask pardon, and do sacrifices and good works for all their past offenses. Nineveh was to be destroyed in 40 days but when Jonah brought the news, the king told the people to do great penance and to give up the evil and iniquity in their hearts — and they did. Nineveh was spared.
—The Daily Mail, Hagerstown, MD, Feb. 11, 1952, p. 10.
On the Book of Revelation
1901
The Rev. Wight, of Kalamazoo, Will Speak at First Presbyterian Church
The Rev. Wight, of Kalamazoo, Mich., will be heard this week at the First Presbyterian church in his lectures on the Book of Revelation, beginning Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 and continuing each afternoon and evening of the week up to and including Friday.
Subject for this evening will be "The Vials of Wrath." The Rev. Wight has made this book his special study during his theological course and since entering the ministry, and under his tuition the look has become a revelation indeed. All are most cordially invited to attend.
—Fort Wayne News, Fort Wayne, IN, June 18, 1901, p. 8.
The Rev. Wight, of Kalamazoo, Will Speak at First Presbyterian Church
The Rev. Wight, of Kalamazoo, Mich., will be heard this week at the First Presbyterian church in his lectures on the Book of Revelation, beginning Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 and continuing each afternoon and evening of the week up to and including Friday.
Subject for this evening will be "The Vials of Wrath." The Rev. Wight has made this book his special study during his theological course and since entering the ministry, and under his tuition the look has become a revelation indeed. All are most cordially invited to attend.
—Fort Wayne News, Fort Wayne, IN, June 18, 1901, p. 8.
Last Battle
1900
Muscatine Man Thinks End of the World is at Hand
The following communication speaks for itself:
To the Editor:
After the sixth angel poured out his vial John saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. * * * to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty, and he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue, Armageddon.
"Is China the Armageddon where the armies of all the nations of the earth are to he gathered to fight the last great battle of the world? I wonder the ministers do not preach more on the prophecies, which seem so plain. These are certainly the last days spoken of by Christ and the Apostles, according to the signs of the times.
Peter says: Knowing this, first, that these shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, and saying, where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. It is evident then that these are the last days, as that is the cry from pulpit to pulpit. They are not ready yet for the coming of our Lord, or the end of the world. They are walking after their own lusts — they like their salaries, and to be left alone to indulge in the comforts of life. This world is to them good enough to live in, therefore the cry of peace and safety has gone forth, and according to Paul — when they shall say peace and safety, then sudden destruction cometh upon them * * *, and they shall not escape.
"The Book of Revelation is so little understood. When they preach from any passages therein they speak as if what is written existed previously or at the time the Revelation was given to John when he was upon the Isle of Patmos. There never was a greater mistake. Not a single prophecy given by the angel to John had been fulfilled nor was fulfilled until many years after John's death. Look at the first chapter of Revelation, first verse. The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass — and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John, who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. John saw in vision the things that were to come to pass from that time all the way down to the end of the world. John was commanded to write the prophecies concerning the future of the church and its connection with the rise and fall of nations — the changes and counter-changes among the nations of the world, and how the church would be affected thereby.
Seven Stages.
John to the seven churches which are in Asia, is not addressed to the local church at each of those places named in Asia Minor, as much as it is addressed to the different states or stages of the church throughout the Christian dispensation all the way down to the time that Christ makes his second appearance at the end of time. I will leave this matter as a subject for an article on the churches for another time. Returning to secular and civil government, so often dominated by military power, we read in Rev. 11:18, and the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldst give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great — and shouldst destroy them which destroy the earth.
Coming back to the inquiry, and he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon, is not that prophecy now being fulfilled as the nations of the world are being gathered into the ports of China? The kings of the earth and of the whole world (will be gathered) to the battle of the great day of God Almighty — Rev. 16:14, and the wine press was trodden without the city, and blood came out of the wine press, even unto the horse bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs. — Rev. 14:20. Verily, is not China the place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon?
W. L. DEXTER. Muscatine, Iowa.
—Davenport Daily Leader, Davenport, IA, Aug. 5, 1900, p. 2.
Muscatine Man Thinks End of the World is at Hand
The following communication speaks for itself:
To the Editor:
After the sixth angel poured out his vial John saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. * * * to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty, and he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue, Armageddon.
"Is China the Armageddon where the armies of all the nations of the earth are to he gathered to fight the last great battle of the world? I wonder the ministers do not preach more on the prophecies, which seem so plain. These are certainly the last days spoken of by Christ and the Apostles, according to the signs of the times.
Peter says: Knowing this, first, that these shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, and saying, where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. It is evident then that these are the last days, as that is the cry from pulpit to pulpit. They are not ready yet for the coming of our Lord, or the end of the world. They are walking after their own lusts — they like their salaries, and to be left alone to indulge in the comforts of life. This world is to them good enough to live in, therefore the cry of peace and safety has gone forth, and according to Paul — when they shall say peace and safety, then sudden destruction cometh upon them * * *, and they shall not escape.
"The Book of Revelation is so little understood. When they preach from any passages therein they speak as if what is written existed previously or at the time the Revelation was given to John when he was upon the Isle of Patmos. There never was a greater mistake. Not a single prophecy given by the angel to John had been fulfilled nor was fulfilled until many years after John's death. Look at the first chapter of Revelation, first verse. The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass — and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John, who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. John saw in vision the things that were to come to pass from that time all the way down to the end of the world. John was commanded to write the prophecies concerning the future of the church and its connection with the rise and fall of nations — the changes and counter-changes among the nations of the world, and how the church would be affected thereby.
Seven Stages.
John to the seven churches which are in Asia, is not addressed to the local church at each of those places named in Asia Minor, as much as it is addressed to the different states or stages of the church throughout the Christian dispensation all the way down to the time that Christ makes his second appearance at the end of time. I will leave this matter as a subject for an article on the churches for another time. Returning to secular and civil government, so often dominated by military power, we read in Rev. 11:18, and the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldst give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great — and shouldst destroy them which destroy the earth.
