Signs of the Times and Expositor of Prophecy [Himes], vol. 2
April 15, 1841
VOLUME II.—NO. 2. BOSTON, WHOLE NO. 26
Joshua V. Himes
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
AND EXPOSITOR OF PROPHECY.
THE SIGNS OF THE TIMES
Is published on the 1st and 15th or each month, at the Book-store of MOSES A. DOW, 107 Hanover st. next door to Hancock School House. HST April 15, 1841, page 9.1
Joshua V. Himes, Editor.
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 April 15, 1841, page 9.2
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 April 15, 1841, page 9.3
CHAPTER I
the dream of nebuchadnezzar. Daniel 2:31-45
We have in this prophecy a description of four kingdoms which would arise in the world and continue until the end of all earthly kingdoms. This prophecy was revealed, first, to Nebuchadnezzar, afterward to Daniel, in a dream, together with the interpretation thereof. It was represented by an image, whose brightness was excellent, and the form thereof terrible. The head of the image “was of fine gold,” representing, as Daniel has explained it in the 38th verse, the Chaldean kingdom under Nebuchadnezzar.—“The breast and arms of silver,” denoted the Mede and Persian kingdom, which began with Darius after the destruction of the Babylonish kingdom, and was composed of two lines of kings, first the Medes, afterwards the Persians, very fitly represented by the breast and arms of the image. This kingdom began about 536 before Christ, and ended 336, lasting about 200 years. “Belly and thighs of brass,” representing the Grecian monarchy, which began to fulfil this prophecy under Alexander the conqueror, 336 years before Christ, and lasted about 178 years, including the four kingdoms into which Alexander’s was divided at his death, and finally subdued by the Romans, about 158 years before Christ, which last kingdom is properly and fitly represented by the “legs and feet” of the image, “part iron and part clay.” “He saw until a stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, which smote the image upon his feet which were of iron and clay, and broke them in pieces. Then was the iron, the clay, the brass, the silver, and the gold, broken to pieces together, and became like the chaff of the summer threshing floors; and the wind carried them away, that no place was found for them.” Daniel 2:34, 35. The reader will readily perceive, that the kingdoms of this world must be totally and utterlly destroyed when this prophecy is fulfilled. For all that is like the gold, the silver, the brass, the iron and the clay, must be swept away together, and that the kingdom of Christ, represented by the stone cut out of the mountain without hands, will fill the whole earth. HST April 15, 1841, page 9.4
the “four great beasts.”—Daniel 7
In the 7th chapter of Daniel, we have another prophecy of the same things, which Daniel calls a vision, in which he saw, under the figure of “four great beasts,” coming up from the sea, diverse one from the other.—“The first was like a lion and had eagle’s wings: I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made to stand upon the feet as a man, and a man’s heart was given to it.” Daniel 7:4. This verse describes clearly the Chaldean kingdom under Nebuchadnezzar; the lion denoting power and great authority, the eagle’s wings the exaltation and glory, being plucked, showed Nebuchadnezzar that his exaltation and glory would depart from him for a season, and he would be taught that he was no more than a man, for after suffering the want of his reason for a little time, he would have a man’s heart restored to him, and learn that the Most High ruled—this is the head of gold. HST April 15, 1841, page 9.5
The “second beast was like unto a bear, and it raised itself up on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth of it, between the teeth, and they said thus unto it, arise and devour much flesh.” This is a prophecy of the Mede and Persian kingdom, which conquered Babylon. By the figure of the bear, representing desire for conquest, and showing by the figure, that this government would have three separate kingdoms under its authority, by the “three ribs in the mouth of it,” to wit: The Chaldean, Mede, and Persian, and that it would be governed by a line of kings from one of these nations only, when it began its conquests. “Raised up itself on one side,” Cyrus, the conqueror of Babylon, being a Mede; and by the expression, “arise, devour much flesh” we are taught that they would subdue many and populous kingdoms, which proved to be true; for in the days of Ahasueras, he reigned from India even to Ethiopia, over an hundred and twenty-sever, provinces. This kingdom agrees with the breast and arms of silver. Daniel 7:5. HST April 15, 1841, page 9.6
“And after this I beheld and, lo, another like a Leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; the beast had also four heads; and dominion was given to it.” Daniel 7:6. This beast represents the Grecian kingdom under Alexander the first king, which kingdom was divided into four parts at his death, shown in the vision, by the four wings of a fowl, and also established into four separate kingdoms, denoted by the four heads. Alexander, it is said, conquered the then known world, which is expressly noticed in the vision of the image, Daniel 2:39, “which shall bear rule over all the earth,” and also in the vision under consideration by these words, “and dominion was given to it.” This Grecian kingdom, then, is the same as the belly and thighs of brass in the image vision. HST April 15, 1841, page 9.7
And “after this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth; it devoured and break in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it; and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it, and it had ten horns.” 7th verse. This is a very noted prophecy of the Roman kingdom, and much is contained in this vision of the fourth kingdom, represented by this dreadful and terrible beast—not like any other, or Daniel would have told us what one. But like them all, as represented by John, Revelation 13:2. “And the beast that I saw was like unto a Leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a Bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a Lion.” This has been fulfilled in the Roman government, for Rome conquered with the celerity of an Alexander or Leopard. She stamped upon and governed as many provinces as the Medes and Persians, the Bear. She claimed, and exercised the same authority as Nebuchadnezzar; exalting and opposing herself above all that is called God. And like Nebuchadnezzar she destroyed Jerusalem, and has persecuted the people of the living God, like the lion. “And it had ten horns,” answering to the ten toes of the image, and both together allude to the ten kingdoms, into which the Western or Roman empire was divided about A. D. 476 by the Goths, Huns, and Vandals. “I considered the horns, and behold there came up among them a little horn.” This little horn is, in my opinion, the papal power which arose on, or among these tea kingdoms, immediately after these pagan kings were converted to christianity, they, by the dazzling splendor of this new religion, gave up a large share of their authority to the bishop of Rome, by which he soon claimed and exercised the papal power. “Before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots,” viz. Ravena, Lombardy, Rome, and were called the “states of the church,” by the Pope’s authority. “And behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of a man, and a mouth speaking great things.” Showing that this power would, like man, lust after the riches and honors of the world, and exercise great authority. “I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool; his throne like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning.” 9th verse. This verse is so obvious, that it needs no comment. It is a description of God the Father. HST April 15, 1841, page 9.8
“A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him; thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him; the judgment was set, and the books were opened.” 10th verse. This verse represents him as coming to burn up the wicked, to raise and bring his saints into his presence, and commence the judgment. “I beheld, then, because of the voice of the great words which the horn spake; I beheld, even till the beast was slain, and his body destroyed, and given to the burning flame.” 11th verse. In this verse we have a clear prophecy that papal Rome, or the little horn, will not be destroyed until Christ shall come, and then their bodies will be burnt in the conflagration of the world. “As concerning the rest of the beasts, they had their dominion taken away; yet their live were prolonged for a season and time.” 12th verse. The rest of the beast spoken of in this verse, are the remainder of the ten horns, or kingdoms which were not plucked up by the little horn, although their power would not be supreme, being more or less under the influence or dominion, of the church of Rome, or little horn; still they would exist in a distinct state until this day of Judgment; and the prophet has now gone back to see what had become of these other kingdoms, that he might have all present at this last grand scene, and he finds them, as he says, with their dominion taken away, but their lives prolonged even to the coming of the Son of man; for he goes on to say, “I saw in the night vision, 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.” 13th verse. In this verse we have a plain prophecy of Christ’s second coming when he will present his bride, the church, to the Ancient of days without spot or wrinkle. “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.” 14th verse. In this passage we are carried into the glorified, and eternal state of the kingdom of Christ, when his elect from among all people, nations, and languages will be brought into his immediate presence, to serve and obey him forever. HST April 15, 1841, page 10.1
