First, why do I entitle this book "The Fourth Angel"? Are there not 5 angels in Revelation 14? So why do I call this book "The Fourth Angel"? The reason is simple. We as Seventh-day Adventists have been commissioned by God to give the 3 angels messages since the Great Disappointment of October 22, 1844. In addition, we have been commissioned to give the message of Revelation 18 in which Ellen White calls this "another" angel. These angels of course, by what is told about them in the Scriptures, are messages. In Revelation 14 there are 3 angels given in verses 6 through 12, the 3rd one being the significant one in that it gives the warning against the beast and the mark of the beast. Revelation 18:2 and 3 tell us that Babylon is fallen and who has taken part in her activities, and in verse 4 the call is made for those who are still God’s people in Babylon to come out of her. Because the 3 angels in Revelation 14 verses 6 to 12 are the 3 angels messages, and because the angel coming down from heaven in Revelation 18 is closely aligned with the 3 angels in Revelation 14:6-12, and because these are all working together as Ellen White has written in certain of her writings, I have chosen to call what she calls "another angel" the fourth angel in this book.

All Bible texts are from the King James Version of the Bible.

Now, lets look at the rest of what is intended in this Preface and Explanations.

Since the Great Disappointment of October 22, 1844 the Seventh-day Adventist people have been looking for the 2^nd coming of Jesus to take place so that all the saved can go to Heaven to begin their time of eternity with God. They have prayed for, talked about, hoped for, desired strongly for this event to take place. In this year 2016 it’s been over 170 years ago since this Great Disappointment took place in the Fall of 1844.

The Seventh-day Adventist Church actually came into being as a denomination in 1863. Prior to that they were a company of believers whose hopes had been disappointed by Jesus not coming on October 22, 1844.

As the years have rolled on, the church has grown larger worldwide with its first Seventh-day Adventist church sponsored missionary, J.N. Andrews going to Europe. According to Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J._N._Andrews ) "Andrews helped start a publishing house in Switzerland and an Adventist periodical in French,　Les Signes des Temps　(1876)."

In 1888 the now famous Minneapolis General Conference that took place, "righteousness by faith" became a phrase that has become well known among Seventh-day Adventists as a result of Jones and Waggoner’s talks at that conference.

In 1901 the General Conference did a reorganization that Ellen White suggested would be a good thing to do. However, the General Conference later undid that reorganization.

Ellen White lived until the year 1915.

Since that time the church has continued to grow. People have become members of the church through various sorts of efforts by the church in evangelistic meetings as well as by the witness of individuals.

There have also been a number of members of the church who have left the church including pastors. Some have gone to be part of Sunday-keeping congregations, while others have joined other Sabbath-keeping bodies of believers.

Ellen White said that even in her time that the church was steadily retreating to Egypt. She wrote the following in Volume 5 of the Testimonies on page 217.

The church has turned back from following Christ her Leader and is steadily retreating toward Egypt. Yet few are alarmed or astonished at their want of spiritual power. Doubt, and even disbelief of the testimonies of the Spirit of God, is leavening our churches everywhere. Satan would have it thus. Ministers who preach self instead of Christ would have it thus. The testimonies are unread and unappreciated. God has spoken to you. Light has been shining from His word and from the testimonies, and both have been slighted and disregarded. The result is apparent in the lack of purity and devotion and earnest faith among us.

 

Another thing that is reported by some in the area of evangelism of the world is that Muslims have been showing interest in Christianity. It is reported by some that Muslims have been having dreams purportedly from Jesus Himself. One person told me that they have friends who have been saying that in their dreams that they are being directed to the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Remember that God’s hand "hand is not shortened, that it cannot save" Isaiah 59:1

Amongst all this are statements that Ellen White has made, in connection with the Scriptures, relating to "another angel" of Revelation 18. She also writes about "the sifting", "the shaking" that started in her time and will continue to a certain time when, after that time, "we shall be better able to measure the strength of Israel. 5 Testimonies, page 79.4

What does this mean? Why is this "sifting" "shaking" time? Does the Seventh-day Adventist Church need this action for some purpose?

Apparently the Seventh-day Adventist Church needs to go through some sort of change. There are those who are not totally committed to God and to His end-time message and church. They will remove themselves from the church through the result of their own decisions. They have lived their lives more closely aligned with the world than with God. The remainder will be removed from the church through an action taken by God.

Once "the sifting", "the shaking" in the church is finished, "the church is to enter upon her final conflict. "Fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners" (Song of Solomon 6:10), she is to go forth into all the world, conquering and to conquer." Prophets and Kings, page 725.1

This brings us to what is written in this publication, "The Fourth Angel". If you look in your Bible you will find that there is a fourth angel in Revelation 16:8; however, this angel is pouring out a vial during the plagues which takes place after probation closes.

Ellen White calls the angel of Revelation 18:1 the "other angel". Why call this the "Fourth Angel"?

Seventh-day Adventists are familiar with Revelation 14, in which the 3 angels (messages) are located, and Revelation 18, which is the final call out of Babylon to all the world’s inhabitants. The call in verse 4 is made to "Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues". This is in reality, the fourth angel’s message to all the worlds’ inhabitants. During this time the seventh day Sabbath is to be the great point of controversy that will be agitated worldwide. This will be a time of great stress among all nations and among all religious bodies because God is finishing His work of salvation and mercy to all mankind on this planet earth. Once this work is finished, Jesus will say those words in Revelation 22:11 which finalizes all human characters in place as to where they will spend eternity. The wicked will eventually be destroyed in the final fires of the burning earth, and the righteous will spend forever to be with God throughout the continuing time of eternity.

Where will you be? Where do you want to be, down very deep in your heart and your soul? The choice is yours. No one can make that decision for you. While you can’t make that decision for anyone else either, your actions may influence others with your own choice.

My question to you is this.

If God promises to be with you all the time through His holy angels and with His Holy Spirit, how can you not make it to Heaven through His gracious invitation, and His gracious help? If He has said that He will forgive you of your sins, and will help you continue to be with Him, and to maintain a living relationship with Him, how can you miss the reality of His Heavenly life, not only here while probation’s hours are still open, but also during the great time of trouble coming upon this earth, if He doesn't allow you to rest before that time?

Remember, God is our reality. Again, it’s your choice, your decision. You’re the only one who can make that decision, and with God’s enabling help, keep it. He’s very capable. Are you willing to take Him up on His offer and live?

This real life is waiting for your reply.

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History of Sin, Enmity, Salvation, The Books, The Sanctuary, The Scriptures, Two Judgments, Time of the End, and Assorted Short Studies Preparatory to the Swelling of the Loud Cry

 

How much longer are we going to have to remain on this earth in its present condition before Jesus comes? Will He come this year? Or the next year? Or is it going to be later?

Seventh-day Adventists have been looking for Jesus to come since The Great Disappointment of October 22, 1844. At this writing in 2015-2016 it has been over 170 years since then.