Coming back to the inquiry, and he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon, is not that prophecy now being fulfilled as the nations of the world are being gathered into the ports of China? The kings of the earth and of the whole world (will be gathered) to the battle of the great day of God Almighty — Rev. 16:14, and the wine press was trodden without the city, and blood came out of the wine press, even unto the horse bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs. — Rev. 14:20. Verily, is not China the place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon?
W. L. DEXTER. Muscatine, Iowa.
—Davenport Daily Leader, Davenport, IA, Aug. 5, 1900, p. 2.
Lenten Services for Seventh Day Adventist Church
1979
Services each evening are at 7:15 p.m.
Second Weekend-March 9-11: Friday - "Eden Restored" (Revelation 22) Saturday - "Making Man Whole"(Revelation 2 and 7) Sunday - "Dead But Not Buried" (Revelation 3) Third weekend - March 16-18: Friday- Birthday Presents" (Revelation 3); Saturday - "Working For The Government (Revelation 5); Sunday - "Are Dragons For Real?" (Revelation 12) Fourth weekend - March 23-25: Friday - "What Does God Expect?" (Revelation 14); Saturday - "The Rest Of It" (Revelation 14); Sunday -"Buried Once-Died Twice"(Revelation 20) Fifth weekend: March 30-31: Friday - "Babylon - Where Is It Today?" (Revelation 14); Saturday - (Revelation 14).
—The Ruthven Zipcode, Ruthven, IA, March 8, 1979, p. 1.
Services each evening are at 7:15 p.m.
Second Weekend-March 9-11: Friday - "Eden Restored" (Revelation 22) Saturday - "Making Man Whole"(Revelation 2 and 7) Sunday - "Dead But Not Buried" (Revelation 3) Third weekend - March 16-18: Friday- Birthday Presents" (Revelation 3); Saturday - "Working For The Government (Revelation 5); Sunday - "Are Dragons For Real?" (Revelation 12) Fourth weekend - March 23-25: Friday - "What Does God Expect?" (Revelation 14); Saturday - "The Rest Of It" (Revelation 14); Sunday -"Buried Once-Died Twice"(Revelation 20) Fifth weekend: March 30-31: Friday - "Babylon - Where Is It Today?" (Revelation 14); Saturday - (Revelation 14).
—The Ruthven Zipcode, Ruthven, IA, March 8, 1979, p. 1.
A Treat Promised
1916
Dr. Tucker to Preach at Presbyterian Church Sunday
W. Leon Tucker will be the preacher at the Presbyterian church tomorrow at both services. His subject in the morning will be "A Corrupt Leper and Two Clean Birds." His subject in the evening will be "A Heifer Upon Its Haunches." This will be the last opportunity for Tyronians to hear this wonderful Bible teacher.
This evening Mr. Tucker will speak on the "European War in the Light of Prophecy." Does God have anything to say about the times in which we are living now? Do we know anything about our future and the future history of mankind? Do we know anything about the future of the earth on which we are dwelling now? Do you know what God means in the book of the Revelation by the White Horse? The Red Horse? The Black Horse? The Pale Horse? What do these figures mean in plain speech? Mr. Tucker will tell you tonight. Is the world growing better? Will man bring in the golden age? Is there a golden age coming for mankind?
—Tyrone Daily Herald, Tyrone, PA, Nov. 11, 1916, p. 2.
Dr. Tucker to Preach at Presbyterian Church Sunday
W. Leon Tucker will be the preacher at the Presbyterian church tomorrow at both services. His subject in the morning will be "A Corrupt Leper and Two Clean Birds." His subject in the evening will be "A Heifer Upon Its Haunches." This will be the last opportunity for Tyronians to hear this wonderful Bible teacher.
This evening Mr. Tucker will speak on the "European War in the Light of Prophecy." Does God have anything to say about the times in which we are living now? Do we know anything about our future and the future history of mankind? Do we know anything about the future of the earth on which we are dwelling now? Do you know what God means in the book of the Revelation by the White Horse? The Red Horse? The Black Horse? The Pale Horse? What do these figures mean in plain speech? Mr. Tucker will tell you tonight. Is the world growing better? Will man bring in the golden age? Is there a golden age coming for mankind?
—Tyrone Daily Herald, Tyrone, PA, Nov. 11, 1916, p. 2.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Special Service at Holiness Church Sunday Afternoon
1934
The Pilgrim Holiness church of East Davis and Johnson streets is very thankful for the way the Lord is blessing in the revival meeting.
The messages Tuesday and yesterday evenings provoked thought on lines of right thinking. Surely the heavenly bread was cast upon the water.
Last evening Rev. P. F. Elliott preached from Revelation 6:17: For the great day of His wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?
He spoke of different great days in history, and majored on the great day of God's wrath. This was a message of God, that will never be forgotten by those who heard it.
Some who came forward for prayer were blessed.
—The Daily Times-News, Burlington, NC, April 19, 1934, p. 8.
The Pilgrim Holiness church of East Davis and Johnson streets is very thankful for the way the Lord is blessing in the revival meeting.
The messages Tuesday and yesterday evenings provoked thought on lines of right thinking. Surely the heavenly bread was cast upon the water.
Last evening Rev. P. F. Elliott preached from Revelation 6:17: For the great day of His wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?
He spoke of different great days in history, and majored on the great day of God's wrath. This was a message of God, that will never be forgotten by those who heard it.
Some who came forward for prayer were blessed.
—The Daily Times-News, Burlington, NC, April 19, 1934, p. 8.
A Treat Promised
1916
Dr. Tucker to Preach at Presbyterian Church Sunday
W. Leon Tucker will be the preacher at the Presbyterian church tomorrow at both services. His subject in the morning will be "A Corrupt Leper and Two Clean Birds." His subject in the evening will be "A Heifer Upon Its Haunches." This will be the last opportunity for Tyronians to hear this wonderful Bible teacher.
This evening Mr. Tucker will speak on the "European War in the Light of Prophecy." Does God have anything to say about the times in which we are living now? Do we know anything about our future and the future history of mankind? Do we know anything about the future of the earth on which we are dwelling now? Do you know what God means in the book of the Revelation by the White Horse? The Red Horse? The Black Horse? The Pale Horse? What do these figures mean in plain speech? Mr. Tucker will tell you tonight. Is the world growing better? Will man bring in the golden age? Is there a golden age coming for mankind?