“I Daniel was grieved in my spirit in the midst of my body, and the visions of my head troubled me.” 15th verse. “I came near unto one of them that stood by, and asked him the truth of all this. So he told me and made me know the interpretation of the things.” 16th verse. “These great beasts which are four, are four kings which shall arise out of the earth.” 17th verse. The same kingdoms we have before described, viz. Chaldean, Mede, and Persian, Grecian and the Roman. “But the saints of the Most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom forever, even forever and ever.” 18th verse. “Then I would know the truth of the fourth beast, which was diverse from all the others, exceeding dreadful, whose teeth were of iron, and his nails of brass, which devoured, break in pieces, and stamped the residue with his feet.” 19th verse. In this verse we are told that the fourth, or Roman kingdom, would be different from all others; this was true with Rome, for she not only combined all governments into one, but she was actually ruled by all forms of government; she not only claimed the civil power, but the ecclesiastical also, both in her pagan, and papal state; she devoured and break in pieces the Jews, and has stamped and persecuted the church of Christ, in this verse called “residue,” from its earliest ages to the present period, or until about A. D. 1798. “And of the ten horns that were in his head, and of the other which came up, and before whom three fell; even of that horn that had eyes, and a mouth that spake very great things, whose look was more stout than his fellows.” 20th verse. The ten horns are ten kingdoms into which Rome was divided A. D 476. The principal kingdoms which were England, France, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Austria, Prusia, Ravena, Lombardy and Rome. “I beheld, and the same horn made war with the saints, and prevailed against them,” (21st verse,) “Until the Ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the Most High; and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom.” 22nd verse. One thing is very evident in the above verses, viz. That anti-christ will make war upon the saints and prevail against them until Christ comes to judgment, and teaches us that there can be no universal reign of the church in this militant state. “Thus he said, the fourth beast shall be the fourth kingdom upon earth, which shall be diverse from all kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break it in pieces.” 23rd verse. “And the ten horns out of this kingdom are ten kings that shall arise; and another shall arise after them; and he shall be, diverse from the first, and he shall subdue three kings.” 24th verse. “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.” 25th verse. In the foregoing verses we have a description of the little horn, or anti-christ, the papal beast, her blasphemies against God, wearing out the saints, changing the laws of God, and the time she should reign, viz. 1260 years or prophetic days, time being one prophetic year or 360 prophetic days, times being two prophetic years or 720 prophetic days, and an half is 180 prophetic days, making in all 1260 natural years. The scripture rule for reckoning a day for a year will be found in Numbers 14:34, and Ezekiel 4:6; also in the fulfilment of Daniel’s seventy weeks which we shall speak of in its proper place. “But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and destroy it unto the end.” 26th verse. In this verse we are informed that when God shall come to judgment, the dominion and power of antichrist will be wholly destroyed, therefore, we must not expect the complete overthrow of the power of papacy, until the judgment of the great day. “And the kingdom and dominion, and the 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.” 27th verse, see also Matthew 13:37-43, and 16:27. This is the kingdom which all saints will inherit after their resurrection in the glorious state because it is to be everlasting, and in the greatness of the kingdom, that is, in its completion, it is also after anti-christ ceases to trouble the church or trample on her, for in the kingdom spoken of in this text, “All dominions shall serve and obey him,” (that is Christ,) “hitherto is the end of the matter. As for me Daniel, my cogitations much troubled me, and my countenance changed in me; but I kept the matter in my heart.” HST April 15, 1841, page 10.2
Here we have the end of Daniel’s first or evening vision, and the important things therein prophecied of, have a large share of them been already fulfilled, and literally, too, according to the true intent and meaning of the figures used. That Daniel considered this vision of great and vital importance (of great, or why did it trouble him, and why did it cause his countenance to change? Of vital importance, or why keep the matter in his heart?) is evident. And if it was important to him, surely it must be to us on whom the end of the world hath come, and if Daniel was permitted to inquire, when shall these things be? surely we may go on with our inquiry after the truth of these things. If God has revealed to Daniel any thing which concerned the prophet to know at that day, why not us at the present? Some say, prophecy is revealed to us in enigmas, on purpose to perplex or puzzle; if so, let me be perplexed, I but fulfill the design. But the writer does not believe this doctrine. That God has revealed himself in good faith, is a sentiment abundantly proved by the Scriptures. See Psalm 119:97-112. 2 Timothy 3:13-17. 2 Peter 1:20, 21. That God has seen fit to present important truths to the mind of man by plain figures and familiar objects, we do not wish to deny, for in this manner truth is more lastingly impressed, and the ideas are conveyed not only through the ear, but by the eye also. For instance—who ever read this vision in Daniel, with any anxiety to understand, and should afterwards see a lion, but would remember that in studying the prominent features, parts, or qualities of the animal, he was learning the same prominent characteristics of the Chaldean kingdom? Or, whoever saw a husbandman sowing his grain, but would remember how the seed of Christ’s kingdom is sowed, and its effects? HST April 15, 1841, page 10.3
To be continued.
THE “FALSE PROPHET.”
Mr. Editor, Dear Sir: By the term “false prophet,” we are sometimes told, John means Mohammedanism: but for one, I never could see the reason of it. On the contrary, it seems to me, that by the term, “false prophet,” John means the papal priesthood. To establish this, a single text will suffice Revelation 19:20. “And the beast was taken,” by the beast, we are all, I believe, agreed, is meant Romanism, the catholic power, whether temporal or spiritual, “and with him”—with the beast “the false prophet, that wrought miracles before him” Before whom? The beast. But what does “before” mean? before in point of time? and before in the sense of in presence of. Not before in point of time, for the beast had its origin, and began to have miracles wrought before it, as early, at least, as Mahommedanism. Before must then mean, in presence of, but has Mahommedanism wrought his miracles in presence of the beast? so much so, as to deceive the beast, and them that have the mark of his image? far from it, but who has wrought miracles in presence of the beast? the Roman Priesthood, as all the world knows. And the beast always has been, and is, to this very day, most awfully deceived by the miracles which the false prophet—the Roman Priesthood, pretend to work. He it is, that has the eyes of a man, who has spoken great swelling words against the most High, and has thought to change times and laws. HST April 15, 1841, page 11.1
That Mahomet was a false prophet, no one will pretend to dispute, but that it was the false prophet which wrought miracles before the beast, and with which (miracles) he deceived them that had the mark of the beast, and that worshipped his image, is what, for one, I cannot, as yet believe. Mahommedanism has never deceived the beast. But the Roman Priesthood has most completely, and most shamefully. No catholic dares to do anything good, bad or indifferent without leave of the beast. And he acknowledges no higher earthly power, and seeks instruction from no other source. If I am wrong, will either you or some of your many correspondents correct me? D. C. HST April 15, 1841, page 11.2
Mount Zion, Feb. 1841.
AN ARGUMENT AGAINST THE TEMPORAL MILLENNIUM
The commonly received opinion of the millennium is, that sin, if not entirely eradicated from the earth, will be driven into dark corners, and there hide its head until the thousand years are past. The church will then shine forth in glory, and reign triumphant in the earth. But Daniel and John both declare, that the beast and the false prophet will continue till the coming of the son of man to judgment. Now it is the beast which ever has, and still proves one of the greatest hindrances to the spread of the gospel that has ever been experienced. And now, we ask, how can the church ever expect to reign here so long as the beast, her mightiest opposer, is in existence? How can she reign here so long as the beast has set down the foot of his power, and is exerting his malign influence in every land? to my mind it is impossible. And according to my present understanding of the scriptures, (though not according to what it once was) the world will go on very much in its present condition, till the great judgment day. The tares and wheat will both grow together, till the harvest, and then will the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their father. HST April 15, 1841, page 11.3
I feel, Mr. Editor, that if this argument was brought out in full, and justice was done to it, (which, God helping me, may be done at some future time) it would prove a barrier actually insurmountable to the advocates of the temporal millennium. HST April 15, 1841, page 11.4
But go on, my dear sir, in the strength of God and the time will soon decide who is right and who is wrong. D. C. HST April 15, 1841, page 11.5
SINGULAR PROPHECY
Bro. Himes: The following item I find in a paper published in Philadelphia, in 1826. It is rather a singular sketch, and I thought it might be interesting to your readers. There is evidently an allusion to Bonapart’s career, and to some great event soon to follow it. L. D. Fleming. HST April 15, 1841, page 11.6
From the Lafayette Aurora.
PHOPHECY A. D. 1008
Translated from the German by C. Croff. HST April 15, 1841, page 11.7
When I take a strict examination of the quality and movements of the heavenly bodies, I find in all the region by the movement of the Stars, that this mighty empire shall remain under its present government a long time, till the year A. D. 1769. Then will a hero, through manhood and virility reach the two headed eagle, and conduct the empire praisworthily, and conquer the surrounding nations with most desperate sway, and continue to conquer till after the commencement of the 19 century, then he will fall, and a general peace be established till A. D. 1827. Then will confusion and rebellion begin in all quarters, then will the red lion raise against the two headed eagle, then will the white swan, with a powerful eagle from a dark valley in the mist, unite and rise firstly against him and rule the empire many years, till the almighty God, with his unchangeable wisdom, will make an end thereof. Then will the prophecy of Daniel go no further, and then you will see the end of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, that the end of the world is at hand. HST April 15, 1841, page 11.8
(Signed) F. SEABALD.
