The Great Second Advent Movement: Its Rise and Progress

Persecution in America

Our opponents have said persecution can never come in this country, because the Constitution of the United States declares that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” And, in addition to this, the “Bill of Rights” of most of the States forbids religious legislation. In the face of these protestations our people have continued to proclaim the message of warning and the needful preparation to meet the conflict. GSAM 451.2

In 1863 an organization was formed having for its object the change of the Constitution of the United States and the laws of the land, so as to make it effective for the enforcement of religion. So rapidly have these ideas obtained adherents, and the principle of compelling men to do right, especially in regard to Sunday-keeping, gained ground, that persecution in good earnest has already begun in many States, even those whose Sunday laws make provision for those who conscientiously observe another day, and persons have been imprisoned for not keeping Sunday. GSAM 451.3