Didn’t Ellen White in 6 Testimonies 449.4 write,

"Had the purpose of God been carried out by His people in giving to the world the message of mercy, Christ would, ere this, have come to the earth, and the saints would have received their welcome into the city of God." (Note: ere is an Old English word meaning "before".)

 

Didn’t we pass 150 years since the official organization of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in 1863?

How much longer are we going to celebrate these events in this world of sin before Jesus comes?

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History of Sin

 

How sin and rebellion entered our planet

 

Ellen White writes the following about sin and rebellion.

It is impossible to so explain the origin of sin as to give a reason for its existence. Yet enough may be understood concerning both the origin and the final disposition of sin, to fully make manifest the justice and benevolence of God in all his dealings with evil. Nothing is more plainly taught in Scripture than that God was in nowise responsible for the entrance of sin; that there was no arbitrary withdrawal of divine grace, no deficiency in the divine government, that gave occasion for the uprising of rebellion. Sin is an intruder, for whose presence no reason can be given. It is mysterious, unaccountable; to excuse it, is to defend it. Could excuse for it be found, or cause be shown for its existence, it would cease to be sin. Our only definition of sin is that given in the Word of God; it is "the transgression of the law;" it is the outworking of a principle at war with the great law of love which is the foundation of the divine government. Great Controversy, 1888 edition, page 492.2

 

So if there is no reason for sin and rebellion, how DID sin come to be part of our planet? Let’s explore this for a few moments.

Sin does just the opposite of God’s perfect ways of cleaning us up. Since sin is rebellion against those life-giving laws, sin shortens life, the very life that God has created us to live. Sin basically destroys. Satan, the created being, is the originator of rebellion against God. He was once the angel who stood higher than any other created being. He was leader of all of the angels of God. His name was Lucifer The Hebrew word translated "Lucifer" is helel. It meaning is "to shine" or it can also be rendered "to bear light". Thus Ellen White uses the following to describe this angel of highest rank among the created angels.

Lucifer in heaven, before his rebellion, was a high and exalted angel, next in honor to God's dear Son. His countenance, like those of the other angels, was mild and expressive of happiness. His forehead was high and broad, showing a powerful intellect. His form was perfect; his bearing noble and majestic. A special light beamed in his countenance and shone around him brighter and more beautiful than around the other angels; yet Christ, God's dear Son, had the pre-eminence over all the angelic host. He was one with the Father before the angels were created. Story of Redemption, page 13.1

 

There was peace in Heaven before Lucifer rebelled.

Before the entrance of evil, there was peace and joy throughout the universe. All was in perfect harmony with the Creator's will. Love for God was supreme, love for one another impartial. Christ the Word, the only begotten of God, was one with the eternal Father,—one in nature, in character, and in purpose,—the only being in all the universe that could enter into all the counsels and purposes of God. By Christ, the Father wrought in the creation of all heavenly beings. "By him were all things created, that are in Heaven, . . . whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers;" [Colossians 1:16.] and to Christ, equally with the Father, all Heaven gave allegiance. Great Controversy, 1888 edition, page 493.1

 

The law of love being the foundation of the government of God, the happiness of all created beings depended upon their perfect accord with its great principles of righteousness. God desires from all his creatures the service of love,— homage that springs from an intelligent appreciation of his character. He takes no pleasure in a forced allegiance, and to all he grants freedom of will, that they may render him voluntary service. Great Controversy, 1888 edition, page 493.2

 

If Lucifer was created to be this angel of lofty character and had this high position, why did he rebel against the very Hands that had created him? This is a serious question that no one has been able to answer satisfactorily as to why he rebelled against his Creator. Here’s what Ellen White has to write about this.

It is impossible to so explain the origin of sin as to give a reason for its existence. Yet enough may be understood concerning both the origin and the final disposition of sin, to fully make manifest the justice and benevolence of God in all his dealings with evil. Nothing is more plainly taught in Scripture than that God was in nowise responsible for the entrance of sin; that there was no arbitrary withdrawal of divine grace, no deficiency in the divine government, that gave occasion for the uprising of rebellion. Sin is an intruder, for whose presence no reason can be given. It is mysterious, unaccountable; to excuse it, is to defend it. Could excuse for it be found, or cause be shown for its existence, it would cease to be sin. Our only definition of sin is that given in the Word of God; it is "the transgression of the law;" it is the outworking of a principle at war with the great law of love which is the foundation of the divine government. Great Controversy, 1888 edition, page 492.2

 

Let’s look at what started Lucifer’s road to rebellion against his Creator.

Lucifer was envious of Christ, and gradually assumed command which devolved on Christ alone. Story of Redemption, page 13.1

 

She continues with the following about God and Jesus.

The great Creator assembled the heavenly host, that He might in the presence of all the angels confer special honor upon His Son. The Son was seated on the throne with the Father, and the heavenly throng of holy angels was gathered around them. The Father then made known that it was ordained by Himself that Christ, His Son, should be equal with Himself; so that wherever was the presence of His Son, it was as His own presence. The word of the Son was to be obeyed as readily as the word of the Father. His Son He had invested with authority to command the heavenly host. Especially was His Son to work in union with Himself in the anticipated creation of the earth and every living thing that should exist upon the earth. His Son would carry out His will and His purposes but would do nothing of Himself alone. The Father's will would be fulfilled in Him.

Story of Redemption, page 13.1

 

Here we see that God, before the presence of all the angels that had been created, Lucifer included, made it known that "Christ, His Son, should be equal with Himself". Lucifer allowed dissatisfaction to stir in his heart. Ellen White continues from the above statement.

Lucifer was envious and jealous of Jesus Christ. Yet when all the angels bowed to Jesus to acknowledge His supremacy and high authority and rightful rule, he bowed with them; but his heart was filled with envy and hatred. Christ had been taken into the special counsel of God in regard to His plans, while Lucifer was unacquainted with them. He did not understand, neither was he permitted to know, the purposes of God. But Christ was acknowledged sovereign of heaven, His power and authority to be the same as that of God Himself. Lucifer thought that he was himself a favorite in heaven among the angels. He had been highly exalted, but this did not call forth from him gratitude and praise to his Creator. He aspired to the height of God Himself. He gloried in his loftiness. He knew that he was honored by the angels. He had a special mission to execute. He had been near the great Creator, and the ceaseless beams of glorious light enshrouding the eternal God had shone especially upon him. He thought how angels had obeyed his command with pleasurable alacrity [eagerness, enthusiasm, readiness]. Were not his garments light and beautiful? Why should Christ thus be honored before himself? Story of Redemption, page 14.1

 

He left the immediate presence of the Father, dissatisfied and filled with envy against Jesus Christ. Concealing his real purposes, he assembled the angelic host. He introduced his subject, which was himself. As one aggrieved, he related the preference God had given Jesus to the neglect of himself. He told them that henceforth all the sweet liberty the angels had enjoyed was at an end. For had not a ruler been appointed over them, to whom they from henceforth must yield servile honor? He stated to them that he had called them together to assure them that he no longer would submit to this invasion of his rights and theirs; that never would he again bow down to Christ; that he would take the honor upon himself which should have been conferred upon him, and would be the commander of all who would submit to follow him and obey his voice. Story of Redemption, page 14.2

 

In reality, Lucifer began to distrust his Creator. The trust that he had since his own creation was being broken down because of his dissatisfaction at not being included in the councils of the Father and the Son, his Creators. He became suspicious of Their leadership in the Universe. He knew he was an honored angel, but rather than trust God and Christ together, and follow Their perfect ways, he chose to separate himself from Them and take to himself the honor and leadership that belonged alone to Them. This was his time of separation. Satan’s self-importance began to grow within himself. Isaiah 14:12-17 calls Lucifer by his name while he still retained his position in Heaven as leader of all the heavenly angel host. It is in these few verses that the description of Lucifer’s fall takes place.

