The Great Controversy The Great Controversy | Page 14

a proper understanding of their application. In some cases where
a historian has so grouped together events as to afford, in brief, a
comprehensive view of the subject, or has summarized details in a
convenient manner, his words have been quoted; but in some instances
no specific credit has been given, since the quotations are not given for
the purpose of citing that writer as authority, but because his statement
affords a ready and forcible presentation of the subject. In narrating the
experience and views of those carrying forward the work of reform in
our own time, similar use has been made of their published works.
It is not so much the object of this book to present new truths
concerning the struggles of former times, as to bring out facts and
principles which have a bearing on coming events. Yet viewed as a part
of the controversy between the forces of light and darkness, all these
records of the past are seen to have a new significance; and through them
a light is cast upon the future, illumining the pathway of those who, like
the reformers of past ages, will be called, even at the peril of all earthly
good, to witness “for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus
Christ.”
To unfold the scenes of the great controversy between truth and
error; to reveal the wiles of Satan, and the means by which he may
be successfully resisted; to present a satisfactory solution of the great
problem of evil, shedding such a light upon the origin and the final
disposition of sin as to make fully manifest the justice and benevolence
of God in all His dealings with His creatures; and to show the holy,
unchanging nature of His law, is the object of this book. That through
its influence souls may be delivered from the power of darkness, and
become “partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light,” to the praise
of Him who loved us, and gave Himself for us, is the earnest prayer of
the writer.
E.G.W.