The European Union in Prophecy The EU in Prophecy I | Page 28

The European Union in Prophecy
falsehood and idolatry. They saw that separation was an absolute necessity if they
would obey the word of God. They dared not tolerate errors fatal to their own souls,
and set an example which would imperil the faith of their children and children's
children. To secure peace and unity they were ready to make any concession
consistent with fidelity to God; but they felt that even peace would be too dearly
purchased at the sacrifice of principle. If unity could be secured only by the
compromise of truth and righteousness, then let there be difference, and even war.
Well would it be for the church and the world if the principles that actuated
those steadfast souls were revived in the hearts of God's professed people. There is an
alarming indifference in regard to the doctrines which are the pillars of the Christian
faith. The opinion is gaining ground, that, after all, these are not of vital importance.
This degeneracy is strengthening the hands of the agents of Satan, so that false
theories and fatal delusions which the faithful in ages past imperiled their lives to
resist and expose, are now regarded with favor by thousands who claim to be followers
of Christ.
The early Christians were indeed a peculiar people. Their blameless deportment
and unswerving faith were a continual reproof that disturbed the sinner's peace.
Though few in numbers, without wealth, position, or honourary titles, they were a
terror to evildoers wherever their character and doctrines were known. Therefore they
were hated by the wicked, even as Abel was hated by the ungodly Cain. For the same
reason that Cain slew Abel, did those who sought to throw off the restraint of the Holy
Spirit, put to death God's people. It was for the same reason that the Jews rejected
and crucified the Saviour--because the purity and holiness of His character was a
constant rebuke to their selfishness and corruption. From the days of Christ until now
His faithful disciples have excited the hatred and opposition of those who love and
follow the ways of sin.
How, then, can the gospel be called a message of peace? When Isaiah foretold
the birth of the Messiah, he ascribed to Him the title, "Prince of Peace." When angels
announced to the shepherds that Christ was born, they sang above the plains of
Bethlehem: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."
Luke 2:14. There is a seeming contradiction between these prophetic declarations and
the words of Christ: "I came not to send peace, but a sword." Matthew 10:34. But,
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