12 　How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!

13 　For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north:

14 　I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.

15 　Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.

16 　They that see thee shall narrowly look upon thee, and consider thee, saying, Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms;

17 　That made the world as a wilderness, and destroyed the cities thereof; that opened not the house of his prisoners?

Isaiah 14:12-17

 

There are some clues in these verses that indicate that Satan had self-importance. We call this pride, a word that is all to often used as though pride was a good thing. (I’m proud of you. The actual response should be a spirit of thankfulness to God for what you are.) Lucifer took to himself the desire to set himself above his Creator. Because he allowed his pride or "self-importance" to grow in his life, and not stop it then, it eventually grew into full rebellion. When he left that meeting where God was explaining to the entire angelic host that Christ, His Son was equal with Himself, Lucifer was dissatisfied. He went to those of his angels and stated that he would no longer bow down to Christ. He took to himself the honor that God and Christ, His Son, alone were due, as the Creators of all that was known at that time. He began to expand his dissatisfaction with his Creators to those who were under his charge. The result was contention [conflict, strife, controversy]. Ellen White describes what happened here.

There was contention among the angels. Lucifer and his sympathizers were striving to reform the government of God. They were discontented and unhappy because they could not look into His unsearchable wisdom and ascertain His purposes in exalting His Son, and endowing Him with such unlimited power and command. They rebelled against the authority of the Son. Story of Redemption, page 15.1

 

Angels that were loyal and true sought to reconcile this mighty, rebellious angel to the will of his Creator. They justified the act of God in conferring honor upon Christ, and with forcible reasoning sought to convince Lucifer that no less honor was his now than before the Father had proclaimed the honor which He had conferred upon His Son. They clearly set forth that Christ was the Son of God, existing with Him before the angels were created; and that He had ever stood at the right hand of God, and His mild, loving authority had not heretofore been questioned; and that He had given no commands but what it was joy for the heavenly host to execute. They urged that Christ's receiving special honor from the Father, in the presence of the angels, did not detract from the honor that Lucifer had heretofore received. The angels wept. They anxiously sought to move him to renounce his wicked design and yield submission to their Creator; for all had heretofore been peace and harmony, and what could occasion this dissenting, rebellious voice? Story of Redemption, page 15.2

 

Lucifer refused to listen. And then he turned from the loyal and true angels, denouncing them as slaves. These angels, true to God, stood in amazement as they saw that Lucifer was successful in his effort to incite rebellion. He promised them a new and better government than they then had, in which all would be freedom. Great numbers signified their purpose to accept him as their leader and chief commander. As he saw his advances were met with success, he flattered himself that he should yet have all the angels on his side, and that he would be equal with God Himself, and his voice of authority would be heard in commanding the entire host of heaven. Again the loyal angels warned him, and assured him what must be the consequences if he persisted; that He who could create the angels could by His power overturn all their authority and in some signal manner punish their audacity and terrible rebellion. To think that an angel should resist the law of God which was as sacred as Himself! They warned the rebellious to close their ears to Lucifer's deceptive reasonings, and advised him and all who had been affected by him to go to God and confess their wrong for even admitting a thought of questioning His authority. Story of Redemption, page 16.1

 

Many of Lucifer's sympathizers were inclined to heed the counsel of the loyal angels and repent of their dissatisfaction and be again received to the confidence of the Father and His dear Son. The mighty revolter then declared that he was acquainted with God's law, and if he should submit to servile obedience, his honor would be taken from him. No more would he be intrusted with his exalted mission. He told them that himself and they also had now gone too far to go back, and he would brave the consequences, for to bow in servile worship to the Son of God he never would; that God would not forgive, and now they must assert their liberty and gain by force the position and authority which was not willingly accorded to them. [THUS IT WAS THAT LUCIFER, "THE LIGHT-BEARER," THE SHARER OF GOD'S GLORY, THE ATTENDANT OF HIS THRONE, BY TRANSGRESSION BECAME SATAN, "THE ADVERSARY." --PATRIARCHS AND PROPHETS, P. 40.] Story of Redemption, page 16.2 [Brackets included in quote]

 

Christ was one with His Father. Here’s what Ellen White has written about this.

Christ was the Son of God; He had been one with Him before the angels were called into existence. He had ever stood at the right hand of the Father; His supremacy, so full of blessing to all who came under its benignant [kind, compassionate, benevolent] control, had not heretofore been questioned.

Patriarchs and Prophets, page 38.3

 

Christ, God's dear Son, had the pre-eminence over all the angelic host. He was one with the Father before the angels were created. Lucifer was envious of Christ, and gradually assumed command which devolve on Christ alone. Story of Redemption, page 13.1

 

The great Creator assembled the heavenly host, that He might in the presence of all the angels confer special honor upon His Son. The Son was seated on the throne with the Father, and the heavenly throng of holy angels was gathered around them. The Father then made known that it was ordained by Himself that Christ, His Son, should be equal with Himself; so that wherever was the presence of His Son, it was as His own presence. The word of the Son was to be obeyed as readily as the word of the Father. His Son He had invested with authority to command the heavenly host. Especially was His Son to work in union with Himself in the anticipated creation of the earth and every living thing that should exist upon the earth. His Son would carry out His will and His purposes but would do nothing of Himself alone. The Father's will would be fulfilled in Him. Story of Redemption, page 13.2

 

Lucifer worked among the angels to stir disaffection among them. Here’s what Ellen White has written about that work.