Mezzig, Nov. 24, A. D. 1008.
REVIEW OF “EYE” IN THE “PURITAN”
Bro. Himes—I have just received the 24th number of the “Signs of the Times,” in which I find an article from the “Puritan;” a paper edited by the Rev. Parsons Cooke, and the Rev. I. E. Woodbridge. The article is headed “The Fanatic of Prophecy;” and designed, without, doubt, to apply to brother Miller. Now, as the article speaks for itself, and the editors that first published it, by its bombastic and self-conceited style; and as it is perfectly void of truth in all its representations: a candid review of it is not expected from any one. However I wish to notice some of the false statements it contains—ask a few questions—and supply some answers. HST April 15, 1841, page 11.9
In the first place, “Eye,” charges Mr. Miller with having a “self-assumed commission given by dreams—the claim of having the special and sole charge of a message to cry the world over, expressed in the lowest cant-phrase of ostentatious pietism, etc.” HST April 15, 1841, page 11.10
Ques. Do not the editors of the “Puritan” know that this representation is altogether false? HST April 15, 1841, page 11.11
Ans. If they do not, it is because they have not inquired after the truth; they might have known it. We know from personal acquaintance, that Mr. Miller utterly disclaims any new revelation, by dreams, or otherwise, and that he does not claim to have the special and sole charge of this message. He refers in his lectures and writings to numerous writers who have written heretofore, and to a number of individuals that came out about the same time that he did, in different parts of the world, agreeing with him in the same view of scripture prophecy. We appeal to all who have candidly listened to a course of his lectures, or read his writings, for the truth of this statement. His style of speaking is that of a plain, honest, and intelligent man. He is not a prophet, (as the Puritan styles him,) but simply reads Scripture, and brings the proof of its fulfilment. HST April 15, 1841, page 11.12
2. The writer states, that the second coming of Christ “has been the theme of fanaticism ever since Jesus Christ left the world! that, in the first years of the Christian Church, it spread its panic all along the path the Gospel had trodden, and had then an importance in mischief, that attracted the rebuke of the apostle’s pen, 1 Thessalonians 5:1.” HST April 15, 1841, page 11.13
Ques. Is the writer aware that he is virtually charging Jesus Christ with fanaticism; as in Matthew 24th and 25th chapters, and the Gospels, where he represented in promises to his disciples, that if he went away he would come again and receive them to himself, and also the apostles, in nearly all their writings in the New Testament, see Acts 1:11, 1 Corinthians 15:23, 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 2 Thessalonians 1:7, Titus 2:13, James 5:7, 2 Peter 3. Revelation 1:7, etc, and is he aware that this doctrine which he calls panic, is a part of the gospel preached, and did not follow in its path as he states? HST April 15, 1841, page 11.14
Ans. All this is susceptible of the fullest proof this was the preaching of the kingdom of God, and although some mocked when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, as some do now, yet the apostles preached it, as encouragement to the saints, and after declaring the certainty of the descent of the Lord from heaven, exhorted their brethren to comfort one another with the same words; and we aver, that this writer must have something incorporated in his creed that is not in the Gospel, or he would not cry out panic. We suppose that the rebuke he alludes to is found in 2 Thessalonians 2:3. instead of 1 Thessalonians 5:1; it is where the apostle is instructing his Thessalonian brethren that there would come a falling away first, and the man of sin would be revealed, the son of perdition, etc., meaning Popery, according to most Commentators, and has been so fulfilled. HST April 15, 1841, page 11.15
Again: This writer asserts, that this prophet (as he calls him) “passes through community accompanied by a notoriety, great indeed, but great like the destructive avalanche, plunging from the Alpine cliffs, swelling its mass by the ruin it produces, etc. HST April 15, 1841, page 11.16
Ques. Can he tell us what the ruin consists in, that Mr. Miller prodnces in community which he passes through. HST April 15, 1841, page 11.17
We answer, as far as we have been able to gain information, the whole of the influence that he has exerted, has been decidedly good on community; the Bible has been read more, many profane and intemperate men, have been converted, and are now useful members different churches, christians have been revived and quickened by hearing him, that this is the fact in this place, (Portsmouth) nearly the whole town will bear testimony. HST April 15, 1841, page 11.18
Again, hear the “Puritan;” This paeacher seems trying to hrust himself into that fearful cloud that shrouds the plans of the eternal, to end away the flaming veil that girts the council chamber of the great I AM,” and to make false that precept, “Of that day and hour knoweth no man.” HST April 15, 1841, page 11.19
Ques. What is the cloud, and the veil, and council chamber alluded to, that Mr. Miller, seems trying to force himself into. HST April 15, 1841, page 12.1
Ans. If there is any that shrouds the plans of the eternal in regard to this doctrine, it is a cloud of doctrine, supported by such divines as the editors of the Puritan, Skinner, Whittimore, and others, that are dreadfully opposed to the idea of Christ coming to the earth again very soon. The veil seems to be ridicule. And very probable these divines, as they claim to have all the learning and decency, will claim to be the council chamber, it is certain that Miller has forced himself on none others, and already does the witness the cloud about his ears, and he is dispersing it, already do the people behold the rent of the veil, already does this self styled council chamber begin to be exposed. HST April 15, 1841, page 12.2
With regard to the precept, said to be violated. Matthew 24:36, Mr. Miller gives it its full weight, and yet Christ did not tell them that it never would be known, nay further, he went on to tell that when such and such things had come to pass, to know it was nigh. And we have reason to suppose that when the midnight cry is made, some people must know something about it. HST April 15, 1841, page 12.3
This passage of scripture is all the writer has brought to support his long harrangue, and is all that can he brought against Miller’s doctrine, and yet it is a curious fact that almost all of those that use it for this purpose, claim that the whole chapter was fulfilled at the destruction of Jerusalem!! HST April 15, 1841, page 12.4
The remainder of this wonderful article is declamation, and bitter abuse of Mr. Miller and all that hear him; and yet, is without the least show of argument, to support his allegations, read it, reader, and hear him bewail the prospect of the down-fall of all learning and piety, as the natural consequence of admiting such a man into the sacred desk, hear him declaim against ministers, and all that would bid him God speed. All these bewailings and declamations are in the same strain of piety in which the council of the chief priest and pharisees declaimed against Jesus Christ, and appear to have the same object. Viz. if we let him thus alone all men will believe on him and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation. A little further, hear him bewail the single visitation of such an error, depraving the public, taste—arming the tongue of scoflers—giving a piercing point to infidel ridicule, etc. and then look around, and see where the tongue of scoff has ever been armed or the piercing point of ridicule ever wielded so dexteriously, as by there pious editors, and didivines above named, and that against some of our most worthy Ministers, and worthy citizens. on account of a doctrine that they cannot meet any other way But I hasten; to cap the cilmax, the author of this article, as if he was possessed with more than common discernment and wisdom, has signed himself, “EYE” Well the question now is, what is the conclusion of the whole matter. HST April 15, 1841, page 12.5
Ans. I cannot give my views more appropriately, then by relating a ludicrous anecdote, said to have transpired in this town, some years since, and then draw a comparison. This I would not do, did I not think a fool should be answered according to his folly. A certain grocer having a parrot, famed for observation and intelligence, was induced to lay a wager, with another individual, that they could not enter the shop in the grocer’s abscence, and take an article, without the parrots telling its master of the article taken. The feat was performed, and the wager won in the following manner. The individual named, entered the shop at the back door, in a backward manner, covering the head and uncovering the body. The appearance was altogether so unnatural that the parrot was taken by surprise, and the only sentence it could utter on the return of its master, was, “O what a face, O what a face.” HST April 15, 1841, page 12.6
Now, Mr. Editor, the attack of the Puritan, on Mr. Miller, is so exactly like the ingress of the individual into the grocers shop, any thinking animal, must exclaim, O what an EYE. O what an “evil EYE.” HST April 15, 1841, page 12.7
R. WALKER.
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
BOSTON, APRIL, 15, 1841.