Opportunity was represented among the Greeks by a man with a tuft of hair on his forehead and the back of his head was bald. This was what they meant. If you did not catch the man as he passed by, by the tuft of hair in front, when he had passed by, you could not catch him, because there was nothing to get hold of. These are days of opportunity to hear God's word. What have they meant to you? Have you availed yourself of these golden privileges. Go hear Mr. Tucker this evening and go tomorrow morning and evening.
—Tyrone Daily Herald, Tyrone, PA, Nov. 11, 1916, p. 2.
Dr. Tucker to Preach at Presbyterian Church Sunday
W. Leon Tucker will be the preacher at the Presbyterian church tomorrow at both services. His subject in the morning will be "A Corrupt Leper and Two Clean Birds." His subject in the evening will be "A Heifer Upon Its Haunches." This will be the last opportunity for Tyronians to hear this wonderful Bible teacher.
This evening Mr. Tucker will speak on the "European War in the Light of Prophecy." Does God have anything to say about the times in which we are living now? Do we know anything about our future and the future history of mankind? Do we know anything about the future of the earth on which we are dwelling now? Do you know what God means in the book of the Revelation by the White Horse? The Red Horse? The Black Horse? The Pale Horse? What do these figures mean in plain speech? Mr. Tucker will tell you tonight. Is the world growing better? Will man bring in the golden age? Is there a golden age coming for mankind?
Opportunity was represented among the Greeks by a man with a tuft of hair on his forehead and the back of his head was bald. This was what they meant. If you did not catch the man as he passed by, by the tuft of hair in front, when he had passed by, you could not catch him, because there was nothing to get hold of. These are days of opportunity to hear God's word. What have they meant to you? Have you availed yourself of these golden privileges. Go hear Mr. Tucker this evening and go tomorrow morning and evening.
—Tyrone Daily Herald, Tyrone, PA, Nov. 11, 1916, p. 2.
Equal To All Occasions
1915
Great Scotch Lawyer Never at a Loss for an Answer — Samples of Erskine's Wit
A writer in the British Weekly, reviewing a biography of Henry Erskine, lord advocate for Scotland, gives, among others, the following examples of his wit:
A brother advocate who had little or no practice died in embarrassed circumstances. His death was announced to Erskine by Sheriff Anstruther, who added, "They say he has left no effects." "That is not surprising," was the rejoinder. "As he had no causes, he could have no effects."
Erskine did not despise the lowly pun and once inscribed upon a tea-chest the words: Tu doces — Thou teachest.
The lord advocate maintained a great reverence for religion, though surrounded by friends of avowedly skeptic opinions. One of these was Hugo Arnot, an attenuated, lantern faced man, who usually rode a white horse as lanky and sepulchral-looking as himself. Returning from a Sunday afternoon ride, Arnot met Erskine coming from divine service, and called out to him: "Where have you been, Harry? What has a man of your sense to do consorting with a parcel of old women?" Adding with an extra sneer, "What, now, was your text?"
"Our text," replied Erskine, impressively, his eye fixed sternly the while upon the white horse and his rider, "was from the sixth chapter of the Book of Revelation and the eighth verse: "And I looked and beheld a Pale Horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him.'"
Great Scotch Lawyer Never at a Loss for an Answer — Samples of Erskine's Wit
A writer in the British Weekly, reviewing a biography of Henry Erskine, lord advocate for Scotland, gives, among others, the following examples of his wit:
A brother advocate who had little or no practice died in embarrassed circumstances. His death was announced to Erskine by Sheriff Anstruther, who added, "They say he has left no effects." "That is not surprising," was the rejoinder. "As he had no causes, he could have no effects."
Erskine did not despise the lowly pun and once inscribed upon a tea-chest the words: Tu doces — Thou teachest.
The lord advocate maintained a great reverence for religion, though surrounded by friends of avowedly skeptic opinions. One of these was Hugo Arnot, an attenuated, lantern faced man, who usually rode a white horse as lanky and sepulchral-looking as himself. Returning from a Sunday afternoon ride, Arnot met Erskine coming from divine service, and called out to him: "Where have you been, Harry? What has a man of your sense to do consorting with a parcel of old women?" Adding with an extra sneer, "What, now, was your text?"
"Our text," replied Erskine, impressively, his eye fixed sternly the while upon the white horse and his rider, "was from the sixth chapter of the Book of Revelation and the eighth verse: "And I looked and beheld a Pale Horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him.'"
The Quiet Hour
By Rev. L. A. Brunsting
God said that He would chain the devil. The chain is a symbol for binding one's influence. The Devil is a spirit and therefore the chain is spiritual but nevertheless real. Spiritual things are as real as material things and more so.
That binding of Satan would be for one-thousand years. Thousand in the Bible stands for completeness, it is made of the number ten three times. Ten times ten, times ten. A thousand years are as one day with the Lord and one day as a thousand years.
It was God's mercy for Job that Satan was bound then and it is our mercy from God that Satan is bound now. God binds Satan for every believer and He does it completely. That does not mean that no believer has no temptations from Satan. He does, but as with Peter, Christ prays for His own. And the Devil never gets any one of them.
Our boys left us with the ideals of Christ, the church and the Christian home. The devil will not get one of them. We fear those who kill the body but much more him who hath power over soul and body. We pray that all our boys may come back, but and if not, that their souls may go home with the Lord Jesus Christ.
Great enthusiasm has been high with extravagant grief over Lombard, the actress. She was a patriot. Was she also a Christian? Was she also a mother of a son in the army? Did she pray? We pray for the fathers and mothers who have lost their son on the battle field. May they sorrow but not as those who have no hope.
Jesus Christ is the rider of the white horse in Revelation 19. He is called the FAITHFUL and the TRUE. He has the sword of the Word of God. He is crowned with a crown of diadems. He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He is over all, the devil and all his works are under His direct control. But do not forget there is another rider also upon a white horse in Revelation 6. There are four judgments under the symbol of four horses. They are all one in cause and purpose, God judging the peoples. And the first rider upon a white horse is dangerous. He conquers many. He has a bow not a sword. He is given a crown but not of diadems. He imitates Christ upon the Real White Horse.
