Signs of the Times and Expositor of Prophecy [Himes], vol. 2
June 15, 1841
VOLUME II.—NO. 6. BOSTON, WHOLE NO. 30
Joshua V. Himes
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
AND EXPOSITOR OF PROPHECY.
SECOND COMING OF CHRIST
Evidence from Scripture and History of the Second Coming of Christ about the year 1843, and of his personal reign of 1000 years, first published in 1833. By Wm. Miller. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.1
CHAPTER III
The Beast—Anti-Christ—Pagan And Papal Abominations
The history of the fourth kingdom which we are now entering upon, is divided into two parts, represented by the legs and feet of the image, the ten horns, and the little horn,—the great red dragon,—and the woman, the Pagan and Papal, the daily sacrifice abomination, and the abomination that maketh desolate. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.2
The first of these, Rome pagan, or the daily sacrifice abomination, the Angel Gabriel now goes on to explain to Daniel, and after showing when this kingdom begins as we heretofore explained, Daniel 11:24, he then gives us a short prophetic history down to the time when pagan Rome should be taken away to make room for papal Rome. We will now follow the angel Gabriel, Daniel 11:24, “He shall enter peacefully upon the fattest places of the province; and he shall do that which his fathers have not done, nor his father’s fathers; he shall scatter among them the prey, and spoil, and riches; yea, and he shall forecast his devices against the strong holds, even for a time.” In this verse the character of the Roman kingdom is given. He would enter into the most populous places, take the spoil and prey, and scatter them among the more dependant parts of the Roman government. Did not Rome bring much riches out of Asia, and scatter them through the western empire? which luxuries finally proved her ruin? “Even for a time,” this I suppose is the time pagan Rome was to exist, which I shall hereafter show is 666 years. See Revelation 13:18. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.3
Daniel 11:25. “And he shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the south with a great army; and the king of the south shall be stitred to battle with a very great army; but he shall not stand; for they shall forcast devices against him.” This verse is a description of the wars between Rome and Egypt, in the days of Pompey and the Cesars, which was noticed in the last chapter, this description being national. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.4
26. “Yea, they that feed of the portion of his meat, shall destroy him, and his army shall overflow; and many shall fall down slain.” This verse alludes to the Roman generals making their treaties with Ptolmey and Cleopatra, king and queen of Egypt, and afterwards destroying them and making them a Roman province; see the history of Anthony and Octavius Cesar. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.5
27. “And both of these king’s (Anthony and Octavius) hearts shall be to do mischief, and they shall speak lies at one table; but it shall not prosper; for yet the end shall be at the time appointed.” That this verse is a description of these two Roman rulers, is almost left without a doubt, they not only broke their faith with other nations, but with each other, and with their wives, and through these two rulers, Rome lost the remainder of her liberties, and under them the city of Rome ceased to be republican, and the government became Imperial. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.6
28. “Then shall he return into his land with great riches; and his heart shall be against the holy covenant; and he shall do exploits and return to his own land.” Octavius Cesar, after he had conquered Anthony and Egypt, returned to Rome, carrying great riches, and entered the city in triumph, and by the means of his riches and spoil, he got himself proclaimed emperor of Rome by the name of Augustus Cesar; but it was under the reign of his successor, Tiberius Cesar, that the Roman government manifested its hatred against the holy covenant, by beheading John, and crucifying our Savior. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.7
29. “At the time appointed he shall return and come toward the south; but it shall not be as the former or as the latter.” This verse seems to carry us down to the end, or appointed time when pagan Rome was about to be taken away; if this is correct, then “he shall return,” had reference to the northern nations, or barbarians, who had been, by the power of the Romans, driven into the wilderness of the north, now returning and overrunning the plains of Italy, and a part of Africa. This happened in the beginning of the fifth century. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.8
30. “For the ships of Chittim shall come against him; therefore he shall be grieved, and return, and have indignation against the holy covenant; so shall he do; he shail even return, and have intelligence with them that forsake the holy covenant.” About A. D. 447, Attila (called the scourge of God) ravaged the Roman empire, and, as I conceive it, fulfilled this prophecy, his army being composed of Huns, from Hungary, which was by the ancients called the land of Chittim. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.9
31. “And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and shall take away the daily sacrifice, and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate.” By this I understand the same northern nations that should and did conquer the Roman empire, and polluted Rome by the slaughter of her citizens and ravages committed by the armies of the northern barbarians, and after dividing the Roman empire into two kingdoms, these two kings being converted to the Christian faith, were the instruments of taking away the pagan rites and sacrifices, which Daniel, or the angel denominates the “daily sacrifice abomination.” Here ends the description of the first beast in the fourth kingdom, which John informs us in Revelation 13:18, he saw numbered, “and his number is six hundred threescore and six,” which I understand to mean the years that this beast, or pagan Rome should contaminate the Jewish and Christian religion, break in pieces and devour with his “great iron teeth,” the same. If this be a correct exposition of the text, then this beast began his power over the people of God, 158 years before Christ, and would end 508 years after Christ; so that we are brought down to A. D. 508. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.10
32. “And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall be corrupt by flatteries; but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.” After the time mentioned before, errors began to creep into the church, such as, doing penance, worshipping of images, depriving lay brethren of their rights, infallibility of the mother church, and the bishop of Rome; yet in this almost universal defection of the church there were a few lights in the world, who opposed the superstitions and errors of the times. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.11
33. “And they that understand among the people shall instruct many; yet they shall fall by the sword, and by the flame, by captivity, and by spoil, many days.” In this verse, we are informed, that many private brethren, “among the people,” would still remain faithful to the truth, and would endeavor to instruct and guard others against the craft and flatteries of the priesthood; yet they would suffer persecution, and the manner is foretold, by sword, imprisonment, flame and spoil. And who has read the history of the church, from the fifth century down to a very few years, and is not fully satisfied of the fulfilment of this prophecy? HST June 15, 1841, page 41.12
34. Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help; but many shall cleave to them with flatteries.” When persecution raged under the reign of Anti-christ, the true followers of Christ were helped by the grace of God. There were a few names, “even in Sardis, which have not defiled their garments, and they shall walk with me in white; for they are worthy: “but the multitude would follow the anti-christian deceivers, here called the flatterers. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.13
35. “And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge them, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is for a time appointed.” Here we are informed for what purposes the children of God, especially the teachers should be persecuted; to try, purge, and make them white even to the end of the anti-christian reign, which “time appointed,” is 1260 years. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.14
36. “And the king shall do according to his will, and he shall exalt himself above every God, and shall speak marvellous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper, till the indignation be accomplished; for that that is determined shall be done.” The king spoken of in this verse, is the little horn, in allusion to the papal power which should exalt himself “sitting in the place of God,” above all the heathen gods; and even oppose the God of gods, by dispensing with his laws, and claim the perogative of making new laws for his kingdom; and also anti-christ would prosper until the “indignation be accomplished; “or Judgment of the great day. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.15
37. “Neither shall he regard the God of his fathers, nor the desire of women, nor regard any God: for he shall magnify himself above all.” He (papal Rome) would not regard the pagan gods, and would forbid to marry, nor regard the Christian’s God, but would exalt himself above all that is called God. See 2 Thessalonians 2:4. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.16