TIMES OFFICE, 107 HANOVER-ST
Removal. The Office of the “Signs of the Times” will be removed, on the first of April, to 107 Hanover Street, next door to Hancock School House. The Subscriber will attend to all business relating to the “Signs of the Times,” at his new store, HST April 15, 1841, page 12.8
107 HANOVER STREET 107
which being in a more central part of the city, he hopes will be found more convenient for the transaction of business than at his former store. HST April 15, 1841, page 12.9
He will keep for sale, as above, all the books on the Second Advent published in this country. HST April 15, 1841, page 12.10
He also keeps every variety of BLANK BOOKS, SCHOOL BOOKS and STATIONERY. HST April 15, 1841, page 12.11
MOSES A. DOW.
April 1, 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 April 15, 1841, page 12.12
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 April 15, 1841, page 12.13
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 piliar 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 April 15, 1841, page 12.14
WILLIAM MILLER,
JOSIAH LITCH,
JOSHUA V. HIMES,
HENRY JONES,
H. D WARD,
Com. of the Gen. Conference.
PROGRESS OF THE CAUSE
It is with great pleasure we record the progress of the cause of our Lord Jesus Christ. We mean by the cause of Christ, the truth, connected with his second advent, and the setting up of his glorified and everlasting kingdom. This a very different cause from that of the modern church, relating to a temporal millennium; seeking and looking for a triumph of the church in this world—a delusion! A vain hope! This cause is on the wane. The ministry and laity both, who examine this subject in the light of the Scriptures, are everywhere giving it up. This fanciful doctrine is giving way to the ancient and glorious doctrine of the personal reign and immortal triumph of Christ in his glorified kingdom on the earth—and that, that kingdom is “at hand.” HST April 15, 1841, page 12.15
The means which have produced this change are various. 1. Public Lectures. Mr. Miller, by his lectures for nine years past, in different parts of the country, has produced a mighty influence upon all classes. The whole nation has been aroused. The ministry and church have been awakened to the examination of the subject, which has always resulted in the furtherance of the cause. Others are engaged in this work; but few, however, have as yet given their whole attention to it. Some two hundred ministers in the country are doing what they can, in connection with their pastoral labors. Then, there are thousands of the most pious members of all the evangelical denominations, who understand and are disseminating this doctrine with effect. 2. A second instrumentality that has been used with great effect, is the circulation of Books and periodicals. The written Lectures of Mr. Miller have done immense good. The writings also of Bro. Litch, Ward, Jones, and many others, are exerting an influence where they have been circulated. The “Literalist,” a republication of distinguished English authors, is also doing much to arouse the people to consider the doctrine of the second advent. The ‘Signs of the Times’; this humble sheet is also doing something to aid this glorious cause. HST April 15, 1841, page 12.16
The duty of the brethren who understand this subject is to proclaim it to the extent of their ability. And it is the duty of all, to circulate the written expositions of this subject, contained in books and periodicals. Whatever our hands find to do, in this glorious work, we should do it with our might. HST April 15, 1841, page 12.17
Ballstown. N. Y. We are happy to learn by Eld. Thompson, of Ballstown, that the good cause is progressing in that town. Bro. Miller by invitation gave a course of lectures in that place in January last. There was much opposition at the time; but it has since given way, and some of the ministers are new preaching the kingdom of heaven at hand. Many have been converted through this doctrine. The Baptist church in that place, are very anxious that Mr. Miller should visit them again, and give them a full course of Lectures. HST April 15, 1841, page 12.18
Lectures In Providence, R. I. Mr. Miller, at the earnest request of his friends in Providence, commenced a course of lectures in that city on the 27th ult., and closed on the evening of the 4th inst. They were delivered in the Town Hall, a commodious building, which was readily granted by the City Council for the purpose. This city being the theatre of the Rev. John Dowling’s labors, who the last year published a book entitled “Dowling’s Reply to Miller;” it was expected that the public mind would be greatly prejudiced against Mr. Miller, and that it would be difficult to get a fair hearing. The churches, of course, were closed against him. But the people, and many of the clergy, (among whom, occasionally, was Mr. Dowling himself,) attended the lectures. Many gave him an impartial hearing. The result was with the latter, in every case, with which we became acquainted, that they were satisfied that Mr. Miller had given good and sufficient reasons for his faith; and also for publishing it to the world. HST April 15, 1841, page 12.19
The laity of the Baptist is received him with great cordiality, many of whom expressed to us their entire faith in the doctrine of the Advent near. HST April 15, 1841, page 13.1
The last Sabbath we spent in that city, Mr. Miller, by invitation of the Rev. Mr. Jameson, Pastor of the Third Baptist Church, lectured all day in their house, to full and solemn audiences. If he should go to Providence again, he would not be dependent on the Town Council, for a place to lecture. HST April 15, 1841, page 13.2
We were sorry to learn, that Mr. Dowling remained obstinate, and refused to correct his misrepresentations of Mr. Miller. We hope he may get sufficient light from the people, to enable him yet to do justice to an injured and persecuted man. HST April 15, 1841, page 13.3
We hope to hear good news from Providence. That the churches are revived; that sinners are flocking to Christ. HST April 15, 1841, page 13.4
SCRIPTURE FULFILLED
“For many shall come in my name, saying I am Christ.”—Christ.
Proof
“A Messiah!—An imposter has appeared in Switzerland, who proclaims himself the Messiah of the Jews. He wears a long white tunic, gilt belt and hat, on which is inscribed the word Jehovah. This man was formerly a merchant and politician, pays the Journal of Commence, and probably finding these trades fail, he is now attempting to extract a revenue from human credulity.” HST April 15, 1841, page 13.5
“How that I told you there should be mockers in the last time.”—Jude. HST April 15, 1841, page 13.6
Proof
“We commend this case to the editor of the “Signs of the Times,” as proof positive of the truth of the Prophet Miller’s prediction Infidels! give up your doubts—join the church, and cry hosannah! The Millennium has arrived! Yea, verily.” HST April 15, 1841, page 13.7
We copy the above from the “Boston Investigator.” The Switzerland “Imposter,” and “Investigator,” are fulfilling the Scriptures against their own will. HST April 15, 1841, page 13.8
CONFERENCE MEETINGS
We are glad to see the believers in the advent near, of all names and denominations, voluntarily associated for conference and prayer. Is this a fulfilment of the word of the Lord in Malachi? “Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another.” Many of the churches and ministers deprive their members of this privilege at home, hence they seek the opportunity in other meetings to speak on the subject of the “blessed hope.” They “fear the Lord.” We hope these meetings will be established in every place where there are a sufficient number of believers to sustain them. The brethren in Boston have established such a meeting which proves to be one of the greatest interest. HST April 15, 1841, page 13.9
The following letter from Dea. Pearson, (though not intended for publication,) contains some important suggestions to those interested in these meetings. It was written to a brother in this city in answer to some inquiries on the subject, by whose kindness we give it to our readers. HST April 15, 1841, page 13.10
Dear Brother,—Yours of 26th of Nov. was duly received, and amid a multitude of cares has been neglected, but not for a lack of disposition to answer it. The subject of your letter seems to be to learn the manner of conducting our meetings on the subject of the “Kingdom at hand.” We hold our meetings every Saturday evening in the Casco St. Vestry, and individuals from several of the different churches in the city attend. We have had no particular subjects for discussion. Different individuals give their views freely on the particular subject of the advent near; or on certain passages of Scripture—the signs of the times, etc. Considerable has been said on the subject, and the difficulties of a temporal millennium, and the positive evidence we have that such a view is without foundation in the Bible. Many passages prove that Popery will not be destroyed until the second coming of Christ, and that destroys the foundation of those who are building on a temporal millennium. Our meetings are interspersed with short prayers, appropriate hymns, exhortations, etc. Since they were commenced they have increased in number and interest, and we think they are doing good especially to those believers who attend. Any important events in the signs of the times, at home or abroad, on the land or on the sea, is introduced and applied. The passages and arguments of those who oppose the doctrine are considered frequently, and so we strengthen each other in the truth. Our numbers have increased from 20 or 30 to nearly 100, and new hearers are constantly coming in To us they are meetings of peculiar interest. And now, dear brother, I must close. I can say in truth, since I have been interested in this subject, which is about two years, the Bible has been to me a new Book. I love and prize it more than ever. My desire is to be a Bible Christian. I do not expect many of our great and learned men will favor our views, but that is one evidence of their truth. We must prepare for trials. We need strong faith in God’s word. Let us therefore, come out from the spirit of this wicked generation and exhort one another, and so much the more as we see the day approaching. And now with a request that our brethren in Boston will remember our meetings in their prayers, HST April 15, 1841, page 13.11
I subscribe myself, your brother in the belief of our Savior’s second approach near at hand, HST April 15, 1841, page 13.12
JOHN PEARSON.