The antichrist is always imitating the real Christ. Antichrist is the false christ. And the false christ is made very much like to the real Christ. As a false coin is made like to a real coin. No one makes square coins, for they would be detected too easily.
Jesus in Matthew 24 records the same direction and order that John does in Revelation 6. First false Christ, the false white horse; then the war, the red horse; then the famines, the white horse of scarcity; and finally pestilences and death, the pale horse.
We are reminded of these things in these times. But God is God, And God has the devil chained completely. It may not so appear for us. From our angle of vision the devil is very much loosed. Job would have made that same observation in his day from his viewpoint. But from God's viewpoint the Devil was completely controlled.
Beware of the rider on the false white horse. The boldless, crossless, atonementless Christianity, Christless preaching of a so-called Christianity. Our boys and we are safe in the CHRIST OF REVELATION 19.
—Sioux Center News, Sioux Center, IA, Feb. 12, 1942, p. 3.
God said that He would chain the devil. The chain is a symbol for binding one's influence. The Devil is a spirit and therefore the chain is spiritual but nevertheless real. Spiritual things are as real as material things and more so.
That binding of Satan would be for one-thousand years. Thousand in the Bible stands for completeness, it is made of the number ten three times. Ten times ten, times ten. A thousand years are as one day with the Lord and one day as a thousand years.
It was God's mercy for Job that Satan was bound then and it is our mercy from God that Satan is bound now. God binds Satan for every believer and He does it completely. That does not mean that no believer has no temptations from Satan. He does, but as with Peter, Christ prays for His own. And the Devil never gets any one of them.
Our boys left us with the ideals of Christ, the church and the Christian home. The devil will not get one of them. We fear those who kill the body but much more him who hath power over soul and body. We pray that all our boys may come back, but and if not, that their souls may go home with the Lord Jesus Christ.
Great enthusiasm has been high with extravagant grief over Lombard, the actress. She was a patriot. Was she also a Christian? Was she also a mother of a son in the army? Did she pray? We pray for the fathers and mothers who have lost their son on the battle field. May they sorrow but not as those who have no hope.
Jesus Christ is the rider of the white horse in Revelation 19. He is called the FAITHFUL and the TRUE. He has the sword of the Word of God. He is crowned with a crown of diadems. He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He is over all, the devil and all his works are under His direct control. But do not forget there is another rider also upon a white horse in Revelation 6. There are four judgments under the symbol of four horses. They are all one in cause and purpose, God judging the peoples. And the first rider upon a white horse is dangerous. He conquers many. He has a bow not a sword. He is given a crown but not of diadems. He imitates Christ upon the Real White Horse.
The antichrist is always imitating the real Christ. Antichrist is the false christ. And the false christ is made very much like to the real Christ. As a false coin is made like to a real coin. No one makes square coins, for they would be detected too easily.
Jesus in Matthew 24 records the same direction and order that John does in Revelation 6. First false Christ, the false white horse; then the war, the red horse; then the famines, the white horse of scarcity; and finally pestilences and death, the pale horse.
We are reminded of these things in these times. But God is God, And God has the devil chained completely. It may not so appear for us. From our angle of vision the devil is very much loosed. Job would have made that same observation in his day from his viewpoint. But from God's viewpoint the Devil was completely controlled.
Beware of the rider on the false white horse. The boldless, crossless, atonementless Christianity, Christless preaching of a so-called Christianity. Our boys and we are safe in the CHRIST OF REVELATION 19.
—Sioux Center News, Sioux Center, IA, Feb. 12, 1942, p. 3.
The Rider on the White Horse (chapter 6)
Through the Lamb's opening of the seals, the darkest book has become most clear — the book of the world's history, in its enigmatical, fearful and gloomy phenomena. The very fact that the book is sealed is a ray of light for us; the highest hand has shut it up, intending that it shall presently be opened. Another hopeful fact is that the Seals are seven, i.e., the riddle is a holy one, and when it reaches its final term it shall meet with a festal solution. The loosing of the very first seal sheds a joyful light over the whole dark history of the world. The Rider upon the white horse rides at the head of all the others. The mere fact that the train is one of horsemen calms our apprehensions; the horses denote the rapid movement of great phenomena of life or death; no one of these phenomena hangs stationary over the world. They all, in their riders, have their governors. Wild though the course of some may seem on earth, their management, their direction, their career, and their limit are fixed in Heaven. But at the head of all is the Rider on the white horse. He is the Prince; the rest are esquires. Thus, all apparently fatal events must serve His purposes, and those purposes are still redemption and its diffusion through the world — not yet judgment, as at His forthgoing in ch. xix. 11. The horse of the first Rider is white; holy and pure as heavenly light is the dynamical fundamental movement which governs all other and more conspicuous movements. The Rider is Christ; to Him, therefore, to His power, His rule, all subsequent facts are subject; not only the three riders, His servants, but also the facts of the fifth, sixth, and seventh seals, the latter of which embraces all items subsequent to its opening. His bow is the bow with the sure arrows of the word; His wreath or crown is the diadem of His principial victory over all the power of the world and of darkness, and when He, notwithstanding, again goes forth to conquer, it is in order to the necessary development and consummation of His principial conflict and victory in a grand succession of world-historical conflicts and victories. He has no need of many attributes; a leading attribute is this: that the three other riders are not before, but behind Him.
—John Peter Lange, The Book of Revelation, 1874, pp. 164f.
—John Peter Lange, The Book of Revelation, 1874, pp. 164f.
Revelation: A Message to Persecuted Churches
1941
Highlights on the Sunday School lesson
By NEWMAN CAMPBELL
(The International Uniform Lesson on the above topic for Sept. 7 is Revelation 1-3, the Golden Text being Rev. 2:10, "Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee the crown of life.")