38. “But in his estate shall he honor the God of forces; and a God whom his fathers know not shall he honor with gold, and silver, and precious stones, and pleasant things.” Papacy erects her images, or pictures of saints, and adorns them with precious stones set in gold and silver, which things the fathers were commanded not to worship, and which things neither the Jews, Christians, nor Pagans had even before worshipped. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.17
39. “Thus shall he do in the strong holds with a strange God whom he shall acknowledge and increase with glory, and he shall cause them to rule over many, and shall divide the land for gain.” Truly it is a strange God to set up in the most public places images, adorned with jewels, etc, for the populace to bow down and worship, yet it is a well known fact, that in all countries where the power of papacy is felt, these images are placed in the corners of the streets, and all public places, and worship is rendered by every passing votary. And it is also true that the pope has sold kingdoms, and countries, and divided the land, to fill his coffers with gold. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.18
MELCHISEDEC MADE LIKE TO THE SON OF GOD
Christ Jesus, as Mediator, had three offices to execute,—of Prophet, Priest and King. His first appearing was to fulfil his prophetic office, in revealing the Divine counsel, and the way of salvation. Having finished this part of the work which the Father gave him to do, and having announced the same unto his disciples, in these words, “All that I have heard of my Father, have I made known unto you.” John 15:15; he commenced the execution of his priestly office. The priestly office contained three distinct branches—namely, sacrifice, intercession, and benediction and, in these, Christ was prefigured by the priesthood of Aaron. But in this, as well as in other parts of his mediation, the type failed to be the image, and was the mere shadow. Jesus was the Priest who offered the atoning sacrifice, the victim that was offered, and the God who accepted the offering. The priesthood of Aaron offered a sacrifice for sin; so did Christ: they offered others; Christ offered himself; they “offered oftentimes the same sacrifices, which could never take away sin;” Christ offered himself but once; “and, by the once offering of himself, hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.” When the consecrated victim was slain, the High Priest went into the holiest of all, and entered upon the second part of his office. Christ “entered not into the holy places made with hands, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us.” Hebrews 9:24. While the High Priest was in the temple, making intercession for the people, the whole congregation were praying without, and waited in anxious expectation for his coming out, in order to receive the blessing, the last branch of the priestly office: and the whole church of God waits now, for the second and glorious advent of their High Priest, when he shall come and pronounce the benediction. “Ye turned to God from idols, to serve the only living and true God; and to wait for his son from heaven.” 1 Thessalonians 1:9, 10; and are said to be “looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God our Savior.” Titus 2:13. When the doors of the temple were thrown open, the High Priest came forth, and blessed the whole congregation assembled before him; and, at the coming of our great High Priest from the heavenly sanctuary, he shall issue the summons, “Gather all my saints together unto me; those who have made a covenant with me by sacrifice.” Psalm 50:5. HST June 15, 1841, page 41.19
But the blessing pronounced upon the people of Israel, when their High Priest came from the holiest of all, fails to represent the “honor and glory that is to be brought unto us at the appearing of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:7. And, in this last part of the priestly office of Christ, he is typified, not by Aaron, but by Melchisedec; the particulars of whose history, wherein he “was made like unto the Son of God,” are recorded in the book of Genesis, and in the Epistle to the Hebrews. “For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; to whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being, by interpretation, king of righteousness, and after that, also, king of Salem, which is king of peace.” Hebrews 7:1, 2. HST June 15, 1841, page 42.1
In this great man, the kingly and priestly offices were combined. He was not a priest of the most high God to sacrifice or intercede: all that is recorded of him, as a priest, is, that “he blessed him that had the promises.” Hebrews 7:6. And in this is a type of Him who “shall appear a second time, without sin (a sin-offering,) unto salvation,” Hebrews 9:28. His name is significant of his royal dignity; and such will the Son o God appear, at his return; for then “the heavens shall declare his righteousness.” Psalm 1:6 Isaiah 32:1. The union of the priestly with the kingly office typifies the Redeemer, at that time when “he shall sit and rule upon his throne and shall be a priest upon his throne,” in his holy temple, Zechariah 6:12, 13. The city, wherein Melchisedec was king, means peace. This shall be the distinguishing name of the church of God, in its glorified state—the holy city, the New Jerusalem, which signifies the vision or the possession of peace. The church is now in its militant state, waging war with all its spiritual enemies; but then it shall be the city of peace for then it shall triumph, having obtained the victory through Him whose throne shall stand in the midst of it, Revelation 22:3. HST June 15, 1841, page 42.2
There are two very notable circumstances in the history of this eniment character: his blessing Abraham, and the time when that blessing was pronounced. The benediction of Aaron failed to represent the glorious scene of Jesus, descending from the temple not made with hands, and blessing all his people, assembled to meet him in the air. Melchisedec met Abraham, returning from the slaughter of the kings; so shall he King of righteousness and the King of peace meet Abraham, and all the heirs of promise, returning from the conquest of all their enemies, at his second advent; when they shall be made more than conquerers, through their conquering King. Then, arrayed in his glorious apparel, he shall bless them; and, in that blessing, they shall be made partakers of his kingdom and glory, for which they long suffered. Lastly, in the sacred narrative, we are informed, that the king of Salem prepared a feast for Abraham, and refreshed him and his company, on their return from the conflict; so shall the King of Zion. “For in this mountain shall the Lord of hosts make unto all people a feast of fat things, a feast of wines on the lees, of fat things full of marrow, of wines on the lees well refined. He will swallow up death in victory: and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off the earth.” Isaiah 25:6-8. Then, in the Father’s kingdom, shall the ransomed from among men drink of the new wine, and delight themselves in the abundance of peace. HST June 15, 1841, page 42.3
THE TEMPLE OF SOLOMON
The temple raised by solomon, as the habitation of the God of Israel, was a beautifull figure of the church of God. When the king of Israel had finished his temple, and assembled the nation to its dedication, he used these remarkable words, “But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the heaven, and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house that I have builded?” 1 Kings 8:27. From which we infer that “the Most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands.” Where then shall we find that temple of which God will say, “This is my rest for ever; here will I dwell; for I have desired it?” Psalm 132:14. The incarnation of the Son of God, gave us an opening view of the ultimate design of the erection of Solomon’s temple. He called his body the true temple, John 2:19-22. In this “true tabernacle and living temple, which the Lord pitched and built, and not man,” Jehovah dwelt; not as in the building of Solomon, but in “all the fulness of the Godhead bodily,” Colossians 2:9. The church is called the body of Christ, Ephesians 1:23 and when the several members of his mystical body shall “come, in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ,” Ephesians 4:12, 13, then it shall appear perfect and complete, and shall be “filled with all the fulness of God.” HST June 15, 1841, page 42.4