Portland Dec. 20, 1840.
WHY DWELL SO MUCH ON CHRIST’S SECOND COMING
Many well meaning persons make the above inquiry, on seeing the disposition of any more seriously and forcibly to promulgate and enforce the gospel doctrine of Christ’s glorious kingdom at hand. And they no doubt honestly suppose, that an occasional mention or sermon of the judgment to come after our death, and after a very long, or a thousand years reign of the church in this world, is all that is required among other important things of gospel preaching. But in answer to this honest and fair question, let it be said: HST April 15, 1841, page 13.13
1. It is needful now to dwell on this doctrine more than has been common, since, for a century or so, it has been exceedingly omitted in preaching. To preach death at hand, and Christ’s second coming at the resurrection afar off, is certainly not preaching the kingdom of Christ at hand. No one of us, has the assurance of a temporal death at hand, nor of death at all, before the Lord’s personal coming in his kingdom. Neither is the death of the body mentioned any where in the New Testament, for an awakening motive to repentance, as is the kingdom of heaven, or of Christ at hand. Paul, who always preached the kingdom of God, of Jesus and the resurrection, the judgment to come, all the same to us, never once preached our natural death at hand; neither did he know for a certainty of his own natural death before Christ’s personal coming: for if he had, how could he have said so properly, “Then we, which are alive and remain,”—at “the coming of the Lord,” etc. Therefore, if we preach at all Christ’s kingdom at hand, as Paul and the rest of the apostles did it, we must dwell on it more than when we and others have wholly left it out in preaching. HST April 15, 1841, page 13.14
2. We do not wish to dwell unduly on the single point of Christ’s own coming, now very quickly. But we rather, wish it not left out at all, as it has been for a long time past. Our object is, or should be, like that of Christ in his first coming and preaching, that men should repent and turn unto God; and do it immediately, yea, “quickly,” to “agree with the adversary while in the way with him,” lest soon they find themselves shut up in the prison of everlasting and black despair. And we wish, as Christ and his apostles did, only to urge the solemn truth of his glorious kingdom just at hand, as the most effectual awakening and true consideration, that those who are asleep on the brink of hell, might be aroused to a sense of their sinful and dreadful condition, to “flee from the wrath to come,” and by repentance and faith, to “look unto Christ,” and be saved in the “great and terrible day” of his coming at hand. HST April 15, 1841, page 13.15
3. We do not wish to dwell, neither are we doing it, any more on this point, than all the holy writers did. For it will be found, on examining, though they did not dwell on it, exclusively, that there is no portion of their writings, as long as a common modern sermon, which does not contain more or less of this doctrine, whether now generally so understood or not. More than this, if we begin at the Psalms and examine through the remainder of the Bible, having the Spirit of the Lord, and not of the evil one, for our great Teacher, we shall find chapter after chapter, and frequently almost whole books, fortelling and describing the events of that great day of the Lord; and dwelling very briefly indeed, but distinctly and impressingly on the necessity, of an immediate repentance of all who read or hear the word. Paul, on being accused of heresy for preaching so much, or dwelling so much on Christ’s coming and the resurrection, affirms that Moses and the prophets did so. Acts 26:22, 23. And Peter, in doing it, said, all the prophets had done it, “since the world began.” Acts 3:21-24, “Go and do likewise.” HST April 15, 1841, page 13.16
J. HST April 15, 1841, page 13.17
“Death has entered into our palaces.” Wm. Henry Harrison, the President of these United States, is dead. He departed this life on the 4th inst. at the President’s House in Washington, HST April 15, 1841, page 13.18
The late President was loved, and almost worshipped, by millions of his countrymen. No expense, no sacrifice, no labor, or means have been spared during the last year, to elevate him to the Presidential Chair; yet in one short month, all, all is in the tomb—and the nation shrouded in mourning. We hope it will be sanctified to the whole nation; that it may humble and lead us to repentance, for our pride, unbelief, and general neglect of God, and the requirements of his Holy Law. HST April 15, 1841, page 13.19
How vain is all human greatness! God speaks, our glory departs, and our hopes are laid in the tomb! We are glad to learn that Gen. Harrison, though the hope of the people, had fixed his hope on high. While the worldly are striving to elevate their fellowmen to posts of honor; the Christian is seeking to enthrone the King of kings, who will live forever. How different the feelings and the hopes of the believers in the glorious advent of the Lord Messiah, from those of the Politician, who seeks to build up a party. They look for their King, who is soon to break in pieces all the kingdoms of the earth, and set up a glorious kingdom which is to last forever. Their King shall never die. Unfading glory crowns his head; and millions of seraphs bow at his feet, with all the holy of every age, and “crown him Lord of all.” HST April 15, 1841, page 13.20
CHURCH CHRONOLOGY
THEORY OF TYPES. NO. 2
HARMONY OF CHURCH CHRONOLOGY. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.1
Brother Himes,—As the harmony of music, or the harmony of chemistry, depends on definite proportions: so the harmony of chronology depends on the proportions of its periods. That there is a chronological harmony, can reasonably be doubted by none. Suppose, in a piece of printed music some of the notes have become obscure. How is this time to be restored? A person without musical ear or science, might set about restoring it by guess. But a harmonist might say—“This note in the air must have been a minim, in order to agree with the corresponding note in the bass;—if you place this note on that line, there will be a discord.” Such, or analogous to this, ought to be our method, in the doubtful or obscure parts of chronology. Suffice it to add, that the harmony of a system of chronology is one principal evidence of its truth. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.2
For want of room, a considerable portion of the subject of the present number, must be reserved for my next, which will be devoted, partly to the jubilees and sabbatical years, and partly to the 43 years required for completing the 6000. The general subject of the present number will be, the length of the period from the creation of Adam to the birth of Christ. And with regard to the dates of eras, or the lengths of constituent periods—if it can be shown that I differ but from one to four years from Usher, Josephus, or other distinguished chronologers—and that where I differ from them, I have at least the harmony of chronology in support of my conclusions; nothing more can with reason be required. This I shall endeavor to do. 4 HST April 15, 1841, page 14.3
Period from the creation of Adam to the Exodus. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.4
From the creation of Adam to the end of the flood, were 1657 years, or the end of the flood was A. M. 1657. On this point, chronologers professedly making our scripture geneologies their guide, are generally agreed. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.5
It is commonly supposed, that the vocation of Abram was A. M. 2,083; that the birth of Isaac, 25 years after the calling of Abram, was A. M. 2,108; and that consequently the exodus, “430” years after the vocation of Abram, was A. M. 2,513. But in order that there may be 9 jubilees of 50 years each, from the end of the flood to the birth of Isaac, and 43 jubilees of 49 years each, from the creation of Adam to the birth of Isaac—as the harmony of chronology requires; the birth of Isaac must have been A. M. 2,107—and therefore the vocation of Abram must have been A. M. 2,082, and the Exodus A. M. 2,512. Accordingly, from the birth of Isaac to the Exodus, there must have been 405 years. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.6
Period from the Erodus to the beginning of Solomon’s Temple. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.7
The harmony of chronology requires this period to have been 588 years, equal to 12 jubilees of 49 years each. Josephus informs us—Antiq. B. viii. Ch. 3.—that “Solomon began to build the temple five hundred and ninety-two years from the exodus out of Egypt.” This is but 4 years more than my 588. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.8
We are informed by the apostle Paul—Acts 13:19, 20—that after the “division of the land of Canaan, God gave the Israelites Judges, “about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet.” And we read, 1 Kings 6:1, that “Solomon began to build the house of the Lord in the four hundred and eightieth year after the children of Israel were come out of Egypt.” That this date of the beginning of the temple is, however, widely at variance with the chronology of Paul, is very well known. And there appears to be no better way of reconciling these conflicting chronologies, than by assuming, with Mr. Vallerchamp, that this 480 should have been 580; the original 580 having been changed to 480, by the mistake of some ancient transcriber. Copies of the law of Moses in the Samaritan dialect, still remain; “but corrupted with sundry mistakes, especially in the numbers.” It may be perceived that my period of 580 years, is between this 580 and the 592 of Josephus; and differs but little from either. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.9