Leaving his place in the immediate presence of the Father, Lucifer went forth to diffuse the spirit of discontent among the angels. He worked with mysterious secrecy, and for a time concealed his real purpose under an appearance of reverence for God. He began to insinuate doubts concerning the laws that governed heavenly beings, intimating that though laws might be necessary for the inhabitants of the worlds, angels, being more exalted, needed no such restraint, for their own wisdom was a sufficient guide. They were not beings that could bring dishonor to God; all their thoughts were holy; it was no more possible for them than for God Himself to err. The exaltation of the Son of God as equal with the Father was represented as an injustice to Lucifer, who, it was claimed, was also entitled to reverence and honor. If this prince of angels could but attain to his true, exalted position, great good would accrue to the entire host of heaven; for it was his object to secure freedom for all. But now even the liberty which they had hitherto enjoyed was at an end; for an absolute Ruler had been appointed them, and to His authority all must pay homage. Such were the subtle deceptions that through the wiles of Lucifer were fast obtaining in the heavenly courts. Patriarchs and Prophets, page 37.1

 

There had been no change in the position or authority of Christ. Lucifer's envy and misrepresentation and his claims to equality with Christ had made necessary a statement of the true position of the Son of God; but this had been the same from the beginning. Many of the angels were, however, blinded by Lucifer's deceptions. Patriarchs and Prophets, page 38.1

 

Taking advantage of the loving, loyal trust reposed in him by the holy beings under his command, he had so artfully instilled into their minds his own distrust and discontent that his agency was not discerned. Lucifer had presented the purposes of God in a false light--misconstruing and distorting them to excite dissent and dissatisfaction. He cunningly drew his hearers on to give utterance to their feelings; then these expressions were repeated by him when it would serve his purpose, as evidence that the angels were not fully in harmony with the government of God. While claiming for himself perfect loyalty to God, he urged that changes in the order and laws of heaven were necessary for the stability of the divine government. Thus while working to excite opposition to the law of God and to instill his own discontent into the minds of the angels under him, he was ostensibly [seemingly] seeking to remove dissatisfaction and to reconcile disaffected angels to the order of heaven. While secretly fomenting discord and rebellion, he with consummate [skilful] craft caused it to appear as his sole purpose to promote loyalty and to preserve harmony and peace. Patriarchs and Prophets, page 38.2

 

The spirit of dissatisfaction thus kindled was doing its baleful work. While there was no open outbreak, division of feeling imperceptibly grew up among the angels. There were some who looked with favor upon Lucifer's insinuations against the government of God. Although they had heretofore been in perfect harmony with the order which God had established, they were now discontented and unhappy because they could not penetrate His unsearchable counsels; they were dissatisfied with His purpose in exalting Christ. These stood ready to second Lucifer's demand for equal authority with the Son of God. But angels who were loyal and true maintained the wisdom and justice of the divine decree and endeavored to reconcile this disaffected being to the will of God. Christ was the Son of God; He had been one with Him before the angels were called into existence. He had ever stood at the right hand of the Father; His supremacy, so full of blessing to all who came under its benignant [kind, compassionate, benevolent] control, had not heretofore been questioned. The harmony of heaven had never been interrupted; wherefore should there now be discord? The loyal angels could see only terrible consequences from this dissension, and with earnest entreaty they counseled the disaffected ones to renounce their purpose and prove themselves loyal to God by fidelity to His government. Patriarchs and Prophets, page 38.3

 

In great mercy, according to His divine character, God bore long with Lucifer. The spirit of discontent and disaffection had never before been known in heaven. It was a new element, strange, mysterious, unaccountable. Lucifer himself had not at first been acquainted with the real nature of his feelings; for a time he had feared to express the workings and imaginings of his mind; yet he did not dismiss them. He did not see whither he was drifting. But such efforts as infinite love and wisdom only could devise, were made to convince him of his error. His disaffection was proved to be without cause, and he was made to see what would be the result of persisting in revolt. Lucifer was convinced that he was in the wrong. He saw that "the Lord is righteous in all His ways, and holy in all His works" (Psalm 145:17); that the divine statutes are just, and that he ought to acknowledge them as such before all heaven. Had he done this, he might have saved himself and many angels. He had not at that time fully cast off his allegiance to God. Though he had left his position as covering cherub, yet if he had been willing to return to God, acknowledging the Creator's wisdom, and satisfied to fill the place appointed him in God's great plan, he would have been reinstated in his office. The time had come for a final decision; he must fully yield to the divine sovereignty or place himself in open rebellion. He nearly reached the decision to return, but pride forbade him. It was too great a sacrifice for one who had been so highly honored to confess that he had been in error, that his imaginings were false, and to yield to the authority which he had been working to prove unjust. Patriarchs and Prophets, page 39.1

 

God, in his great mercy, bore long with Lucifer. He was not immediately degraded from his exalted station when he first indulged the spirit of discontent, nor even when he began to present his false claims before the loyal angels. Long was he retained in Heaven. Again and again he was offered pardon, on condition of repentance and submission. Such efforts as only infinite love and wisdom could devise, were made to convince him of his error. The spirit of discontent had never before been known in Heaven. Lucifer himself did not at first see whither he was drifting; he did not understand the real nature of his feelings. But as his dissatisfaction was proved to be without cause, Lucifer was convinced that he was in the wrong, that the divine claims were just, and that he ought to acknowledge them as such before all Heaven. Had he done this, he might have saved himself and many angels. He had not at this time fully cast off his allegiance to God. Though he had forsaken his position as covering cherub, yet if he had been willing to return to God, acknowledging the Creator's wisdom, and satisfied to fill the place appointed him in God's great plan, he would have been re-instated in his office. But PRIDE forbade him to submit. He persistently defended his own course, maintained that he had no need of repentance, and fully committed himself, in the great controversy, against his Maker. Great Controversy, 1888 edition, page 495.3

 

All the powers of his master-mind were now bent to the work of deception, to secure the sympathy of the angels that had been under his command. Even the fact that Christ had warned and counseled him, was perverted to serve his traitorous designs. To those whose loving trust bound them most closely to him, Satan had represented that he was wrongly judged, that his position was not respected, and that his liberty was to be abridged. From misrepresentation of the words of Christ, he passed to prevarication and direct falsehood, accusing the Son of God of a design to humiliate him before the inhabitants of Heaven. He sought also to make a false issue between himself and the loyal angels. All whom he could not subvert and bring fully to his side, he accused of indifference to the interests of heavenly beings. The very work which he himself was doing, he charged upon those who remained true to God. And to sustain his charge of God's injustice toward him, he resorted to misrepresentation of the words and acts of the Creator. It was his policy to perplex the angels with subtle arguments concerning the purposes of God. Everything that was simple he shrouded in mystery, and by artful perversion cast doubt upon the plainest statements of Jehovah. His high position, in such close connection with the divine administration, gave greater force to his representations, and many were induced to unite with him in rebellion against Heaven's authority. Great Controversy, 1888 edition, page 496.1

 

So we see that God bore long with Lucifer. God had to wait until full rebellion of Lucifer took place before He could do anything about the problem. The rebellion of Satan had to be made manifest [obvious, apparent, evident, clear, visible] so that all the angels could see the results of where Lucifer was going with his thoughts and actions.

