The European Union in Prophecy The EU in Prophecy I | Page 307

The European Union in Prophecy
support of secular rulers, it was nominally accepted by multitudes; but while in
appearance Christians, many "remained in substance pagans, especially worshiping
in secret their idols."-- Ibid., page 278.
Has not the same process been repeated in nearly every church calling itself
Protestant? As the founders, those who possessed the true spirit of reform, pass away,
their descendants come forward and "new-model the cause." While blindly clinging to
the creed of their fathers and refusing to accept any truth in advance of what they
saw, the children of the reformers depart widely from their example of humility, self-
denial, and renunciation of the world. Thus "the first simplicity disappears." A worldly
flood, flowing into the church, carries "with it its customs, practices, and idols."
Alas, to what a fearful extent is that friendship of the world which is "enmity
with God," now cherished among the professed followers of Christ! How widely have
the popular churches throughout Christendom departed from the Bible standard of
humility, self-denial, simplicity, and godliness! Said John Wesley, in speaking of the
right use of money: "Do not waste any part of so precious a talent, merely in gratifying
the desire of the eye, by superfluous or expensive apparel, or by needless ornaments.
Waste no part of it in curiously adorning your houses; in superfluous or expensive
furniture; in costly pictures, painting, gilding. . . . Lay out nothing to gratify the pride
of life, to gain the admiration or praise of men. . . . 'So long as thou doest well unto
thyself, men will speak good of thee.' So long as thou art 'clothed in purple and fine
linen,' and farest 'sumptuously every day,' no doubt many will applaud thy elegance
of taste, thy generosity and hospitality. But do not buy their applause so dear. Rather
be content with the honour that cometh from God."--Wesley, Works, Sermon 50, "The
Use of Money." But in many churches of our time such teaching is disregarded.
A profession of religion has become popular with the world. Rulers, politicians,
lawyers, doctors, merchants, join the church as a means of securing the respect and
confidence of society, and advancing their own worldly interests. Thus they seek to
cover all their unrighteous transactions under a profession of Christianity. The
various religious bodies, re-enforced by the wealth and influence of these baptized
worldlings, make a still higher bid for popularity and patronage. Splendid churches,
embellished in the most extravagant manner, are erected on popular avenues. The
worshipers array themselves in costly and fashionable attire. A high salary is paid for
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