In the “Signs of the Times,” No. 14, Mr. Vallerchamp has shown in what manner 580 years can be made out, from the Exodus to the beginning of Solomon’s temple. The objection is, that he has alloted but 7 years to Joshua, and nothing to the elders who outlived him. With a view to remove this objection, of which Mr. Vallerchamp is aware, after adding 8 years to the 580, in order to complete the 588, I would propose two methods, and leave the reader, either to choose between them, or to reject them both, according to his pleasure. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.10
First method. If “the period of 17 or 18 years is allowed by the best Chronologists,” for Joshua and the elders; I would propose to allow 17 for Joshua and the elders, and 18 for Samuel—or 35 years for Joshua, the elders and Samuel together. If at the time when the Jews required a king, Samuel was old, we shall not make him young by allowing him but 18 instead of “20” years. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.11
Second method. According to this method, which I prefer to the former, any apparent inconsistency, in allowing but 35 years for Joshua, the elders, and Samuel, is obviated by allotting 20 years to Samuel, while we assume, that owing to mistake in copying the Scriptures, 20 years too many are set down in our Bibles, for one of the judges; and by taking these 20 years from the judges, and bestowing them upon Joshua and the elders, to whom they are supposed to belong. That such a mistake might have been, will hardly be denied by those who admit that there is a mistake of 100 years, or more, or less, in 1 Kings 6:1. Josephus informs us that “Seth was born when Adam was in his two hundred and thirtieth year.” Here is a mistake of a hundred years. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.12
According to the harmony of chronology, allowing 40 years in the wilderness—there must have been 465 years from the time of entering into Canaan, to the end of the judges, or the beginning of the reign of Saul. As Paul, in his Epistles, did not always write by divine inspiration, it is not unreasonable, to suppose him to have been at a loss whether the Jews were under judges for 450 years, which is 9 jubilees of 50 years each, or whether they were under judges for 441, which is 9 jubilees of 49 years each. In either case, they must have been governed by judges “about the space of four hundred and fifty years.” If we admit, with brother Miller, and I see no reason why we should not, that the government of the judges began at the death of Joshua, and terminated at the beginning of the reign of Saul; and if we admit, also, that the period under judges was equal to the above 441 years and that, by mistake, 20 years too many are set down in our Bibles, for one of the judges;—there will be 24 years, equal to 465 minus 441, for Joshua—and there will be the above 20 years for the elders, or the elders and the Interregnum. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.13
Period from the completion of Solomon’s Temple to the birth of Christ. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.14
According to Bishop Usher, and our Polyglott Bibles, this period was 1000 years. But according to my chronology, from the completion of Solomon’s temple, A. M. 3108, to the birth of Christ, A. M. 4107, were 999 years, equal to 27 minor jubilees of 37 years each; and consequently, from the completion of this temple to the beginning of the ministry of John the Baptist, A. M. 4137, were 21 jubilees of 49 years each. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.15
Let us now add our numbers together. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.16
| From the creation of Adam to the end of the flood, | 1657 |
| From the end of the flood to the birth of Isaac, | 450 |
| From the birth of Isaac to the Exodus, | 405 |
| From the Exodus to the beginning of Solomon’s temple, | 588 |
| From the beginning of Solomon’s temple to its completion, 5 | 8 |
| From the completion of Solomon’s temple to Christ, | 999 |
| From the creation of Adam to the birth of Christ, | 4107 |
The amount is therefore 4107, or 3 times 37 times 37 years, equal to 3 minor jubilee-of-jubilees, or 3 times the square of the length of our Savior’s life, which may be considered as the average length of the life of the human race, since the birth of Isaac, or the Christian era. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.17
Yours, in the apostolic faith,
E. B. K.
CORRESPONDENCE
REV. MR. SPAULDING,S WORK ON THE SECOND ADVENT
Brother Himes—I have recently read a work on the coming and kingdom of Christ, written by Mr. Joshua Spaulding, formerly pastor of the Tabernacle Church in Salem. This work was published in 1796, and contains nine Lectures with an appendix; the import of which, is to show that a belief of a millennium in this world has no foundation in the Bible. The argument contained in this work, in support of the position, that there will be no millennium before the literal resurrection of the saints, are very clear, scriptural and conclusive. Could those Lectures be re-ublished, they would be an additional service to the cause of truth. I will send you an extract containing the best part of the second lecture, which, if you think proper, I wish might be inserted in the Signs of the Times. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.18
J. S. WHITE.
Kingston, March 22, 1841.
“The apostle Paul connects the coming of Christ with the final destruction of Anti-Christ, which must be before the millennium; 2 Thessalonians 2:8. And with the sounding of the last trumpet, 1 Corinthians 15:52. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.19
And the apostle Peter places the conflagration of the world before the new heavens and new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness, 2 Peter 3:12, 13. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.20
But need we proceed farther? If all this is not proof, what can be proved? If I am alone, I must believe that the great day of God’s wrath, which shall consume all the wicked, and drive them out from the face of the earth, will precede the millennium kingdom of Christ, and the saints under the seventh trumpet. But if there be any who still think this is not clear; let me ask, can you think the opposite sentiment is clear? If not, we entreat you not to propagate it; for it is feared, it does infinite mischief to the souls of men. We know we must all die soon; but I appeal to your own feelings, my friends, if the thought, we know not but the great day of God is nigh, even at the doors; and, coming suddenly, Christ may immediately call the world to his bar; be not the most awakening thought to the human mind. HST April 15, 1841, page 14.21
And if our thoughts concerning the coming and kingdom of Christ be just, it is now time to watch for the midnight cry—“Behold the bridegroom cometh.” The sixth trumpet, and also the sixth vial, are now passing over us, as the events of Providence do plainly show, and are drawing towards the close; and the seventh trumpet may daily be expected to begin to sound. Who knows how soon the seventh angel, with the voice of the last trump, shall proclaim—Time shall be no longer—the mystery of God is finished! O solemn sound! HST April 15, 1841, page 14.22
Set not your hearts upon this world, “for the time is at hand, when he that is unjust, let him be unjust still; and he that is unrighteous, let him be unrighteous still; and he that is holy, let him be holy still; and behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me to give every man according as his work shall be.” HST April 15, 1841, page 14.23
Shalt thou hear, O my soul, the sound of the trumpet; “prepare to meet thy God.” What if this night, the last trumpet should sound? Wo to the unprepared! but glory, honor and immortality, to the people of God! So come Lord Jesus.” HST April 15, 1841, page 14.24
EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM JAMES M. THOMAS, N. C
Dear Bro. Himes—The first number of your work more than compensates me for all I have done; but I regret that it cannot visit us every week, and be more extensively read and patronized. Though I live in the frigid zone of religion, where party strife is, where the chilling winds of scoffers blow, and the ice of antinomianism abounds, yet I feel now and then a ray of heavenly light and warmth while I read your paper and the scriptures relative to Christ’s coming, kingdom and glory: O how I would rejoice to mingle with you all in your feast of love, catch the same holy fire, your great theme inspires, and hear the soul-stirring subjects connected with the second coming of Christ discussed in their solemn and becoming manner. Though I have for years believed that the events connected with his glorious appearing would be eventually fulfilled, each in its proper place, and each in its appropriate time, yet I never perceived till of tate, that the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven, will be the quickening of all the living saints—the first resurrection—the rise of the glorious millennium—the binding of satan a thousand years—and the destruction of this wicked world by fire—but since consulting the scriptures on these glorious events, I find, of a truth, that all have their fulfilment at the second coming of Christ, let that be when it may; and all that carefully read Miller’s Views and the Scriptures on these subjects, must come to the same conclusion. I have, like most now in Christendom, looked for a universal spread of the gospel, converting all nations, uniting all in one mind and one spirit, and for a spiritual reign or millennium to take place on earth, before Christ’s second coming, and the destruction of the world by fire; but I think this view is incorrect. I was led into this view by the untried opinions of others, and such scriptures as these; “The meek shall inherit the earth.” “All shall know me from the least to the greatest.” “The earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea,” and such like scriptures, which I now conceive have their fulfilment after the first heavens and first earth have past away, when the new earth is formed wherein dwelleth righteousness. The period when Christ will reign on earth with his glorious saints for a thousand years, then all will see eye to eye, and the whole earth will be filled with the glory of the Lord, and saints and angels and all the holy seed will live and reign with Christ forever and ever. As to the time when all these things will roll in, I know not, but I feel it is at the door, yea, very near and for it O let us all prepare and hasten to the coming of the Holy One. HST April 15, 1841, page 15.1
