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Events before the Return of Jesus Christ

Events before the Return of Jesus Christ [including 538 AD to eternity]. What must occur before Jesus comes.

Spirit of Prophecy Abbreviations used in this document are as follows:
1SG, 3SG, 4SG = Spiritual Gifts Volume 1, 3, 4; 1SP, 4SP = Spirit of Prophecy Volume 1, 4; 1T, 3T, 5T, 6T = Testimonies to the Church Volume 1, 3, 5, 6; 2SM = Selected Messages Volume 2; 7BC = S.D.A. Bible Commentary Volume 7; 8MR, 9 MR, 12MR, 14MR, 19MR = Manuscript Releases Volume 8,9, 12, 14, 19; COL = Christ’s Object Lessons; CT = Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students; CW = Counsels to Writers and Editors; Ed = Education; EW = Early Writings; ExV = A Sketch of the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G. White; GC = 1911 Edition of The Great Controversy; GC88 = 1888 Edition of The Great Controversy; LDE = Last Day Events; LS = Life Sketches of Ellen G. White; Lt = Letter; Ms = Manuscript; PK = Prophets and Kings; PP = Patriarchs and Prophets; RH = The Review and Herald; ST = The Signs of the Times; WLF = A Word to the Little Flock.

Quick Reader: Read 1. EVENT HEADINGS.
Detailed Reader: Read 149. SCRIPT – DESCRIPTION OF LAST DAY EVENTS.

  1. EVENT HEADINGS.
    END OF 1260 YEARS OF PAPAL RULE start: 12.3.538; end: 15.2.1798. Daniel 7:25: Revelation 13:3, 5; GC 356:1, 439:2
    LISBON EARTHQUAKE occurred: 1.11.1755
    DARK DAY occurred: 19.5.1780
    UNITED STATES OF AMERICA [USA] RATIFIED THE BILL OF RIGHTS [the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, confirming the fundamental rights of its citizens. The First Amendment guarantees freedom of religion, speech, and the press, and the rights of peaceful assembly and petition]. Occurred: 15.12.1791.     Rise to power of USA begins Revelation 13:11; GC 440:1-2
    TIME OF THE END Start: 15.2.1798; End: Destruction of the wicked     Daniel 12:4-10; GC 356-3
    PAPACY WOUNDED occurred: 15.2.1798
    DANIEL UNSEALED start: 15.2.1798.     Daniel 12:4, 9-11; Revelation 10:2; GC 356:2
    KNOWLEDGE INCREASES start: 15.2.1798.     Daniel 12:4; GC 356
    SECOND ADVENT PROCLAIMED start: after 1798.     Daniel 7:25-27; GC 356:1
    FALLING STARS occurred: 12/13.11.1833
    FIRST ANGELS’ MESSAGE start: The first angel’s message occurred during the two decades prior to the spring of 1844; it intensified from 1840, but was mainly given in Summer of 1843; end: Spring 1844 [22.10.1844 ?].     Revelation 14:6-7; GC 405:2, 611:1.
  2. It was designed to separate the saints from the world – GC 379:1; 405:2
    SECOND ANGELS’ MESSAGE start: First preached in Summer 1844; end: 22.10.1844.     Revelation 14:8; GC 603:2
    MIDNIGHT CRY start: Summer 1844; end: ‘Seventh month’ 1844 = 22.10.1844.     GC 398:3; 426:2; 427:8,
  3. The Midnight Cry was united with the Second Angel’s Message and gave power – EW 238:1, 2; GC 402:1.
  4. It was to separated God’s people from the fallen churches – EW 238:3; GC 402:1.
  5. Also to prepare for the Third Angel’s Message and the Sanctuary truth – EW 260:1
    JESUS OPENS DOOR TO THE MOST HOLY PLACE occurred: “when the midnight cry was finished, at the ‘seventh month’ 1844” = 22.10.1844
    JESUS MOVES FROM THE HOLY PLACE TO THE MOST HOLY PLACE event: 22.10.1844.     Hebrews 8 & 9, Revelation 11:1-3, 18-19, 3:7-8; GC 424:1-3; EW 254:1
    JUDGEMENT HOUR start: 22.10.1844; end: Close of Probation
    INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT start: 22.10.1844; end: Close of Probation.     Revelation 22:11; GC 428:2. Ecclesiastes 12:14; Malachi 3:1; Matthew 12:36-37.
  6. Cleansing = Investigative Judgment – Hebrews 9:23-27; Revelation 14:6-7; GC 422.
  7. Began in 1844 – Daniel 7:13; GC 400.
  8. Only professed people of God considered – 1 Peter 4:17; GC 480:1
    CLEANSING OF THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY start 22.10.1844; end: Close of Probation.     Daniel 7:13; GC 400
    ATONEMENT start: 22.10.1844; end: Close of Probation
    SABBATH REVEALED occurred: from 22.10.1844
    GREAT DISAPPOINTMENT occurred: 23.10.1844.
  9. It was predicted – Revelation 10:2, 8-10 (See Zechariah 9:9; Matthew 21:1-9) GC 403:1-405:2.
  10. Also designed by God to prove & test His people – EW 246:2-3.
  11. Their mistake was found; they were to prophesy again with the Sanctuary truth – Revelation 10:11, 11:1-3, 18-19; GC 403:1-405:2, 409:1-413:3, 423:1
    SDA CHURCH start: 21.5.1863 at Battle Creek, Michigan, United States.
    LAODICEAN CHURCH start: 22.10.1844; end: start of the Sunday Law
    THREE ANGELS’ MESSAGES start: after the disappointment [23.10.1844 and onwards] [First and Second Angels’ Messages repeated; end: Close of Probation.     GC 613:2.
  12. The Third Angels’ Message
  13. (a) embraces the First and Second Angel’s Messages – 8T 197:2 and
  14. (b) selects wheat from tares and seal them – EW 118:1
    HOUR OF TEMPTATION start: 22.10.1844; end: Close of Probation.
  15. This increases in intensity, especially applicable to the papal sabbath endorsement
    RIGHTEOUSNESS BY FAITH PROCLAIMED occurred: ?.10.1888
    PAPAL WOUND HEALING start: 7.6.1929; end: when the union of the church with the world is fully accomplished, throughout Christendom
    COUNTERFEIT REFORMATION AMONG THE FALSE CHURCHES start: about 23.8.1948 when the World Council of Churches (WCC) was established; end: start of Sunday Law.
  16. There is a Counterfeit Reformation among the false churches before the Loud Cry – Isaiah 2:2, 3; Micah 4:1-5; EW 261.
  17. For the cause of the Counterfeit Reformation see GC 464:1
    SHAKING TIME start: about 23.8.1948 when the World Council of Churches (WCC) was established; end: Close of Probation.     Hebrews 12:27; EW 269-273.
  18. The Shaking
  19. (a) has already started and continues until the close of probation – 1T 429:1
  20. (b) its purpose is to purify the church – Ephesians 5:25-27; Malachi 3:1-3; IT 99:3
  21. (c) it causes (i) heresies – 1 Timothy 4:1; 5T 707 and (ii) a Straight Testimony – 1T 161.
  22. Those shaken are described in GC 608:2; EW 50:3; 5T 80-81:1.
  23. A great proportion are shaken – Matthew 22:14; 5T 136:1; 2T 445:2-446; GC 608
    ALLIANCE BETWEEN CATHOLICS AND PROTESTANTS start: ongoing from about 23.8.1948 when the World Council of Churches (WCC) was established; end: Close of Probation
    UNION OF CHURCH AND STATE start: about 23.8.1948 when the World Council of Churches (WCC) was established; end: Close of Probation
    PAPACY HEALED – IMAGE TO BEAST FORMED start: start of [National] Sunday Law
    SUNDAY LAW [NATIONAL] start: after “calamity by land and sea. Property and life are destroyed by fire and flood”; end: Close of Probation.     Revelation 13:14-17 (Compare Daniel 3).
  24. The church appeals to the civil authorities to implement – Revelation 13:14-17; GC 607:1.
  25. The National Sunday Law brings National apostasy – 5T 451:1; and then National Ruin – 7BC 977; 2SM 373
  26. This Sunday Law unites the Protestants & Catholics – 5T 712; GC 607:1
  27. An image to the beast is formed – Revelation 13:13-14; GC 445:1-2
  28. Which gives a Final Test to mankind – Acts 5:29; Romans 6:16; GC 605:2.
  29. Every other country follows the USA with the Sunday Law – Revelation 13-3; 6T 18:2.
  30. The Sunday Law completes the Fall of Babylon – Revelation 14:8; GC 389:2-390
    MARK OF THE BEAST = PAPAL SABBATH start: start of Sunday Law; end: at the Close of Probation.     Revelation 13:16-17; 14:9-11.
  31. The Mark of the Beast is given after the truth is made plain to all GC 449:1; 604:3; 605:2
    PERSECUTION OF SABBATH-KEEPERS start: after start of Sunday Law; end: at the Close of Probation
    TIME TO LEAVE THE LARGE CITIES occurs: after start of Sunday Law.
  32. This is the sign to leave large cities Micah 4:10; 5T 464:3-465 and a sign that probation is soon to close – 5T 451:2.
    HOUR OF TEMPTATION start: 22.10.1844; end: Close of Probation.
  33. Temptations increase in intensity, especially applicable to the papal sabbath endorsement
    TIME OF TROUBLE: LITTLE [SHORT] start: start of Sunday Law; end: Close of Probation.
  34. This coincides with the Latter Rain occurring just before plagues – EW 85:3-86.
  35. For the cause see 2 Timothy 3:12; GC 606:2-607:1
    LATTER RAIN start: start of Sunday Law; end: Close of Probation.     Hosea 6:3; Zechariah 4:6, 10:1; Acts 2:17, 3:19.
  36. The Latter Rain coincides with the little / short time of trouble – EW 33:2; 85:3-86.
  37. The Latter Rain develops the Third Angels’ Messages into the Loud Cry – Revelation 18:1-4; EW 277.
  38. This lights the world and ripens the harvest – Revelation 18:1; GC 611:2, 612:2; EW 277:1.
  39. Miracles occur and the Sick are healed – EW 278:1; GC 612:1.
  40. It ends at the Close of Probation – EW 86 with the saints prepared for the Seven Last Plagues.
    LOUD CRY start: start of Sunday Law; end: Close of Probation.     Hosea 6:3; Zechariah 4:6, 10:1; Acts 2:17, 3:19.
  41. The Loud Cry coincides with the little / short time of trouble – EW 33:2; 85:3-86
  42. It results from the Latter Rain – Revelation 18:1-4; EW 277.
    THE “FOURTH” ANGELS’ MESSAGE – THE HARVEST MESSAGE – THE FINAL WARNING start: towards the end of the third angels’ message; end: Close of Probation
    THE WORKING OF SATAN start: after start of Sunday Law; end: Close of Probation.
  43. Begins after Sunday Law – 5T 451:1-2.
  44. Through Spiritism, there are realistic impersonations of the dead – GC 552:1, 560:1.
  45. Wonders, miracles and healings occur – Revelation 13:13-14; 16:13-14; GC 588:2-589.
  46. These brings war, disease, disaster and storms – Revelation 16:14; GC 589:1-590.
  47. Those in authority claim that the saints have caused the trouble by violating Sunday – GC 589-590:1.
  48. The world is headed by the papacy, they unite & oppose the saints – Revelation 13:3-4 8; 7T 182
    SATAN COUNTERFEITS THE SECOND ADVENT [COMING OF CHRIST] start: after start of Sunday Law; end: Close of Probation.     Matthew 24:23-27.
  49. Satan’s Crowning Act: As an angel of light, Satan claims to have changed the Sabbath day to Sunday – 2 Corinthians 11:14; GC 624:2.
  50. Satan is not permitted to counterfeit the manner of the Coming of Jesus GC 625:2-3
    SEALING TIME – SEALING OF THE SAINTS start: after start of Sunday Law; end: Close of Probation.     Ezekiel 9:3-6; Revelation 7:1-4.
  51. The Sabbath is the Seal – Ezekiel 20:20; GC 640:1; 8T 117.
  52. Our required qualifications are to fully reflect image of Jesus.
  53. That means that there will be no sin then in our lives – EW 71:102.
  54. All previously remember sin would have been confessed and blotted out – Hebrews 10:14-17; 5T 475-476; GC 485, 620; PP 202.
  55. The sealing time is completed just before probation closes – Ezekiel 9:1-7; EW 279:2-280:1.
    SPIRIT OF GOD REMOVED end: Close of Probation
    SAINTS READY FOR THE LAMB’S MARRIAGE SUPPER occurs: by the Close of Probation
    MARRIAGE OF THE LAMB     Revelation 19:7-9 (Lamb = Christ: John 1:29).
  56. Lamb’s Wife = Holy City – Revelation 21:9-10; GC 426:2-427:1.
  57. Jesus receives the Kingdom at the Close of mediation – Daniel 7:13-14; GC 480.
  58. All guests (saints) garments are inspected = Investigative Judgment – Matthew 22:11-14; GC 428:1.
  59. Wedding garment = Robe of Christ’s righteousness – Revelation 19:8; GC 428:1.
  60. The Wedding is conducted in the Sanctuary – Most Holy Place – EW 251:1; 280:1.
  61. The saints attend the marriage by faith – Matthew 25:10; GC 427:1.
  62. Jesus returns for the wedding feast with the saints – Matthew 26:29; Luke 12:35-37; GC 427:1.
    CLOSE OF PROBATION     Zephaniah 2:1-3; Mark 13:33-37; Revelation 22:11 (2T 190-191).
  63. Every case is settled and the Holy Spirit of God is withdrawn – Genesis 6:3; GC 613:2; 614:1; PP 201:2.
  64. The exact time is not perceived by world – they continue a form of religion – GC 615:1.
  65. Jesus leaves the Most Holy Place and lays all confessed sin upon Satan – Daniel 12:1; EW 280.
  66. Jesus changes from priestly to kingly attire. After that the Seven Last Plagues occur – Isaiah 59:17-18; EW 281.
  67. Then the Day of the Lord begins – Joel 2:11; Amos 5:18, 20; Zephaniah 1:14, 18; GC 310-311.
    MICHAEL STANDS UP occurs: after Close of Probation
    RIGHTEOUS LIVE WITHOUT AN INTERCESSOR start: Close of Probation; end: Second Coming of Jesus
    TIME OF TROUBLE: GREAT start: Close of Probation; end: Second Coming of Jesus
  68. The great Time of Trouble begins at the Close of Probation – Daniel 12:1; GC 614:1.
  69. The whole world is involved in the ruin and destruction – GC 614:1-2.
  70. The saints are blamed for the trouble – GC 614:3 (Compare 1 Kings 17:1; 18:17-18).
  71. It is a time not to store any food – God provides our bread and water – Isaiah 33:16; EW 56:2; 1T 206:1.
  72. The righteous live without an Intercessor – Isaiah 59:16; GC 614:1.
  73. The great Time of Trouble ends at Second Coming of Jesus with the Seventh Plague – Job 38:22-23.
    SEVEN LAST PLAGUES [VIALS] Isaiah 28:21; 26:20-21; 59:16-18; Revelation 15 and 16.
  74. They begin at the Close of Probation – GC 627:3; EW 52:1.
  75. The Plagues are not universal – GC 628:2.
  76. The Plagues are the most awful scourges ever known to mortals – GC 629.
  77. The wicked search in vain for truth – Amos 8:11-12; EW 281:1.
  78. The saints suffer during the Plagues but they do not perish – Psalms 91:3-10; 121:5-7; Isaiah 26:20; GC 629.
  79. The duration of the Plagues is shortened for the sake of the elect – GC 631 (Compare Matthew 24:21-22).
    PLAGUE [VIAL] No. 1: Grievous sores upon the worshippers of the beast
    PLAGUE [VIAL] No. 2: Sea turns to blood
    DEATH DECREE Revelation 13:15 (Compare John 11:50; Daniel 3:5 10-11).
  80. The Death Decree is passed after the Close of Probation – GC 615:1-2.
  81. The Plagues enrage the wicked against the saints and pass the Decree – EW 36:2-37.
  82. The Death Decree is passed throughout the world – Revelation 13:3; PK 512; EW 282:2-283; GC 604:2.
  83. This is the sign to leave all cities and villages and flee to the mountains – GC 626:1.
  84. The wicked are determined to strike in 1 night, but the saints are delivered – GC 635-636.
  85. None of the righteous will die after the Decree is issued – 9T 17:1.
  86. The heavenly angels fight for the saints in the form of men – GC 631:1; EW 283.
  87. The Death Decree begins the time of Jacob’s Trouble – GC 615-616; LS 117:1.
    FLEA TO THE MOUNTAINS start: Death Decree; end: Second Coming of Jesus. GC 626:1
    TIME OF JACOB’S TROUBLE start: Death Decree; end: Second Coming of Jesus. Jeremiah 30:7. GC 615-616; LS 117:1.
  88. The Time of Jacob’s Trouble begins at the Death Decree: GC 615:2-616:1.
  89. It is a time of mental anguish and a fear that our every sin has not be confessed – GC 616:2, 619.
  90. Heavenly angels provide the saints with their food and water – Isaiah 33:16; EW 282:2.
  91. The saints cry day and night for deliverance – Ends at the time of God’s deliverance: EW 283:2.
    PLAGUE [VIAL] No. 3: Rivers and waters turn to blood
    PLAGUE [VIAL] No. 4: Scorching sun
    PLAGUE [VIAL] No. 5: Darkness upon seat of the beast
    PLAGUE [VIAL] No. 6: Euphrates dried up
    BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON
  92. Armageddon begins during the Sixth Plague – Joel 3:2 9-16; Revelation 16:12-16; 19:11-19.
  93. The earth is the battlefield – Revelation 16:14; R&H May 13, 1902.
  94. Everyone is involved and all take sides: God and law-keepers, or, Satan and apostates – 7BC 982-983.
  95. Evil angels and evil men battle against Jesus and His angels – Revelation 16:14; 19:11 14 19; 7BC 982.
  96. 1. Religious phase: Revelation 12:17, 16:14-17; 7BC 983; GC 582.
  97. A Battle between good and evil.
  98. Heavenly angels fight for the righteous – Revelation 19:14; GC 631:1; 6T: 406.
  99. The Sabbath is the great issue in this conflict – 7BC 983; 6T 352; GC 582.
  100. 2. Military phase: The nation’s armaments – 7BC 967; GC 642; 6T 14.
  101. God’s artillery: hail stones: 57 lbs. [26kg.] – Job 38:22-23; Revelation 16:21.
  102. The Battle of Armageddon ends at Second Coming of Jesus – The Second Advent: GC 641-642.
    SEVEN LAST PLAGUES, preliminary to and including the Battle of Armageddon, focuses upon humanity end and the Coming of Christ.
    PLAGUE [VIAL] No. 7: Hail, Earthquake, Fire
    TABLES OF THE LAW APPEAR IN THE SKY
  103. During the Seventh Plague (earthquake) – Revelation 11:19 (16:8); GC 639:1.
    DAY AND HOUR OF CHRIST’S COMING ANNOUNCED
  104. This is announced by the Voice of God – Joel 2:11; GC 640:2.
    SPECIAL RESURRECTION Daniel 12:2.
  105. There is a Special Resurrection for the righteous who died since 1844 in The Third Angels’ Messages – GC 637:2.
  106. This Special Resurrection is also for those who pierced Jesus – Revelation 1:7; GC 643:1-2.
  107. Also, for those violent opposers of the truth – GC 637:2.
    RESURRECTION FOR THE RIGHTEOUS WHO DIED SINCE 1844 IN THE THIRD ANGELS’ MESSAGES: GC 637:2.
    FIRST RESURRECTION: RIGHTEOUS DEAD
  108. The Voice of God calls all the righteous dead to awake – 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Corinthians 15:21-23.
  109. The righteous dead come from the grave: They have the same stature as when they died, but no blemishes.
  110. The little children are placed in their mother’s arms – 1 Corinthians 15:51-57; GC 644:2: 645:1.
    DELIVERANCE OF GOD’S PEOPLE Psalm 27:5; Malachi 3:17.
  111. The saints cry day & night for deliverance – EW 283:1-285.
  112. Deliverance comes as the time to carry out the Death Decree nears – GC 635.
  113. Delivered at midnight – Job 34:20; GC 636:2.
  114. There are 144,000 living saints, in number, at that time – EW 14:1-15:1.
  115. The sun shines at midnight and the moon stands still – EW 285:1.
  116. The mighty earthquake of the Seventh Plague frees the imprisoned saints – EW 285:1.
  117. The wicked turn upon one another and upon the ministers – Jeremiah 23:1-2; GC 655-656.
    SECOND COMING OF JESUS CHRIST
  118. A small black cloud appears in the Eastern sky – GC 640:3 (Orion: EW 41).
  119. Jesus appears in the clouds – Revelation 1:7; GC 641-1.
    THE WICKED ARE SLAIN BY THE BRIGHTNESS OF HIS COMING Isaiah 11:4; 2 Thessalonians 2:8; GC 656:2; 657:2.
    JOURNEY TO HEAVEN AND THE SEA OF GLASS
  120. The resurrected and 144,000 living saints meet Christ in air – 1 Thessalonians 4:17.
  121. They are taken to the Sea of Glass [heaven] in the cloudy chariot of Jesus, and it will take 7 days – EW 16:2; 288.
  122. On the Sea of Glass, all the saints receive their named crowns and harps from heavenly angels – James 1:12; EW 288:1.
    HOLY CITY OF GOD
  123. Jesus opens the gates of the Holy City and the saints enter – Revelation 22:14; EW 288:1.
  124. They all gather before white throne and see those won for Christ – GC 647:1.
  125. Then the two Adams meet – GC 647:2.
  126. At the Marriage supper – the length of the table is [assuming a 3 foot spacing is 41] miles long, and fully visible, all laden with the fruit of the tree of life, the manna, almonds, figs, pomegranates, grapes, and many other kinds of fruit – EW 19:1.
    MILLENNIUM START
  127. The earth is desolate – Jeremiah 4:23-27; Revelation 20:1-3; GC 657:3: 660:2.
  128. Satan is bound: He is banished as the scapegoat – Leviticus 16:21; GC 658.
  129. With Christ, the Saints in heaven start the judging of the wicked – 1 Corinthians 6:2, 3; Revelation 20:4; EW 291.
    RIGHTEOUS REIGN IN HEAVEN start: Second Coming of Jesus; end: after 1,000 years [Millennium]
    JUDGEMENT OF THE WICKED START: Second Coming of Jesus; end: after 1,000 years [Millennium]
    SATAN AND HIS ANGELS ON A DESOLATE EARTH start: Second Coming of Jesus; end: after 1,000 years [Millennium]
    DESCENT OF NEW JERUSALEM – THE HOLY CITY occurs: after 1,000 years [Millennium]
  130. Jesus and the redeemed return to the earth – Zechariah 14:5; GC 662:1; EW 291:1.
  131. Jesus Christ descends upon the Mount of Olives – Zechariah 14:4; GC 662:3; EW 291:1.
  132. The Holy City descends to Mt. Olives – Revelation 21:2; GC 663; EW 291:1.
  133. Christ and His Saints enter the Holy City – Revelation 22:14; GC 663.
    MILLENNIUM END
  134. The gates of the Holy City are closed by Christ’s command – GC 664:3.
  135. Christ is coronated upon the Throne above the Holy City – GC 665:1, 666:1.
  136. The Books of Judgment are opened – Revelation 20:11-12; GC 666:2.
  137. The sky proclaims the panoramic scenes of the Great Controversy – GC 666:3: 668:4.
    RESURRECTION OF THE WICKED DEAD occurs: after 1,000 years [Millennium]
  138. The Wicked dead are raised (2nd resurrection): John 5:28-29; Revelation 20:5.
  139. Satan, the Devil is loosed and gathers his wicked for a final battle: Revelation 20:7-9; GC 663:1, 664:1.
  140. His skilful men make implements of war: EW 293:2; GC 664:2.
    DESTRUCTION OF THE WICKED – DESTROYED BY HELL FIRE occurs: after 1,000 years [Millennium]
  141. Satan bows to Christ’s supremacy – GC 670:2.
  142. The Wicked turn against Satan and his agents – Ezekiel 28:6-8, 16-19; GC 672.
  143. Hell fire devours Satan and the Wicked – Psalm 11:6; Malachi 4:1, 3; 2 Peter 3:7; Jude 14-15; Revelation 20:9-10, 13-15; GC 672:1-673.
  144. Some suffer for days, some suffer just a moment – Revelation 20:10; Luke 12:47-49; GC 673; EW 294.
  145. Satan suffers the most – greater and much longer than people – Revelation 20:10; EW 291.
    THE TIME OF THE END start: 15.2.1798; end: Destruction of the wicked – Daniel 12:4-10; GC 356-3
    NEW HEAVEN AND NEW EARTH – EARTH PURIFIED AND RECREATED occurs: after 1,000 years [Millennium]
    ETERNITY [FUTURE] start: after Earth is purified; end: never ends.
  146. From the fire, the earth is purified and recreated – 2 Peter 3:12-13; GC 674:1; EW 295:1.
    THE SAINTS INHERIT A NEW EARTH Psalm 37:9-11, 29; Isaiah 45:18; Revelation 21:7.
    THE CONDITIONS OF THE NEW HEAVEN AND THE NEW EARTH – the seas are no more Isaiah 35:1-10, 65:17-25; Revelation 21:1-7.
    SPACE TRAVEL TO THE OTHER WORLDS IS UNDERTAKEN BY THE SAINTS EW 40.
    ONLY ONE REMINDER OF SIN REMAINS: THE SACRIFICIAL WOUNDS OF JESUS CHRIST Habakkuk 3:4; Zechariah 13:6; GC 674:2.
  149. SCRIPT – DESCRIPTION OF LAST DAY EVENTS.

