The Great Controversy The Great Controversy | Page 313

This message is declared to be a part of “the everlasting gospel.” The
work of preaching the gospel has not been committed to angels, but has
been entrusted to men. Holy angels have been employed in directing this
work, they have in charge the great movements for the salvation of men;
but the actual proclamation of the gospel is performed by the servants of
Christ upon the earth.
Faithful men, who were obedient to the promptings of God’s Spirit
and the teachings of His word, were to proclaim this warning to the
world. They were those who had taken heed to the “sure word of
prophecy,” the “light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and
the daystar arise.” 2 Peter 1:19. They had been seeking the knowledge of
God more than all hid treasures, counting it “better than the merchandise
of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.” Proverbs 3:14. And the
Lord revealed to them the great things of the kingdom. “The secret of the
Lord is with them that fear Him; and He will show them His covenant.”
Psalm 25:14.
It was not the scholarly theologians who had an understanding of
this truth, and engaged in its proclamation. Had these been faithful
watchmen, diligently and prayerfully searching the Scriptures, they
would have known the time of night; the prophecies would have opened
to them the events about to take place. But they did not occupy this
position, and the message was given by humbler men. Said Jesus: “Walk
while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you.” John 12:35.
Those who turn away from the light which God has given, or who neglect
to seek it when it is within their reach, are left in darkness. But the
Saviour declares: “He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but
shall have the light of life.” John 8:12. Whoever is with singleness of
purpose seeking to do God’s will, earnestly heeding the light already
given, will receive greater light; to that soul some star of heavenly
radiance will be sent to guide him into all truth.

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