At the time of the writing of the book of Revelation by John, the beloved disciple, the Christians were being ruthlessly persecuted. They had had a period of comparative calm, but when the Roman emperor, Domitian, proclaimed emperor worship, the persecutions which had been confined to such prominent leaders as Paul and Peter were extended to everyone who would not buy his liberty by conforming to the Roman religion.
It was a dark time for the Christians, and John, the only disciple who had known Christ personally now left at the close of the first century, had been condemned to work in the "mines of Patmos," which are thought to have been marble quarries, as no mines were known on this island in the Aegean sea.
It was the Lord's Day, and John was, as he says, "in the Spirit," when he heard a great voice, like a trumpet, behind him. He turned to see who was speaking, and saw "seven golden candlesticks;
"And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle.
Hair White Like Snow
"His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and His eyes were as a flame of fire;
"And His feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and His voice as the sound of many waters.
"And He had in His right hand seven stars: and out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword: and His countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength."
The golden girdle symbolized righteousness; the white hair and head like snow or wool, were symbols of purity; brass is a symbol of judgment, and His feet being of that metal would indicate authority and victory over all His enemies.
John tells us that he "fell at His feet as dead," but that the apparition "laid His right hand on me, saying unto me Fear not; I am the first and the last;
"I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore. Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death."
Then John was told to write to the seven churches in Asia, for the seven golden candlesticks and the seven golden stars were the angels of these seven churches. We are not sure what is meant by the "angels" of the churches, but presume they were the elders or leaders.
Each church in turn was praised for the good it held and the work of its members, and each was told of their faults. The church at Ephesus was commended for its work, labor and patience, as well as other things, but told that they had "left their first love," the love of simplicity and purity.
Church at Smyrna Poor
The church at Smyrna was very poor — probably the members had been fined so that all their money and property had been taken away — reminding us of the present position of the Jews in the countries controlled by Germany. They were to fear none of the terrible things that were to befall them, but were to "be faithful unto death, and I will give thee the crown of life."
The church in Pergamos was praised for holding fast the name of Christ even "where Satan's seat is," but among them were men of pagan tendencies. They were told to repent.
Unto the angel of the church of Thyatira John was to write that the Lord "knew its works, charity, service and faith, and thy patience and thy works." But they harbored among them a bad woman named Jezebel, who should be cast out, or punishment would surely follow.
The church at Sardis was told to "be watchful and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found thy works perfect before God."
"I know thy works," was written to the church of Philadelphia, "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."
The church of the Laodiceans was "neither hot nor cold," which is probably true of many today. They were lukewarm, so were not doing the work for which they were founded. This church thought it was rich, He said, but was, in reality, "wretched, and miserable, and poor, blind and naked." "Buy of Me gold tried in fire," they were told. "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock; if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me. 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."
(Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.)
—The Lethbridge Herald, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, Sept. 6, 1941, p. 9.
Highlights on the Sunday School lesson
By NEWMAN CAMPBELL
(The International Uniform Lesson on the above topic for Sept. 7 is Revelation 1-3, the Golden Text being Rev. 2:10, "Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee the crown of life.")
At the time of the writing of the book of Revelation by John, the beloved disciple, the Christians were being ruthlessly persecuted. They had had a period of comparative calm, but when the Roman emperor, Domitian, proclaimed emperor worship, the persecutions which had been confined to such prominent leaders as Paul and Peter were extended to everyone who would not buy his liberty by conforming to the Roman religion.
It was a dark time for the Christians, and John, the only disciple who had known Christ personally now left at the close of the first century, had been condemned to work in the "mines of Patmos," which are thought to have been marble quarries, as no mines were known on this island in the Aegean sea.
It was the Lord's Day, and John was, as he says, "in the Spirit," when he heard a great voice, like a trumpet, behind him. He turned to see who was speaking, and saw "seven golden candlesticks;
"And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle.
Hair White Like Snow
"His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and His eyes were as a flame of fire;
"And His feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and His voice as the sound of many waters.
"And He had in His right hand seven stars: and out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword: and His countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength."
The golden girdle symbolized righteousness; the white hair and head like snow or wool, were symbols of purity; brass is a symbol of judgment, and His feet being of that metal would indicate authority and victory over all His enemies.
John tells us that he "fell at His feet as dead," but that the apparition "laid His right hand on me, saying unto me Fear not; I am the first and the last;
"I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore. Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death."
Then John was told to write to the seven churches in Asia, for the seven golden candlesticks and the seven golden stars were the angels of these seven churches. We are not sure what is meant by the "angels" of the churches, but presume they were the elders or leaders.
Each church in turn was praised for the good it held and the work of its members, and each was told of their faults. The church at Ephesus was commended for its work, labor and patience, as well as other things, but told that they had "left their first love," the love of simplicity and purity.
Church at Smyrna Poor
The church at Smyrna was very poor — probably the members had been fined so that all their money and property had been taken away — reminding us of the present position of the Jews in the countries controlled by Germany. They were to fear none of the terrible things that were to befall them, but were to "be faithful unto death, and I will give thee the crown of life."
The church in Pergamos was praised for holding fast the name of Christ even "where Satan's seat is," but among them were men of pagan tendencies. They were told to repent.
Unto the angel of the church of Thyatira John was to write that the Lord "knew its works, charity, service and faith, and thy patience and thy works." But they harbored among them a bad woman named Jezebel, who should be cast out, or punishment would surely follow.
The church at Sardis was told to "be watchful and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found thy works perfect before God."
"I know thy works," was written to the church of Philadelphia, "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."
The church of the Laodiceans was "neither hot nor cold," which is probably true of many today. They were lukewarm, so were not doing the work for which they were founded. This church thought it was rich, He said, but was, in reality, "wretched, and miserable, and poor, blind and naked." "Buy of Me gold tried in fire," they were told. "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock; if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me. 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."
(Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.)
—The Lethbridge Herald, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, Sept. 6, 1941, p. 9.
The Revelation of St. John the Divine
1939
At a time when men's minds are depressed by fear and uncertainty, the Sun-News offers the Book of Revelations as a note of cheer and hopefulness. It will be published serially. If you haven't read this Biblical glimpse into the future recently, you'll find it inspirational and intensely interesting.
