Signs of the Times and Expositor of Prophecy [Himes], vol. 2
October 1, 1841
VOLUME II.—NO. 13. BOSTON, WHOLE NO. 37
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 October 1, 1841, page 97.1
CHAPTER V
Exposition of the twelfth chapter of Revelation
Continued from last Number. HST October 1, 1841, page 97.2
I shall endeavor to give a short explanation of the 12th chapter of Revelation, because in this chapter we have a short prophetic history of the church from its earliest age down to the coming of Christ. Under the figure of a woman, Revelation 12:1, “And there appeared a great wonder in heaven;” John saw this wonderful sight, in the government of God with his people, which I consider is what we are to understand by heaven, or the circle in which the church moves. “A woman clothed with the sun,”—the church adorned in gospel light; as the natural sun gives the world light, so does the gospel of Jesus Christ the church.—“And the moon under her feet,” the ceremonial law, on which the Jewish church walked, which was typical of good things to come: like the moon shining with a borrowed light, and liable to change, or pass out of sight, when the sun or antitype should arise. “And upon her head a crown of twelve stars;”—built upon the twelve patriarchs, etc. Ephesians 2:20. Like stars, they are smaller lights, in the government of God. “And she being with child,” having the promise “that the seed of the woman should bruise the serpent’s head,” “cried, travailing in birth,” denoting prayer in faith, “and pained to be delivered”—that is, anxiously looking for the promised Messiah, Matthew 13:17, when she expected deliverance from sin, and all her foes. HST October 1, 1841, page 97.3
“And there appeared another wonder in heaven,” another sight or view in God’s government of the world; “and behold a great red dragon,” either pagan Rome, or Daniel’s fourth kingdom, red signifying his bloody, persecuting reign; “having seven heads,” seven forms of government; “and ten horns,” ten kings; “and seven crowns upon his head,” the seven different executive offices under the seven forms of government. “And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth:” The Jewish government was composed of three different offices, viz. Kings, High Priests and Sanhedrim, or Seventy Eiders. These, in prophetic language, are called stars. One of these offices, to wit. that of kings, was taken from the Jews; and cast to the earth, that is, Roman government. “And the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered.” The Romans had reigned over the Jews a long time previous to the birth of Christ, and therefore was prepared, “for to devour her child as soon as it was born,” which was fulfilled in Herod, see Matthew 2:13, he being placed upon the Jewish throne by the Roman power. “And she brought forth a man child,” Jesus Christ, born of a virgin, typifying the church, Isaiah 9:6 & 7; “who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron:”—denoting the power of Christ to break in pieces and subdue all the kingdoms of the earth. Psalm 2:9, Revelation 19:15. “And her child was caught up unto God and to his throne.” Christ has ascended up on high and led captivity captive. See John 6:62. Ephesians 4:8-10. HST October 1, 1841, page 97.4
“And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God,” that is, the church fled from the Roman Government, called the great city, that reigns over the nations of the earth. The church seems to have become weary of the protection she had long sought in the civil governments of the earth, (first the Romans, 150 years B. C.; second, the Roman emperors under Constantine, etc.) and therefore fled, and for about 6 or 700 years, we know but very little about her. But God took care “that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days,” which is 1260 years, from A. D. 538 until 1798, during which time, the true church, or those who believed in Jesus Christ, and would not bow down and worship Papacy, were not permitted any civil rights, under any of the governments composing the Roman kingdom. But during the whole time she had her teachers and pastors, who did in a great measure feed the flock with the sincere milk of the word. HST October 1, 1841, page 97.5
“And there was war in heaven.” After the prophet John, in the preceding verses, gave us a short history of the church under the figure of the woman, he in this verse goes back to give us a history of the dragon, or Roman kingdom, and begins in Christ’s and the Apostles’ days. “Michael and his angels fought,”—Christ and his disciples; see Matthew 10:34, Luke 12:51; “against the dragon,” against principalities and powers, etc.—“and the dragon fought and his angels,” Rome Pagan and his followers. “And I prevailed not: neither was there place found any more in heaven.” Rome could not prevail against the kingdom of Christ, for it was not like the Jewish kingdom. In that, Pagan Rome found an easy access, because the manner of worship was something similar; but under the gospel kingdom, the manner of Pagan and Christian worship was totally different; therefore no place was found for them in this new government of God. “And the great dragon was cast out,” that is, was cast out from having any power in the new or gospel kingdom. See John 12:31. “Now is the prince of this world cast out.” “That old Serpent.” Rome Pagan is compared to a serpent because he deceives; “called the devil” because he devours; “and Satan,” because he claims the government of the whole world; “which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth and his angels were cast out with him.” This was literally fulfilled when Christ cut off the unbelieving Jews; when he said “now is your house left desolate.” HST October 1, 1841, page 97.6
