The Great Controversy The Great Controversy | Page 47
Well would it be for the church and the world if the principles
that actuated those steadfast souls were revived in the hearts of God’s
professed people. There is an alarming indifference in regard to the
doctrines which are the pillars of the Christian faith. The opinion is
gaining ground, that, after all, these are not of vital importance. This
degeneracy is strengthening the hands of the agents of Satan, so that false
theories and fatal delusions which the faithful in ages past imperiled their
lives to resist and expose, are now regarded with favor by thousands who
claim to be followers of Christ.
The early Christians were indeed a peculiar people. Their blameless
deportment and unswerving faith were a continual reproof that disturbed
the sinner’s peace. Though few in numbers, without wealth, position, or
honorary titles, they were a terror to evildoers wherever their character
and doctrines were known. Therefore they were hated by the wicked,
even as Abel was hated by the ungodly Cain. For the same reason that
Cain slew Abel, did those who sought to throw off the restraint of the
Holy Spirit, put to death God’s people. It was for the same reason
that the Jews rejected and crucified the Saviour—because the purity and
holiness of His character was a constant rebuke to their selfishness and
corruption. From the days of Christ until now His faithful disciples have
excited the hatred and opposition of those who love and follow the ways
of sin.
How, then, ca n the gospel be called a message of peace? When Isaiah
foretold the birth of the Messiah, he ascribed to Him the title, “Prince
of Peace.” When angels announced to the shepherds that Christ was
born, they sang above the plains of Bethlehem: “Glory to God in the
highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14. There
is a seeming contradiction between these prophetic declarations and the
words of Christ: “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” Matthew
10:34. But, rightly understood, the two
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