—Las Cruces Sun-News, Las Cruces, NM, Oct. 15, 1939, p. 3.
Comment: 'Revelations' is what they said, with the 's,' which I'll leave it; it's a common enough mistake. As for the book of Revelation offered "as a note of cheer and hopefulness," remember, World War II is basically just underway. Still, "a note of cheer" seems an uncommon outlook.
At a time when men's minds are depressed by fear and uncertainty, the Sun-News offers the Book of Revelations as a note of cheer and hopefulness. It will be published serially. If you haven't read this Biblical glimpse into the future recently, you'll find it inspirational and intensely interesting.
—Las Cruces Sun-News, Las Cruces, NM, Oct. 15, 1939, p. 3.
Comment: 'Revelations' is what they said, with the 's,' which I'll leave it; it's a common enough mistake. As for the book of Revelation offered "as a note of cheer and hopefulness," remember, World War II is basically just underway. Still, "a note of cheer" seems an uncommon outlook.
Weekly Sermonette
1946
A meditation for today prepared by a Bradford minister under the auspices of the Bradford Ministerial association
April 6, 1946
By REV. A. SEON HENRI, D. D. Minister of the Copeland AME Church, Bradford
THEME — "CHRIST in the MIDST of HIS CHURCH."
THE TEXT: And I turned to see the voice that spake to me, And being turned, I saw seven candlesticks; one like unto the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the feet, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. — Book of Revelation 1:12, 13.
John, our brother, and companion in tribulation, was on the Isle of Patmos, because of his stand for Christianity. While in a state of ecstasy, he saw the victorious, triumphant Christ, the hair of whose head was like wool, and as white as snow. His eyes were as a flame of fire. His feet were like burnished brass, and his voice was like the sound of many waters. He held in His right hand the seven stars, and out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword. When John saw Him, he fell at His feet as dead, but the glorious figure said to him, as He laid his right hand upon him, Fear not; I am the First and the Last; I am He that liveth, and was dead; and behold, I Am alive forever more, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death."
Visions are usually associated with lofty altitudes and wide perspectives; but this particular vision came out of strain and stress. The church was being sorely persecuted by the Roman Emperor, Domitian. Many sealed their faith with their life blood. John himself, the author of our text, was placed upon the lonely island of Patmos because he bore witness that Jesus is God's SON. The vision reassured John, as he stood face to face with torture and persecution, that the Jesus whom he worshipped was not dead and helpless, but alive and all powerful forever more. This was the consciousness of the early church; this was the secret of the early Christian fathers. The Son of Man walked among the seven golden candlesticks as the church spread beyond the limits of Palestine into the Mediterranean world, thence throughout the Roman Empire. The church suffered under Nero, Caligula, Aurelius, Diocletian and many others, but Jesus was in the midst of her. He continued to walk until one day at the Milvian Bridge, the cross conquered. Finally, the last Pagan order of Rome said when he came to the end of the trail: "Alas, O Galilean, Thou hast conquered!"
Through the long night of the so-called Dark Ages, Jesus was in the midst of His church. He was the friend of John Huss of Bohemia. When Martin Luther nailed his ninety-five theses to the Wittenberg church door, Jesus stood by his side. He went with him into the Wartburg, and down to Worms. To Luther, he was a "mighty fortress." Jesus is in the church today; that is the Christian faith, and the secret of his dynamics. As the church inveighs against economic imperialism, exploitation of minority groups, peonage, and wage slavery, Jesus takes the lead. When the church generates wholesome moral influences, which cause municipalities to cast aside officials who league with vice, crime and racketeers, and disregard for law, Jesus feels that He did not die in vain. But it pains His soul when His church pussyfoots and sidesteps social questions and race issues. Jesus is just as much and just as truly in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks today, as when John saw him nearly two thousand years ago. He is just the same today. In the midst of the years, Jesus retains his magnetic power. He is yet the Savior of the race of men. He is the panacea for the ills of society, all social maladjustments. The church is powerful, glorious. Men need a helper, a redeemer, a savior, GOD. So long as there are disappointments, disillusionments, broken hopes, false friends, unrealized ideals, sin, sorrow and death in the world, there will be a place for the Seamless Robed One who walks among the seven golden candlesticks.
"Ride on Jesus;
Ride on conquering King —
Jesus Christ, the first and the last
No man works like Him!"
—The Bradford Era, Bradford, PA, April 6, 1946, p. 4.
A meditation for today prepared by a Bradford minister under the auspices of the Bradford Ministerial association
April 6, 1946
By REV. A. SEON HENRI, D. D. Minister of the Copeland AME Church, Bradford
THEME — "CHRIST in the MIDST of HIS CHURCH."
THE TEXT: And I turned to see the voice that spake to me, And being turned, I saw seven candlesticks; one like unto the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the feet, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. — Book of Revelation 1:12, 13.
John, our brother, and companion in tribulation, was on the Isle of Patmos, because of his stand for Christianity. While in a state of ecstasy, he saw the victorious, triumphant Christ, the hair of whose head was like wool, and as white as snow. His eyes were as a flame of fire. His feet were like burnished brass, and his voice was like the sound of many waters. He held in His right hand the seven stars, and out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword. When John saw Him, he fell at His feet as dead, but the glorious figure said to him, as He laid his right hand upon him, Fear not; I am the First and the Last; I am He that liveth, and was dead; and behold, I Am alive forever more, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death."
Visions are usually associated with lofty altitudes and wide perspectives; but this particular vision came out of strain and stress. The church was being sorely persecuted by the Roman Emperor, Domitian. Many sealed their faith with their life blood. John himself, the author of our text, was placed upon the lonely island of Patmos because he bore witness that Jesus is God's SON. The vision reassured John, as he stood face to face with torture and persecution, that the Jesus whom he worshipped was not dead and helpless, but alive and all powerful forever more. This was the consciousness of the early church; this was the secret of the early Christian fathers. The Son of Man walked among the seven golden candlesticks as the church spread beyond the limits of Palestine into the Mediterranean world, thence throughout the Roman Empire. The church suffered under Nero, Caligula, Aurelius, Diocletian and many others, but Jesus was in the midst of her. He continued to walk until one day at the Milvian Bridge, the cross conquered. Finally, the last Pagan order of Rome said when he came to the end of the trail: "Alas, O Galilean, Thou hast conquered!"
