The Great Controversy The Great Controversy | Page 369
at the time of Christ’s first advent, so He wrought through them in giving
the message of His second advent. God’s word must be fulfilled, that the
proclamation of the Saviour’s coming should be given to all peoples,
tongues, and nations.
To William Miller and his colaborers it was given to preach the
warning in America. This country became the center of the great advent
movement. It was here that the prophecy of the first angel’s message
had its most direct fulfillment. The writings of Miller and his associates
were carried to distant lands. Wherever missionaries had penetrated in
all the world, were sent the glad tidings of Christ’s speedy return. Far
and wide spread the message of the everlasting gospel: “Fear God, and
give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come.”
The testimony of the prophecies which seemed to point to the
coming of Christ in the spring of 1844 took deep hold of the minds of the
people. As the message went from state to state, there was everywhere
awakened widespread interest. Many were convinced that the arguments
from the prophetic periods were correct, and, sacrificing their pride of
opinion, they joyfully received the truth. Some ministers laid aside their
sectarian views and feelings, left their salaries and their churches, and
united in proclaiming the coming of Jesus. There were comparatively
few ministers, however, who would accept this message; therefore it
was largely committed to humble laymen. 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.
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