The European Union in Prophecy The EU in Prophecy I | Page 294

The European Union in Prophecy
Farmers left their fields, mechanics their tools, traders their merchandise,
professional men their positions; and yet the number of workers was small in
comparison with the work to be accomplished. The condition of an ungodly church and
a world lying in wickedness, burdened the souls of the true watchmen, and they
willingly endured toil, privation, and suffering, that they might call men to
repentance unto salvation.
Though opposed by Satan, the work went steadily forward, and the advent truth
was accepted by many thousands. Everywhere the searching testimony was heard,
warning sinners, both worldlings and church members, to flee from the wrath to come.
Like John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ, the preachers laid the ax at the root
of the tree and urged all to bring forth fruit meet for repentance. Their stirring appeals
were in marked contrast to the assurances of peace and safety that were heard from
popular pulpits; and wherever the message was given, it moved the people. The simple,
direct testimony of the Scriptures, set home by the power of the Holy Spirit, brought
a weight of conviction which few were able wholly to resist. Professors of religion were
roused from their false security. They saw their backslidings, their worldliness and
unbelief, their pride and selfishness.
Many sought the Lord with repentance and humiliation. The affections that had
so long clung to earthly things they now fixed upon heaven. The Spirit of God rested
upon them, and with hearts softened and subdued they joined to sound the cry: "Fear
God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come." Sinners inquired
with weeping: "What must I do to be saved?" Those whose lives had been marked with
dishonesty were anxious to make restitution. All who found peace in Christ longed to
see others share the blessing. The hearts of parents were turned to their children, and
the hearts of children to their parents. The barriers of pride and reserve were swept
away. Heartfelt confessions were made, and the members of the household labored
for the salvation of those who were nearest and dearest. Often was heard the sound
of earnest intercession. Everywhere were souls in deep anguish pleading with God.
Many wrestled all night in prayer for the assurance that their own sins were pardoned,
or for the conversion of their relatives or neighbors.
All classes flocked to the Adventist meetings. Rich and poor, high and low, were,
from various causes, anxious to hear for themselves the doctrine of the second advent.
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