  150. END OF 1260 YEARS OF PAPAL RULE start: 12.3.538; end: 15.2.1798. Daniel 7:25: Revelation 13:3, 5; GC 356:1, 439:2

  151. Since 538 AD the Roman Empire has been handed over to the church and the papal function.

  152. The year 538 AD became the turning point in the history of the Roman Empire since so many aspects on political, administrative and economical levels were already switched off that when Justinian declared himself to be a theologian from this year and no longer a soldier, he crossed the barrier of his mandate between what is purely civil obligation and what is religious obligation, similarly to Constantine before, and entered in competition with the papal function and this role is evidence of Justinian’s ongoing caesaro-papism.
    The Code of Justinian was a persecuting instrument. Justinian upheld the supremacy of the papacy. He permitted through the Council of Orleans actions to be done on Sunday that Constantine prohibited like travel and preparation of food and cleaning the house. In Novellae CXLIV [144] 1 Justinian instituted a Seventh-day Sabbath persecution. He changed the times and laws ad hoc as his Novellae XLVI [44] and coins of 538 AD (XII year) indicate. Private gatherings were persecuted. He had church-manual laws.
  153. [1] And if any Samaritan, after having proved himself worthy to receive baptism, should return to his former error and be detected in observing the Sabbath, or in doing anything else which proves that he was only baptized through simulated conversion, We order that he shall be proscribed, and sentenced to exile for life. We subject to the same penalty those persons who, in opposition to the Christian faith, have impiously given him protection.

  154. The desire of Emperor Justinian to restore the full extent of the Roman Empire led to a struggle for control of Italy between his Byzantine army, led by Belisarius, and the kingdom of the Ostrogoths. Belisarius liberated Rome from the Goths, but then had a hard fight to hold the city.

  155. The First Siege of Rome during the Gothic War lasted for a year and nine days, from 2 March 537 to 12 March 538. The city was besieged by the Ostrogothic army under their king Vitiges; the defending East Romans were commanded by Belisarius, one of the most famous and successful Roman generals. The siege was the first major encounter between the forces of the two opponents, and played a decisive role in the subsequent development of the war.

  156. The periods here mentioned—“forty and two months,” and “a thousand two hundred and threescore days”—are the same, alike representing the time in which the church of Christ was to suffer oppression from Rome. The 1260 years of papal supremacy began with the establishment of the papacy in A. D. 538, and would therefore terminate in 1798. At that time a French army entered Rome, and made the pope a prisoner, and he died in exile. Though a new pope was soon afterward elected, the papal hierarchy has never since been able to wield the power which it before possessed. {1888 GC88 266.2}

  157. The persecution of the church did not continue throughout the entire period of the 1260 years. God in mercy to his people cut short the time of their fiery trial. In foretelling the “great tribulation” to befall the church, the Saviour said, “Except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.” [Matthew 24:22.] Through the influence of the Reformation, the persecution was brought to an end prior to 1798. {1888 GC88 266.3}
  159. Concerning the two witnesses, the prophet declares further, “These are the two olive-trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.” “Thy Word,” said the psalmist, “is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” [Revelation 11:4; Psalm 119:105.] The two witnesses represent the Scriptures of the Old and the New Testament. Both are important testimonies to the origin and perpetuity of the law of God. Both are witnesses also to the plan of salvation. The types, sacrifices, and prophecies of the Old Testament point forward to a Saviour to come. The Gospels and Epistles of the New Testament tell of a Saviour who has come in the exact manner foretold by type and prophecy. {1888 GC88 267.1}

LISBON EARTHQUAKE occurred: 1.11.1755


In fulfilment of this {Mark 13:24-26, Luke 21:25, Revelation 6:12} prophecy there occurred, in the year 1755, the most terrible earthquake that has ever been recorded. Though commonly known as the earthquake of Lisbon, it extended to the greater part of Europe, Africa, and America. It was felt in Greenland, in the West Indies, in the island of Madeira, in Norway and Sweden, Great Britain and Ireland. It pervaded an extent of not less than four million square miles. In Africa the shock was almost as severe as in Europe. A great part of Algiers was destroyed; and a short distance from Morocco, a village containing eight or ten thousand inhabitants was swallowed up. A vast wave swept over the coast of Spain and Africa, engulfing cities, and causing great destruction. {1888 GC88 304.2}


It was in Spain and Portugal that the shock manifested its extreme violence. At Cadiz the inflowing wave was said to be sixty feet high. Mountains—some of the largest in Portugal—“were impetuously shaken, as it were from the very foundation; and some of them opened at their summits, which were split and rent in a wonderful manner, huge masses of them being thrown down into the subjacent valleys. Flames are related to have issued from these mountains.” {1888 GC88 304.3}


At Lisbon “a sound of thunder was heard underground, and immediately afterward a violent shock threw down the greater part of that city. In the course of about six minutes sixty thousand persons perished. The sea first retired, and laid the bar dry, it then rolled in, rising fifty feet above its ordinary level.” “The most extraordinary circumstance which occurred at Lisbon during the catastrophe, was the subsidence of the new quay, built entirely of marble, at an immense expense. A great concourse of people had collected there for safety, as a spot where they might be beyond the reach of falling ruins; but suddenly the quay sunk down with all the people on it, and not one of the dead bodies ever floated to the surface.” {1888 GC88 305.1}


The shock of the earthquake “was instantly followed by the fall of every church and convent, almost all the large and public buildings, and one-fourth of the houses. In about two hours afterward, fires broke out in different quarters, and raged with such violence for the space of nearly three days that the city was completely desolated. The earthquake happened on a holy day, when the churches and convents were full of people, very few of whom escaped.” “The terror of the people was beyond description. Nobody wept; it was beyond tears. They ran hither and thither, delirious with horror and astonishment, beating their faces and breasts, crying, ‘Misericordia! the world’s at an end!’ Mothers forgot their children, and ran loaded with crucifixed images. Unfortunately, many ran to the churches for protection; but in vain was the sacrament exposed; in vain did the poor creatures embrace the altars; images, priests, and people were buried in one common ruin.” “Ninety thousand persons are supposed to have been lost on that fatal day.” {1888 GC88 305.2}