The church is spoken of under the figure of a temple, of which Jesus is the foundation: and all believers are likened unto lively stones, and built up a spiritual house, 1 Peter 2:4-7. The materials, of which the temple of Solomon was composed, were collected, not alone out of the land of Palestine, but from the nations afar off, and the islands of the sea; so also is the living temple, made up of lively stones gathered out of all nations, tongues and languages; every one of which is built upon Christ, the sure foundation. ‘Now, therefore, ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto a holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for a habitation of God through the spirit,” Ephesians 2:19-22. Jesus Christ is the builder of this temple; and in this was prefigured by Zerubbabel and Joshua, who labored at the rebuilding of he temple, when the remnant returned from captivity. “The hands of Zerubbabel have laid he foundations of this house; his hands shall also finish it,” Zechariah 4:9. As the temple was an emblem of the church, so Zerubbabel was a type of Christ: and of Jesus it is true, that “his lands laid the foundation, and his hands shall also finish” the spiritual house; “and he shall bring forth the head-stone thereof with shoutings, crying, grace, grace unto it,” Zechariah 4:7. And in allusion to the erection of this temple, the prophet is directed to say, “Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts,” Zechariah 4:6; and elsewhere, “Behold the man whose name is the Branch; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the Lord: even he shall build the temple of the Lord; and he shall bear the glory,” and when this everlasting habitation of God is finished, and the headstone brought forth, “He shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne,” Zechariah 6:12, 13. This is the temple which God hath desired for his habitation; and of it He shall say, “This is my rest for ever, here will I dwell, for I have desired it,” Psalm 132:13-18. HST June 15, 1841, page 42.5
PROMISES OF A GLORIOUS KINGDOM, AND THE VISION ON THE HOLY MOUNT
The Scriptures of the Old Testament abound with promises of a glorious kingdom. “Behold, a king shall reign in righteousness, and princes shall rule in judgment,” Isaiah 32:1. “And in the days of these kings, shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed,” Daniel 2:44. “I saw in the night visions, and, behold’ one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.” “But the saints of the Most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever,” “I beheld, and the same horn made war with the saints, and prevailed against them; until the Ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the Most High; and the time come that the saints possessed the kingdom.” “And the kingdom, and dominion, and greatness of the kingdom, under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the Most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him,” Daniel 7:13, 14, 18, 21, 22, 27. HST June 15, 1841, page 42.6
But the same prophets, who foretell the advent of the king in his glory and majesty, and the honours conferred on the redeemed, as exalted to sit down with him on his throne, and reign with him over all worlds, declare in plain language, that he shall come “in the form of a servant,” and appear “in the likeness of men”—that he who shall be revealed as “the Sun of Righteousness,” and “the perfection of beauty,” shall “grow up as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground; that he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty, that we should desire him”— that he who shall come as “Lord of all,” claiming “the kingdom, and the power, and the glory,” shall come as a man of sorrows, and acquaint with grief, and having no where to lay his head—that he who shall come, receiving the full homage due to him, as God and Christ, and acknowledged by his saints, who shall cast their crowns at his feet: shall appear with a “visage marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men;” “despised and rejected of men”—that he who shall appear as the reigning King of Zion, shall also appear as “the Messiah, to be cut off for sins, but not his own,” Daniel 9:26. HST June 15, 1841, page 42.7
Unto the Jews these lively oracles were committed, who, passing by the predictions of his meanness and poverty, of his persecutions, sufferings, and death, fixed their minds upon his glorious coming; and, taking a carnal view of these delightful promises and prophecies, at once concluded, that it should be marked with great pomp and earthly magnificence; and that the effect would be, to them, an exaltation to the possession of privileges and immunities above all the nations of the world. Thus musing in their hearts, the Messiah makes his entry into our world. He came unto his own professing people, but his own received him not; because “they had erred, not knowing the Scriptures.” He comes, meek and lowly, to seek and to save. How disappointed were the Jews in all their expectations! Instead of riches, here is poverty. Instead of a retinue of nobility, and a grand attendance of the doctors of the law, he is accompanied by the poor, unlettered fishermen of Galilee. Instead of treading upon crowns, and sceptres, and the necks of kings, he is a servant, “a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people,” Psalm 22:6. How is he treated, whom the Jews expected as their king? For a throne, he receives the cross; for a diadem of glory and honour, he has prepared for him a crown of thorns; instead of acknowledging him as the King who sways the sceptre over all worlds, he has given into his hand the mock emblem of empire; instead of yielding that homage that was due to him, as Lord and Christ, they mockingly bend the knee before him, while he hangs, in agony, making attonement for transgression. Thus was the Son of the Highest delivered, by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, to make attonement for transgression, put an end to sin-offering, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, Daniel 9:24. And, when all was fulfilled that was written of him, as the suffering Messiah, he was taken down from the tree, and laid in the grave. But God raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand, there to abide until he should receive, “the heathen for an inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for his possession.” After which he shall be revealed in the glory of the Father, to make his enemies his footstool, and to take unto himself his great power, and to reign. HST June 15, 1841, page 43.1
Even the disciples of our Lord, long after they were brought under his instruction, entertained opinions of an earthly kingdom. It is written of two of them, who came to him, desiring that the one might sit on his right hand, and the other on his left, in his kingdom. They knew that a kingdom was promised to him, as the Messiah; but, as yet, they know not the nature of his kingdom. On another occasion, there was a strife among them, who of them should be the greatest; but he immediately corrected the error.—When the disciples speak to him of his throne, he turns their attention to the cross. When they speak of his glory, he informs them of his sufferings and death. From which we see the intimation, that his first coming was to suffer, and his second to bring in a kingdom which cannot be moved. Previous, however, to his departure out of this world unto the Father, he gave them the fullest assurances of his return. HST June 15, 1841, page 43.2
Of his glorious appearing and kingdom, he gave to some of his disciples a view on the holy mount. This vision was given in fulfilment of the promise, “Verily I say unto you, there be some standing here, who shall not taste of death till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom,” Matthew 16:28. “After six days,” he fulfilled this promise, “and took with him Peter, James, and John his brother, brought them up into a high mountain apart, and was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun and his raiment was white as the light. And behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias, talking with him,” Matthew 17:1-3. As in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word should be established; so three disciples were chosen: and, as these three disciples were chosen to be witnesses of his sufferings afterwards, Matthew 26:37; so here they were appointed to be eye-witnesses of “the glory that should follow.” On that holy mount, the Son of man laid aside the robes of mortality, poverty, and humiliation, in which he was arrayed as the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, and appeared in his glorious apparel as the King of Zion. His raiment was white as the light; and his countenance as the sun shining in his strength. Before him stood the disembodied spirit of the Hebrew law-giver, and the highly-favoured prophet, in a glorified body, who was taken to heaven without seeing death. Moses appears to resign up his situation in the house as a servant—to deliver up the Urim and Thummim unto Him who was the substance of all that was typified, and the end of the law for righteousness unto every one that believeth. Elias beheld the great Apostle and Prophet, in whom and by whom all things foretold should be fulfilled. The disciples saw before them the giver of the law, the restorer of the law, and the Fulfiller of the law. In Jesus they beheld the King in his beauty, with in immortal body, shining, as filled with the fullness of the Godhead bodily. In Elias, they saw humanity glorified, and formed in the likeness of Jesus himself. In Moses, they had the assurance that the spirits of the saints, when absent from the body, enjoy the glorious vision of God, and dwell under the light of his countenance; and, in this, had proof of the happiness of God’s people, who fall asleep previous to the coming of Christ in his kingdom. And as this was a vision of Jesus coming in his glory, to reign on Mount Zion, we see what the redeemed shall be when he appears, both in Elias and Christ himself. “When he shall appear, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is,” 1 John 3:2; and he “shall chance our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body,” Philippians 3:21. HST June 15, 1841, page 43.3
