The Great Second Advent Movement: Its Rise and Progress

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Early Methodists

In looking down on the advancing line of reformers to the early days of Methodism, when the doctrine of free grace was assiduously proclaimed, we find it accompanied by the power of God. As it was faithfully set before the people, with the tender love of Christ, and was grasped by living faith, the believers not only found remission of past sins, but a sanctifying power to enable them to lead a life of holiness. Methodism had a humble beginning, and was blessed according to the faith and simple trust of the ministry and laity. GSAM 35.4

In tracing the incidents and experiences connected with the advent movement, we find that, as in every work of the Lord in the accomplishment of which man is an agent, its origin was among the poor and obscure; but let none decide against it on this account before carefully examining the evidence upon which this great work is based, lest they be found in the position of those of whom the Lord inquired, “Who hath despised the day of small things?” 45 GSAM 36.1