God in His wisdom permitted Satan to carry forward his work, until the spirit of disaffection ripened into active revolt. It was necessary for his plans to be fully developed, that their true nature and tendency might be seen by all. Great Controversy, page 497.1

 

Was God reasonable in dealing with Lucifer? Absolutely. He made good sense in how He was dealing with Lucifer. He loved Lucifer. It gave Him great pain to see someone He had created special and had given him great powers turn from Him and rebel against His goodness and mercy. It’s a horrible thing to turn from One who is so loving and kind. Why would Lucifer do this? Ellen White gives us the answer.

He nearly reached the decision to return, but pride forbade him. It was too great a sacrifice for one who had been so highly honored to confess that he had been in error, that his imaginings were false, and to yield to the authority which he had been working to prove unjust. Patriarchs and Prophets, page 39.1

 

Lucifer had it all, yet he gave up all for PRIDE.

Does this have anything to do with us today living near the coming of Jesus?

I’ve heard the word "pride" used to show pride in another human beings accomplishments. Is God taken into consideration with the good results of someone’s accomplishments? What does the Bible say about pride?

Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty [proud, self-important] spirit before a fall.

 

Proverbs 16:18

 

If it was pride that caused Lucifer’s fall, should we as humans have anything to do with pride?

What is rationality? Rationality comes from the word rational. What does rational mean?

Rational means "based on or in accordance with reason or logic". (Internet search definition). Reason is defined as "think, understand, and form judgments by a process of logic." (Internet search definition). So what is logic? "reasoning conducted or assessed according to strict principles of validity." What is validity? "the quality of being logically or factually sound".

Is God reasonable or logical? Can you form judgments by the process of logic to come to a conclusion about God? Is God logical or factually sound?

Absolutely! Everything about God, if you understand Him rightly, is logical and reasonable. But our thinking has become so perverted by the irrationality of Satan’s illogical thinking that we have a hard time thinking rational or logical anymore. We humans are strongly influenced by him and many of us have become the same way in our own minds.

It takes the power of God to free us from this illogical and irrational thinking of Satans’. It is possible. The logical Scripture says

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13

 

The little known fact that God is both reasonable and logical can be seen in the way He is known to treat His wayward human beings. Let’s look first how he treated Satan while he was still Lucifer. We go to the writings of Ellen White.

In great mercy, according to His divine character, God bore long with Lucifer. The spirit of discontent and disaffection had never before been known in heaven. It was a new element, strange, mysterious, unaccountable. Lucifer himself had not at first been acquainted with the real nature of his feelings; for a time he had feared to express the workings and imaginings of his mind; yet he did not dismiss them. He did not see whither he was drifting. But such efforts as infinite love and wisdom only could devise, were made to convince him of his error. His disaffection was proved to be without cause, and he was made to see what would be the result of persisting in revolt. Lucifer was convinced that he was in the wrong. He saw that "the Lord is righteous in all His ways, and holy in all His works" (Psalm 145:17); that the divine statutes are just, and that he ought to acknowledge them as such before all heaven. Had he done this, he might have saved himself and many angels. He had not at that time fully cast off his allegiance to God. Though he had left his position as covering cherub, yet if he had been willing to return to God, acknowledging the Creator's wisdom, and satisfied to fill the place appointed him in God's great plan, he would have been reinstated in his office. The time had come for a final decision; he must fully yield to the divine sovereignty or place himself in open rebellion. He nearly reached the decision to return, but pride forbade him. It was too great a sacrifice for one who had been so highly honored to confess that he had been in error, that his imaginings were false, and to yield to the authority which he had been working to prove unjust. Patriarchs and Prophets, page 39.1

 

God, in his great mercy, bore long with Lucifer. He was not immediately degraded from his exalted station when he first indulged the spirit of discontent, nor even when he began to present his false claims before the loyal angels. Long was he retained in Heaven. Again and again he was offered pardon, on condition of repentance and submission. Such efforts as only infinite love and wisdom could devise, were made to convince him of his error. The spirit of discontent had never before been known in Heaven. Lucifer himself did not at first see whither he was drifting; he did not understand the real nature of his feelings. But as his dissatisfaction was proved to be without cause, Lucifer was convinced that he was in the wrong, that the divine claims were just, and that he ought to acknowledge them as such before all Heaven. Had he done this, he might have saved himself and many angels. He had not at this time fully cast off his allegiance to God. Though he had forsaken his position as covering cherub, yet if he had been willing to return to God, acknowledging the Creator's wisdom, and satisfied to fill the place appointed him in God's great plan, he would have been re-instated in his office. But pride forbade him to submit. He persistently defended his own course, maintained that he had no need of repentance, and fully committed himself, in the great controversy, against his Maker. Great Controversy, 1888 edition, page 495.3

 

All the powers of his master-mind were now bent to the work of deception, to secure the sympathy of the angels that had been under his command. Even the fact that Christ had warned and counseled him, was perverted to serve his traitorous designs. To those whose loving trust bound them most closely to him, Satan had represented that he was wrongly judged, that his position was not respected, and that his liberty was to be abridged. From misrepresentation of the words of Christ, he passed to prevarication and direct falsehood, accusing the Son of God of a design to humiliate him before the inhabitants of Heaven. He sought also to make a false issue between himself and the loyal angels. All whom he could not subvert and bring fully to his side, he accused of indifference to the interests of heavenly beings. The very work which he himself was doing, he charged upon those who remained true to God. And to sustain his charge of God's injustice toward him, he resorted to misrepresentation of the words and acts of the Creator. It was his policy to perplex the angels with subtle arguments concerning the purposes of God. Everything that was simple he shrouded in mystery, and by artful perversion cast doubt upon the plainest statements of Jehovah. His high position, in such close connection with the divine administration, gave greater force to his representations, and many were induced to unite with him in rebellion against Heaven's authority. Great Controversy, 1888 edition, page 496.1

 

So we see that God bore long with Lucifer. God had to wait until full rebellion of Lucifer took place before He could do anything about the problem. The rebellion of Satan had to be made manifest [obvious, apparent, evident, clear, visible] so that all the angels could see the results of where Lucifer was going with his thoughts and actions.

God in His wisdom permitted Satan to carry forward his work, until the spirit of disaffection ripened into active revolt. It was necessary for his plans to be fully developed, that their true nature and tendency might be seen by all. Great Controversy, page 497.1

 

Was God logical and reasonable in dealing with Lucifer? Absolutely. He made good sense in how He was dealing with Lucifer. He loved Lucifer. It gave Him great pain to see someone He had created special and had given him great powers turn from Him and rebel against His goodness and mercy. It’s a horrible thing to turn from One who is so loving and kind. Why would Lucifer do this? Ellen White gives us the answer.

He nearly reached the decision to return, but pride forbade him. It was too great a sacrifice for one who had been so highly honored to confess that he had been in error, that his imaginings were false, and to yield to the authority which he had been working to prove unjust. Patriarchs and Prophets, page 39.1

 

Now let’s look at some statements Ellen White makes in regard to God’s patience with the human race.

