The European Union in Prophecy The EU in Prophecy I | Page 404

The European Union in Prophecy
where hitherto had been peace. The power which Christ imparts enables man to resist
the tyrant and usurper. Whoever is seen to abhor sin instead of loving it, whoever
resists and conquers those passions that have held sway within, displays the
operation of a principle wholly from above.
The antagonism that exists between the spirit of Christ and the spirit of Satan
was most strikingly displayed in the world's reception of Jesus. It was not so much
because He appeared without worldly wealth, pomp, or grandeur that the Jews were
led to reject Him. They saw that He possessed power which would more than
compensate for the lack of these outward advantages. But the purity and holiness of
Christ called forth against Him the hatred of the ungodly. His life of selfdenial and
sinless devotion was a perpetual reproof to a proud, sensual people. It was this that
evoked enmity against the Son of God. Satan and evil angels joined with evil men. All
the energies of apostasy conspired against the Champion of truth.
The same enmity is manifested toward Christ's followers as was manifested
toward their Master. Whoever sees the repulsive character of sin, and in strength
from above resists temptation, will assuredly arouse the wrath of Satan and his
subjects. Hatred of the pure principles of truth, and reproach and persecution of its
advocates, will exist as long as sin and sinners remain. The followers of Christ and
the servants of Satan cannot harmonize. The offense of the cross has not ceased. "All
that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." 2 Timothy 3:12.
Satan's agents are constantly working under his direction to establish his
authority and build up his kingdom in opposition to the government of God. To this
end they seek to deceive Christ's followers and allure them from their allegiance. Like
their leader, they misconstrue and pervert the Scriptures to accomplish their object.
As Satan endeavoured to cast reproach upon God, so do his agents seek to malign
God's people. The spirit which put Christ to death moves the wicked to destroy His
followers. All this is foreshadowed in that first prophecy: "I will put enmity between
thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed." And this will continue to
the close of time.
Satan summons all his forces and throws his whole power into the combat. Why
is it that he meets with no greater resistance? Why are the soldiers of Christ so sleepy
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