Elias was taken to heaven without seeing death: how does this show any thing of Christ coming in his kingdom? Why, “We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump; for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptable, and we shall be changed,” 1 Corinthians 15:51, 52. Moses fell asleep, and entered into rest: how does he signify any thing of the kingdom of the Son of man, at his coming? “I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them who are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others, who have no hope. For, if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also, who sleep in Jesus, will God bring with him,” 1 Thessalonians 4:13, 14. HST June 15, 1841, page 43.4
As this vision of the Son of man, coming in his kingdom, was designed for the information of the church, when the Redeemer should be taken out of this world, and to give them the hope and assurance of his second and glorious appearing, the three disciples were charged to tell it to no man, until the Son of man was risen from the dead, Matthew 17:9. Accordingly, we hear no more of the subject, until one of these three is writing to the church, concerning “the everlasting kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ,” in which he introduces it thus: “For we have not followed cunningly-devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eye-witnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, this is my beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased,” 2 Peter 1:16-18. The power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ is not a cunningly-devised fable. The three disciples had a vision of it; and the voice from the excellent glory is an assurance of the kingdom and glory promised. But we have the whole prophetic word, testifying to the same thing; whereunto we do well that we take heed. The night is far spent, and the day is at hand. The word of prophecy is a light and a lamp. Unto that more sure word of prophecy let us take heed, thereby to be guided through this dark night, until we awake, arise, and shine, in the glories of an eternal day, 2 Peter 1:19. HST June 15, 1841, page 43.5
THE TRUE SABBATH DAY
To the Editor of the Signs of the Times
Sir,—During the discussion at the Chardon Street Chapel, some months since, upon the institution of the Sabbath, I had an opportunity of listening to some of the arguments, and felt impressed with the fact that an important historical theory in relation to the institution, was wholly overlooked by those who took a prominent part in the debate. HST June 15, 1841, page 43.6
It seems impossible that any one should question the appointment of the Sabbath by God himself, who is tolerably conversant with the history of the Old Testament, and especially the Jewish polity. In Genesis 11:2, 3, the Sabbath was expressly set apart in commemoration of the creation of a world. It seems to have been totally neglected for a long time after the flood, but re-established in after ages, on the return of he Jews from Egypt. Now the point has always been a mooted one between the Jews and Christians whether the Sabbath was instituted at once on the completion of the material world, or at a subsequent period. Singular as it may appear to persons not familiar with Biblical literature, it is asserted by Lombard and some others, that there is no mention of the Sabbath in sacred history, till the time of Moses, two thousand five hundred years; yet it seems distinctly to have been known to the preverse children of Israel, notwithstanding some imagine that they perceive that they were ignorant of it before the record in the 21st and 23rd chapters of Exodus. HST June 15, 1841, page 43.7
But it is no part of my purpose to try to settle a question about which ancient theologians and sectarians never could satisfactorily agree. The principle object in view is to ascertain what day of any seven entering into the composition of a week, is actually the true Sabbath, sanctified especially by our Heavenly Father. While on the march through the wilderness, a double portion of manna fell the day before the Sabbath, that there might be neither a necessity or excuse for engaging in any secular concerns, and the immortal law-giver expressly remarked on one occasion, “tomorrow is the holy Sabbath to the Lord.” Here is the critical place:—if tomorrow,—the day to which he alluded, being the 22nd of the month, was the Sabbath, according to the paradisaical computation,—the 15th, says N. Kennicott, must have been so too, and therefore could not have been spent in marching from Elim to Sin. From all that I can gather, the regularly observed Jewish Sabbath, was kept in Judea in after ages, was on a different day from the patriarchal, or paradisaical, as it was called. The true Sabbath was a day in commemoration of the visible creation, as well as a sign between Jehovah and the children of Israel, by the observance of which they were continually reminded of a glorious epoch and their dependance on God. This was the original and true Sabbath:—the strictly Jewish Sabbath, known by perpetual remembrance to fall on Saturday, in our arrangement of time, was declaredly established as a memorial of their escape from the bondage of Egypt. Under the Christian dispensation, it is believed by some, the change that took place in regard to a holy day, the Christian Sabbath which falls on the first day of the week, is veritably the original seventh day, reckoning from the first day of creative agency. HST June 15, 1841, page 43.8
Admitting this to be true, and it certainly is a subject of interest to the scholar as well as the humble follower of the divine author of our faith, the observance of the first day of the week becomes the day of days, since we really commemorate both the resurrection of the Savior and the completion of the physical structure of the universe of matter. Thus, while we rightly observe the conditions” imposed by a special declaration in the decalogue, we are also contemplating the most stupendous event that ever occurred on earth—the rising of the Lord and Savior from the dead. HST June 15, 1841, page 44.1
There are many nice and minute statistical, if not numerical calculations, that might be adduced to strengthen this conclusion,—that the original Sabbath by the direct appointment of God, and the day of the resurrection by Jesus Christ, are identically the same. Knowing the tediousness of figures and the frightfulness of Greek and Latin quotations, potent as they might be in my own view, I dare not inflict either on your readers. If, however, it should be found necessary to go into elaborate arguments to sustain the position I have assumed, if it would increase but one man’s reverence for the sanctity of the Sabbath, it would be worth while to do it. With regard to the appellation of Sunday to designate the first day of the week, it is presumed that the etymology is a piece of familiar knowledge, and therefore passed over. HST June 15, 1841, page 44.2
Allow me, my dear Sir, to remark, that so far as my observation extended, it struck me that the tendency of the discussion was to lessen the reverence of youth for this special day of God’s appointment. If the law was ever binding upon the human family, it is so now. No one questions the universal obligations of the other nine commandments, announced with such awful solemnity through Moses, the servant of the one true God; yet that which requires the thoughtful, prayerful observance of one day in seven, although unconditionally required by our Creator, the everliving and unchanging God, our final Judge, is neglected, without a sample, by millions who know its divine import. HST June 15, 1841, page 44.3
I recollect that one of the speakers considered every day holy;—every one should be devoted to prayerful, devotional considerations;—yet there is no such thing as shuffling off the obligations resting upon us in-regard to the first day of the week—the Sabbath of the Lord. HST June 15, 1841, page 44.4
Begging your indulgence, should this communication be looked upon as coming from a source not exactly in accordance with your own theory or doctrinal views, I would on no account urge its publication, if it should exclude from the Signs of the Times matter of greater moment to your readers. HST June 15, 1841, page 44.5
Very respectfully yours,
J. V. C. S.
SECOND ADVENT HYMES. No. 1
1. The fields are all white, the harvest is near, The reapers all with their sharp sickles appear, To reap down the fields and gather in barns, While th’ wild plants of nature are left for to burn. HST June 15, 1841, page 44.6
SECOND ADVENT HYMES. No. 2
1. The chariot! The chariot! its wheels roll in fire, As the Lord cometh down in the pomp of his ire; Lo, self-moving it
drives on its pathway of cloud, And the heavens with the burden of Godhead are bow’d.
HST June 15, 1841, page 44.7
2. The glory! the around him are pour’d, Mighty hosts of the angles that wait on the Lord; And the glorified saints and
the martyrs are there, And there all who the palm-wreaths of victory wear.
HST June 15, 1841, page 44.8
3. The trumpet! the trumpet! the dead have all heard;
Lo, the depths of the stone covered charnel are stirr’d!
From the sea, from the earth, from the south, from the north,
All the vast generations of men are come forth.
HST June 15, 1841, page 44.9
4. The judgment! the judgment! the thrones are all set,
Where the Lamb and the white vested elders are met,
There all flesh is at once in the sight of the Lord,
And the doom of eternity hangs on his word.
HST June 15, 1841, page 44.10
5. O mercy! O mercy! look down from above,
Great Creator, on us, thy sad children, with love;
When beneath to their darkness the wicked are driven,
May our justified souls find a ransom in heaven,
HST June 15, 1841, page 44.11
SECOND ADVENT HYMES. No. 3
1. When thou my righteous Judge shall come, To call thy ransom’d people home, Shall I among them stand? Shall
such a worthless worm as I, Who sometimes am afraid to die, Be found at thy right hand?