“And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven,” many voices in the government of God, “Now is come salvation and strength and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ.” This was fulfilled in the Apostolic day, and the day of Pentecost. “For the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God night and day.” Rome had been the means of drawing off many of the Jews into Idolatry and witchcraft, and this brought them to be accused before God day and night, by making them to sin, and bringing upon them the heavy judgments of God. John 12:31. Also by charging upon Christians all manner of crimes. See Mosheim, 1st and 2nd century. “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb,” that is, the believers in Christ were conquerors by the atonement of Christ; “and by their word of the testimony,” preaching of the Apostles;—“and they loved not their lives unto the death,” suffered martyrdom. “Therefore rejoice ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them.” It is a matter of joy to those who dwell in the circle of God’s people, for they are called the salt of the earth; and among those nations where the laws of God’s government, with his people, are respected, and copied after in their civil code, and the rights of men are preserved; and the church and those who dwell among them, have great reason to rejoice and be thankful. “Wo to the inhabiters of the earth,”—those who live in, or under the Roman government; “and of the sea;”—France, or the principal kingdom among the ten, composing the Roman power. “For the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.” Devil means destroyer, and the three woes and seven last plagues were all to be sent upon the earth and sea, and denote wars, and persecutions; and this spirit would be the prevailing spirit of the Roman kingdom, until time should end, and all kingdoms be destroyed except the kingdom of Christ. HST October 1, 1841, page 97.7
“And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth,”—when the Roman government saw they could have no control in the things of Christ’s kingdom, he hated the church and the doctrine that taught that Christ’s kingdom was not of this world, and he “persecuted the woman that brought forth the man child.” which is the church that brought forth Christ. “And to the woman was given two wings of a great eagle-,” by which we may understand that God provided means between the Arian and Papal controversy, for the true church to fly out of sight. This is the falling away spoken of by Paul, 21 Thessalonians 2:3, and here is the beginning of the church in the wilderness. As the Jews, God’s ancient people, were driven from Egypt by the heavy burdens of their masters, so were the people of God in the church among the Gentiles, driven from the kingdom of Rome, by the hard task laid upon them by the Arian doctrine on the one hand, and the Papacy on the other. “That she might fly into the wilderness, into her place.” that is, a separation from the world, Revelation 18:4; “where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time,” encouraged by the word and spirit of God 1260 years, “from the face of the serpent,” from before Papal Rome. HST October 1, 1841, page 97.8
“And the serpent cast out of his mouth water, as a flood after the woman.” Water in prophecy, means people. Revelation 17:15. Being “cast out of his mouth” denotes command; therefore I understand this prophecy as beginning to be fulfilled when Papal Rome sent forth her armies, and inquisition, to subdue the heretics, as she called them, in the valleys of Piedmont, and elsewhere: which was about the beginning of the 13th century. “That he might cause her to be carried away of the flood” that is, destroyed. HST October 1, 1841, page 97.9
“And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth.” This was exactly fulfilled when the German petty princes joined their subjects in the wars against the other Papal States, and armies sent out to subdue the Waldenses, and other protestants, from the 13th to the 15th centuries inclusive: or in the crusades sent to the holy land, in which more than one million of men perished; and by which means the Papal power was reduced so low that the Pope could not employ so much force to reduce the true people of God. HST October 1, 1841, page 98.1
“And the dragon was wroth with the woman.” Papal Rome was angry with the true church; “and went to make war with the remnant of her seed.” This is the last great battle which is to be fought. See Revelation 11:18, Revelation 19:18 to 21. “The remnant,” is the last part of the church, therefore this battle is to be fought at the close of this dispensation, and will be the dying struggle of the antichristian beast; when Babylon the great will fall to rise no more forever; when the true children of God, “which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ,” whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life, will be delivered through him who died for them, and like him, and by him, will conquer death and the grave, so that death shall have no more dominion over them. This is the “testimony of Jesus Christ,” (the resurrection) “because I live ye shall live also.” This is the spirit of prophecy, Revelation 19:10, and soon, very soon will “the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, be gathered together to make war with him that sat on the horse,” which is Christ, “and against his army,” his followers. Then when those troublous times shall come, the child of God will need a knowledge of all these prophecies, and the “testimony of Jesus” to keep his faith unwavering, to endure with patience, and to fight manfully in the cause of truth. Let the believer in Christ awake, trim his lamp, and be found ready. Let the foolish be in haste to buy the truth; for behold the king, the bridegroom cometh, and soon the door will be shut. Awake, awake. Oh Zion. “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 October 1, 1841, page 98.2
