The Great Controversy The Great Controversy | Page 460
heretical, or schismatic. Multitudes who are too unbelieving to accept
the sure word of prophecy will receive with unquestioning credulity an
accusation against those who dare to reprove fashionable sins. This spirit
will increase more and more. And the Bible plainly teaches that a time
is approaching when the laws of the state will so conflict with the law
of God that whosoever would obey all the divine precepts must brave
reproach and punishment as an evildoer.
In view of this, what is the duty of the messenger of truth? Shall
he conclude that the truth ought not to be presented, since often its only
effect is to arouse men to evade or resist its claims? No; he has no
more reason for withholding the testimony of God’s word, because it
excites opposition, than had earlier Reformers. The confession of faith
made by saints and martyrs was recorded for the benefit of succeeding
generations. Those living examples of holiness and steadfast integrity
have come down to inspire courage in those who are now called to stand
as witnesses for God. They received grace and truth, not for themselves
alone, but that, through them, the knowledge of God might enlighten the
earth. Has God given light to His servants in this generation? Then they
should let it shine forth to the world.
Anciently the Lord declared to one who spoke in His name: “The
house of Israel will not hearken unto thee; for they will not hearken unto
Me.” Nevertheless He said: “Thou shalt speak My words unto them,
whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear.” Ezekiel 3:7; 2:7.
To the servant of God at this time is the command addressed: “Lift up
thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgression, and
the house of Jacob their sins.”
So far as his opportunities extend, everyone who has received the
light of truth is under the same solemn and fearful responsibility as was
the prophet of Israel, to whom the word of the Lord came, saying: “Son
of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore
thou shalt hear
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