HST June 15, 1841, page 44.12
2. I love to meet among them now,
Before thy gracious feet to bow,
Though vilest of them all,
But can I bear the piercing thought,
What if my name should be left out,
When thou for them shalt call?
HST June 15, 1841, page 44.13
3. Prevent it Lord by thy rich grace,
Be thou my soul’s sure hiding place,
In this the expected day;
Thy pardoning voice, O let me hear,
To still my unbelieving fear,
Nor let me fall I pray.
HST June 15, 1841, page 44.14
4. Let me among thy saints be found,
Whene’er the Archangle’s trump shall sound,
And see thy smiling face;
Then loud with all the crowd I’ll sing,
While heaven’s resounding mansions ring,
With shouts of sovereign grace.
HST June 15, 1841, page 44.15
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
BOSTON, JUNE 16, 1841.
THE BAPTIST BANNER AND WESTERN PIONEER
This is a large weekly paper, published in Louisville Ky. It is conducted by four different clergymen of the Baptist order, who reside in different parts of the valley of the Mississippi. The paper therefore, is a general one, and must have a wide circulation. It is conducted with ability, and no doubt is an efficient advocate of the Baptist cause in the West. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.1
One of the Editors, Mr. Peck, saw fit recently to notice the Editor of the “Signs,” as follows: HST June 15, 1841, page 45.2
“The ‘Signs of the Times’ is edited by Joshua V. Himes, who, if our memory serves, once belonged to that class of Christians who were characterized as zealous and determined opposers of all ‘sects’ save their own.” HST June 15, 1841, page 45.3
Remarks. 1. We have no connection with, or knowledge of a “class of Christ-ians,” etc. 2. The word Christ-ian is not an English word, and no scholar therefore will use it. 3. As a nickname, no Christian can use it. The editor of the “Signs of the Times,” professes to be a disciple of Christ. He is sorry that Bro. Peck was led to speak so contemptuously of him without a reason. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.4
He then goes on to notice our correspondent on the “theory of types,” which will be attended to in its proper time and place. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.5
After saying many smart things in relation to Mr. Miller, all of which are more worthy of a skeptic than of a Christian, he proceeds with all the gravity of a Christian Teacher, to point out a remedy to save the people from the destructive influence of Mr. Miller’s theory: on which Mr. M. makes the following strictures. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.6
STRICTURES
Dear Bro. Himes,—I have received the “Baptist Banner and Western Pioneer,” you sent me and by all means I would advise that no notice be taken of such scurility. It is of a piece with the Watchman, Secretary, Register, Telegraph and every other Baptist religious paper printed in the United States which I nave been so unfortunate as to have put into my hands. Not one of all my own sect have ever told the truth concerning me; I mean the Editors. Falsehood, misrepresentation, and low mean abuse is all I have received from their pens, and published remarks, even the blackguard Whittemore has been heard to say, “It is too bad.” And the self-esteemed Puritan has taken off his cardinal cap, and is about to place it on the head of a baptist editor, the only difficulty he labors under is to know which is most deserving. I would recommend by all means, if it is the cause of the devil he wishes to advance, place it on the head of our “Hoosier” in the west. For he has more wit in his brain, more knowledge in the trade, more experience in the language, and more brass in his face, than any we know of in the whole concern. He is outdone only in one thing, he has no appearance of piety, and I should think by his writing he made no pretence. You may think me too severe in my remarks. I tell you nay. If we must speak, let us speak plain, I say, and I know whereof I affirm. If it be possible to deceive the very elect, this man J. M. P. will do it. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.7
His 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, “principles of interpretation,” I admit. But his 4th “That prophecy is always to be interpreted backwards in order of time,” it is not true. I will quote a few cases. Genesis 7:4. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.8
For yet seven days, and I will cause it to rain upon the earth forty days and forty nights: and every living substance that I have made will I destroy from off the face of the earth. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.9
Genesis 15:13, 16. And he said unto Abram, Know of a surety that thy seed shall be a stranger in a land that is not theirs, and shall serve them: and they shall afflict them four hundred years; HST June 15, 1841, page 45.10
But in the fourth generation they shall come hither agaiu: for the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet full. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.11
Genesis 41:28-32. This is the thing which I have spoken unto Pharaoh: what God is about to do he sheweth unto Pharaoh. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.12
Behold, there come seven seven years of great plenty throughout all the land of Egypt: HST June 15, 1841, page 45.13
And there shall arise after them seven years of famine; and all the plenty shall be forgotten in the land of Egypt: and the famine shall consume the land: HST June 15, 1841, page 45.14
And the plenty shall not be known in the land by reason of that famine following: for it shall be very grievous. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.15
And for that the dream was doubled unto Pharaoh twice; it is because the thing is established by God, and God will shortly bring it to pass. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.16
Was fourteen years to pass away before Pharaoh was to believe or act? If he did not believe in a famine for a time to come, why lay up at the present? Away with such lecturers on prophecy. Even a guessing yankee would guess better than this. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.17
Numbers 14:33-35. And your children shall wander in the wilderness forty years, and bear your whoredoms, until your carcasses be wasted in the wilderness. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.18
After the number of the days in which ye searched the land, even forty days (each day for a year) shall ye bear your iniquities, even forty years and ye shall know my breach of promise. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.19
I the Lord have, said, I will surely do it unto all this evil congregation, that are gathered together against me: in this wilderness they shall be consumed, and there they shall die. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.20
Was this to be reckoned backward? verse 37 tells us about such interpreters. Hebrews 2:3. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.21
For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.22
1 Peter 1:10, 11. Of which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: HST June 15, 1841, page 45.23
Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.24
Daniel 8:19. And he said, Behold, I will make thee know what shall be in the last end of the indignation: for at the time appointed the end shall be. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.25
11:27. And both these king’s hearts shall be to do mischief, and they shall speak lies at one table; but it shall not prosper: for yet the end shall be at the time appointed. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.26
35. And some of them of understanding shall fall to try them, and to purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is yet for a time appointed. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.27
If these will not satisfy us that men were to reckon time to come, I cannot tell how to prove any point. Hear his rule. 6. “That the ruinous error of speculators on the prophecies in every age, has been in turning prophets themselves, by prying into the future with reference to dates, modes and particulars. This is the foundation of all the errors of Miller and the ‘Signs of the Times.’ A broad, vague and general outline of prophetic truth is all we can have before the fulfilment.” HST June 15, 1841, page 45.28
In this rule of interpretation he shows either ignorance or a wilful disregard to the truth, he cannot show that either of them have ever pretended to prophecy; therefore, with this assertion, he is trying to deceive the elect. His next assertion borders well nigh to blasphemy; “vague” does he know the meaning of the word, used with reference to a revelation from God. “Vague,” wandering, unfixed, unsettled. Is it possible, that a Baptist minister in the 19th century will have so little regard for their own arguments against Pedo-baptists, and then give the whole ground in as plain and distinctive manner as he has in this rule? I am ashamed for him. “Oh consistency, what a jewel!” For if a part of truth is thus revealed, and that part too on which hope is built, which is an anchor to the soul both sure and steadfast; I cannot see why other parts of divine revelation, not of more importance certainly, may not leave us as unfixed, unsettled, as this. Who made this man a judge in this matter? Let us examine what the Bible says upon this matter. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.29
2 Timothy 3:15-17. And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.30
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; HST June 15, 1841, page 45.31
That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.32
John 5:39. Search the scriptures: for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.33
Luke 16:29-31. Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.34
And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.35
And he said unto him, If they near not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rose from the dead. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.36
Hebrews 2:2. And the Lord answered me, and said. Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.37
