The Great Controversy The Great Controversy | Page 45

because of his defects of character, but notwithstanding them. He was
connected with the disciples, that, through the instruction and example
of Christ, he might learn what constitutes Christian character, and thus
be led to see his errors, to repent, and, by the aid of divine grace,
to purify his soul “in obeying the truth.” But Judas did not walk in
the light so graciously permitted to shine upon him. By indulgence
in sin he invited the temptations of Satan. His evil traits of character
became predominant. He yielded his mind to the control of the powers
of darkness, he became angry when his faults were reproved, and thus
he was led to commit the fearful crime of betraying his Master. So
do all who cherish evil under a profession of godliness hate those who
disturb their peace by condemning their course of sin. When a favorable
opportunity is presented, they will, like Judas, betray those who for their
good have sought to reprove them.
The apostles encountered those in the church who professed
godliness while they were secretly cherishing iniquity. Ananias and
Sapphira acted the part of deceivers, pretending to make an entire
sacrifice for God, when they were covetously withholding a portion for
themselves. The Spirit of truth revealed to the apostles the real character
of these pretenders, and the judgments of God rid the church of this
foul blot upon its purity. This signal evidence of the discerning Spirit
of Christ in the church was a terror to hypocrites and evildoers. They
could not long remain in connection with those who were, in habit
and disposition, constant representatives of Christ; and as trials and
persecution came upon His followers, those only who were willing to
forsake all for the truth’s sake desired to become His disciples. Thus, as
long as persecution continued, the church remained comparatively pure.
But as it ceased, converts were added who were less sincere and devoted,
and the way was open for Satan to obtain a foothold.

44