DARK DAY occurred: 19.5.1780


Twenty-five years later {after 1755 = 1780} appeared the next sign mentioned in the prophecy,—the darkening of the sun and moon. What rendered this more striking was the fact that the time of its fulfilment had been definitely pointed out. In the Saviour’s conversation with his disciples upon Olivet, after describing the long period of trial for the church—the 1260 years of papal persecution, concerning which he had promised that the tribulation should be shortened—he thus mentioned certain events to precede his coming, and fixed the time when the first of these should be witnessed: “In those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light.” [Mark 13:24.] The 1260 days, or years, terminated in 1798. A quarter of a century earlier, persecution had almost wholly ceased. Between these two dates, according to the words of Christ, the sun was to be darkened. On the 19th of May, 1780, this prophecy was fulfilled. {1888 GC88 305.3}


“Almost if not altogether alone as the most mysterious and as yet unexplained phenomenon of its kind, . . . stands the dark day of May 19, 1780,—a most unaccountable darkening of the whole visible heavens and atmosphere in New England.” That the darkness was not due to an eclipse is evident from the fact that the moon was then nearly full. It was not caused by clouds, or the thickness of the atmosphere, for in some localities where the darkness extended, the sky was so clear that the stars could be seen. Concerning the inability of science to assign a satisfactory cause for this manifestation, Herschel the astronomer declares: “The dark day in North America was one of those wonderful phenomena of nature which philosophy is at a loss to explain.” {1888 GC88 306.1}


“The extent of the darkness was also very remarkable. It was observed at the most easterly regions of New England; westward, to the farthest part of Connecticut, and at Albany, N. Y.; to the southward, it was observed all along the sea coast; and to the north, as far as the American settlements extended. It probably far exceeded those boundaries, but the exact limits were never positively known. With regard to its duration, it continued in the neighborhood of Boston for at least fourteen or fifteen hours.” {1888 GC88 306.2}


“The morning was clear and pleasant, but about eight o’clock there was observed an uncommon appearance in the sun. There were no clouds, but the air was thick, having a smoky appearance, and the sun shone with a pale, yellowish hue, but kept growing darker and darker, until it was hid from sight.” There was “midnight darkness at noonday.” {1888 GC88 307.1}


“The occurrence brought intense alarm and distress to multitudes of minds, as well as dismay to the whole brute creation, the fowls fleeing bewildered to their roosts, and the birds to their nests, and the cattle returning to their stalls.” Frogs and night hawks began their notes. The cocks crew as at daybreak. Farmers were forced to leave their work in the fields. Business was generally suspended, and candles were lighted in the dwellings. “The Legislature of Connecticut was in session at Hartford, but being unable to transact business adjourned. Everything bore the appearance and gloom of night.” {1888 GC88 307.2}


The intense darkness of the day was succeeded, an hour or two before evening, by a partially clear sky, and the sun appeared, though it was still obscured by the black, heavy mist. But “this interval was followed by a return of the obscuration with greater density, that rendered the first half of the night hideously dark beyond all former experience of the probable million of people who saw it. From soon after sunset until midnight, no ray of light from moon or star penetrated the vault above. It was pronounced ‘the blackness of darkness!’” Said an eye-witness of the scene: “I could not help conceiving, at the time, that if every luminous body in the universe had been shrouded in impenetrable darkness, or struck out of existence, the darkness could not have been more complete.” Though the moon that night rose to the full, “it had not the least effect to dispel the death-like shadows.” After midnight the darkness disappeared, and the moon, when first visible, had the appearance of blood. {1888 GC88 307.3}


May 19, 1780, stands in history as “The Dark Day.” Since the time of Moses, no period of darkness of equal density, extent, and duration has ever been recorded. The description of this event, as given by the poet and the historian, is but an echo of the words of the Lord, recorded by the prophet Joel, twenty-five hundred years previous to their fulfilment: “The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the Lord come.” [Joel 2:31.] {1888 GC88 308.2}

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA [USA] RATIFIED THE BILL OF RIGHTS [the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, confirming the fundamental rights of its citizens. The First Amendment guarantees freedom of religion, speech, and the press, and the rights of peaceful assembly and petition]. Occurred: 15.12.1791.

Rise to power of USA begins Revelation 13:11; GC 440:1-2

TIME OF THE END Start: 15.2.1798; End: Destruction of the wicked Daniel 12:4-10; GC 356-3

Pius VI in Exile. On February 20, 1798, Pope Pius VI (Braschi), who had been deposed as ruler of the Papal States (which had been organized into the Roman Republic by the French) was forced to leave the City of Rome.
In 1796, French Republican troops under the command of Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Italy and defeated the papal troops. The French occupied Ancona and Loreto. Pius VI sued for peace which was granted at Tolentino on 19 February 1797; but on 28 December 1797, in a riot blamed by papal forces on some Italian and French revolutionists, the popular brigadier-general Mathurin-Léonard Duphot, who had gone to Rome with Joseph Bonaparte as part of the French embassy, was killed and a new pretext was furnished for invasion.
General Berthier marched to Rome, entered it unopposed on 10 February 1798, and, proclaiming a Roman Republic, demanded of the pope the renunciation of his temporal authority.
Upon his refusal, Pius was taken prisoner, and on 20 February was escorted from the Vatican to Siena, and thence to the Certosa near Florence. The French declaration of war against Tuscany led to his removal (he was escorted by the Spaniard Pedro Gómez Labrador, Marquis of Labrador) by way of Parma, Piacenza, Turin and Grenoble to the citadel of Valence, the chief town of Drome where he died six weeks after his arrival, on 29 August 1799, having then reigned longer than any pope.

PAPACY WOUNDED occurred: 15.2.1798


According to the words of the prophet {Moses}, then, a little before the year 1798 some power of Satanic origin and character would rise to make war upon the Bible. And in the land where the testimony of God’s two witnesses should thus be silenced, there would be manifest the atheism of the Pharaoh, and the licentiousness of Sodom. {1888 GC88 269.3}


This prophecy has received a most exact and striking fulfilment in the history of France. During the Revolution of 1793, “the world for the first time heard an assembly of men, born and educated in civilization, and assuming the right to govern one of the finest European nations, uplift their united voice to deny the most solemn truth which man’s soul receives, and renounce unanimously the belief and worship of the Deity.” “France is the only nation in the world concerning which the authentic record survives, that as a nation she lifted her hand in open rebellion against the Author of the universe. Plenty of blasphemers, plenty of infidels, there have been, and still continue to be, in England, Germany, Spain, and elsewhere; but France stands apart in the world’s history as the single State which, by the decree of her legislative assembly, pronounced that there was no God, and of which the entire population of the capital, and a vast majority elsewhere, women as well as men, danced and sang with joy in accepting the announcement.” {1888 GC88 269.4}


France presented also the characteristic which especially distinguished Sodom. During the Revolution there was manifest a state of moral debasement and corruption similar to that which brought destruction upon the cities of the plain. {1888 GC88 270.1}

DANIEL UNSEALED start: 15.2.1798. Daniel 12:4, 9-11; Revelation 10:2; GC 356:2


The apostle Paul warned the church not to look for the coming of Christ in his day. “That day shall not come,” he says, “except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed.” [2 Thessalonians 2:3.] Not till after the great apostasy, and the long period of the reign of the “man of sin,” can we look for the advent of our Lord. The “man of sin,” which is also styled the “mystery of iniquity,” the “son of perdition,” and “that wicked,” represents the papacy, which, as foretold in prophecy, was to maintain its supremacy for 1260 years. This period ended in 1798. The coming of Christ could not take place before that time. Paul covers with his caution the whole of the Christian dispensation down to the year 1798. It is this side of that time that the message of Christ’s second coming is to be proclaimed. {1888 GC88 356.1}


No such message has ever been given in past ages. Paul, as we have seen, did not preach it; he pointed his brethren into the then far-distant future for the coming of the Lord. The reformers did not proclaim it. Martin Luther placed the Judgment about three hundred years in the future from his day. But since 1798 the book of Daniel has been unsealed, knowledge of the prophecies has increased, and many have proclaimed the solemn message of the Judgment near. {1888 GC88 356.2}


February 10, 1798 French army led by Louis Alexandre Berthier captures Rome.
February 15, 1798 Louis Alexandre Berthier proclaim a Roman Republic after conquering Rome.

KNOWLEDGE INCREASES start: 15.2.1798. Daniel 12:4; GC 356

SECOND ADVENT PROCLAIMED start: after 1798. Daniel 7:25-27; GC 356:1

FALLING STARS occurred: 12/13.11.1833


In 1833, two years after Miller began to present in public the evidences of Christ’s soon coming, the last of the signs appeared which were promised by the Saviour as tokens of his second advent. Said Jesus, “The stars shall fall from heaven.” [Matthew 24:29.] And John in the Revelation declared, as he beheld in vision the scenes that herald the day of God: “The stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig-tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.” [Revelation 6:13.] This prophecy received a striking and impressive fulfilment in the great meteoric shower of November 13, 1833. That was the most extensive and wonderful display of falling stars which has ever been recorded; “the whole firmament, over all the United States, being then, for hours, in fiery commotion. No celestial phenomenon has ever occurred in this country, since its first settlement, which was viewed with such intense admiration by one class in the community, or such dread and alarm by another.” “Its sublimity and awful beauty still linger in many minds. . . . Never did rain fall much thicker than the meteors fell toward the earth; east, west, north, and south, it was the same. In a word, the whole heavens seemed in motion. . . . The display, as described in Professor Silliman’s journal, was seen all over North America. . . . From two o’clock until broad daylight, the sky being perfectly serene and cloudless, an incessant play of dazzlingly brilliant luminosities was kept up in the whole heavens.” {1888 GC88 332.4}


“No language indeed can come up to the splendor of that magnificent display; no one who did not witness it can form an adequate conception of its glory. It seemed as if the whole starry heavens had congregated at one point near the zenith, and were simultaneously shooting forth, with the velocity of lightning, to every part of the horizon; and yet they were not exhausted—thousands swiftly followed in the track of thousands, as if created for the occasion.” “A more correct picture of a fig-tree casting its figs when blown by a mighty wind, it is not possible to behold.” {1888 GC88 333.1}

FIRST ANGELS’ MESSAGE start: The first angel’s message occurred during the two decades prior to the spring of 1844; it intensified from 1840, but was mainly given in Summer of 1843; end: Spring 1844 [22.10.1844 ?]. Revelation 14:6-7; GC 405:2, 611:1.

It was designed to separate the saints from the world – GC 379:1; 405:2


I saw that God was in the proclamation of the time in 1843. It was his design to arouse the people, and bring them to a testing point where they should decide. Ministers were convicted and convinced of the correctness of the positions taken on the prophetic periods, and they left their pride, their salaries, and their churches, to go forth from place to place and proclaim the message. But as the message from heaven could find a place in the hearts of but a very few of the professed ministers of Christ, the work was laid upon many who were not preachers. Some left their fields to sound the message, while others were called from their shops and their merchandise. And even some professional men were compelled to leave their professions to engage in the unpopular work of giving the first angel’s message. Ministers laid aside their sectarian views and feelings, and united in proclaiming the coming of Jesus. The people were moved everywhere the message reached them. Sinners repented, wept and prayed for forgiveness, and those whose lives had been marked with dishonesty, were anxious to make restitution. {1858 1SG 133.1}


It was not the proclamation of the Advent message that created fanaticism and division. These appeared in the summer of 1844, when Adventists were in a state of doubt and perplexity concerning their real position. The preaching of the first message in 1843, and of the midnight cry in 1844, tended directly to repress fanaticism and dissension. {1884 4SP 247.2}

SECOND ANGELS’ MESSAGE start: First preached in Summer 1844; end: 22.10.1844. Revelation 14:8; GC 603:2


Our hopes now centred on the coming of the Lord in 1844. This was also the time for the message of the second angel, who, flying through the midst of heaven, cried: “Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city.” That message was first proclaimed by the servants of God in the summer of 1844. As a result, many left the fallen churches. In connection with this message the midnight cry [See Matthew 25:1-13.] was given: “Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him.” In every part of the land, light was given concerning this message, and the cry aroused thousands. It went from city to city, from village to village, and into the remote country regions. It reached the learned and talented, as well as the obscure and humble. {1855-1868 1T 53.3}

the message of the second angel. Near its close the Midnight Cry was given {ST, March 30, 1876 par. 6}

Near the close of the second angel’s message, I saw a great light from heaven shining upon the people of God. The rays of this light seemed bright as the sun. And I heard the voices of angels crying, Behold the Bridegroom cometh, go ye out to meet him! {1858 1SG 140.2}

    MIDNIGHT CRY start: Summer 1844; end: ‘Seventh month’ 1844 = 22.10.1844. GC 398:3; 426:2; 427:8,

    The Midnight Cry was united with the Second Angel’s Message and gave power – EW 238:1, 2; GC 402:1.

    It was to separated God’s people from the fallen churches – EW 238:3; GC 402:1.

    Also to prepare for the Third Angel’s Message and the Sanctuary truth – EW 260:1

    Note: The ‘Seventh month’ is in October 1844 [as per the Jewish Calendar] and not in July. Rosh Chodesh – the first day of Nisan: [21.3.1844]

    The celebration of the first of Nisan as the beginning of the new year is rooted both in Biblical and Talmudic sources. Exodus 12:1-2 states that Nisan is the first month in the intercalation of the new year and the Mishnah in Tractate Rosh Hashanah 1:1 describes the First of Nisan as one of the four beginnings of the Jewish New Year:

    There are four new years / year:

    On the first of Nisan is the new year for kings and for festivals.

    On the first of Elul is the new year for the tithe of cattle.

    On the first of Tishrei is the new year for years, for release and jubilee years, for plantation and for [tithe of] vegetables.

    On the first of Shevat is the new year for trees.