God bears long with the perversity of men, giving them ample opportunity for repentance; but He marks all their devices to resist the authority of His just and holy law. Pacific Union Recorder, November 19, 1903 par. 6

 

The Lord bore long with the perversity of Israel, but the time came when the people passed the boundaries, and fearful punishment fell upon those who, having had great light, refused to repent and be converted, that Christ should heal them. 13 Manuscript Releases 123.3

 

The statutes of the Lord are to be reverenced and obeyed. God is supreme authority; and when his law is set aside as a matter of no consequence, the transgressor must surely bear the results of his own sin, though God bears long with him. Review and Herald, December 20, 1898 par. 18

 

Our gracious God still bears long with the impenitent. He gives them light from Heaven, that they may understand the holiness of his character, and the justice of his requirements. He calls them to repentance, and assures them of his willingness to forgive. But if they continue to reject his mercy, the mandate goes forth devoting them to destruction. Signs of the Times, August 24, 1882 par. 7

 

Thus was it with Sodom. Behold the fairest city of the plain, set in a garden of beauty. To human vision it is a scene of quietness and security. The fertile fields are clothed with harvests. There is an abundance for the supply of every want, almost without labor. The distant hills are covered with flocks. The merchants of the East bring their treasures from afar. The people live for pleasure and make one long holiday of the year. Signs of the Times, August 24, 1882 par. 8

 

Idleness and riches are their curse. They are absorbed in worldly pursuits and sensual gratification. Yet no visible token of God's wrath hangs over the devoted city. Their last day is like many others that have come and gone. Their last night is marked by no greater sins than many others before it. But mercy, so long rejected, ceases at last her pleadings. The fires of divine vengeance are kindled in the vale of Siddim. The beautiful but guilty Sodom becomes a desolation, a place never to be built up or inhabited. Signs of the Times, August 24, 1882 par. 9

 

The Lord bears long with men, and He calls earnestly for every one to repent. Will the ministers, will the physicians take up this work that has been scarcely touched? May God help us to be faithful, and to do the very work that is now most essential.-- Letter 146, 1909. (To Brother and Sister Kress, December 2, 1909.)

 

The flames that consumed the cities of the plain shed their warning light down even to our time. We are taught the fearful and solemn lesson that while God's mercy bears long with the transgressor, there is a limit beyond which men may not go on in sin. When that limit is reached, then the offers of mercy are withdrawn, and the ministration of judgment begins. Patriarchs and Prophets, page 162.3

 

Under David's rule, the people of Israel gained strength, and uprightness through obedience to God's law. But the kings that followed strove for self-exaltation. They took to themselves glory for the greatness of the kingdom, forgetting how utterly dependent they were upon God. They regarded themselves as wise and independent, because of the honor showed them by fallible, erring man. They became corrupt, immoral, and rebelled against the Lord, turning from him to the worship of idols. Review and Herald, August 4, 1904 par. 7

 

God bore long with them, calling them often to repentance. But they refused to hear, and at last God spoke in judgment, showing them how weak they were without him. He saw that they were determined to have their own way, and he gave them into the hands of their enemies, who spoiled their land, and took the people captive. Review and Herald, August 4, 1904 par. 8

 

God bears long with the perversity of human beings, giving them ample opportunity for repentance, but He marks all their devices to resist the authority of His just and holy law. As an evidence of His displeasure over the building of this tower, He confounded the language of the builders, so that none could understand the words of fellow workers.— 8 Manuscript Releases, pages. 42, 43

 

God allows men a period of probation; but there is a point beyond which divine patience is exhausted, and the judgments of God are sure to follow. The Lord bears long with men, and with cities, mercifully giving warnings to save them from divine wrath; but a time will come when pleadings for mercy will no longer be heard, and the rebellious element that continues to reject the light of truth will be blotted out, in mercy to themselves and to those who would otherwise be influenced by their example. Prophets and Kings, page 276.3

 

The time is at hand when there will be sorrow in the world that no human balm can heal. The Spirit of God is being withdrawn. Disasters by sea and by land follow one another in quick succession. How frequently we hear of earthquakes and tornadoes, of destruction by fire and flood, with great loss of life and property! Apparently these calamities are capricious outbreaks of disorganized, unregulated forces of nature, wholly beyond the control of man; but in them all, God's purpose may be read. They are among the agencies by which He seeks to arouse men and women to a sense of their danger. Prophets and Kings, page 277.1

 

God's messengers in the great cities are not to become discouraged over the wickedness, the injustice, the depravity, which they are called upon to face while endeavoring to proclaim the glad tidings of salvation. The Lord would cheer every such worker with the same message that He gave to the apostle Paul in wicked Corinth: "Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: for I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city." Acts 18:9, 10. Let those engaged in soul-saving ministry remember that while there are many who will not heed the counsel of God in His word, the whole world will not turn from light and truth, from the invitations of a patient, forbearing Saviour. In every city, filled though it may be with violence and crime, there are many who with proper teaching may learn to become followers of Jesus. Thousands may thus be reached with saving truth and be led to receive Christ as a personal Saviour. Prophets and Kings, page 277.2

 

God's message for the inhabitants of earth today is, "Be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh." Matthew 24:44. The conditions prevailing in society, and especially in the great cities of the nations, proclaim in thunder tones that the hour of God's judgment is come and that the end of all things earthly is at hand. We are standing on the threshold of the crisis of the ages. In quick succession the judgments of God will follow one another--fire, and flood, and earthquake, with war and bloodshed. We are not to be surprised at this time by events both great and decisive; for the angel of mercy cannot remain much longer to shelter the impenitent. Prophets and Kings, page 278.1

 

This was written over 100 years ago. Does this not sound like she stepped into our world in 2017 taking note of the varied convulsions of the earth going on now, as it has been going on for several years already?

Folks, we really are on the edge of eternity now.

"Behold, the Lord cometh out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain." Isaiah 26:21. The storm of God's wrath is gathering; and those only will stand who respond to the invitations of mercy, as did the inhabitants of Nineveh under the preaching of Jonah, and become sanctified through obedience to the laws of the divine Ruler. The righteous alone shall be hid with Christ in God till the desolation be overpast. Let the language of the soul be:

 

"Other refuge have I none,

Hangs my helpless soul on Thee;

Leave, O, leave me not alone!

Still support and comfort me.

 

"Hide me, O my Saviour, hide!

Till the storm of life is past;

Safe into the haven guide,

O receive my soul at last!" Prophets and Kings, page 278.2

 

　

 

 

Lucifer’s rebellion changed him and the angels who followed him in rebellion. They were once happy, loyal citizens of the government of Heaven. Now they were discontented. What a change this made in these beings that were created to be happy. Ellen White describes it this way.