BIBLE READER TO MR. MILLER
Mr. Editor: Dear Sir,—In reply to Mr. Miller’s last article, I remark, HST April 15, 1841, page 15.2
1. Mr. M. thinks it strange that “I am not satisfied with his views of the two witnesses.” How can I be satisfied when he views Revelation 11. as fulfilled, which, with all the light I have from the Bible, I verily believe to be unfulfilled prophecy. I pray God, that the readers of “the Signs” may not give over studying this subject, until they are satisfied whether Mr. Miller, Bible Reader, or neither of us, has given the mind of the Holy Ghost on this chapter, “and call no man Master.” “The wise shall understand.” HST April 15, 1841, page 15.3
2. “The discussion seems to take a turn unfavorable to a more clear exposition of the text in question.” If it has, is the fault Bible Reader’s? Did he not candidly, and as he thinks, with christian courtesy, reply to every question proposed by Mr. Miller? (how pertinently our readers must judge.) Bible Reader has yet to learn where in either of his articles he has, for one moment, lost sight of the main point of the whole discussion: viz. That the two witnesses whose “dead bodies” John says, “shall lie in the great city” were the scriptures or are to be two persons. Bible Reader feels no wish to retire from weariness, or a belief that the subject is exhausted, or is of no practical importance; and more: he feels that he can still compare views with Mr. M. or any christian brother, without penning a line unbecoming the spirit of his Master, or readily acknowledging his fault whenever we should even seem to offend. HST April 15, 1841, page 15.4
3. Mr. M. says “the Law and Gospel are called witnessess, Romans 3:21, Matthew 24:14, John 5:39—I am astonished that the Bible Reader should overlook these passages.” Bible Reader has not overlooked these or any one passage on the subject of witnessess in the Bible. But will Mr. M. believe Bible Reader when he solemnly assures him and the readers of “the Signs” that the word translated witness and witnesses, in these passages, is not the same word the Holy Ghost uses in Revelation 11:3. While the word translated witnesses in Revelation 11:3. the Holy Spirit has used not less than thirty-seven times in the New Testamen, and in every instance applies it to persons. In Matthew 24:14, the word is not martur, one who witnesses, but marturion, a testimony or witness given. Now testimony implies a person who gives or has given testimony—the witness can be killed because a person—the testimony cannot, save by a figure of speech, and then only by proving the testimony to be false. The Holy Spirit has seen fit to reveal his mind on this subject in Greek words, and not in English. And when in this same 11th chapter of Revelation the Holy Ghost further reveals to me the actions and the sufferings of these same witnesses, am I to reject their application to two persons, and interpret them by a figure of speech as meaning the Scriptures? Scripture and common sense forbid it. I dare not, lest God should take my part out of the book of life, etc. See Revelation 22:19. HST April 15, 1841, page 15.5
4. Mr. Miller says, “The word of God is said to be fire, Jeremiah 5:14, and to consume the people.” And what prevents the word of God from being fire and consuming their enemies when these two witnesses shall speak the word of the Lord during the 1260 days of their prophecy? And what prevents Enoch and Elijah, who had lived and prophecied before John wrote, but were translated without dying before they had finished their testimony, (appearing the second time” like our Lord, but for a different purpose) He, “without sin (therefore without death) unto salvation,” they, to finish their testimony in 1260 days, “or a time, and times, and a dividing of times,” and also “as appointed once to die, ”as, and where our Lord was crucified, “and after this the the judgment.” (See Daniel 7:25, 26). HST April 15, 1841, page 15.6
5. If Mr. M. thinks that the texts he adduces prove that Zechariah saw the New Testament stand before the God of the whole earth, surely he ought not to think that Bible Reader misinterprets scripture, by believing that Elijah shall be one of the; two witnesses, who John said shall prophecy 1260 days, when he reads the words of Malachi 4. “Behold I will send you Elijah the Prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord,” and the words of Jesus Christ, “Elias truly shall first come and restore all things.” Matthew 17. HST April 15, 1841, page 15.7
6 “I know of no evidence,” says Mr. M. “that Elijah and Enoch 6 are to be witnesses and that they can suffer death after being in an immortal state thousands of years!” I will give unto my two witnesses and they shall prophecy 1260 days, and be killed, etc. Now (1) both Enoch and Elijah are already witnesses, Hebrews 12:1, marturion, the genitive plural of the very word used in Revelation 11:3. (2) They both are prophets, and yet, (3) Both are alive; so that both can again personally prophecy. (4) Consequently when they shall have finished their 1260 days of prophesying, they both can die. (5) “And it is appointed unto men once to die.” Hebrews 9. If Enoch and Elijah are men, must they not die? (6) “The Prophets, do they live forever?” Zechariah 1. (7) “They have not received the promise, God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.” Hebrews 11:39. (8) And said our Lord, “If any man come to me (have they not already enjoyed a heavenly nearness?) and hate not his father, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.” [Luke 14:26, compared with 1 John 3:16.] and Revelation 12:11. (9) “Know ye not that the law hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth?” Romans 7:1. So that, if Enoch and Elijah, without dying, are delivered from that law, which, though ordained to life, Paul found to be unto death, they cannot be married to another, even to Him who is raised from the dead. Romans 7. As to their being in an “immortal state,” this is only assertion, not Scripture. “The prophets, do they live forever?” If their being now in heaven is a reason why “they cannot suffer death,” then, “He who came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven, (John 3.) could not have been put to death in the flesh.” 1 Peter 3:18. Nor could the devil and his angels suffer the second death, for we read that they also are in heaven, Revelation 12:7—and elsewhere. HST April 15, 1841, page 15.8
1. In taking leave of Mr. Miller, I can truly say I am thankful for the abundant objections he has taken to my article on “Biblical Interpretation,” as it has led me to study the Bible more critically and prayerfully, and to rejoice that simple faith in the most obvious meaning of the word of God, “comparing spiritual things with spiritual,” has only confirmed my mind more fully in the scriptural principles laid down in said obnoxious article. I am not conscious of having overlooked the slightest or the strongest difficulty he has named to my interpretation of Revelation 11. as future history. HST April 15, 1841, page 15.9
2. I cannot say with my aged friend, that “I am tired of a controversy where no light is obtained.” I feel that I have obtained much light since it was begun—light on the future bearing of this chapter—light on many other portions of God’s Word—and light on the weakness of the popular mode of interpretation adopted by Mr. Miller and others. HST April 15, 1841, page 15.10
3. I rejoice that the truth has obtained another advocate (I. A. Labagh.) of what I believe is the mind of the Holy Ghost on this momentous subject, or if this discussion shall have led any of your readers to examine and believe their Bibles more abundantly. HST April 15, 1841, page 15.11
Finally, I take this opportunity most cordially to ask the forgiveness of my aged Reviewer, if I have written a line which he thinks unchristian in spirit, or exhibiting more a desire for triumph, than truth. HST April 15, 1841, page 15.12
Yours truly, BIBLE READER.
The article has not been received. Ed.
THE OTTOMAN POWER
Fallen—Fallen
Another Witness. Rev. Mr. Goodell, a Missionary of the American Board, at Constantinople, makes the following statement to the Board, relative to the Ottoman Power. The extract is taken from the ‘Missionary Herald.’ for April. Page, 160 Read it—Read it, ye sceptical, and be no longer faithless, but believing. HST April 15, 1841, page 15.13
The power of Islamism is broken forever; and there is no concealing the fact, even from themselves. They exist now by mere sufferance. And though there is a mighty effort made by the Christian governments to sustain them, yet at every turn they fall lower and lower with fearful velocity. And though there is a great endeavor made to graft the institutions of civilized and Christian countries upon the decayed trunk, yet the very root itself is fast wasting away by the venom of its own poison. How wonderful it is, that, when all Christendom combined together to check the progress of Mohammedan power, it waxed exceedingly great in spite of every opposition; and now, when all the mighty potentates of christian Europe, who feel fully competent to settle all the quarrels and arrange all the affairs of the whole world, are leagued together for its protection and defence, down it comes in spite of all their fostering care. Let politicians know that whatever they may do or say, God’s everlasting counsel shall stand, and that he will do all his pleasure. He maketh foolish the wisdom of this world. How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! HST April 15, 1841, page 15.14
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
BOSTON, APRIL 15, 1841.