    While praying at the family altar, the Holy Ghost fell on me, and I seemed to be rising higher and higher, far above the dark world. I turned to look for the Advent people in the world, but could not find them–when a voice said to me, “Look again, and look a little higher.” At this I raised my eyes and saw a straight and narrow path, [Matthew 7:14.] cast up high above the world. On this path the Advent people were travelling to the City, which was at the farther end of the path. They had a bright light set up behind them at the first end of the path, which an angel told me was the Midnight Cry. [Matthew 25:6.] This light shone all along the path, and gave light for their feet so they might not stumble. And if they kept their eyes fixed on Jesus, who was just before them, leading them to the City, they were safe. {1847 WLF 14.2}

    JESUS OPENS DOOR TO THE MOST HOLY PLACE occurred: “when the midnight cry was finished, at the ‘seventh month’ 1844” = 22.10.1844

    JESUS MOVES FROM THE HOLY PLACE TO THE MOST HOLY PLACE event: 22.10.1844. Hebrews 8 & 9, Revelation 11:1-3, 18-19, 3:7-8; GC 424:1-3; EW 254:1


    As the ministration of Jesus closed in the holy place, and He passed into the holiest, and stood before the ark containing the law of God, He sent another mighty angel with a third message to the world. A parchment was placed in the angel’s hand, and as he descended to the earth in power and majesty, he proclaimed a fearful warning, with the most terrible threatening ever borne to man. This message was designed to put the children of God upon their guard, by showing them the hour of temptation and anguish that was before them. {1882 EW 254.1}


    After Jesus opened the door of the most holy, the light of the Sabbath was seen, and the people of God were tested, as the children of Israel were tested anciently, to see if they would keep God’s law. {1882 EW 254.2}


    I was shown that the commandments of God, and the testimony of Jesus Christ, relating to the shut door, could not be separated, and that the time for the commandments of God to shine out, with all their importance, and for God’s people to be tried on the Sabbath truth, was when the door was opened in the Most Holy Place of the Heavenly Sanctuary, where the Ark is, containing the ten commandments. This door was not opened, until the mediation of Jesus was finished in the Holy Place of the Sanctuary in 1844. Then, Jesus rose up, and shut the door in the Holy Place, and opened the door in the Most Holy, and passed within the second vail, where he now stands by the Ark; and where the faith of Israel now reaches. {RH, August 1, 1849 par. 2}


    I saw that the present test on the Sabbath could not come, until the mediation of Jesus in the Holy Place was finished; and he had passed within the second vail; therefore, Christians, who fell asleep before the door was opened in the Most Holy, when the midnight cry was finished, at the ‘seventh month’ 1844; and had not kept the true Sabbath, now rest in hope; for they had not the light, and the test on the Sabbath, which we now have, since that door was opened. {RH, August 1, 1849 par. 4}


    This was the midnight cry, which was to give power to the second angel’s message. Angels were sent from heaven to arouse the discouraged saints and prepare them for the great work before them. The most talented men were not the first to receive this message. Angels were sent to the humble, devoted ones, and constrained them to raise the cry, “Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him!” Those entrusted with the cry made haste, and in the power of the Holy Spirit sounded the message, and aroused their discouraged brethren. This work did not stand in the wisdom and learning of men, but in the power of God, and His saints who heard the cry could not resist it. The most spiritual received this message first, and those who had formerly led in the work were the last to receive and help swell the cry, “Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him!” {1882 EW 238.2}


    Jesus did not come to the earth as the waiting, joyful company expected, to cleanse the sanctuary by purifying the earth by fire. I saw that they were correct in their reckoning of the prophetic periods; prophetic time closed in 1844, and Jesus entered the most holy place to cleanse the sanctuary at the ending of the days. Their mistake consisted in not understanding what the sanctuary was and the nature of its cleansing. As I looked again at the waiting, disappointed company, they appeared sad. They carefully examined the evidences of their faith and followed down through the reckoning of the prophetic periods, but could discover no mistake. The time had been fulfilled, but where was their Saviour? They had lost Him. {1882 EW 243.2}


    In the summer of 1844, Adventists discovered the mistake in their former reckoning of the prophetic periods, and settled upon the correct position. The 2300 days of Daniel 8:14, which all believed to extend to the second coming of Christ, had been thought to end in the spring of 1844; but it was now seen that this period extended to the autumn of the same year, As in the parable the cry was raised at midnight announcing the approach of the bridegroom, so in the fulfilment, midway between the spring of 1844, when it was first supposed that the 2300 days would close, and the autumn of 1844, at which time it was afterward found that they were really to close, such a cry was raised, in the very words of Scripture: “Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.” {1884 4SP 248.2}

    JUDGEMENT HOUR start: 22.10.1844; end: Close of Probation

    INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT start: 22.10.1844; end: Close of Probation. Revelation 22:11; GC 428:2. Ecclesiastes 12:14; Malachi 3:1; Matthew 12:36-37.

    Cleansing = Investigative Judgment – Hebrews 9:23-27; Revelation 14:6-7; GC 422.

    Began in 1844 – Daniel 7:13; GC 400.

    Only professed people of God considered – 1 Peter 4:17; GC 480:1


    Revelation 14:6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,
    Revelation 14:7 Saying with a loud voice, FEAR GOD, AND GIVE GLORY TO HIM [singular]; for the hour of his judgment is come: AND WORSHIP HIM that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

    {Summary of the 1st Angel’s Message: A world-wide final gospel of truth message proclaimed just before Christ’s Second Advent to give fear [respect], glory and worship to God the Father – our Creator.}


    Then I saw in relation to the “Daily,” that the word “sacrifice” was supplied by man’s wisdom, and does not belong to the text; and that the Lord gave the correct view of it to those who gave the judgment hour cry. When union existed, before 1844, nearly all were united on the correct view of the “Daily;” but since 1844, in the confusion, other views have been embraced, and darkness and confusion has followed. {RH, November 1, 1850 par. 11}


    Those who would share the benefits of the Saviour’s mediation should permit nothing to interfere with their duty to perfect holiness in the fear of God. The hours heretofore given to pleasure, to display, or to gain-seeking, should now be devoted to an earnest, prayerful study of the word of truth. The subject of the Sanctuary and the investigative Judgment should be clearly understood by the people of God. All need a knowledge for themselves of the position and work of their great High Priest. Otherwise, it will be impossible for them to exercise the faith essential at this time, or to occupy the position which God designs them to fill. {1884 4SP 312.3}


    When the work of the investigative Judgment closes, the destiny of all will have been decided for life or death. Probation is ended a short time before the appearing of the Lord in the clouds of heaven. Christ in the Revelation, looking forward to that time, declares: “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still; and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still; and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still; and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” [Revelation 22:11, 12.] {1888 GC88 491.1}


    In the typical service, only those who had come before God with confession and repentance, and whose sins, through the blood of the sin-offering, were transferred to the sanctuary, had a part in the service of the day of atonement. So in the great day of final atonement and investigative Judgment, the only cases considered are those of the professed people of God. The judgment of the wicked is a distinct and separate work, and takes place at a later period. “Judgment must begin at the house of God; and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel?” [1 Peter 4:17.] {1888 GC88 480.1}


    Says the prophet: “Who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner’s fire, and like fullers’ soap; and he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness.” [Malachi 3:2, 3.] Those who are living upon the earth when the intercession of Christ shall cease in the sanctuary above, are to stand in the sight of a holy God without a mediator. Their robes must be spotless, their characters must be purified from sin by the blood of sprinkling. Through the grace of God and their own diligent effort, they must be conquerors in the battle with evil. While the investigative Judgment is going forward in Heaven, while the sins of penitent believers are being removed from the sanctuary, there is to be a special work of purification, of putting away of sin, among God’s people upon earth. This work is more clearly presented in the messages of Revelation 14. {1888 GC88 425.1}


    The work of the investigative Judgment and the blotting out of sins is to be accomplished before the second advent of the Lord. Since the dead are to be judged out of the things written in the books, it is impossible that the sins of men should be blotted out until after the Judgment at which their cases are to be investigated. But the apostle Peter distinctly states that the sins of believers will be blotted out, “when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and he shall send Jesus Christ.” [Acts 3:19, 20.] When the investigative Judgment closes, Christ will come, and his reward is with him to give to every man as his work shall be. {1888 GC88 485.2}

    CLEANSING OF THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY start 22.10.1844; end: Close of Probation. Daniel 7:13; GC 400

    ATONEMENT start: 22.10.1844; end: Close of Probation


    O, let us live wholly for the Lord, and show by a well ordered life, and godly conversation that we have been with Jesus, and are his meek and lowly followers. We must work while the day lasts, for when the dark night of trouble and anguish comes, it will be too late to work for God. Jesus is still in his Holy Temple, and will now accept our sacrifices, our prayers, and our confessions of faults and sins, and will now pardon all the transgressions of Israel, that they may be blotted out before he leaves the Sanctuary. When Jesus leaves the Sanctuary, then {Revelation 22:11} he that is holy and righteous, will be holy and righteous still; for all their sins will then be blotted out, and they will be sealed with the seal of the living God. But those that are unjust and filthy, will be unjust and filthy still; for then there will be no Priest in the Sanctuary to offer their sacrifices, their confessions, and their prayers before the Father’s throne. Therefore, what is done to rescue souls from the coming storm of wrath, must be done before Jesus leaves the Most Holy Place of the Heavenly Sanctuary. {RH, September 1, 1849 par. 7}

    SABBATH REVEALED occurred: from 22.10.1844

    GREAT DISAPPOINTMENT occurred: 23.10.1844.

    It was predicted – Revelation 10:2, 8-10 (See Zechariah 9:9; Matthew 21:1-9) GC 403:1-405:2.

    Also designed by God to prove & test His people – EW 246:2-3.

    Their mistake was found; they were to prophesy again with the Sanctuary truth – Revelation 10:11, 11:1-3, 18-19; GC 403:1-405:2, 409:1-413:3, 423:1

    After the great disappointment in 1844, Satan and his angels were busily engaged in laying snares to unsettle the faith of the body. He was affecting the minds of individuals who had a personal experience in these things. They had an appearance of humility. They changed the first and second messages, and pointed to the future for their fulfilment, while others pointed far back in the past, declaring that they had been there fulfilled. {1858 1SG 166.1}

    SDA CHURCH start: 21.5.1863 at Battle Creek, Michigan, United States.

    LAODICEAN CHURCH start 22.10.1844; end: start of the Sunday Law

    THREE ANGELS’ MESSAGES start: after the disappointment [23.10.1844 and onwards] [First and Second Angels’ Messages repeated; end: Close of Probation. GC 613:2.

    The Third Angels’ Message

    (a) embraces the First and Second Angel’s Messages – 8T 197:2 and

    (b) selects wheat from tares and seal them – EW 118:1

    In a special sense Seventh-day Adventists have been set in the world as watchmen and light bearers. To them has been entrusted the last warning for a perishing world. On them is shining wonderful light from the word of God. They have been given a work of the most solemn import–the proclamation of the first, second, and third angels’ messages. There is no other work of so great importance. They are to allow nothing else to absorb their attention. {1909 9T 19.1}


    The three angels of Revelation 14 are represented as flying in the midst of heaven, symbolizing the work of those who proclaim the first, second, and third angels’ messages. All are linked together. Satan is constantly seeking to cast a shadow about these messages, so that the people of God shall not clearly discern their import, their time and place; but they live and are to exert their power upon our religious experience while time shall last. {1901 6T 17.4}


    The proclamation of the first, second, and third angels’ messages has been located by the word of Inspiration. Not a peg or pin is to be removed. No human authority has any more right to change the location of these messages than to substitute the New Testament for the Old. The Old Testament is the gospel in figures and symbols. The New Testament is the substance. One is as essential as the other. The Old Testament presents lessons from the lips of Christ, and these lessons have not lost their force in any particular. The first and second messages [Revelation 14:6-8] were given in 1843 and 1844, and we are now under the proclamation of the third; but all three of the messages are still to be proclaimed. It is just as essential now as ever before that they shall be repeated to those who are seeking for the truth. By pen and voice we are to sound the proclamation, showing their order, and the application of the prophecies that bring us to the third angel’s message. There cannot be a third without the first and second. These messages we are to give to the world in publications, in discourses, showing in the line of prophetic history the things that have been, and the things that will be.–Manuscript 32, 1896. {1946 CW 26.2}


    Here is set forth the work of God’s ministers who give the last message of warning to the world. There is to be a power in the gospel ministry. The three angels’ messages are to be combined, giving their threefold light to the world. In the Revelation, John says, “I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye partake not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.” This represents the giving of the last and threefold message of warning to the world. (See also Revelation 22:10-17.) {Ms52-1900}


    It is our privilege to expect large things, even the demonstration of the Spirit of God. This is a power which will convict and convert the soul. Our message is a life-and-death message, and we must let this message appear as it is–the great power of God. Then the Lord will make it effectual. We are to present it in all its telling force. The first and second angels’ messages are bound up with the third angel’s message. The power of the proclamation of the first and second angels’ messages is to be concentrated in the third.–Lt 209, 1899.


    The third angel’s message in its clear, definite terms is to be made the prominent warning. All that it comprehends is to be made intelligible to the reasoning minds of today.–Letter 121, 1900, p. 5. (To S. N. Haskell and wife, August 13, 1900.) {9MR 291.3}


    Time is short. The first, second, and third angels’ messages are the messages to be given to the world. We hear not literally the voice of the three angels, but these angels in Revelation represent a people who will be upon the earth and give these messages. {Ms40-1890}


    I saw that the third message would close with power and strength far exceeding the midnight cry. {1858 1SG 195.1}

    HOUR OF TEMPTATION start: 22.10.1844; end: Close of Probation.

    This increases in intensity, especially applicable to the papal sabbath endorsement

    RIGHTEOUSNESS BY FAITH PROCLAIMED occurred: ?.10.1888


    In the history of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the October 1888 Minneapolis General Conference Session held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is regarded as a landmark event. Alonzo T. Jones and Ellet J. Waggoner presented a message on justification which, although supported by Ellen G. White, it was resisted by church leaders such as G. I. Butler, Uriah Smith and others. The session discussed crucial theological issues such as the meaning of “righteousness by faith”, the nature of the Godhead, the relationship between law and grace, and Justification and its relationship to Sanctification.

    PAPAL WOUND HEALING start: 7.6.1929; end: when the union of the church with the world is fully accomplished, throughout Christendom


    Revelation 13:3 And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.


    In the years to follow the French Revolution, there was a gradual revival in the papal power. However, the wound received a healing in 1929 when the Lateran Treaty gave back temporal power to the pope. Subsequently, he was given the rule of Vatican City, a section of the city of Rome about 108.7 acres in extent. The Lateran Treaty, also called Lateran Pact of 1929, treaty (effective June 7, 1929, to June 3, 1985) between Italy and the Vatican. It was signed by Benito Mussolini for the Italian government and by cardinal secretary of state Pietro Gasparri for the papacy and confirmed by the Italian constitution of 1948.

    Upon ratification of the Lateran Treaty, the papacy recognized the state of Italy, with Rome as its capital. Italy in return recognized papal sovereignty over the Vatican City, a minute territory of 44 hectares (about 108.7 acres), and secured full independence for the pope.

    On June 3, 1985, with the exchange of ratifications between the Holy See and the Italian government, the Concordat of Feb. 18, 1984, went into effect. This agreement between the Vatican and the Italian State amounts to a revision of the original Concordat which formed a part of the Lateran Pact of February 11, 1929.

    COUNTERFEIT REFORMATION AMONG THE FALSE CHURCHES start: about 23.8.1948 when the World Council of Churches (WCC) was established; end: start of Sunday Law.

    There is a Counterfeit Reformation among the false churches before the Loud Cry – Isaiah 2:2, 3; Micah 4:1-5; EW 261.

    For the cause of the Counterfeit Reformation see GC 464:1

    SHAKING TIME start: about 23.8.1948 when the World Council of Churches (WCC) was established; end: Close of Probation. Hebrews 12:27; EW 269-273.

    The Shaking

    (a) has already started and continues until the close of probation – 1T 429:1

    (b) its purpose is to purify the church – Ephesians 5:25-27; Malachi 3:1-3; IT 99:3

    (c) it causes (i) heresies – 1 Timothy 4:1; 5T 707 and (ii) a Straight Testimony – 1T 161.

    Those shaken are described in GC 608:2; EW 50:3; 5T 80-81:1.