Satan stood in amazement at his new condition. His happiness was gone. He looked upon the angels who, with him, were once so happy, but who had been expelled from heaven with him. Before their fall not a shade of discontent had marred their perfect bliss. Now all seemed changed. Countenances which had reflected the image of their Maker were gloomy and despairing. Strife, discord, and bitter recrimination [accusation, blame, reproach] were among them. Previous to their rebellion these things had been unknown in heaven. Satan now beheld the terrible results of his rebellion. He shuddered, and feared to face the future and to contemplate the end of these things. Story of Redemption, page 24.3

 

The hour for joyful, happy songs of praise to God and His dear Son had come. Satan had led the heavenly choir. He had raised the first note; then all the angelic host had united with him, and glorious strains of music had resounded through heaven in honor of God and His dear Son. But now, instead of strains of sweetest music, discord and angry words fall upon the ear of the great rebel leader. Where is he? Is it not all a horrible dream? Is he shut out of heaven? Are the gates of heaven never more to open to admit him? The hour of worship draws nigh, when bright and holy angels bow before the Father. No more will he unite in heavenly song. No more will he bow in reverence and holy awe before the presence of the eternal God. Story of Redemption, page 25.1

 

Could he be again as he was when he was pure, true, and loyal, gladly would he yield up the claims of his authority. But he was lost! beyond redemption, for his presumptuous rebellion! And this was not all; he had led others to rebellion and to the same lost condition with himself--angels, who had never thought to question the will of Heaven or refuse obedience to the law of God till he had put it into their minds, presenting before them that they might enjoy a greater good, a higher and more glorious liberty. This had been the sophistry [the use of reasoning or arguments that sound correct but are actually false] whereby he had deceived them. A responsibility now rests upon him from which he would fain be released. Story of Redemption, page 25.2

 

These spirits had become turbulent with disappointed hopes. Instead of greater good, they were experiencing the sad results of disobedience and disregard of law. Never more would these unhappy beings be swayed by the mild rule of Jesus Christ. Never more would their spirits be stirred by the deep, earnest love, peace, and joy which His presence had ever inspired in them, to be returned to Him in cheerful obedience and reverential honor. Story of Redemption, page 25.3

 

The absence of God in His life caused Satan to attempt to re-enter Heaven. Here’s Ellen White’s account of that occurrence.

Satan trembled as he viewed his work. He was alone in meditation upon the past, the present, and his future plans. His mighty frame shook as with a tempest. An angel from Heaven was passing. He called him, and entreated an interview with Christ. This was granted him. He then related to the Son of God that he repented of his rebellion, and wished again the favor of God. He was willing to take the place God had previously assigned him, and be under his wise command. Christ wept at Satan's woe, but told him, as the mind of God, that he could never be received into Heaven. Heaven must not be placed in jeopardy. All Heaven would be marred should he be received back; for sin and rebellion originated with him. The seeds of rebellion were still within him. He had, in his rebellion, no occasion for his course, and he had not only hopelessly ruined himself, but the host of angels also, who would then have been happy in Heaven had he remained steadfast. The law of God could condemn, but could not pardon. The Spirit of Prophecy, Volume One, page 29.2

He repented not of his rebellion because he saw the goodness of God which he had abused. It was not possible that his love for God had so increased since his fall that it would lead to cheerful submission and happy obedience to his law which had been despised. The wretchedness he realized in losing the sweet light of Heaven, and the sense of guilt which forced itself upon him, and the disappointment he experienced himself in not finding his expectations realized, were the cause of his grief. To be commander out of Heaven, was vastly different from being thus honored in Heaven. The loss he had sustained of all the privileges of Heaven seemed too much to be borne. He wished to regain these. The Spirit of Prophecy, Volume One, page 30.1

This great change of position had not increased his love for God, nor for his wise and just law. When Satan became fully convinced that there was no possibility of his being re-instated in the favor of God, he manifested his malice with increased hatred and fiery vehemence. The Spirit of Prophecy, Volume One, page 30.2

God knew that such determined rebellion would not remain inactive. Satan would invent means to annoy the heavenly angels, and show contempt for his authority. As he could not gain admission within the gates of Heaven, he would wait just at the entrance, to taunt the angels and seek contention with them as they went in and out. He would seek to destroy the happiness of Adam and Eve. He would endeavor to incite them to rebellion, knowing that this would cause grief in Heaven. The Spirit of Prophecy, Volume One, page 30.3

 

The seeds of rebellion were deep in his character. Long had God bore with him in his rebellion. Time and again He had made calls for Lucifer’s repentance. Time and again, Lucifer had refused those calls by God to repent. Over and over again Lucifer had ample opportunity to repent and be reunited with his magnificent Creator. The time had come and the time had gone when Lucifer passed the bounds of God’s great and magnificent mercy. The seeds of rebellion were so deep in Lucifer’s character that he would never again return to total and complete loyalty to God. What a shame. One who was created with special characteristics turning his back on his wonderful Creator. Thus began this experiment with sin and rebellion. But the good news is that once Satan, his followers, and sin are finally eradicated from the Universe, sin will never, ever enter the Universe again. It will be permanently removed from the Universe forever. It will be the lesson book to the Universe that disloyalty to God is destructive of all that is good. It is God’s great love that draws His creatures to Him. What a way to live, forever.

There is a characteristic of Satan that stands unimaginable, but is true in his warring against God. Ellen White writes about it.

Unselfishness, the principle of God's kingdom, is the principle that Satan hates; its very existence he denies. From the beginning of the great controversy he has endeavored to prove God's principles of action to be selfish, and he deals in the same way with all who serve God. To disprove Satan's claim is the work of Christ and of all who bear His name. Education, page 154.3

 

It was to give in His own life an illustration of unselfishness that Jesus came in the form of humanity. And all who accept this principle are to be workers together with Him in demonstrating it in practical life. To choose the right because it is right; to stand for truth at the cost of suffering and sacrifice--"this is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of Me, saith the Lord." Isaiah 54:17. Education, page 154.4

 

Notice that "Unselfishness… is the principle that Satan hates" and "its very existence he denies". Satan denies that unselfishness even exists. In other words, Satan denies the character of God. He has so fought against the unselfish character of the unselfish God so much that he even denies the existence of the unselfishness of the God of Heaven that created the Universe and everything inside the Universe. Ellen White says somewhere that if it were not for the protection that God gives His human creatures that Satan would destroy them. That’s how much Satan hates God’s creations, even as imperfect as we have become through the degradation that has occurred through these nearly 6,000 years of sin and it’s ugly results and impact on our lives.

Those who give the message of the final truth to the entire world during the last part of the Loud Cry will demonstrate this unselfish character of God. This lines up with what Ellen White has written.