Read also Ezekiel 12:22-28. 1 Corinthians 14:3-5. Again, hear his 7th rule. “Prophecy is not given us to tell us before hand what is to happen, or when it is to come to pass, but to illustrate and prove the divine government over nations and men; and more especially to confirm the truth of divine revelation, and constitute an accumulating body of evidence in support of Christianity.” Can any man read this and not be ashamed, nor have a blush mantle his cheek, for such barefaced contradiction of the word of God, “not given us to tell us what is to happen.” And yet the very same writer, under the next rule, tells us, “of the restoration and conversion of the Jews—the destruction of mystical Babylon or popery—the destruction of Mohammedism—of infidelity—the universal spread of the gospel,” etc. etc, not one of them yet has happened. Either this must be a prophecy of his, or it is taken from the Word of God, not yet accomplished. Why Sir, a child seven years old would see the plain contradiction. But the scripture, Mark 10:32-34. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.38
And they were in the way, going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus went before them: and they were amazed; and as they followed, they were afraid. And he took again the twelve, and began to tell them what things should happen unto him, HST June 15, 1841, page 45.39
Saying, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be delivered unto the chief priest?, and unto the scribes; and they shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver him to the Gentiles; HST June 15, 1841, page 45.40
And they shall mock him, and shall scourge him, and shall spit upon him, and shall kill him: and the third day he shall rise again. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.41
Luke 21:8-28. Daniel 7:25. And he shall speak great words against the Most High, and shall wear out the saints of the Most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.42
8:14. And he said unto me, Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.43
12:7, And I heard the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever, that it shall be for a time, times, and a half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.44
11. And from the time that the daily, sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.45
12. Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.46
13. But go thou thy way till the end be; for*thou shalt rest, and stand in thy lot at the end of the days. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.47
Revelation 1:3. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein; for the time is at hand. HST June 15, 1841, page 45.48
11:2, 3. But the court which is without the temple, leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.1
And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophecy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.2
12:6, 14. And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should leed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.3
And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.4
13:5. And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies: and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.5
All these, and many more could he given which tells us both what and when. What must the sober part of community think of a man, who can make such broad assertions as the above? And dogmatically tells us, or Dea. Miller, as he calls me, (which is not true, nor never was: but a nick name of his own invention, as well as the place he has assigned for my residence,) what we must believe, or talk, and what not. I once thought the Baptist ministers discarded the pope and bishops; but alas some of them are as domineering in their sphere as ever the popes were in the days of their greatest power. Yet among our Baptist ministers are a few left who are sighing and crying over the abominations of our editors. I believe the best course for us to take, is, to let them alone, they are joined to their idols. May God have mercy upon them, and open their blind eyes, so that they may repent and be converted: that they may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.6
I remain as ever, yours in Jesus Christ,
Wm. Miller.
Low Hampton, May 21, 1841.
Modern Scepticism. The following extract is taken from an article, by a foreign correspondent, of the New York Observer. Dr. Strauss, is a learned German divine. His sentiments accord with a large class of professed religionists of the transcendental school in this country. Such sentiments are worse than open infidelity. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.7
“The amount of what he asserts is as follows: Dr. Strauss maintains first, that all revelations are mere illusions, the dreams of the human mind. He, says that their is no word of God, in the ordinary meaning attached to these words, and that the Bible is a book in all respects like any other. Then he proceeds to the question of prophecies and miracles. He regards the prophecies only as the shrewd guesses of some intelligent men, or as their mistakes afterwards contradicted by facts. As to miracles, they are, in his view, simple, natural events, embellished and magnified by people’s imagination. Doctor Strauss says positively that Christianity will be displaced one day by something better: a rather rash prediction, and which will give to Dr. Strauss the name of false prophet, if his memory should go down to posterity.” HST June 15, 1841, page 46.8
From the Christian Watchman.
DISCOVERY OF TRUTH
“Prove all things, hold fast that which is good,” said the apostle Paul, a sentiment worthy to be written in letters of gold. What does the apostle mean by “all things?” Surely not that we ought to examine every new fangled theory, and listen to every lecturer who may come along. No man could find time to do this, and if he could he would find it a most profitless business. Besides, the apostle’s words elsewhere forbid such a meaning. What then does he mean? Why, doubtless, that we should prove every thing which is worth proving. Many theories contradict first principles, their very announcement is, to a well balanced mind, a sufficient refutation. For instance, Atheism is sufficiently unreasonable and absurd on its very face. No one needs to study it a moment except to find out the best means to prevent its progress among the ignorant and unthinking. Universalism is another of those unreasonable and contradictory schemes, which no one needs to examine for his own good. Its refutation is written on its face. And yet its advocates loudly appeal to our candor to listen to its sophistries, assuring us that the more it is discussed, the more rapidly it is spread. No doubt the more the young mind becomes accustomed to scoffing at sacred things, the more easy and habitual it becomes. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.9
Almost every year we hear of some new scheme for the interpretation of prophecy. It is gravely announced that some one who has “studied the Bible seven years,” has found out the secret purpose of the Almighty in reference to the end of the world. Many very good people feel under obligations to examine such schemes, because they may be advocated by very pious men. But since every such scheme contradicts first principles in religion, with which every Christian should be familiar, they have no claim on those precious moments which are given us to prepare for the coming of the Son of Man. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.10
Will the Editor of the Watchman, have the kindness to inform us what his “first principles in religion” are. We are at a loss to know. And we find many others in the same predicament. Will he not give us light? Ed. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.11
An Explanation. The article headed Wholesale Slander in our last number we find is not perfectly clear to some persons who are concerned. What we meant to state was this: That the Baptist minister in Georgetown, made an attack upon Mr. Miller’s theory which consisted “almost wholly of misrepresentations and misstatements.” This is all we meant to say of him. In this connection, we introduced a certificate of a Mr. Flanders, for which he alone is responsible; unless the said minister did endorse it, or give it countenance. Of this, those concerned know best. We wish in all cases to state the truth, and nothing but the truth. This will be bad enough in all conscience, in relation to our opponents. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.12
VALUABLE WORK
The new and valuable work noticed in our last, is to be published in a pamphlet form, and will be for sale at the Conference in Lowell, the 15th inst. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.13
Signs of the present times. In Ireland 5,000,000 have taken the Tee-To-Tal pledge. The distilleries and places for vending poisonous drinks, are being broken up. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.14
In the United States, within the last year, a remarkable movement has been made among the inebriates. It commenced in Baltimore, and is now going through the land like an angel of mercy. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.15
The principle is Total abstinence. The laborers, and lecturers are reformed drunkards. The object is the rescue of the drunkard; and extermination of Distilleries, Bar Rooms, etc, and to give the dealers in poisonous and alcoholic drinks moral suasion to their heart’s content. Already, 25,000 have enlisted in the cold-water army. They will prevail. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.16
REVIEW OF “BIBLE READER” ON MILLER’S VIEW OF THE MILLENIUM. NO. IV
I have not yet done with Bible Reader’s first paragraph; but must examine still more thoroughly his doctrine of the duration of Christ’s reign on earth. It may be some of my remarks may appear to be only a repetition of what has been already said, but even at the expense of such thoughts and appearances, I deem it important to present this subject so distinctly and repeatedly before the mind, that the most slow of understanding will have the point forever settled in their minds. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.17
In the latter part of Bible Reader’s first paragraph, he says, “He shall reign till he hath put all his enemies under his feel, and the last enemy which shall be destroyed is death.” (1 Corinthians 15.) and which the Bible reveals is after the thousand years are finished. Revelation 20. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.18