    A great proportion are shaken – Matthew 22:14; 5T 136:1; 2T 445:2-446; GC 608


    ALLIANCE BETWEEN CATHOLICS AND PROTESTANTS start: ongoing from about 23.8.1948 when the World Council of Churches (WCC) was established; end: Close of Probation


    UNION OF CHURCH AND STATE start: about 23.8.1948 when the World Council of Churches (WCC) was established; end: Close of Probation


    When the Christian world shall make void the law of God when church and state are united, when Protestantism shall reach its hands across the gulf to unite with Romanism, allegiance to the law of God will be fully thrown off and the decree will go forth against the people of God. But when men trample on the plainest requirements of God’s word, the prayer will go up to heaven, “It is time for thee, Lord to work; for they have made void thy law.” And God will work. {Ms104-1893}


    The churches are making void the law of God, rejecting the truth and choosing [their] delusions. They are not taking sides with the Prince of Peace. They are not ranging under the banner of the Lord God of hosts; and when church and state shall be united in restricting religious liberty, when the institution of the man of sin shall be taken up universally in preference to God’s holy, sanctified day; when all men [standing] in church and state [show] strong respect for the man of sin in exalting the heathen day of worship and call it Christian, then it will be time for God to work, for they have made void His law. {Ms87-1886}


    Church and state will be united to raise a standard of their own to gauge men’s consciences, while God’s law, the only standard of right, will be trampled upon and despised. {Ms5-1882}


    A union of church and state means a recognition of a spurious sabbath, and a failure to respect the conscientious observance of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. {1990 12MR 218.2}


    Temptation is coming in the form of a union of church and state. There are those who would obliterate the marks of distinction between those who believe the truth and those who think it of no importance. But we are ever to keep plainly in view the distinct features of our faith, which have made us what we are. {Ms82-1900}


    In presenting the Sunday question, or the union of church and state, handle it carefully. These subjects must be broached guardedly. {Ms95-1894}


    With what pride Satan looks upon the world whom we numbers as his subjects. With the union of church and state, he is ruler as far as it is possible for him to being the world. The great rebel who originated rebellion in heaven, is worshipped and the church rules the state, and a corrupt harmony exists, satanic in its principles and workings, and superhuman power is manifested by the whole confederacy of evil. But his rebellion has an end. {Ms104-1893}


    The Bible declares that before the coming of the Lord, Satan will work “with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness;” and they that “received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved,” will be left to receive “strong delusion, that they should believe a lie.” [2 Thessalonians 2:9-11.] Not until this condition shall be reached, and the union of the church with the world shall be fully accomplished, throughout Christendom, will the fall of Babylon be complete. The change is a progressive one, and the perfect fulfilment of Revelation 14:8 is yet future. {1888 GC88 389.3}

    PAPACY HEALED – IMAGE TO BEAST FORMED start: start of [National] Sunday Law

    SUNDAY LAW [NATIONAL] start: after “calamity by land and sea. Property and life are destroyed by fire and flood”; end: Close of Probation. Revelation 13:14-17 (Compare Daniel 3).

    The church appeals to the civil authorities to implement – Revelation 13:14-17; GC 607:1.

    The National Sunday Law brings National apostasy – 5T 451:1; and then National Ruin – 7BC 977; 2SM 373

    This Sunday Law unites the Protestants & Catholics – 5T 712; GC 607:1

    An image to the beast is formed – Revelation 13:13-14; GC 445:1-2

    Which gives a Final Test to mankind – Acts 5:29; Romans 6:16; GC 605:2.

    Every other country follows the USA with the Sunday Law – Revelation 13-3; 6T 18:2.

    The Sunday Law completes the Fall of Babylon – Revelation 14:8; GC 389:2-390


    The same masterful mind that plotted against the faithful in ages past is still seeking to rid the earth of those who fear God and obey His law. Satan will excite indignation against the humble minority who conscientiously refuse to accept popular customs and traditions. Men of position and reputation will join with the lawless and the vile to take counsel against the people of God. Wealth, genius, education, will combine to cover them with contempt. Persecuting rulers, ministers, and church members will conspire against them. With voice and pen, by boasts, threats, and ridicule, they will seek to overthrow their faith. By false representations and angry appeals they will stir up the passions of the people. Not having a “Thus saith the Scriptures” to bring against the advocates of the Bible Sabbath, they will resort to oppressive enactments to supply the lack. To secure popularity and patronage, legislators will yield to the demand for a Sunday law. Those who fear God cannot accept an institution that violates a precept of the Decalogue. On this battlefield comes the last great conflict of the controversy between truth and error. And we are not left in doubt as to the issue. Now, as in the days of Mordecai, the Lord will vindicate His truth and His people. {1882-1889 5T 450.2}


    By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvellous working of Satan and that the end is near. {1882-1889 5T 451.1}


    As the approach of the Roman armies was a sign to the disciples of the impending destruction of Jerusalem, so may this apostasy be a sign to us that the limit of God’s forbearance is reached, that the measure of our nation’s iniquity is full, and that the angel of mercy is about to take her flight, never to return. The people of God will then be plunged into those scenes of affliction and distress which prophets have described as the time of Jacob’s trouble. The cries of the faithful, persecuted ones ascend to heaven. And as the blood of Abel cried from the ground, there are voices also crying to God from martyrs’ graves, from the sepulchers of the sea, from mountain caverns, from convent vaults: “How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost Thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?” {1882-1889 5T 451.2}


    We as a people have not accomplished the work which God has committed to us. We are not ready for the issue to which the enforcement of the Sunday law will bring us. It is our duty, as we see the signs of approaching peril, to arouse to action. {1882-1889 5T 713.4}

    MARK OF THE BEAST = PAPAL SABBATH start: start of Sunday Law; end: at the Close of Probation. Revelation 13:16-17; 14:9-11.

    The Mark of the Beast is given after the truth is made plain to all GC 449:1; 604:3; 605:2


    The Lord has shown me clearly that the image of the beast will be formed before probation closes; for it is to be the great test for the people of God, by which their eternal destiny will be decided. {2SM 80.4}


    The prophecy of Revelation 13 declares that the power represented by the beast with lamb-like horns shall cause “the earth and them which dwell therein” to worship the papacy—there symbolized by the beast “like unto a leopard.” The beast with two horns is also to say “to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast;” and, furthermore, it is to command all, “both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond,” to receive “the mark of the beast.” [Revelation 13:11-16.] It has been shown that the United States is the power represented by the beast with lamb-like horns, and that this prophecy will be fulfilled when the United States shall enforce Sunday observance, which Rome claims as the special acknowledgment of her supremacy. But in this homage to papacy the United States will not be alone. The influence of Rome in the countries that once acknowledged her dominion, is still far from being destroyed. And prophecy foretells a restoration of her power. “I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed; and all the world wondered after the beast.” [Revelation 13:3.] The infliction of the deadly wound points to the abolition of the papacy in 1798. After this, says the prophet, “His deadly wound was healed; and all the world wondered after the beast.” Paul states plainly that the man of sin will continue until the second advent. [2 Thessalonians 2:8.] To the very close of time he will carry forward his work of deception. And the Revelator declares, also referring to the papacy, “All that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life.” [Revelation 13:8.] In both the Old and the New World, papacy will receive homage in the honour paid to the Sunday institution, that rests solely upon the authority of the Romish Church. {1888 GC88 578.3}


    In his work Satan pretends to be very religious. He finds this the most effective way of carrying on the work he began in heaven. Under his guidance the Christian world has made void the law of God by tearing down the seventh-day Sabbath, and exalting in its stead a common working day. As men depart further and further from God, Satan is permitted to have power over the children of disobedience. He hurls destruction among men. There is calamity by land and sea. Property and life are destroyed by fire and flood. Satan resolves to charge this upon those who refuse to bow to the idol which he has set up. His agents point to Seventh-day Adventists as the cause of the trouble. “These people stand out in defiance of law,” they say. “They desecrate Sunday. Were they compelled to obey the law for Sunday observance, there would be a cessation of these terrible judgments.” {RH, July 16, 1901 par. 5}


    As the question of enforcing Sunday observance is widely agitated, the event so long doubted and disbelieved is seen to be approaching, and the third message will produce an effect which it could not have had before. {1888 GC88 605.3}


    I saw all that “would not receive the mark of the Beast, and of his Image, in their foreheads or in their hands,” could not buy or sell. [Revelation 13:15-17.] I saw that the number (666) of the Image Beast was made up; [Revelation 13:18.] and that it was the Beast that changed the Sabbath, and the Image Beast had followed on after, and kept the Pope’s, and not God’s Sabbath. And all we were required to do, was to give up God’s Sabbath, and keep the Pope’s, and then we should have the mark of the Beast, and of his image. {1847 WLF 19.1}


    As I saw what we must be to inherit glory, and then saw how much Jesus had suffered for us to obtain for us so rich an inheritance, I prayed that we might be baptized into Christ’s sufferings, that we might not shrink at trials, but bear them with patience and joy, knowing what Jesus had suffered, that we might through his poverty and sufferings be made rich. Said the angel, “Deny self, ye must step fast.” I saw that some of us have had time to get the truth, and to advance step by step, and every step we have taken has given us strength to take the next. But now time is almost finished, and what we have been years learning, they will have to learn in a few months. And they will have to unlearn much, and learn again. And those who will not receive the mark of the beast and his image, when the decree goes forth, must have decision now to say, nay, we will not regard the institution of the beast. {1851 ExV 55.1}


    The Protestant churches have rejected the clear, scriptural arguments in defense of God’s law, and they long to stop the mouths of those whose faith they cannot overthrow by the Bible. Though they blind their own eyes to the fact, they are now adopting a course which will lead to the persecution of those who conscientiously refuse to do what the rest of the Christian world are doing, and acknowledge the claims of the papal Sabbath. {1884 4SP 409.3}

    PERSECUTION OF SABBATH-KEEPERS start: after start of Sunday Law; end: at the Close of Probation

    TIME TO LEAVE THE LARGE CITIES occurs: after start of Sunday Law.

    This is the sign to leave large cities Micah 4:10; 5T 464:3-465 and a sign that probation is soon to close – 5T 451:2.


    It is no time now for God’s people to be fixing their affections or laying up their treasure in the world. The time is not far distant, when, like the early disciples, we shall be forced to seek a refuge in desolate and solitary places. As the siege of Jerusalem by the Roman armies was the signal for flight to the Judean Christians, so the assumption of power on the part of our nation in the decree enforcing the papal sabbath will be a warning to us. It will then be time to leave the large cities, preparatory to leaving the smaller ones for retired homes in secluded places among the mountains. And now, instead of seeking expensive dwellings here, we should be preparing to move to a better country, even a heavenly. Instead of spending our means in self-gratification, we should be studying to economize. Every talent lent of God should be used to His glory in giving the warning to the world. God has a work for His colaborers to do in the cities. Our missions must be sustained; new missions must be opened. To carry forward this work successfully will require no small outlay. Houses of worship are needed, where the people may be invited to hear the truths for this time. For this very purpose, God has entrusted a capital to His stewards. Let not your property be tied up in worldly enterprises, so that this work shall be hindered. Get your means where you can handle it for the benefit of the cause of God. Send your treasures before you into heaven. {1882-1889 5T 464.3}

    HOUR OF TEMPTATION start: 22.10.1844; end: Close of Probation.

    Temptations increase in intensity, especially applicable to the papal sabbath endorsement
    It is on the law of God that the last great struggle of the controversy between Christ and his angels and Satan and his angels will come, and it will be decisive for all the world. This is the hour of temptation to God’s people; but Daniel saw them delivered out of it, every one whose name is written in the Lamb’s book of life. {ST, January 17, 1884 par. 11}


    “Because thou hast kept the word of My patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.” {Ms50-1904}
    This hour of temptation has come, and it will continue to increase in force and intensity until Christ shall say, “It is done.” “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still; and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still; and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still; and he that is holy, let him be holy still.” {Ms50-1904}


    “Behold, I come quickly; hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.” {Ms50-1904}


    Revelation 3:9 Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.
    Revelation 3:10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.


    The hour of temptation is coming upon the world in a far stronger light, but the judgments of God are also coming upon the world. And we shall find that soon there shall be a time of trouble as never was since there was a nation, for thus saith the God of Israel. {Ms159-1904}
    We must not yield any point that we have already gained. From now on till Jesus comes, the battle will wax fiercer and still fiercer. We shall have to meet and resist men who are regarded as very wise and learned, but who are not spiritually wise unto salvation. Our only hope of saving our own souls and of helping others to be saved is to receive the righteousness of Jesus Christ. {Ms35-1908}


    In this Scripture is brought to view the hour of temptation that is to try them that dwell upon the earth. There is no escape for any one from this conflict. {Ms35-1908}


    No one will be called to pass through temptations so severe as were those our Saviour endured. Because of this, our great High Priest knows how to succour those who are tempted. He knows how to sympathize with them when in their great need they call for help. There are severe trials before every one of us, yet we need not fail. In the hour of temptation, Christ will not leave His children, but will send His angels to minister unto them. He will answer their prayers for deliverance. {Ms35-1908} {RH, July 9, 1908 par. 18}

    TIME OF TROUBLE: LITTLE [SHORT] start: start of Sunday Law; end: Close of Probation.

    This coincides with the Latter Rain occurring just before plagues – EW 85:3-86. For the cause see 2 Timothy 3:12; GC 606:2-607:1


    Note: The words Little and Great only appears in the headings to 5 Spirit of Prophecy extracts; their use is solely to differentiate between the Time of Trouble before and after the Close of Probation.


    And I saw that if God had changed the Sabbath, from the seventh to the first day, He would have changed the writing of the Sabbath commandment, written on the tables of stone, which are now in the ark, in the Most Holy Place of the Temple in heaven; [Revelation 11:19.] and it would read thus: the first day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God. But I saw that it read the same as when written on the tables of stone by the finger of God, and delivered to Moses in Sinai, “But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God.” [Exodus 20:10.] I saw that the holy Sabbath is, and will be, the separating wall between the true Israel of God and unbelievers; and that the Sabbath is the great question, to unite the hearts of God’s dear waiting saints. And if one believed, and kept the Sabbath, and received the blessing attending it, and then gave it up, and broke the holy commandment, they would shut the gates of the Holy City against themselves, as sure as there was a God that rules in heaven above. I saw that God had children, who do not see and keep the Sabbath. They had not rejected the light on it. And at the commencement of the time of trouble, we were filled with the Holy Ghost as we went forth [Hosea 6:2, 3.] and proclaimed the Sabbath more fully. This enraged the church, and nominal Adventists, as they could not refute the Sabbath truth. And at this time, God’s chosen, all saw clearly that we had the truth, and they came out and endured the persecution with us. And I saw the sword, famine, pestilence, and great confusion in the land. [Ezekiel 7:10-19. 2 ESDRAS 15:5-27] The wicked thought that we had brought the judgments down on them. They rose up and took counsel to rid the earth of us, thinking that then the evil would be stayed. [2 ESDRAS 16:68-74.] {1847 WLF 18.4}

    LATTER RAIN start: start of Sunday Law; end: Close of Probation. Hosea 6:3; Zechariah 4:6, 10:1; Acts 2:17, 3:19.

    The Latter Rain coincides with the little / short time of trouble – EW 33:2; 85:3-86.

    The Latter Rain develops the Third Angels’ Messages into the Loud Cry – Revelation 18:1-4; EW 277.

    This lights the world and ripens the harvest – Revelation 18:1; GC 611:2, 612:2; EW 277:1.

    Miracles occur and the Sick are healed – EW 278:1; GC 612:1.

    It ends at the Close of probation – EW 86 with the saints prepared for the Seven Last Plagues.

    I saw that many were neglecting the preparation so needful, and were looking to the time of the “refreshing” and “latter rain” to fit them to stand in the day of the Lord, and to live in his sight. O, how many I saw in the time of trouble without a shelter! They had neglected the needful preparation, therefore they could not receive the refreshing that all must have to fit them to live in the sight of a holy God. Those who refuse to be hewed by the prophets, and do not purify their souls in obeying the whole truth, and are willing to believe that their condition is far better than it really is, will come up to the time of the falling of the plagues, and then see that they needed to be hewed and squared for the building. But there will be no time then to do it; and no Mediator to plead their cause before the Father. Before this time, the awfully solemn declaration has gone forth, “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still; and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still; and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still; and he that is holy, let him be holy still.” I saw that none could share the “refreshing,” unless they obtain the victory over every besetment, all pride, selfishness, love of the world, and over every wrong word and action. We should, therefore, be drawing nearer and nearer to the Lord, and be earnestly seeking that preparation necessary to enable us to stand in the battle in the day of the Lord. Let all remember that God is holy, and none but holy beings can ever dwell in his presence. {1851 ExV 58.3}

    LOUD CRY start: start of Sunday Law; end: Close of Probation. Hosea 6:3; Zechariah 4:6, 10:1; Acts 2:17, 3:19.

