The Great Controversy The Great Controversy | Page 75

precious promises that reveal the sinner’s only hope. Thus the light of
truth penetrated many a darkened mind, rolling back the cloud of gloom,
until the Sun of Righteousness shone into the heart with healing in His
beams. It was often the case that some portion of Scripture was read
again and again, the hearer desiring it to be repeated, as if he would
assure himself that he had heard aright. Especially was the repetition
of these words eagerly desired: “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son
cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7. “As Moses lifted up the serpent in
the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever
believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:14, 15.
Many were undeceived in regard to the claims of Rome. They
saw how vain is the mediation of men or angels in behalf of the
sinner. As the true light dawned upon their minds they exclaimed with
rejoicing: “Christ is my priest; His blood is my sacrifice; His altar is my
confessional.” They cast themselves wholly upon the merits of Jesus,
repeating the words, “Without faith it is impossible to please Him.”
Hebrews 11:6. “There is none other name under heaven given among
men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12.
The assurance of a Saviour’s love seemed too much for some of these
poor tempest-tossed souls to realize. So great was the relief which it
brought, such a flood of light was shed upon them, that they seemed
transported to heaven. Their hands were laid confidingly in the hand of
Christ; their feet were planted upon the Rock of Ages. All fear of death
was banished. They could now covet the prison and the fagot if they
might thereby honor the name of their Redeemer.
In secret places the word of God w as thus brought forth and read,
sometimes to a single soul, sometimes to a little company who were
longing for light and truth. Often the entire night was spent in this
manner. So great would be the wonder and admiration of the listeners
that the messenger of mercy was not infrequently compelled to cease his
reading

74