EIGHT FUNDAMENTAL ERRORS, No. 3
3. “He declares that papacy has lost its civil sword and triple crown since 1798! Whereas, the pope of Rome is now just as much of an absolute sovereign as any one in Europe.” HST October 1, 1841, page 98.3
It is not denied that the pope is an absolute sovereign at present. But it is maintained that he did loose his civil sword and triple crown in 1798, just as Daniel declared he should do at the end of the time times and dividing of time Daniel 7:26. “They shall take away his dominion to consume and destroy it unto the end. Hear Dr. A Clarke on this point. Note on Daniel 7:25. “In 1798 the French republican army under General Berthier, took possession of the city of Rome and entirely superseded the whole papal power.” HST October 1, 1841, page 98.4
If the whole papal power was superseded by the French, then he lost his civil sword and triple crown at that time. HST October 1, 1841, page 98.5
Nor was that the only time he lost them. For although Bonaparte restored the papal religion, and a new pope was elected in 1800, yet he did not permit him to enjoy his power unmolested, as will appear from the following articles from the Methodist Magazine for 1810, (quoted from the Christian Advocate and Journal, Aug. 4, 1841. HST October 1, 1841, page 98.6
ROME
Those who observe political events in the relation they may bear to the advancement of the kingdom of Christ, and the fulfilment of the Scriptures, cannot but notice the gradual degration of the pope by the French emperor; who has, at length, reduced him to the rank of a local bishop only, as will appear by the following extract; HST October 1, 1841, page 98.7
“Rome, June 10. This morning, at ten o’clock, the following imperial decree, dated Vienna, the 17th of May, 1809, was proclaimed in all the public squares and marketplaces, accompanied by the firing of cannon from the castle of St. Angelo:— HST October 1, 1841, page 98.8
“Napoleon, emperor of the French, etc., taking into consideration that when Charlemagne, emperor of the French, and our sublime predecessor, endowed the bishops of Rome with various lands, they were given as fiefs, to maintain the peace of his subjects, and that Rome did not therefore cease to form a part of his empire; considering farther, that since that time the union of spiritual and temporal power has been, and still is the source of dissension; that the popes have but too frequently availed themselves of the one to support their pretensions to the other; and that with spiritual concerns, which are in their nature immutable, have been confounded worldly affairs, which change with the circumstances and politics of the times; considering finally, that it is in vain to attempt to reconcile with the temporal pretensions of the pope all that we have concerted for the security of our army, the repose and prosperity of the nations over which we reign, and the dignity and inviolability of our empire, we have decreed, and do decree, as follows:— HST October 1, 1841, page 98.9
Art. 1. The papal territory is united with the French empire. 2. The city of Rome, illustrious for the recollection it recalls, and for the monuments which it contains, is declared to be a free and imperial city. Its government and administration shall be fixed by a particular decree. 3. The monuments of Roman greatness shall be maintained and preserved at the expense of our treasury. 4. The public debt is declared to be the debt of the empire. 5. The revenue of the pope shall be fixed at two millions of francs, free from all charges and contributions. 6. The property and palaces of his holiness shall be subject to no imposition, jurisdiction, or visitation, and shall besides enjoy especial prerogatives. 7. An extraordinary Consulta shall, on the first of June, take possession in our name, of the papal dominions, and adopt measures that, on the first of January, 1810, the constitutional government take effect. (Signed, “Napoleon.” HST October 1, 1841, page 98.10
The French papers contain an article, dated Rome, July 10, which states, that the new government had issued a great number of decrees, abolishing the inquisition; as also several special tribunals, divesting the clergy, both secular and regular, of all temporal jurisdiction, and annulling all clerical privileges. The right of assylum exists no longer; and thus the principals and accomplices in crimes will no longer he withdrawn from justice. HST October 1, 1841, page 98.11
The following from Lockhart’s history of Napoleon Vol. 2, pp. 90, 91, will show the effect of the above decree. HST October 1, 1841, page 98.12