    The Loud Cry coincides with the little / short time of trouble – EW 33:2; 85:3-86

    It results from the Latter Rain – Revelation 18:1-4; EW 277.

    As the time comes for the loud cry to be given, the Lord will work through humble instruments, leading the minds of those who consecrate themselves to his service. The laborers will be qualified rather by the unction of his Spirit than by the training of literary institutions. Men of faith and prayer will be constrained to go forth with holy zeal, declaring the words which God gives them. The sins of Babylon will be laid open. The fearful results of a union of Church and State, the inroads of Spiritualism, the stealthy but rapid progress of the papal power,–all will be unmasked. By these solemn warnings the people will be stirred. {1884 4SP 424.1}


    Some, I saw, have a prejudice against our rulers and laws; but if it were not for law, this world would be in an awful condition. God restrains our rulers; for the hearts of all are in His hands. Bounds are set, beyond which they cannot go. Many of the rulers are those whom Satan controls; but I saw that God has His agents, even among the rulers. And some of them will yet be converted to the truth. They are now acting the part that God would have them. When Satan works through his agents, propositions are made, that, if carried out, would impede the work of God and produce great evil. The good angels move upon these agents of God to oppose such propositions with strong reasons, which Satan’s agents cannot resist. A few of God’s agents will have power to bear down a great mass of evil. Thus the work will go on until the third message has done its work, and at the loud cry of the third angel, these agents will have an opportunity to receive the truth, and some of them will be converted, and endure with the saints through the time of trouble. When Jesus leaves the most holy, His restraining Spirit is withdrawn from rulers and people. They are left to the control of evil angels. Then such laws will be made by the counsel and direction of Satan, that unless time should be very short, no flesh could be saved. {1855-1868 1T 203.1}

    THE “FOURTH” ANGELS’ MESSAGE – THE HARVEST MESSAGE – THE FINAL WARNING start: towards the end of the third angels’ message; end: Close of Probation


    The message of the angel following the third is now to be given to all parts of the world. It is to be the harvest message, and the whole earth will be lighted with the glory of God. The Lord has this one more call of mercy to the world, but the perversity of men diverts the work from its true bearing, and the light has to struggle amid the darkness of men who feel themselves competent to do a work that God has not appointed them to do.–Letter 86, 1900, pp. 8, 9. (To A. G. Daniells, June 18, 1900.)


    Exodus 31:13 Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it [is] a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that [ye] may know that I [am] the LORD that doth sanctify you.
    Exodus 31:14 Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it [is] holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth [any] work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people.
    Exodus 31:15 Six days may work be done; but in the seventh [is] the sabbath of rest, holy to the LORD: whosoever doeth [any] work in the sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death.
    Exodus 31:16 Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the sabbath, to observe the sabbath throughout their generations, [for] a perpetual covenant.
    Exodus 31:17 It [is] a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for [in] six days the LORD made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.


    What is the matter with those who claim to believe the truth of the third angel’s message? Why has it lost its power with the very ones whom God has honoured for the sake of making it known to all people? Self has interposed; Satan has so wrought upon human agencies, and self has grown to such large proportions that it will not recognized a “Thus saith the Lord,” through His appointed channels. {Lt86-1900}


    Revelation 18:1 ¶ And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory.
    Revelation 18:2 And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.
    Revelation 18:3 For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies.
    Revelation 18:4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.


    The work of this angel comes in at the right time to join in the last great work of the third angel’s message as it swells to a loud cry. And the people of God are thus prepared to stand in the hour of temptation, which they are soon to meet. {1882 EW 277.1}

    THE WORKING OF SATAN start: after start of Sunday Law; end: Close of Probation.

    Begins after Sunday Law – 5T 451:1-2.

    Through Spiritism, there are realistic impersonations of the dead – GC 552:1, 560:1.

    Wonders, miracles and healings occur – Revelation 13:13-14; 16:13-14; GC 588:2-589.

    These brings war, disease, disaster and storms – Revelation 16:14; GC 589:1-590.

    Those in authority claim that the saints have caused the trouble by violating Sunday – GC 589-590:1.

    The world is headed by the papacy, they unite & oppose the saints – Revelation 13:3-4 8; 7T 182

    SATAN COUNTERFEITS THE SECOND ADVENT [COMING OF CHRIST] start: after start of Sunday Law; end: Close of Probation. Matthew 24:23-27.

    Satan’s Crowning Act: As an angel of light, Satan claims to have changed the Sabbath day to Sunday – 2 Corinthians 11:14; GC 624:2.

    Satan is not permitted to counterfeit the manner of the Coming of Jesus GC 625:2-3

    SEALING TIME – SEALING OF THE SAINTS start: after start of Sunday Law; end: Close of Probation. Ezekiel 9:3-6; Revelation 7:1-4.

    The Sabbath is the Seal – Ezekiel 20:20; GC 640:1; 8T 117.

    Our required qualifications are to fully reflect image of Jesus.

    That means that there will be no sin then in our lives – EW 71:102.

    All previously remember sin would have been confessed and blotted out – Hebrews 10:14-17; 5T 475-476; GC 485, 620; PP 202.

    The sealing time is completed just before probation closes – Ezekiel 9:1-7; EW 279:2-280:1.

    Satan is now using every device in this sealing time, to keep the minds of God’s people from the present, sealing truth; and to cause them to waver. I saw a covering that God was drawing over his people, to protect them in the time of trouble; and every soul that was decided on the truth, and was pure in heart, was to be covered with the covering of Almighty God. {RH, August 1, 1849 par. 6}


    The true people of God, who have the spirit of the work of the Lord and the salvation of souls at heart, will ever view sin in its real, sinful character. They will always be on the side of faithful and plain dealing with sins which easily beset the people of God. Especially in the closing work for the church, in the sealing time of the one hundred and forty-four thousand who are to stand without fault before the throne of God, will they feel most deeply the wrongs of God’s professed people. This is forcibly set forth by the prophet’s illustration of the last work under the figure of the men each having a slaughter weapon in his hand. One man among them was clothed with linen, with a writer’s inkhorn by his side. “And the Lord said unto him, Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midst thereof.” {1872-1875 3T 266.2}


    In the time of trouble we all fled from the cities and villages, but were pursued by the wicked, who entered the houses of the saints with a sword. They raised the sword to kill us, but it broke, and fell as powerless as a straw. Then we all cried day and night for deliverance, and the cry came up before God. {1915 LS 102.1}


    The sun came up, and the moon stood still. The streams ceased to flow. Dark, heavy clouds came up, and clashed against each other. But there was one clear place of settled glory, whence came the voice of God like many waters, which shook the heavens and the earth. The sky opened and shut, and was in commotion. The mountains shook like a reed in the wind, and cast out ragged rocks all around. The sea boiled like a pot, and cast out stones upon the land. {1915 LS 102.2}


    They {the weary and those that later denied the light} fell all the way along the {narrow} path one after another, until we heard the voice of God like many waters, [Ezekiel 43:2. Joel 3:16. Revelation 16:17.] which gave us the day and hour of Jesus’ coming. [Ezekiel 12:25. Mark 13:32.] The living saints, 144,000 in number, knew and understood the voice, while the wicked thought it was thunder and an earthquake. [John 12:29.] When God spake the time, he poured on us the Holy Ghost, and our faces began to light up and shine with the glory of God as Moses’ did when he came down from Mount Sinai. [Isaiah 10:27.] {1847 WLF 14.2}


    The 144,000 were all sealed and perfectly united. On their foreheads were the words God, New Jerusalem, and a glorious star containing Jesus’ new name. At our happy, holy state the wicked were enraged, and would rush violently up to lay hands on us to thrust us into prison, when we would stretch forth the hand in the name of the Lord, and they would fall helpless to the ground. Then it was that the synagogue of Satan knew that God had loved us, who could wash one another’s feet, and salute the brethren with a holy kiss, and they worshiped at our feet. {1855-1868 1T 59.2}

    SPIRIT OF GOD REMOVED end: Close of Probation

    SAINTS READY FOR THE LAMB’S MARRIAGE SUPPER occurs: by the Close of Probation

    MARRIAGE OF THE LAMB Revelation 19:7-9 (Lamb = Christ: John 1:29).

    Lamb’s Wife = Holy City – Revelation 21:9-10; GC 426:2-427:1.

    Jesus receives the Kingdom at the Close of mediation – Daniel 7:13-14; GC 480.

    All guests (saints) garments are inspected = Investigative Judgment – Matthew 22:11-14; GC 428:1.

    Wedding garment = Robe of Christ’s righteousness – Revelation 19:8; GC 428:1.

    The Wedding is conducted in the Sanctuary – Most Holy Place – EW 251:1; 280:1.

    The saints attend the marriage by faith – Matthew 25:10; GC 427:1.

    Jesus returns for the wedding feast with the saints – Matthew 26:29; Luke 12:35-37; GC 427:1.

    CLOSE OF PROBATION Zephaniah 2:1-3; Mark 13:33-37; Revelation 22:11 (2T 190-191).

    Every case is settled and the Holy Spirit of God is withdrawn – Genesis 6:3; GC 613:2; 614:1; PP 201:2.

    The exact time is not perceived by world – they continue a form of religion – GC 615:1.

    Jesus leaves the Most Holy Place and lays all confessed sin upon Satan – Daniel 12:1; EW 280.

    Jesus changes from priestly to kingly attire. After that the Seven Last Plagues occur – Isaiah 59:17-18; EW 281.

    Then the Day of the Lord begins – Joel 2:11; Amos 5:18, 20; Zephaniah 1:14, 18; GC 310-311.

    MICHAEL STANDS UP occurs: after Close of Probation


    I saw that while Jesus was in the Most Holy place he would be married to the New Jerusalem, and after his work should be accomplished in the Holiest, he would descend to earth in kingly power and take the precious ones to himself who had patiently waited his return. {1858 1SG 157.1}

    RIGHTEOUS LIVE WITHOUT AN INTERCESSOR start: Close of Probation; end: Second Coming of Jesus

    TIME OF TROUBLE: GREAT start: Close of Probation; end: Second Coming of Jesus

    The great Time of Trouble begins at the Close of Probation – Daniel 12:1; GC 614:1.

    The whole world is involved in the ruin and destruction – GC 614:1-2.

    The saints are blamed for the trouble – GC 614:3 (Compare 1 Kings 17:1; 18:17-18).

    It is a time not to store any food – God provides our bread and water – Isaiah 33:16; EW 56:2; 1T 206:1.

    The righteous live without an Intercessor – Isaiah 59:16; GC 614:1.

    The great Time of Trouble ends at Second Coming of Jesus with the Seventh Plague – Job 38:22-23.


    Note: The words Little and Great only appears in the headings to 5 Spirit of Prophecy extracts; their use is solely to differentiate between the Time of Trouble before and after the Close of Probation.

    SEVEN LAST PLAGUES [VIALS] Isaiah 28:21; 26:20-21; 59:16-18; Revelation 15 and 16.

    They begin at the Close of Probation – GC 627:3; EW 52:1.

    The Plagues are not universal – GC 628:2.

    The Plagues are the most awful scourges ever known to mortals – GC 629.

    The wicked search in vain for truth – Amos 8:11-12; EW 281:1.

    The saints suffer during the Plagues but they do not perish – Psalms 91:3-10; 121:5-7; Isaiah 26:20; GC 629.

    The duration of the Plagues is shortened for the sake of the elect – GC 631 (Compare Matthew 24:21-22).


    PLAGUE [VIAL] No. 1: Grievous sores upon the worshippers of the beast


    Revelation 16:2 And the first went, and poured out his vial upon the earth; and there fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast, and [upon] them which worshipped his image.


    Barnes: The word “noisome” – kakon, “evil, bad” – is used here to characterize the plague referred to as being especially painful and dangerous. The word “grievous” – poneron – “bad, malignant, hurtful” – is further used to increase the intensity of the expression, and to characterize the plague as particularly severe. There is no reason to suppose that it is meant that this would be literally inflicted, anymore than it is in the next plague, where it is said that the “rivers and fountains became blood.” What is obviously meant is, that there would be some calamity which would be well represented or symbolized by such a fearful plague.

    PLAGUE [VIAL] No. 2: Sea turns to blood


    Revelation 16:3 And the second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it became as the blood of a dead [man]; and every living soul died in the sea.

    DEATH DECREE Revelation 13:15 (Compare John 11:50; Daniel 3:5 10-11).

    The Death Decree is passed after the Close of Probation – GC 615:1-2. The Plagues enrage the wicked against the saints and pass the Decree – EW 36:2-37.

    The Death Decree is passed throughout the world – Revelation 13:3; PK 512; EW 282:2-283; GC 604:2.

    This is the sign to leave all cities and villages and flee to the mountains – GC 626:1.

    The wicked are determined to strike in 1 night, but the saints are delivered – GC 635-636.

    None of the righteous will die after the Decree is issued – 9T 17:1.

    The heavenly angels fight for the saints in the form of men – GC 631:1; EW 283.

    The Death Decree begins the time of Jacob’s Trouble – GC 615-616; LS 117:1.


    The decree that will finally go forth against the remnant people of God will be very similar to that issued by Ahasuerus against the Jews. Today the enemies of the true church see in the little company keeping the Sabbath commandment, a Mordecai at the gate. The reverence of God’s people for His law is a constant rebuke to those who have cast off the fear of the Lord and are trampling on His Sabbath. {1917 PK 605.2}


    I saw the saints leaving the cities and villages, and associating together in companies, and living in the most solitary places. Angels provided them food and water, while the wicked were suffering from hunger and thirst. Then I saw the leading men of the earth consulting together, and Satan and his angels busy around them. I saw a writing, copies of which were scattered in different parts of the land, giving orders that unless the saints should yield their peculiar faith, give up the Sabbath, and observe the first day of the week, the people were at liberty after a certain time to put them to death. But in this hour of trial the saints were calm and composed, trusting in God and leaning upon His promise that a way of escape would be made for them. In some places, before the time for the decree to be executed, the wicked rushed upon the saints to slay them; but angels in the form of men of war fought for them. Satan wished to have the privilege of destroying the saints of the Most High; but Jesus bade His angels watch over them. God would be honoured by making a covenant with those who had kept His law, in the sight of the heathen round about them; and Jesus would be honoured by translating, without their seeing death, the faithful, waiting ones who had so long expected Him. {1882 EW 282.2}


    History will repeat itself. In this age the test will be on the point of Sabbath observance. The same masterful mind that plotted against the faithful in ages past, is now at work to gain control of the falling churches, that through them he may condemn and put to death all who will not worship the idol sabbath. {ST, February 22, 1910 par. 9}


    Our battle will not be with men, altho it may appear so; we war “not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against wicked spirits in high places.” But if the people of God will put their trust in Him, and by faith rely upon His power, the devices of Satan will be defeated in our time, as signally as in the days of Mordecai. {ST, February 22, 1910 par. 10}

    FLEA TO THE MOUNTAINS start: Death Decree; end: Second Coming of Jesus. GC 626:1

    TIME OF JACOB’S TROUBLE start: Death Decree; end: Second Coming of Jesus. Jeremiah 30:7. GC 615-616; LS 117:1.

    The Time of Jacob’s Trouble begins at the Death Decree: GC 615:2-616:1.

    It is a time of mental anguish and a fear that our every sin has not be confessed – GC 616:2, 619.

    Heavenly angels provide the saints with their food and water – Isaiah 33:16; EW 282:2.

    The saints cry day and night for deliverance – Ends at the time of God’s deliverance: EW 283:2.

