The Great Controversy The Great Controversy | Page 403

At the call, “The Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him,” the
waiting ones “arose and trimmed their lamps;” they studied the word
of God with an intensity of interest before unknown. Angels were sent
from heaven to arouse those who had become discouraged and prepare
them to receive the message. The work did not stand in the wisdom and
learning of men, but in the power of God. It was not the most talented,
but the most humble and devoted, who were the first to hear and obey the
call. Farmers left their crops standing in the fields, mechanics laid down
their tools, and with tears and rejoicing went out to give the warning.
Those who had formerly led in the cause were among the last to join in
this movement. The churches in general closed their doors against this
message, and a large company of those who received it withdrew from
their connection. In the providence of God this proclamation united with
the second angel’s message and gave power to that work.
The message, “Behold, the Bridegroom cometh!” was not so much a
matter of argument, though the Scripture proof was clear and conclusive.
There went with it an impelling power that moved the soul. There was
no doubt, no questioning. Upon the occasion of Christ’s triumphal entry
into Jerusalem the people who were assembled from all parts of the land
to keep the feast flocked to the Mount of Olives, and as they joined
the throng that were escorting Jesus they caught the inspiration of the
hour and helped to swell the shout: “Blessed is He that cometh in the
name of the Lord!” Matthew 21:9. In like manner did unbelievers who
flocked to the Adventist meetings—some from curiosity, some merely
to ridicule—feel the convincing power attending the message: “Behold,
the Bridegroom cometh!”
At that time there was faith that brought answers to prayer—faith
that had respect to the recompense of reward. Like showers of rain upon
the thirsty earth, the Spirit of grace descended upon the earnest seekers.
Those who

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