The doctrine which Bible Reader here advocates is, that Christ will reign over the saints on earth only a thousand years. His argument is, 1. Christ must reign till he hath put all enemies under his feet, and no longer. 2. But death is the last enemy which shall be destroyed, and will not be destroyed until the final resurrection at the end of the thousand years. 3. Therefore, at the end of the thousand, years the reign of Christ will close.” HST June 15, 1841, page 46.19
The fallacy lies in restricting the reign of Christ to the thousand years. True, the Bible says he must reign till then, but it does not say it shall continue no longer. The change which is then to take place, according to Paul, is, not that the reign of Christ, the Son of God after the flesh, by the generation of the Holy Ghost, Luke 1:35, and the Son of David according to the flesh, Acts 2:30, should end then; but that the Son should then and evermore be subject to God, and in his human nature as the Son of God and Son of man reign on the throne of his father David forever and ever, Luke 1:32, 33. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.20
I shall now show, 1. That Christ will come again; and that when he comes, it will be in the clouds of heaven. 2. That when he comes in the clouds of heaven, he will receive all the kingdoms of this world as his dominion, everlastingly. 3. That when he comes he will raise not the martyrs only, and eminent saints, but all his saints, and also at the same time all the living who are Christ’s at his coming shall he changed from mortality to immortality. 4. That all these shall never more be separated from the Lord. HST June 15, 1841, page 46.21
1. Christ will come again in the clouds of heaven. Acts 1:10, 11. “And while they looked steadfastedly towards heaven as he went up behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaver shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven,” This text is as good as a thousand: it is clear and positive, and must suffice. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.1
2. When he comes in the clouds of heaven he will receive all the kingdoms of this world as his dominion, EVERLASTINGLY. Daniel 7:13, 14. “I saw in the night-visions, and behold one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. And there was given him dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all people, nations and languages should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.” Can Bible Reader find any period to the reign of Christ, when he thus comes in the clouds of heaven and receives his kingdom? Can language more strongly express the eternity of Christ’s reign? HST June 15, 1841, page 47.2
3. When he comes he will raise not the martyrs only, and eminent saints, but all his saints; and also at the same time all the living who are Christ’s at his coming shall be changed from mortality to immortality. Acts 24:15. “There shall be a resurrection of the just.” This is not affirmed of the martyrs and eminent saints; but “of the just.” That it includes all who bear that characteristic is evident from Luke 14:14 “Call in the poor, the maimed, the lame and the blind, and thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompence thee; for thou shalt be recompenced at the resurrection of the just.” There is no martyrdom enjoined in the command, but a simple act of compassion, and the reward is, a recompence at the resurrection of the just. Again the Savior speaks of this resurrection, John 5:39. “All that are in the graves shall hear his voice, and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life.” There is no such distinction made as that at first the martyrs shall hear and come forth, and afterward the rest of the saints; but “all that are in the graves” and “have done good” shall come forth at once, “to the resurrection of life.” HST June 15, 1841, page 47.3
1 Corinthians 15:22, 23, now claims attention. “For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order. Christ the first fruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming.” “Then cometh the end,” etc. Can Bible Reader perceive any distinction here between the martyrs and all other saints? If so, where is that distinction found? “They that are Christ’s at his coming.” Most certainly this includes the whole family. No matter whether they are dead or living, they are to be made everlastingly alive in Christ at his coming. “For flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God.” “Neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.” Therefore, although “we shall not all sleep, (die) we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible and we shall be changed.” HST June 15, 1841, page 47.4
One text more on this subject must suffice. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17. “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive find remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.5
Will Bible Reader look at this text? 1. The time: when the Lord himself descends from heaven, with the trump of God. 2. What shall take place: “The dead in Christ shall rise first,” and the living saints “be caught up with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” The last clause confirms the 4th position, viz: That these shall never more be separated from the Lord. With these testimonies before him will Bible Render still insist that flesh and blood can and will inherit the kingdom of God for at least 1000 years? It he has no “theory to sustain” it appears to me he will yield something to the plain testimony of Scripture, “just as a little child would.” J. LITCH. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.6
THE TRUE TEST
BY WM. MILLER.
The editor of the Watchman, Puritan, and Investigator may jeer as much as they please, I say that the love of Christ’s appearing is as true a test of a Christian heart, as the needle of the compass is of the direction of the polar star. And if the editor of the Watchman would read his Bible a little more, and love not this world quite as much, and love not the praise of men more than the praise of God; he too might feel the glow of love for Christ, and trim his lamp, and be ready to enter when Christ shall come; but I have but a faint hope of him, or any of those who are so wicked as to oppose this theme of the glorious advent of Jesus Christ, and speak of it with so much disrespect. See 1 Thessalonians 5:23. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.7
And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit, and soul, and body, be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.8
1 Corinthians 1:7, 8. So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ: HST June 15, 1841, page 47.9
Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.10
Philippians 3:20. For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ: HST June 15, 1841, page 47.11
Colossians 3:2-5. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.12
For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.13
When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.14
1 Thessalonians 1:10. And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.15
2:19. For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? HST June 15, 1841, page 47.16
To the end he may establish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all hissaints. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.17
4:14-18. For it we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.18
For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.19
For the Lord himself shalt descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: HST June 15, 1841, page 47.20
Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.21
Wherefore, comfort one another with these words. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.22
2 Thessalonians 1:10. When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.23
2:1. Now we beseech you brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.24
1 Timothy 6:14. That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, unto the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.25
2 Timothy 4:8. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but to all them also who love his appearing. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.26
Titus 2:13. Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.27
Hebrews 9:28. So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.28
James 5:7, 8. Be patient, therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the eaath, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.29
Be ye also patient: establish your hearts; for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.30
1 Peter 1:7, 13. That the trial of your faith being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise, and honor, and glory, at the appearing of Jesus Christ. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.31
Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ: HST June 15, 1841, page 47.32
2 Peter 3:11, 12. Seeing, then, that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, HST June 15, 1841, page 47.33
Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.34
1 John 2:28. And now little children, abide n him; that when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.35
3:2. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be; but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.36
Revelation 1:7. Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.37
16:15. Behold I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.38
17:7, 20. Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.39
He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly: A men. Even so come, Lord Jesus. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.40
If the foregoing texts do not prove that it is a true test of Christian affection to love Christ’s appearing, then in vain may we search for a text in the word of God. HST June 15, 1841, page 47.41
MOUNTAIN SANCTUARIES
“He went up into a mountain apart to pray.”
A child ‘midst ancient mountains I have stood,
Where the wild falcons made their lordly nest
On high; the spirit of the solitude
Fell solemnly upon my infant breast,
Though then I prayed not; but deep thoughts have press’d
Into my being since I breathed that air;
Nor could I now one moment live the guest
Of such dread scenes, without the springs of prayer
O’erflowing in my soul. No ministers rise
Like them in pure communion with the skies,
Vast, silent, open unto night and day!
—So must the o’erburdened Son of Man have felt,
When, turning where inviolate stillness dwelt,
He sought high mountains, there apart to pray.
Mrs. Hemans.