    In the time of trouble we all fled from the cities and villages but were pursued by the wicked, who entered the houses of the saints with a sword.–EW 34 (1851). {LDE 121.2}


    As the saints left the cities and villages they were pursued by the wicked, who sought to slay them. But the swords that were raised to kill God’s people broke and fell as powerless as a straw. Angels of God shielded the saints. EW 284-285 (1858). {LDE 121.3}


    Though a general decree has fixed the time when commandment-keepers may be put to death, their enemies will in some cases anticipate the decree, and before the time specified will endeavour to take their lives. But none can pass the mighty guardians stationed about every faithful soul. Some are assailed in their flight from the cities and villages, but the swords raised against them break and fall as powerless as a straw. Others are defended by angels in the form of men of war. GC 631 (1911). {LDE 121.4}

    In the time of trouble we all fled from the cities and villages, but were pursued by the wicked, who entered the houses of the saints with a sword. They raised the sword to kill us, but it broke, and fell as powerless as a straw. Then we all cried day and night for deliverance, and the cry came up before God. The sun came up, and the moon stood still. The streams ceased to flow. Dark, heavy clouds came up and clashed against each other. But there was one clear place of settled glory, whence came the voice of God like many waters, which shook the heavens and the earth. The sky opened and shut and was in commotion. The mountains shook like a reed in the wind, and cast out ragged rocks all around. The sea boiled like a pot and cast out stones upon the land. And as God spoke the day and the hour of Jesus’ coming and delivered the everlasting covenant to His people, He spoke one sentence, and then paused, while the words were rolling through the earth. The Israel of God stood with their eyes fixed upward, listening to the words as they came from the mouth of Jehovah, and rolled through the earth like peals of loudest thunder. It was awfully solemn. And at the end of every sentence the saints shouted, “Glory! Alleluia!” Their countenances were lighted up with the glory of God; and they shone with the glory, as did the face of Moses when he came down from Sinai. The wicked could not look on them for the glory. And when the never-ending blessing was pronounced on those who had honoured God in keeping His Sabbath holy, there was a mighty shout of victory over the beast and over his image. {1882 EW 34.1}

    PLAGUE [VIAL] No. 3: Rivers and waters turn to blood


    Revelation 16:4 And the third angel poured out his vial upon the rivers and fountains of waters; and they became blood.
    Revelation 16:6 For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and thou hast given them blood to drink; for they are worthy.

    PLAGUE [VIAL] No. 4: Scorching sun


    Revelation 16:8 And the fourth angel poured out his vial upon the sun; and power was given unto him to scorch men with fire.

    PLAGUE [VIAL] No. 5: Darkness upon seat of the beast


    Revelation 16:10 And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the seat of the beast; and his kingdom was full of darkness; and they gnawed their tongues for pain,
    Revelation 16:11 And blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and repented not of their deeds.

    PLAGUE [VIAL] No. 6: Euphrates dried up


    Revelation 16:12 And the sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried up, that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared.
    Revelation 16:13 And I 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.
    Revelation 16:14 For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, [which] go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty.
    Revelation 16:15 Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed [is] he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.

    BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON

    Armageddon begins during the Sixth Plague – Joel 3:2 9-16; Revelation 16:12-16; 19:11-19.

    The earth is the battlefield – Revelation 16:14; R&H May 13, 1902.

    Everyone is involved and all take sides: God and law-keepers, or, Satan and apostates – 7BC 982-983.

    Evil angels and evil men battle against Jesus and His angels – Revelation 16:14; 19:11 14 19; 7BC 982.

    1. Religious phase: Revelation 12:17, 16:14-17; 7BC 983; GC 582.

    A Battle between good and evil.

    Heavenly angels fight for the righteous – Revelation 19:14; GC 631:1; 6T: 406.

    The Sabbath is the great issue in this conflict – 7BC 983; 6T 352; GC 582.

    2. Military phase: The nation’s armaments – 7BC 967; GC 642; 6T 14.

    God’s artillery: hail stones: 57 lbs. [26kg.] – Job 38:22-23; Revelation 16:21.

    The Battle of Armageddon ends at Second Coming of Jesus – The Second Advent: GC 641-642.


    Revelation 16:16 And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue ARMAGEDDON.


    The battle of Armageddon is soon to be fought. He on whose vesture is written the name, King of kings and Lord of lords, leads forth the armies of heaven on white horses, clothed in fine linen, clean and white. {Ms172-1899}


    A terrible conflict is before us. We are nearing the battle of the great day of God Almighty. That which has been held in control is to be let loose. The angel of mercy is folding her wings, preparing to step down from the throne, and leave the world to the control of Satan. The principalities and powers of earth are in bitter revolt against the God of heaven. They are filled with hatred against those who serve him, and soon, very soon, will be fought the last great battle between good and evil. The earth is to be the battlefield – the scene of the final contest and the final victory. Here, where for so long Satan has led men against God, rebellion is to be forever suppressed. {RH, May 13, 1902 par. 13}

    SEVEN LAST PLAGUES, preliminary to and including the Battle of Armageddon, focuses upon humanity end and the Coming of Christ.


    The word Armageddon comes from the Hebrew “Har Megiddo” meaning mountain of assembly.


    The word “Armageddon” comes from two Hebrew words: Har, meaning “mountain,” and mageddon, meaning “Megido,” that is, Mount Megiddo. There is no Mount Megiddo in the Middle East or anywhere else in the world. However, the Valley of Megiddo in Israel is located near Mount Carmel where Elijah confronted the priests of Baal nearly 3,000 years ago. {Signs of the Times magazine, March, 2010}


    It’s easy to think that the battle of Armageddon doesn’t have much to do with you and me. However, as we’ve seen, Armageddon is simply the final battle in a war that’s been going on ever since time began on our planet. And it isn’t just a war for control of our planet. It’s a war for the control of your mind and mine. Satan and Jesus are both trying to win us to their side. For thousands of years, Satan has tried desperately to compel people to join his side. He especially uses earth’s political powers to try to force us into yielding to him. {Signs of the Times magazine, March, 2010}

    PLAGUE [VIAL] No. 7: Hail, Earthquake, Fire


    Revelation 16:17 And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done.
    Revelation 16:18 And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, [and] so great.
    Revelation 16:19 And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell: and great Babylon came in remembrance before God, to give unto her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of his wrath.
    Revelation 16:20 And every island fled away, and the mountains were not found.
    Revelation 16:21 And there fell upon men a great hail out of heaven, [every stone] about the weight of a talent: and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail; for the plague thereof was exceeding great.

    We need to study the pouring out of the seventh vial. The powers of evil will not yield up the conflict without a struggle. But Providence has a part to act in the battle of Armageddon. When the earth is lighted with the glory of the angel of Revelation 18, the religious elements, good and evil, will awake from slumber, and the armies of the living God will take the field. {19MR 160.1}


    Four mighty angels are still holding the four winds of the earth. Terrible destruction is forbidden to come in full. The accidents by land and by sea; the loss of life, steadily increasing, by storm, by tempest, by railroad disaster, by conflagration; the terrible floods, the earthquakes, and the winds will be the stirring up of the nations to one deadly combat, while the angels hold the four winds, forbidding the terrible power of Satan to be exercised in its fury until the servants of God are sealed in their foreheads. Get ready, get ready, I beseech you, get ready before it shall be forever too late! The ministers of vengeance will pour all the terrible judgments upon a God-forsaken people. The way of obedience is the only path of life. May the Lord help you to see it in time to open your ears, that you may hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. {RH, June 7, 1887 par. 13}


    Every form of evil is to spring into intense activity. Evil angels unite their powers with evil men, and, as they have been in constant conflict and attained an experience in the best modes of deception and battle, and have been strengthening for centuries, they will not yield the last great final contest without a desperate struggle. All the world will be on one side or the other of the question. The battle of Armageddon will be fought, and that day must find none of us sleeping. Wide awake we must be, as wise virgins having oil in our vessels with our lamps. What is this?–Grace. Grace! {8MR 347.1}


    The power of the Holy Ghost must be upon us, and the Captain of the Lord’s host will stand at the head of the angels of heaven to direct the battle. Solemn events before us are yet to transpire. Trumpet after trumpet is to be sounded, vial after vial poured out one after another upon the inhabitants of the earth. {14MR 287.1}

    TABLES OF THE LAW APPEAR IN THE SKY

    During the Seventh Plague (earthquake) – Revelation 11:19 (16:8); GC 639:1.

    DAY AND HOUR OF CHRIST’S COMING ANNOUNCED

    This is announced by the Voice of God – Joel 2:11; GC 640:2.

    SPECIAL RESURRECTION Daniel 12:2.

    There is a Special Resurrection for the righteous who died since 1844 in The Third Angels’ Messages – GC 637:2.

    This Special Resurrection is also for those who pierced Jesus – Revelation 1:7; GC 643:1-2.

    Also, for those violent opposers of the truth – GC 637:2.


    Note: The words Special Resurrection only appear in the headings to 8 Spirit of Prophecy extracts; their use is solely to differentiate between the Time of Trouble before and after the Close of Probation.


    Daniel 12:2 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.


    Revelation 1:7 Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they [also] which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen. {Jesus returns as a man – every eye shall see Him.}


    Then Jesus’ silver trumpet sounded, as he descended on the cloud, wrapped in flames of fire [2 Thessalonians 1:7,8] He gazed on the graves of the sleeping saints, then raised his eyes and hands to heaven and cried out, [John 5:25.] Awake! Awake! Awake! ye that sleep in the dust, and arise. Then there was a mighty earthquake. The graves opened, and the dead came up clothed with immortality. The 144,000 shouted, Hallelujah! as they recognized their friends who had been torn from them by death, and in the same moment we were changed and caught up together with them to meet the Lord in the air. [1 Thessalonians 4:17.] {1847 WLF 14.3b}


    Graves are opened, and “many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth” “awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.” [Daniel 12:2.] All who have died in faith under the third angel’s message come forth from the tomb glorified, to hear God’s covenant of peace with those who have kept his law. “They also which pierced Him,” those that mocked and derided Christ’s dying agonies, and the most violent opposers of his truth and his people, are raised to behold him in his glory, and to see the honour placed upon the loyal and obedient. {1884 4SP 454.1}


    At the coming of Christ the wicked are blotted from the face of the whole earth,–consumed with the spirit of his mouth, and destroyed by the brightness of his glory. Christ takes his people to the city of God, and the earth is emptied of its inhabitants. “Behold, the Lord maketh the earth empty, and maketh it waste, and turneth it upside down, and scattereth abroad the inhabitants thereof. “The land shall be utterly emptied, and utterly spoiled; for the Lord hath spoken this word.” “Because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant. Therefore hath the curse devoured the earth, and they that dwell therein are desolate; therefore the inhabitants of the earth are burned.” [Isaiah 24:1, 3, 5, 6.] {1884 4SP 474.1}

    RESURRECTION FOR THE RIGHTEOUS WHO DIED SINCE 1844 IN THE THIRD ANGELS’ MESSAGES: GC 637:2.

    FIRST RESURRECTION: RIGHTEOUS DEAD

    The Voice of God calls all the righteous dead to awake – 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Corinthians 15:21-23.

    The righteous dead come from the grave: They have the same stature as when they died, but no blemishes.

    The little children are placed in their mother’s arms – 1 Corinthians 15:51-57; GC 644:2: 645:1.

    DELIVERANCE OF GOD’S PEOPLE Psalm 27:5; Malachi 3:17.

    The saints cry day & night for deliverance – EW 283:1-285.

    Deliverance comes as the time to carry out the Death Decree nears – GC 635.

    Delivered at midnight – Job 34:20; GC 636:2.

    There are 144,000 living saints, in number, at that time – EW 14:1-15:1.

    The sun shines at midnight and the moon stands still – EW 285:1.

    The mighty earthquake of the Seventh Plague frees the imprisoned saints – EW 285:1.

    The wicked turn upon one another and upon the ministers – Jeremiah 23:1-2; GC 655-656.

    SECOND COMING OF JESUS CHRIST

    A small black cloud appears in the Eastern sky – GC 640:3 (Orion: EW 41).

    Jesus appears in the clouds – Revelation 1:7; GC 641-1.

    THE WICKED ARE SLAIN BY THE BRIGHTNESS OF HIS COMING Isaiah 11:4; 2 Thessalonians 2:8; GC 656:2; 657:2.

    JOURNEY TO HEAVEN AND THE SEA OF GLASS

    The resurrected and 144,000 living saints meet Christ in air – 1 Thessalonians 4:17.

    They are taken to the Sea of Glass [heaven] in the cloudy chariot of Jesus, and it will take 7 days – EW 16:2; 288.

    On the Sea of Glass, all the saints receive their named crowns and harps from heavenly angels – James 1:12; EW 288:1.
    We all entered the cloud together, and were seven days ascending to the sea of glass, when Jesus brought along the crowns and with his own right hand placed them on our heads. [2 ESDRAS 2:43.] He gave us harps of gold and palms of victory. [Revelation 15:2. Revelation 7:9.] Here on the sea of glass the 144,000 stood in a perfect square. Some of them had very bright crowns, others not so bright. Some crowns appeared heavy with stars, while others had but few. All were perfectly satisfied with their crowns. And they were all clothed with a glorious white mantle from their shoulders to their feet. [Revelation 7:9.] Angels were all about us as we marched over the sea of glass to the gate of the City. Jesus raised his mighty glorious arm, laid hold of the gate and swung it back on its golden hinges, and said to us, You have washed your robes in my blood, stood stifly for my truth, enter in. [Isaiah 26:2.] {1847 WLF 14.3}

    HOLY CITY OF GOD

    Jesus opens the gates of the Holy City and the saints enter – Revelation 22:14; EW 288:1.

    They all gather before white throne and see those won for Christ – GC 647:1.

    Then the two Adams meet – GC 647:2.

    At the Marriage supper – the length of the table is [assuming a 3 foot spacing is 41] miles long, and fully visible, all laden with the fruit of the tree of life, the manna, almonds, figs, pomegranates, grapes, and many other kinds of fruit – EW 19:1.


    We all marched in and felt we had a perfect right in the City. Here we saw the tree of life, and the throne of God. Out of the throne came a pure river of water, and on either side of the river was the tree of life. [Revelation 22:1, 2.] On one side of the river was a trunk of a tree and a trunk on the other side of the river, both of pure transparent gold. {1847 WLF 14.3}


    At first I thought I saw two trees. I looked again and saw they were united at the top in one tree. So it was the tree of life, on either side of the river of life; its branches bowed to the place where we stood; and the fruit was glorious, which looked like gold mixed with silver. We all went under the tree, and sat down to look at the glory of the place. {1847 WLF 16.1}

    MILLENNIUM START

    The earth is desolate – Jeremiah 4:23-27; Revelation 20:1-3; GC 657:3: 660:2.

    Satan is bound: He is banished as the scapegoat – Leviticus 16:21; GC 658.

    With Christ, the Saints in heaven start the judging of the wicked – 1 Corinthians 6:2, 3; Revelation 20:4; EW 291.