Through the long night of the so-called Dark Ages, Jesus was in the midst of His church. He was the friend of John Huss of Bohemia. When Martin Luther nailed his ninety-five theses to the Wittenberg church door, Jesus stood by his side. He went with him into the Wartburg, and down to Worms. To Luther, he was a "mighty fortress." Jesus is in the church today; that is the Christian faith, and the secret of his dynamics. As the church inveighs against economic imperialism, exploitation of minority groups, peonage, and wage slavery, Jesus takes the lead. When the church generates wholesome moral influences, which cause municipalities to cast aside officials who league with vice, crime and racketeers, and disregard for law, Jesus feels that He did not die in vain. But it pains His soul when His church pussyfoots and sidesteps social questions and race issues. Jesus is just as much and just as truly in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks today, as when John saw him nearly two thousand years ago. He is just the same today. In the midst of the years, Jesus retains his magnetic power. He is yet the Savior of the race of men. He is the panacea for the ills of society, all social maladjustments. The church is powerful, glorious. Men need a helper, a redeemer, a savior, GOD. So long as there are disappointments, disillusionments, broken hopes, false friends, unrealized ideals, sin, sorrow and death in the world, there will be a place for the Seamless Robed One who walks among the seven golden candlesticks.
"Ride on Jesus;
Ride on conquering King —
Jesus Christ, the first and the last
No man works like Him!"
—The Bradford Era, Bradford, PA, April 6, 1946, p. 4.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Overcoming the Adversary
Sept. 20, 1941Illustrated Sunday School Lesson By Alfred J. Buescher
Scripture — Revelation 12:1—15:4.
1. According to John's vision in Revelation, a great wonder appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of 12 stars.
2. The woman gave birth to a man child, but a red dragon lay in wait to devour him, so he was caught up unto God, and the woman fled to the wilderness.
3. John also saw the dragon that would have destroyed the child, and two beasts which deceived men by miracles and who, when men worshiped them, marked the men in the right hand or forehead.
4. John saw an angel who cried that if any man worshiped the beast and received his mark in his forehead or hand, the same should feel the wrath of God. (GOLDEN TEXT—Rev. 12:11)
Answers to Questions
1939
Q. Please name the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. — M. K.
A. Conquest, Slaughter, Famine, and Death appeared in the Apocalypse (Revelation) on white, red, black, and pale gray horses respectively. They typify the evils of war. — Frederic J. Haskin.
Q. Please name the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. — M. K.
A. Conquest, Slaughter, Famine, and Death appeared in the Apocalypse (Revelation) on white, red, black, and pale gray horses respectively. They typify the evils of war. — Frederic J. Haskin.
Sees Lord Coming in the Clouds of Heaven
1915
"God intended the truths revealed in the book of Revelation for the special benefit of the churches. We read, 'I, Jesus, have sent mine angel to testify these things in the churches.' Rev. 22:16, said Evangelist Booth last night. In a sermon on, "Can the Book of Revelation Be Understood?" at the tent, Washington avenue and Twenty-sixth street.
Continuing, he said:
"All heaven is interested in the messages of the book of Revelation. God gave the truths to his Son. Christ sent his angel to John, and the prophet wrote the messages for the church. The book is called the Revelation of Jesus Christ. 'The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John, who bare record.' Rev. 1:1,2.
"A special blessing is pronounced on the book. 'Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein, for the time is at hand.' Rev. 1:3.
"God never intended these sayings to be sealed, and has warned against teaching so. 'Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book; for the time is at hand.' Rev. 22:10. Christ is revealed in every chapter and verse of the book. The fountains of life flow freely from the truths of the book, and all are invited to drink. 'And the spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will let him take of the water of life freely!'
"Fearful penalty is pronounced on one that would take anything from the book. But how could I as a minister take the whole book from the flock? Well, simply by declaring the book sealed and not for the people. I, however, read the fearful result, 'If any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away His part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things written in the book.' Rev. 22:19.
"The book of Revelation reveals two great fundamental doctrines — Christ's second coming, and the preparation to meet him. It contains messages for the present time. The people who will be developed in the last days, as a result of the preaching of the truths of the book, are described, 'Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.' John then sees the Lord coming in the clouds of heaven. Rev. 14:12,14."
The theme tonight will be, "Will Rome Rule the World Again?" The study will be illustrated. The thirteenth chapter of Revelation will be considered.
—The Ogden Standard, Ogden, Utah, July 12, 1915, p. 8.
"God intended the truths revealed in the book of Revelation for the special benefit of the churches. We read, 'I, Jesus, have sent mine angel to testify these things in the churches.' Rev. 22:16, said Evangelist Booth last night. In a sermon on, "Can the Book of Revelation Be Understood?" at the tent, Washington avenue and Twenty-sixth street.
Continuing, he said:
"All heaven is interested in the messages of the book of Revelation. God gave the truths to his Son. Christ sent his angel to John, and the prophet wrote the messages for the church. The book is called the Revelation of Jesus Christ. 'The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John, who bare record.' Rev. 1:1,2.
"A special blessing is pronounced on the book. 'Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein, for the time is at hand.' Rev. 1:3.
"God never intended these sayings to be sealed, and has warned against teaching so. 'Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book; for the time is at hand.' Rev. 22:10. Christ is revealed in every chapter and verse of the book. The fountains of life flow freely from the truths of the book, and all are invited to drink. 'And the spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will let him take of the water of life freely!'
"Fearful penalty is pronounced on one that would take anything from the book. But how could I as a minister take the whole book from the flock? Well, simply by declaring the book sealed and not for the people. I, however, read the fearful result, 'If any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away His part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things written in the book.' Rev. 22:19.
"The book of Revelation reveals two great fundamental doctrines — Christ's second coming, and the preparation to meet him. It contains messages for the present time. The people who will be developed in the last days, as a result of the preaching of the truths of the book, are described, 'Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.' John then sees the Lord coming in the clouds of heaven. Rev. 14:12,14."