HST June 15, 1841, page 47.42
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
BOSTON, JUNE 15, 1841.
GENERAL CONFERENCE
Of Christians expecting the Second Advent of our Lord Jesus Christ
The followers of the Lord and his apostles, who entertain the blessed hope of the glorious appearing of the Great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ, the second time, to bring with him the resurrection of the dead in Christ, and the everlasting reign of righteousness in the new creation which he will make, are respectfully notified that a meeting will be held in the city of LOWELL, Mass. June 15th, at 10 o’clock, A. M. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.1
The object of the meeting is to prepare the way of the Lord; to comfort one another with the promises of his coming; to call up the attention of the church to the riches of her inheritance, not in this world, but in the world to come, not in a carnal Jerusalem, but in the new Jerusalem, which comes down from above, which has mansions for all, whether Jews or Greeks, Europeans or Americans, who are by faith the children of Abraham. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.2
The Conference will not be a place for controversy, or party strife, or sectarian display; and least of all, a place for assailing the great pillar of holy truth, the church, its ministry, its ordinances, or its Sabbaths; but a season of refreshing to the pilgrims of the desert and of the wilderness, with the promise and prospect of the holy land and heavenly kingdom of everlasting peace and blessedness, to which our Joshua will triumphantly lead all his people beyond the swellings of Jordan. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.3
This body convenes today, in the Christian Chapel, Lowell, Mass. at 10 o’clock, A. M. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.4
Literary Notice. The Vestry Singing Book, Boston; Saxton and Peirce and D. S King. The work is compiled by Messrs Fiske and Dearborn, the publishers of the Musical Reporter. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.5
This work is well worthy of the patronage of the Church. The tunes are selected from the best authors; and many of them are the old fashioned ones, which we consider the best. There are three hymns to each tune. The selection of hymns is judicious. They are, for the most part such as a pastor would select for meetings of prayer and conference. For sale 107 Hanover Street. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.6
RECEIPTS FOR REPORTS
| Cost of 2000 copies of the Report | $530,00 |
| Receipts brought over | $442,00 |
| Cash received and Books on hand, | 58,00 |
| $500,00 | |
| Balance | $30,00 |
BIBLE CLASS LESSONS
LESSONS III
The Emblematic Representation of the vision.—Daniel 7
Concluded from page 31. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.7
Part Third. The fulfilment of the vision. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.8
How many circumsiances are presented in the vision, to precede the beginning of the time, times, and dividing of time? 13 Have four such kingdoms as those predicted in the vision existed? Does the last of them now exist? In what form? 2. Did ten kingdoms come out of the fourth great kingdom? What were they? Between what years did they arrise? HST June 15, 1841, page 48.9
3. Did another power, a blasphemer and persecutor of the saints come up after them? What power was it? 4. Did three of the first ten horns fall before his establishment? What were they? By what powers were they overthrown? When did the third fall? What religion did the Ostrogoths profess? Could the supremacy of the papal religion be established in Rome while they held it? Did not their fall open the way for the establishment of the papal power? 5. Were the saints given into the hand of this blasphemous persecuting power? When and by whom? Was this the same power who in 538 took Rome from the Astrogoths? Had every circumstance predicted to precede the beginning of the prophetic period been fulfilled in A. D. 558? Must we not, then, begin that period at that time or leave a vacuum in the series of events until it does begin? HST June 15, 1841, page 48.10
6. What was the event predicted to terminate the time, times, and a half? HST June 15, 1841, page 48.11
Ver. 26. When did that circumstance, the taking away of the papal dominion take place? 14 How long from 538 to 1798? How long then is a time, times and dividing of time? Would not that be as many years as there are days in 42 months (Revelation 13:6.) of 30 days each? Does not a day then in Daniel, stand for a year? Is not this fulfilment of propeecy a perfect demonstration that Daniel does so use time? Has the papal power been dying of consumption ever since its fall in 1798? Must we not then be near the last circumstance predicted in the vision the giving the kingdom to the son of man or to the saints? Does not this subject forcibly remind us of the importance of securing the character that we may share the inheritance of the saints? Does not the glory of this world fade away in view of the nearness of the exceeding glory which shall be revealed? What are some of the qualifications necessary for the enjoyment of that glory? Matthew 5:3, 5, 8. How is this preparation to be obtained? Acts 3:19, Romans 10:9-13. 15 HST June 15, 1841, page 48.12
Important Works on the Second Advent
For Sale at this Office, 107 Hanover St
MILLER ON THE SECOND COMING OF Christ, in one volume, nineteen Lectures; to which is added a supplement, containing a chronological Chart of the prophetic periods, with an explanation. Price 62 cts. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.13
LITCH’S ADDRESS TO THE CLERGY, or the Second Advent. This is a very good work Price 17 cts. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.14
MILLER’S LIFE AND VIEWS, in one volume. This work contains a Sketch of Mr. Miller’ life, his Chronology, the Charts and Expositions eleven new Lectures, Reviews, Letters,—with a Likeness. Price 62 cts. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.15
BIBLE STUDENT’S MANUAL. This is a little work compiled from Mr. Miller’s other works designed for a Pocket Note Book and Manual. It contains the Chart, Rules of Interpretation, etc. with 32 pages of blank paper, for notes, etc. Price 25 cents. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.16
Various other works on the Second Advent may be had as above. Also BLANK BOOKS, PAPER, SCHOOL BOOKS, Steel Pens, and every article usually kept in a Stationer’s Warehouse.
MOSES A. DOW.
HST June 15, 1841, page 48.17
AGENTS FOR “SIGNS OF THE TIMES”
Massachusetts
BOSTON—Moses A. Dow, General Agent. 107 Hanover Street.
| Fairhaven | Joseph Bates |
| Assonnett | James Taylor |
| Fall River | P. R. Russell |
| New Bedford | J. H. Smith |
| Mattapoisett | A. H. Averill |
| Lowell | M. M. George |
| Salem | A. G. Comings |
| Salisbury Point | Warren Lincoln |
| Haverhill | Henry Plummer |
| Worcester | Elihu Ellis |
Maine
| Portland | John Pearson |
New Hampshire
| Exeter | George T. Stacy |
| Portsmouth | Richard Walker |
| Newtown | Oliver Tuckerman |
Rhode Island
| Providence | John H. Lonsdale |
| Portsmouth | Samuel Clark |
New York
| Low Hampton, Washington Co. | Wm. S. Miller |
| New York City | Henry Jones. General Agent |
| Union Mills, Fulton Co. | Joseph Marsh P. M. |
Pennsylvania
| Philadelphia | John J. Porter |
North Carolina
| Charlotte, Meclinburg Co. | J. M. Thomas, General Agent. |
Lower Canada
| Stanstead | Dr. James Lull |
The above list is imperfect. It will be perfected by the addition of other names, as soon responsible persons shall be found who will act agents in the different parts of the country. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.18
N. B. Post Masters and Ministers of the Gospel friendly, to the objects of this paper, will pleased act as agents. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.19
AGENTS will be allowed every sixth copy, and in the same proportion for a less number. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.20
THE SIGNS OF THE TIMES
Is published on the 1st and 15th of each month, at the Bookstore of MOSES A. DOW, 107 Hanover st. next door Hancock School House.
Joshua V. Himes, Editor.
HST June 15, 1841, page 48.21
Terms,—One Dollar a year, payable in advance. 6 copies for five dollars, 13 copies for ten dollars. All communications should be directed to the Editor, post paid. HST June 15, 1841, page 48.22