The Lord Jesus is making experiments on human hearts through the exhibition of His mercy and abundant grace. He is effecting transformations so amazing that Satan, with all his triumphant boasting, with all his confederacy of evil united against God and the laws of His government, stands viewing them as a fortress impregnable to his sophistries and delusions. They are to him an incomprehensible mystery. Testimonies to Ministers, page and Gospel Workers, page 18

 

Satan finds them an "incomprehensible mystery" because they are living and demonstrating a character like God’s unselfish character. Satan has so dug himself into selfishness that he will not be moved no matter what. He has, of his own will, opted out of the character like those who will live forever. His life, since the creation of this earth, has been made up of tempting humans to come away from the unselfish ways of God to his ways of selfishness. Jesus said of Satan that "he is a liar, and the father of it." John 8:44, and the truth is not in him.

The 10 commandments are the demonstration of the character of God. They are fixed in the universe. They come from an all-wise, all-knowing God. Ellen White comments on the law of love which is the basis of all that all that God is and all that God does.

The law of love being the foundation of the government of God, the happiness of all created beings depended upon their perfect accord with its great principles of righteousness. God desires from all his creatures the service of love,— homage that springs from an intelligent appreciation of his character. He takes no pleasure in a forced allegiance, and to all he grants freedom of will, that they may render him voluntary service. Great Controversy, 1888 edition, page 493.2

 

Ellen White brings to the fore the difference between the character of God and the character of Satan demonstrated in the actions of each.

In the beginning, God was revealed in all the works of creation. It was Christ that spread the heavens, and laid the foundations of the earth. It was His hand that hung the worlds in space, and fashioned the flowers of the field. "His strength setteth fast the mountains." "The sea is His, and He made it." Psalm 65:6; 95:5. It was He that filled the earth with beauty, and the air with song. And upon all things in earth, and air, and sky, He wrote the message of the Father's love. Desire of Ages, page 20.1

 

Now sin has marred God's perfect work, yet that handwriting remains. Even now all created things declare the glory of His excellence. There is nothing, save the selfish heart of man, that lives unto itself. No bird that cleaves the air, no animal that moves upon the ground, but ministers to some other life. There is no leaf of the forest, or lowly blade of grass, but has its ministry. Every tree and shrub and leaf pours forth that element of life without which neither man nor animal could live; and man and animal, in turn, minister to the life of tree and shrub and leaf. The flowers breathe fragrance and unfold their beauty in blessing to the world. The sun sheds its light to gladden a thousand worlds. The ocean, itself the source of all our springs and fountains, receives the streams from every land, but takes to give. The mists ascending from its bosom fall in showers to water the earth, that it may bring forth and bud. Desire of Ages, page 20.2

 

 

The angels of glory find their joy in giving,--giving love and tireless watchcare to souls that are fallen and unholy. Heavenly beings woo the hearts of men; they bring to this dark world light from the courts above; by gentle and patient ministry they move upon the human spirit, to bring the lost into a fellowship with Christ which is even closer than they themselves can know. Desire of Ages, page 21.1

 

But turning from all lesser representations, we behold God in Jesus. Looking unto Jesus we see that it is the glory of our God to give. "I do nothing of Myself," said Christ; "the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father." "I seek not Mine own glory," but the glory of Him that sent Me. John 8:28; 6:57; 8:50; 7:18. In these words is set forth the great principle which is the law of life for the universe. All things Christ received from God, but He took to give. So in the heavenly courts, in His ministry for all created beings: through the beloved Son, the Father's life flows out to all; through the Son it returns, in praise and joyous service, a tide of love, to the great Source of all. And thus through Christ the circuit of beneficence is complete, representing the character of the great Giver, the law of life. Desire of Ages, page 21.2

 

In heaven itself this law was broken. Sin originated in self-seeking. Lucifer, the covering cherub, desired to be first in heaven. He sought to gain control of heavenly beings, to draw them away from their Creator, and to win their homage to himself. Therefore he misrepresented God, attributing to Him the desire for self-exaltation. With his own evil characteristics he sought to invest the loving Creator. Thus he deceived angels. Thus he deceived men. He led them to doubt the word of God, and to distrust His goodness. Because God is a God of justice and terrible majesty, Satan caused them to look upon Him as severe and unforgiving. Thus he drew men to join him in rebellion against God, and the night of woe settled down upon the world. Desire of Ages, page 21.3

 

The earth was dark through misapprehension [misunderstanding, false impression, misconception] of God. That the gloomy shadows might be lightened, that the world might be brought back to God, Satan's deceptive power was to be broken. This could not be done by force. The exercise of force is contrary to the principles of God's government; He desires only the service of love; and love cannot be commanded; it cannot be won by force or authority. Only by love is love awakened. To know God is to love Him; His character must be manifested in contrast to the character of Satan. This work only one Being in all the universe could do. Only He who knew the height and depth of the love of God could make it known. Upon the world's dark night the Sun of Righteousness must rise, "with healing in His wings." Malachi 4:2. Desire of Ages, page 22.1

 

The plan for our redemption was not an afterthought, a plan formulated after the fall of Adam. It was a revelation of "the mystery which hath been kept in silence through times eternal." Romans 16:25, R. V. It was an unfolding of the principles that from eternal ages have been the foundation of God's throne. From the beginning, God and Christ knew of the apostasy of Satan, and of the fall of man through the deceptive power of the apostate. God did not ordain that sin should exist, but He foresaw its existence, and made provision to meet the terrible emergency. So great was His love for the world, that He covenanted to give His only-begotten Son, "that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16. Desire of Ages, page 22.2

 

Lucifer had said, "I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; . . . I will be like the Most High." Isaiah 14:13, 14. But Christ, "being in the form of God, counted it not a thing to be grasped to be on an equality with God, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men." Philippians 2:6, 7, R. V., margin. Desire of Ages, page 22.3

 

This was a voluntary sacrifice. Jesus might have remained at the Father's side. He might have retained the glory of heaven, and the homage of the angels. But He chose to give back the scepter into the Father's hands, and to step down from the throne of the universe, that He might bring light to the benighted [in a state of pitiful or contemptible intellectual or moral ignorance, typically owing to a lack of opportunity], and life to the perishing. Desire of Ages, page 22.4

 

Oh what love that would not let us go! It is fathomless (immeasurable)! To think that Jesus Christ, Son of the all-wise God, in concert with God, gave up all to come to this one wayward planet, the planet which gave up loyalty to Them for Satan, a created being. Can we know the true unselfish love of God? Christ came to show this world that it is possible to live a life totally in unison with the God of Heaven.

1 O love that wilt not let me go,

I rest my weary soul in thee;

I give thee back the life I owe,

that in thine ocean depths its flow

may richer, fuller be.

2 O light that followest all my way,

I yield my flickering torch to thee;

my heart restores its borrowed ray,

that in thy sunshine’s blaze its day

may brighter, fairer be.

3 O joy that seekest me through pain,

I cannot close my heart to thee;

I trace the rainbow through the rain,

and feel the promise is not vain

that morn shall tearless be.

4 O cross that liftest up my head,

I dare not ask to fly from thee;

I lay in dust life’s glory dead,

and from the ground there blossoms red

life that shall endless be.

George Matheson, published in 1882

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