The theme tonight will be, "Will Rome Rule the World Again?" The study will be illustrated. The thirteenth chapter of Revelation will be considered.
—The Ogden Standard, Ogden, Utah, July 12, 1915, p. 8.
Sermon Series Is Based on Revelation
1915
Beginning last Sunday evening Rev. John Robertson Macartney began a series of sermons upon the Book of Revelation at First Presbyterian church. This much-neglected book of the sixty-six books contained in the Bible, will be expounded during the coming months after the same manner in which the Book of Daniel was unfolded during the last season.
Among other remarks in the opening sermon the speaker said: "This series of sermons will endeavor to unfold the teachings of the mysterious signs and symbols of Revelation. A distinct blessing has been pronounced by God upon those that read and 'hear the words of this prophecy and keep those things which are written therein; for the time is at hand.'
"The writer of this book is the disciple, John. He is the author of the Gospel of John, three epistles and the Revelation. Under Emperor Domitian, John, who was the pastor of the Christian church at Ephesus, near the close of the first century of our Christian era, was banished to the Island of Patmos in the Aegean. sea. There in the year 97 A. D. the visions and messages contained in the apocalypse of Revelation, were given to him. The meaning of the word revelation, which is the translation into English of the word apocalypse, is an unfolding. The book is an inspired portrait of the Son of God; it is the epiphany of Jesus, the description of His personal glory to which prophets and martyrs look forward with waiting hope. This same Jesus was manifested to John on Patmos not for a passing moment, but glowed and moved before him, while Christ unveiled before John's eyes the panorama of future events of 'things shortly to come to pass.' John as he was bidden by the Saviour sat down at once and wrote the things that he saw, and the words which were spoken. This accounts for the difference there exists between the language of John's gospel and the language of the Revelation.
"The Revelation is written for believers in Jesus Christ. The man of the world, the soul unillumined by the spirit of God, cannot comprehend the teachings nor symbols. The Bible says the things predicted or foreshown are to be studied because for this very end they were inspired and that they may be understood by the servants and people of God. The apostle Peter tells us that there is 'a sure word of prophecy unto which we do well to take heed as unto a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawn and the day star arises in our hearts.' "
The sermon on Sunday night will cover the first chapter of Revelation. Topics of consuming interest will follow in regular series.
—Waterloo Evening Courier, Waterloo, IA, Sept. 25, 1915, p. 6.
Beginning last Sunday evening Rev. John Robertson Macartney began a series of sermons upon the Book of Revelation at First Presbyterian church. This much-neglected book of the sixty-six books contained in the Bible, will be expounded during the coming months after the same manner in which the Book of Daniel was unfolded during the last season.
Among other remarks in the opening sermon the speaker said: "This series of sermons will endeavor to unfold the teachings of the mysterious signs and symbols of Revelation. A distinct blessing has been pronounced by God upon those that read and 'hear the words of this prophecy and keep those things which are written therein; for the time is at hand.'
"The writer of this book is the disciple, John. He is the author of the Gospel of John, three epistles and the Revelation. Under Emperor Domitian, John, who was the pastor of the Christian church at Ephesus, near the close of the first century of our Christian era, was banished to the Island of Patmos in the Aegean. sea. There in the year 97 A. D. the visions and messages contained in the apocalypse of Revelation, were given to him. The meaning of the word revelation, which is the translation into English of the word apocalypse, is an unfolding. The book is an inspired portrait of the Son of God; it is the epiphany of Jesus, the description of His personal glory to which prophets and martyrs look forward with waiting hope. This same Jesus was manifested to John on Patmos not for a passing moment, but glowed and moved before him, while Christ unveiled before John's eyes the panorama of future events of 'things shortly to come to pass.' John as he was bidden by the Saviour sat down at once and wrote the things that he saw, and the words which were spoken. This accounts for the difference there exists between the language of John's gospel and the language of the Revelation.
"The Revelation is written for believers in Jesus Christ. The man of the world, the soul unillumined by the spirit of God, cannot comprehend the teachings nor symbols. The Bible says the things predicted or foreshown are to be studied because for this very end they were inspired and that they may be understood by the servants and people of God. The apostle Peter tells us that there is 'a sure word of prophecy unto which we do well to take heed as unto a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawn and the day star arises in our hearts.' "
The sermon on Sunday night will cover the first chapter of Revelation. Topics of consuming interest will follow in regular series.
—Waterloo Evening Courier, Waterloo, IA, Sept. 25, 1915, p. 6.
To Him That Overcometh
1911
The promises are to those who overcome. Nothing that is of real value can be acquired without effort and conflict. Not without tribulation can we enter into the kingdom of knowledge, or of character, or of personal power. We cannot lay hold on eternal life without fighting the good fight of faith.
The messages to the seven churches in John's book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ are to the church universal through all ages, and every one of them closes with a great promise "to him that overcometh." The conflict is severe, the foes are many, the temptations are as subtle as they are strong; but victory is certain to all good soldiers of Jesus Christ.
He has overcome the world. We may overcome through his blood, by our witness to him, and by sharing the spirit of his sacrifice. His saints shall conquer though they die. By dying they shall conquer. Has he not said, "Whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it"?
"Be thou faithful unto death and I will give thee a crown of life."
The promises are to those who overcome. Nothing that is of real value can be acquired without effort and conflict. Not without tribulation can we enter into the kingdom of knowledge, or of character, or of personal power. We cannot lay hold on eternal life without fighting the good fight of faith.
The messages to the seven churches in John's book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ are to the church universal through all ages, and every one of them closes with a great promise "to him that overcometh." The conflict is severe, the foes are many, the temptations are as subtle as they are strong; but victory is certain to all good soldiers of Jesus Christ.
He has overcome the world. We may overcome through his blood, by our witness to him, and by sharing the spirit of his sacrifice. His saints shall conquer though they die. By dying they shall conquer. Has he not said, "Whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it"?
"Be thou faithful unto death and I will give thee a crown of life."
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