The delay of this No. was occasioned by the illness of the Editor, and others, on whom the work devolved. It will be got out early in future. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.1
TO THE PATRONS OF THIS PAPER
Dear Friends—If you wish this paper continued you must use your individual, personal influence to sustain it. Perhaps you have no idea of the secret and combined opposition against it. Its enemies use their influence with subscribers to discontinue it—and with others not to subscribe. Besides, there are those who openly denounce and seek to limit its circulation in this way. My object is not to go into details; but simply to state a few facts. Will our friends wake up—will they at least be as industrious as our foes? HST April 15, 1841, page 16.2
“How shall I send my subscription?” HST April 15, 1841, page 16.3
Answer:—Remittances by Mail. Postmasters are authorized by law to remit us names of subscribers, discontinuances, and payments of subscribers, free of charge. Will our subscribers remember this, and relieve us of the expense of double postage on private letters? HST April 15, 1841, page 16.4
To Subscribers. Some subscribers have returned their papers, without giving their Post Office address. We cannot guess where they live; and must put them to the trouble to send back this number with their Post Office address. Direct it to “Signs of the Times,” Boston, Mass. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.5
Important Decision for the publishers of newspapers. Judge Thompson, of Indiana, at a late sitting of the Circuit Court, at which he presided, gave the following decision:—“That if a subscriber to a periodical failed to notify the editor to discontinue the paper at the end of the term subscribed for, or pay up the arrearages, he was bound for another year.” HST April 15, 1841, page 16.6
To those who intend to contuse subscribers. We send you the paper, and we want to exchange paper with you on the receipt of this number. We send you 24 papers for one bill of current paper. We expect it in advance. These are the conditions. They are absolute. We dont print the paper to make money; nor shall we squander the money of others by sending it to those who will not honestly pay for it. Why? Because we have no hope of doing such persons any good. He that is unjust in that which is least, will be unjust in the greater.” A postmaster may enclose money in a letter to the publishers of a paper, to pay the subscription of a third person, and frank the letter, if written by himself.”—Postmaster General. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.7
The ‘Watchman’ Again: another slant. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.8
“A New Era. One of the advocates of the new theory respecting the second coming of Christ, informed his hearers a few evenings since, with evident approval, that some who entertain those views in Scotland, propose to make belief in this theory the “touchstone of faith.” And the grave reason given was, that a desire to see the Savior, speedily, is a stronger evidence of piety than any opinion respecting his person and work, and other matters of doctrine! How merciful that God has made error its own destroyer!” HST April 15, 1841, page 16.9
Query. What did Paul mean when he said, A crown was laid up for all them who LOVE his appearing? 2 Timothy 4:8. Was the love of his appearing a “touchstone of faith?” And what was the condemnation of the “evil servant,” Matthew 24:48-51? Did he not say, “My Lord delayeth his coming?” HST April 15, 1841, page 16.10
Mr. Miller has been in Lowell the past week. He gave a few lectures in that place by an engagement made some time since; and which was forgotten at the time our friends in Charlestown, Cambridge, etc., made application. He goes home this week; being unable to lecture more till he has some rest. He will return in June and attend the Conference in Lowell, when he will fulfill his other engagements. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.11
THE “CHRISTIAN PUBLISHER”
HEAR! HEAR!!
The “Christian Publisher,” with other gospel prints, have fallen into an error in relation to the motives by which Mr. Miller is actuated; the last No. of the Publisher has the following paragraph. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.12
“Mr. Miller, the Millenarian, who has made such a noise of late years, by the zeal and positive-ness with which he has written upon the second coming of Christ, and by whose prophetic calculations the world terminates in ‘43, has taken the precaution to secure a copy-right of his work, for a period about ten years longer than he teaches that the world is to stand! HST April 15, 1841, page 16.13
If Mr. Miller is so distrustful of his own calculations, how much confidence can his disciples repose in them? Unfortunately for the most of these theories, they amuse and astonish, while they furnish but a weak ground of action in practical life. However uncertain and doubtful these conjectures may be, one thing is certain, Christ will come again.—“Be ye also ready.” “Work while it is day, the night cometh when no man can work.” HST April 15, 1841, page 16.14
Now we wish to state, for the information of the Publisher, and other papers that have fallen into a similar error, several facts. Mr. Miller never did publish his own lectures, or secure a copy right to himself, or receive a compensation for his works that others have published. 7 There have been two editions of his lectures published, of 6000 each. The publishers have had the proffits; not Mr. Miller. We got the copy-right, (to which the “Publisher” refers,) ourself, for the publisher, and got it in Mr. Millers name, at the request of the publisher; as he did not wish to invest money in the work, unless he could be made sure of the sale. Mr. Miller consented to have it taken out in his name; but has never seen the copy-right, had no benefit from it, and never expects to have. The publisher gave him a few coppies of this work, for himself and friends, which is all he ever received for all his labor bestowed upon it. While the publishers have made their thousands. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.15
Will our friends of the “Publisher,” and “Harbinger” state these facts in justice to Mr. Miller, whom they have greatly injured by their misstatements relative to him. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.16
It would be very easy to show that Mr. Miller has sacraficed much, very much, for the cause which he pleads, and that with him, the “reproach of Christ” is far better than all the treasures of this world. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.17
As to what our friend says about Mr. M’s theory, we can assure him, that he would talk differently about it, if he understood it better. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.18
BIBLE CLASS LESSONS
LESSON II
The nature of the Kingdom of God on Earth. Daniel 2:34, 35, 44, 45. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.19
What four great kingdoms are predicted in this chapter? Ver. 38. v. 28. 1 1 Maccabes 1:1-6, Luke 2:1. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.20
What was to destroy them? Ver. 34. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.21
How was the stone to effect this destruction? What is then to become of the materials of the image? Ver. 35. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.22
What, will the stone then become? What is represented by the stone? Ver. 44. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.23
Who is the stone? Isaiah 28:16. 1 Peter 2:4-8. Luke 20:17, 18. Acts 4:11. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.24
Is the kingdom of the God of heaven, then, to be the kingdom of Jesus Christ? What is it to fill? Ver. 35. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.25
Was it to co-exist with the image, or any part of it—or to succeed it? Does the image any part of it yet remain? Then has the kingdom of God come? Did the Jews expect the kingdom of God immediately to appear at the first advent of Christ? Luke 19:11. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.26
How did he correct the mistake? What was the substance of the parable? Luke 19:12-27. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.27
Who is the nobleman? Where is he gone? When will he return from heaven? Ver. 15. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.28
What will he do when he does return? What will he do for his faithful servants? What for the unfaithful? What to his enemies? Does this describe the day of judgment? Will the kingdom of God, then, come before the judgment? What will Christ then say to his people? Matthew 25:34. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.29
What kingdom was prepared for, and given to man from the creation? Genesis 1:26-28. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.30
Do we yet see all things put under him? Hebrews 2:8. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.31
What world is it that shall be put under him? Hebrews 2:5. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.32
Literally, the habitable earth to come. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.33
Who do we see, as the Lord of the world to come? Ver. 9. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.34
Did Christ ever promise his disciples that they should see the kingdom of God before they died? Luke 9:27. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.35
Did he ever fulfil his promise? Luke 9:28-35, HST April 15, 1841, page 16.36
When did this scene take place? After what sayings? Does not this intimate that there is an intimate connection between the promise and the transfiguration? Was Christ glorified on that occasion? Who appeared? How did they appear? Had either of them been dead? Deuteronomy 34:5, 6. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.37
How was Elias taken from the world? 2 Kings 2:11. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.38
Did both appear in a human form? Did they appear in glory? Must not Moses then have been raised from the dead for the occasion? Was he not then the representative of the risen saints who shall inherit the kingdom of God? Was not Elijah, also, the representative of those saints who shall not sleep, but be changed? What kind of a cloud overshadowed them? Matthew 17:5. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.39
What does Peter call it? 2 Peter 1:17. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.40
What came out of the cloud? Who were witnesses of the scene? What does Peter one of the eyewitnesses testify he saw? 2 Peter 1:16. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.41
What is majesty? Was not the transfiguration of Christ, then an exhibition of the kingdom of God? Is not Christ then to appear in glory in his kingdom? And are not the subjects of that kingdom to be glorified and immortal men? Will they be enveloped in excellent glory? Has God promised that the whole earth shall be filled with his glory? Numbers 14:21. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.42
What preparation will be necessary to inherit that kingdom John 3:3-5. Matthew 5:20. 18:3. HST April 15, 1841, page 16.43
Have you that qualification? HST April 15, 1841, page 16.44