    RIGHTEOUS REIGN IN HEAVEN start: Second Coming of Jesus; end: after 1,000 years [Millennium]

    JUDGEMENT OF THE WICKED START: Second Coming of Jesus; end: after 1,000 years [Millennium]


    During the thousand years between the first and the second resurrection, the Judgment of the wicked dead takes place. The righteous reign as kings and priests unto God; and in union with Christ they judge the wicked, comparing their acts with the statute book, the Bible, and deciding every case according to the deeds done in the body. Then the portion which the wicked must suffer is meted out, according to their works; and it is written against their names in the book of death. Satan also and evil angels are judged by Christ and his people. {1884 4SP 475.2}


    After the saints are changed to immortality, and are caught up together, and receive their harps, crowns, &c., and enter the Holy City, Jesus and the saints set in judgment. The books are opened, the book of life and the book of death; the book of life contains the good deeds of the saints, and the book of death contains the evil deeds of the wicked. These books were compared with the Statute book, the Bible, and according to that they were judged. The saints in unison with Jesus pass their judgment upon the wicked dead. Behold ye! said the angel, the saints sit in judgment, in unison with Jesus, and mete out to each of the wicked, according to the deeds done in the body, and it is set off against their names what they must receive, at the execution of the judgment. This, I saw, was the work of the saints with Jesus, in the Holy City before it descends to the earth, through the 1000 years. Then at the close of the 1000 years, Jesus, and the angels, and all the saints with him, leaves the Holy City, and while he is descending to the earth with them, the wicked dead are raised, and then the very men that “pierced him,” being raised, will see him afar off in all his glory, the angels and saints with him, and will wail because of him. They will see the prints of the nails in his hands, and in his feet, and where they thrust the spear into his side. The prints of the nails and the spear will then be his glory. It is at the close of the 1000 years that Jesus stands upon the Mount of Olives, and the Mount parts asunder, and it becomes a mighty plain, and those who flee at that time are the wicked, that have just been raised. Then the Holy City comes down and settles on the plain. {RH, November 1, 1850 par. 5}

    SATAN AND HIS ANGELS ON A DESOLATE EARTH start: Second Coming of Jesus; end: after 1,000 years [Millennium]


    Now the event takes place, foreshadowed in the last solemn service of the day of atonement. When the ministration in the holy of holies had been completed, and the sins of Israel had been removed from the sanctuary by virtue of the blood of the sin-offering, then the scape-goat was presented alive before the Lord; and in presence of the congregation of high priest confessed over him “all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat.” [Leviticus 16:21.] In like manner, when the work of atonement in the heavenly sanctuary has been completed, then in the presence of God and heavenly angels, and the host of the redeemed, the sins of God’s people will be placed upon Satan; he will be declared guilty of all the evil which he has caused them to commit. And as the scape-goat was sent away into a land not inhabited, so Satan will be banished to the desolate earth, an uninhabited and dreary wilderness. {1888 GC88 657.3}
    In the typical service the high priest, having made the atonement for Israel, came forth and blessed the congregation. So Christ, at the close of his work as a mediator, will appear, “without sin unto salvation,” [Hebrews 9:28.] to bless his waiting people with eternal life. As the priest, in removing the sins from the sanctuary, confessed them upon the head of the scapegoat, so Christ will place all these sins upon Satan, the originator and instigator of sin. The scape-goat, bearing the sins of Israel, was sent away “unto a land not inhabited;” [Leviticus 16:22.] so Satan, bearing the guilt of all the sins which he has caused God’s people to commit, will be for a thousand years confined to the earth, which will then be desolate, without inhabitant, and he will at last suffer the full penalty of sin, in the fires that shall destroy all the wicked. Thus the great plan of redemption will reach its accomplishment in the final eradication of sin, and the deliverance of all who have been willing to renounce evil. {1888 GC88 485.3}


    The earth was in a most desolate condition. Cities and villages, shaken down by the earthquake, lay in heaps. Mountains were moved out of their places, leaving large caverns. The sea had thrown out ragged rocks upon the earth, and rocks had been torn out of the earth, and were scattered all over its surface. The earth looked like a desolate wilderness. Large trees were rooted up, and were strewn over the land. Here is Satan’s home, with his evil angels, through the 1000 years. Here they will be confined, and wander up and down over the broken surface of the earth, and see the effects of his rebellion against God’s law. The effects of the curse which he has caused, he can enjoy through the 1000 years. Limited alone to the earth, he will have no privilege of ranging around to other planets, to tempt and annoy those who have not fallen. Satan suffers in this time extremely. Since his fall his evil traits have been in constant exercise. He is then deprived of his power, and left to reflect upon the part he has acted since his fall, and to look forward with trembling and terror to the dreadful future, when he must suffer for all the evil he has done, and be punished for all the sins he has caused to be committed. {1858 1SG 211.2}

    DESCENT OF NEW JERUSALEM – THE HOLY CITY occurs: after 1,000 years [Millennium]

    Jesus and the redeemed return to the earth – Zechariah 14:5; GC 662:1; EW 291:1.

    Jesus Christ descends upon the Mount of Olives – Zechariah 14:4; GC 662:3; EW 291:1.

    The Holy City descends to Mt. Olives – Revelation 21:2; GC 663; EW 291:1.

    Christ and His Saints enter the Holy City – Revelation 22:14; GC 663.


    Revelation 3:12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of MY GOD, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of MY GOD, and the name of the city of MY GOD, [which is] NEW JERUSALEM, which cometh down out of heaven from MY GOD: and [I will write upon him] my new name.
    Revelation 21:2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

    John saw the holy city, the New Jerusalem, with its twelve gates of pearl and twelve foundations of precious stones, coming down from God out of Heaven. The streets are of transparent gold, clear as crystal. Everyone who shall enter those gates and walk those streets will here have been changed and purified by the power of the truth; and the crown of immortal glory will adorn the brow of the overcomer. {ST, December 22, 1887 par. 3}


    At the end of one thousand years, Jesus, the king of glory, descends from the holy city, clothed with brightness like the lightning, upon the mount of olives–the same mount from whence he ascended after his resurrection. As his feet touch the mountain, it parts asunder, and becomes a very great plain, and is prepared for the reception of the holy city in which is the paradise of God, the garden of Eden, which was taken up after man’s transgression. Now it descends with the city, more beautiful, and gloriously adorned than when removed from the earth. The city of God comes down and settles upon the mighty plain prepared for it. Then Jesus leaves the city surrounded by the redeemed host, and is escorted on his way by the angelic throng. In fearful majesty he calls forth the wicked dead. They are wakened from their long sleep. What a dreadful waking! They behold the Son of God in his stern majesty and resplendent glory. All, as soon as they behold him, know that he is the crucified one who died to save them, whom they had despised and rejected. They are in number like the sand upon the sea-shore. At the first resurrection all come forth in immortal bloom, but at the second, the marks of the curse are visible upon all. All come up as they went down into their graves. Those who lived before the flood, come forth with their giant-like stature, more than twice as tall as men now living upon the earth, and well proportioned. The generations after the flood were less in stature. There was a continual decrease through successive generations, down to the last that lived upon the earth. The contrast between the first wicked men who lived upon the earth, and those of the last generation, was very great. The first were of lofty height and well proportioned–the last came up as they went down, a dwarfed, feeble, deformed race. A mighty host of kings, warriors, statesmen and nobles, down to the most degraded, came up together upon the desolate earth. When they behold Jesus in his glory they are affrighted, and seek to hide from his terrible presence. They are overwhelmed with his exceeding glory, and with one accord are compelled to exclaim in anguish, “Blessed is he who cometh in the name of the Lord.” {1864 3SG 83.2}

    MILLENNIUM END

    The gates of the Holy City are closed by Christ’s command – GC 664:3.

    Christ is coronated upon the Throne above the Holy City – GC 665:1, 666:1.

    The Books of Judgment are opened – Revelation 20:11-12; GC 666:2.

    The sky proclaims the panoramic scenes of the Great Controversy – GC 666:3: 668:4.

    RESURRECTION OF THE WICKED DEAD occurs: after 1,000 years [Millennium]

    The Wicked dead are raised (2nd resurrection): John 5:28-29; Revelation 20:5.

    Satan, the Devil is loosed and gathers his wicked for a final battle: Revelation 20:7-9; GC 663:1, 664:1.

    His skilful men make implements of war: EW 293:2; GC 664:2.

    DESTRUCTION OF THE WICKED – DESTROYED BY HELL FIRE occurs: after 1,000 years [Millennium]

    Satan bows to Christ’s supremacy – GC 670:2.

    The Wicked turn against Satan and his agents – Ezekiel 28:6-8, 16-19; GC 672.

    Hell fire devours Satan and the Wicked – Psalm 11:6; Malachi 4:1, 3; 2 Peter 3:7; Jude 14-15; Revelation 20:9-10, 13-15; GC 672:1-673.

    Some suffer for days, some suffer just a moment – Revelation 20:10; Luke 12:47-49; GC 673; EW 294.

    Satan suffers the most – greater and much longer than people – Revelation 20:10; EW 291.


    Matthew 5:22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire. [1 John 2:9, 4:20-21] [Raca means worthless, foolish or empty(headed)]


    2 Thessalonians 2:8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:


    Then the wicked saw what they had lost; and fire was breathed from God upon them, and consumed them. This was the Execution of the Judgment. The wicked then received according as the saints in unison with Jesus had meted out to them during the 1000 years. The same fire from God that consumed the wicked, purified the whole earth. The broken ragged mountains melted with fervent heat, the atmosphere, also, and all the stubble was consumed. Then our inheritance opened before us, glorious and beautiful, and we inherited the whole earth made new. We all shouted with a loud voice, Glory, Alleluia. {RH, November 1, 1850 par. 7}

    THE TIME OF THE END start: 15.2.1798; end: Destruction of the wicked – Daniel 12:4-10; GC 356-3

    NEW HEAVEN AND NEW EARTH – EARTH PURIFIED AND RECREATED occurs: after 1,000 years [Millennium]


    “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away.” [Revelation 21:1.] The fire that consumes the wicked purifies the earth. Every trace of the curse is swept away. No eternally burning hell will keep before the ransomed the fearful consequences of sin. One reminder alone remains: our Redeemer will ever bear the marks of his crucifixion. Upon his wounded head, his hands and feet, are the only traces of the cruel work that sin has wrought. {1884 4SP 489.2}


    When the flood of waters was at its height upon the earth, it had the appearance of a boundless lake of water. When God finally purifies the earth, it will appear like a boundless lake of fire. As God preserved the ark amid the commotions of the flood, because it contained eight righteous persons, he will preserve the New Jerusalem, containing the faithful of all ages, from righteous Abel down to the last saint which lived. Although the whole earth, with the exception of that portion where the city rests, will be wrapped in a sea of liquid fire, yet the city is preserved as was the ark, by a miracle of Almighty power. It stands unharmed amid the devouring elements. “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also, and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” {1864 3SG 87.2}


    And I saw, that as Christ is the vine, and his children the branches: so Satan is the “root”, and his children are the “branches;” and at the final destruction of “Gog and Magog,” the whole wicked host will be burnt up, “root and branch,” and cease to exist. Then will appear the new heaven and the new earth. Then will the saints “build houses,” and “plant vineyards.” I saw, that all the righteous dead were raised by the voice of the Son of God, at the first resurrection; and all that were raised at the second resurrection, were burnt up, and ceased to exist. {1847 WLF 12.1}


    The Garden of Eden remained upon the earth long after man had become an outcast from its pleasant paths. The fallen race were long permitted to gaze upon the home of innocence, their entrance barred only by the watching angels. At the cherubim-guarded gate of Paradise the divine glory was revealed. Hither came Adam and his sons to worship God. Here they renewed their vows of obedience to that law the transgression of which had banished them from Eden. When the tide of iniquity overspread the world, and the wickedness of men determined their destruction by a flood of waters, the hand that had planted Eden withdrew it from the earth. But in the final restitution, when there shall be “a new heaven and a new earth” (Revelation 21:1), it is to be restored more gloriously adorned than at the beginning. {1890 PP 62.2}

    ETERNITY [FUTURE] start: after Earth is purified; end: never ends.

    From the fire, the earth is purified and recreated – 2 Peter 3:12-13; GC 674:1; EW 295:1.


    Ephesians 1:9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:
    Ephesians 1:10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; [even] in him:


    Heaven is a school; its field of study, the universe; its teacher, the Infinite One. A branch of this school was established in Eden; and, the plan of redemption accomplished, education will again be taken up in the Eden school. {1903 Ed 301.1}


    Between the school established in Eden at the beginning and the school of the hereafter there lies the whole compass of this world’s history–the history of human transgression and suffering, of divine sacrifice, and of victory over death and sin. Not all the conditions of that first school of Eden will be found in the school of the future life. No tree of knowledge of good and evil will afford opportunity for temptation. No tempter is there, no possibility of wrong. Every character has withstood the testing of evil, and none are longer susceptible to its power. {1903 Ed 301.6}


    If it were possible for created beings to attain to a full understanding of God and His works, then, having reached this point, there would be for them no further discovery of truth, no growth in knowledge, no further development of mind or heart. God would no longer be supreme; and men, having reached the limit of knowledge and attainment, would cease to advance. Let us thank God that it is not so. God is infinite; in Him are “all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” And to all eternity men may be ever searching, ever learning, and yet they can never exhaust the treasures of His wisdom, His goodness, and His power. {1882-1889 5T 703.1}


    In eternity we shall learn that which, had we received the enlightenment it was possible to obtain here, would have opened our understanding. The themes of redemption will employ the hearts and minds and tongues of the redeemed through the everlasting ages. They will understand the truths which Christ longed to open to His disciples, but which they did not have faith to grasp. Forever and forever new views of the perfection and glory of Christ will appear. Through endless ages will the faithful Householder bring forth from His treasure things new and old. {1900 COL 134.1}


    The Old Testament Scriptures were the lesson book of Israel…. There are practical lessons in the word of God, lessons that Christ would have teachers and parents present to the children in the school and in the home. That word teaches living, holy principles, which prompt men to do unto others as they would have others do unto them–principles which they are to bring into the daily life here below, and carry with them into the school above. This is the higher education. No learning of human origin can gain these heights; for they reach into eternity, and are immortalized. We know altogether too little of the greatness of the love and compassion of God. {1913 CT 455.2}

    THE SAINTS INHERIT A NEW EARTH Psalm 37:9-11, 29; Isaiah 45:18; Revelation 21:7.

    SPACE TRAVEL TO THE OTHER WORLDS IS UNDERTAKEN BY THE SAINTS EW 40.


    The Lord has given me a view of other worlds. Wings were given me, and an angel attended me from the city to a place that was bright and glorious. The grass of the place was living green, and the birds there warbled a sweet song. The inhabitants of the place were of all sizes; they were noble, majestic, and lovely. They bore the express image of Jesus, and their countenances beamed with holy joy, expressive of the freedom and happiness of the place. I asked one of them why they were so much more lovely than those on the earth. The reply was, “We have lived in strict obedience to the commandments of God, and have not fallen by disobedience, like those on the earth.” Then I saw two trees, one looked much like the tree of life in the city. The fruit of both looked beautiful, but of one they could not eat. They had power to eat of both, but were forbidden to eat of one. Then my attending angel said to me, “None in this place have tasted of the forbidden tree; but if they should eat, they would fall.” Then I was taken to a world which had seven moons. There I saw good old Enoch, who had been translated. On his right arm he bore a glorious palm, and on each leaf was written “Victory.” Around his head was a dazzling white wreath, and leaves on the wreath, and in the middle of each leaf was written “Purity,” and around the wreath were stones of various colors, that shone brighter than the stars, and cast a reflection upon the letters and magnified them. On the back part of his head was a bow that confined the wreath, and upon the bow was written “Holiness.” Above the wreath was a lovely crown that shone brighter than the sun. I asked him if this was the place he was taken to from the earth. He said, “It is not; the city is my home, and I have come to visit this place.” He moved about the place as if perfectly at home. I begged of my attending angel to let me remain in that place. I could not bear the thought of coming back to this dark world again. Then the angel said, “You must go back, and if you are faithful, you, with the 144,000, shall have the privilege of visiting all the worlds and viewing the handiwork of God.” {1882 EW 39.3}

    ONLY ONE REMINDER OF SIN REMAINS: THE SACRIFICIAL WOUNDS OF JESUS CHRIST Habakkuk 3:4; Zechariah 13:6; GC 674:2.


    “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away.” [Revelation 21:1.] The fire that consumes the wicked purifies the earth. Every trace of the curse is swept away. No eternally burning hell will keep before the ransomed the fearful consequences of sin. One reminder alone remains: our Redeemer will ever bear the marks of his crucifixion. Upon his wounded head, his hands and feet, are the only traces of the cruel work that sin has wrought. {1884 4SP 489.2}