“On the 17th of May, Napoleon issued, from Vienna, his final decree, declaring the temporal sovereignty of the pope to be wholly at an end, incorporating Rome with the French empire, and declaring it to be his second city; settling a pension on the holy father in his spiritual capacity—and appointing a committee of administration for the civil government of Rome. The pope, on receiving the Parisian senatus-consultum, ratifying this imperial rescript, instantly fulminated a bill of excommunication against Napoleon. Shortly after, some authentic news from Germany, inspired new hopes into the adherents of the holy father; and, disturbances breaking out, Miollis, on pretence that a life sacred in the eyes of all Christians might be endangered, arrested the pope in his palace at midnight, and forthwith despatched him under a strong escort, to Savona. HST October 1, 1841, page 98.13
The intelligence of this decisive step reached Napoleon soon after the battle of Wagram, and he was inclined to disapprove of the conduct of Miollis as too precipitate. It was now, however, impossible to recede; the pope was ordered to be conveyed across the Alps to Grenoble. But his reception there was more reverential than Napoleon had anticipated, and he was soon re-conducted to Savona. HST October 1, 1841, page 98.14
This business would, in any other period, have been sufficient to set all Catholic Europe in a flame; and even now Bonaparte well knew that his conduct could not fail to nourish and support the feelings arrayed against him openly in Spain and in southern Germany, and suppressed, not extinguished, in the breasts of a great party of the French clergy at home. He made, therefore, many efforts to procure from the pope some formal relinquishment of his temporal claims—but Pius VII. remained unshaken; and the negotiation at length terminated in the removal of his holiness to Fontainebleau, where he continued a prisoner, though treated personally with respect, and even magnificence, during more than three years:—until, in the general darkening of his own fortunes, the imperial jailer was impelled to adopt another line of conduct.” HST October 1, 1841, page 98.15
If these quotations do not prove the point, that the pope did loose his civil sword and tripple crown during and since 1798, then no point can be established by history. HST October 1, 1841, page 98.16
But it was not principally as a civil power that the pope was overthrown in 1798, but as a religious ruler. For 1260 years he had been established as the head of all the churches. But according to the Rev. Dr. A. Clarke as above quoted, in 1798 Berthier entirely superseded the whole papal power.” From that time onward, to the present, although nominally restored, it has been constantly wearing away. It is true popery is now extending itself over the earth, and gaining influence in all lands. But it is also equally true, that just in proportion to its extension over a wider surface, its energy is decaying. HST October 1, 1841, page 98.17
1. In 1798 the papal government was over thrown and a republic substituted by the French. HST October 1, 1841, page 98.18
2. The papal religion was restored through out the republic by Bonaparte in 1800, and a now pope elected; but it was restored under such modifications as the French saw fit to impose, and on condition of allegiance to the republic. HST October 1, 1841, page 98.19
3. Bonaparte subsequently humbled the pope and declared that he only had power to restore the papal religion and give respectability to its ministers, as the following from the Methodist Magazine for 1810 will show. HST October 1, 1841, page 98.20
The following article in which Bonaparte distinguishes between civil and religious authority, is also very remarkable:— HST October 1, 1841, page 98.21
Extract from a circular mandate, addressed by Bonaparte, on the 13th of July, to the bishops, commanding them to offer up prayers on account of the victories of Enzersdorf and Wagram. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.1
“Though our Lord Jesus Christ sprang from the blood of David, he sought no worldly empire; on the contrary, he required that, in concerns of this life men should obey Cesar. His great object was,—the deliverance and salvation of souls. We, the inheritors of Cesar’s power, are firmly resolved to maintain the independence of our throne, and the inviolability of our rights. We shall persevere in the great work of the restoration of the worship of God;—we shall communicate to its ministers that respectability which we alone can give them;—we shall listen to their voice in all that concerns spiritual matters, and affairs of conscience. We shall not be drawn aside from the great end which we strive to attain, and in which we have hitherto succeeded, in part,—the restoration of the altars of our Divine worship; nor suffer ourselves to be persuaded that these principles as Greeks, English, Protestants, and Calvanists affirm, are inconsistent with the independence of thrones and nations. God has enlightened us enough to remove such errors far from us. Our subjects entertain no such fear. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.2
Nothing can be more clear than that Bonaparte and not the pope, had the modelling of the papal religion in his day. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.3
4. The inquisition has been abolished. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.4
5. Monastic institutions have been abolished in several of the most bigoted countries of the world, and their property seized and confiscated, with only a small pension allowed to their inmates for life. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.5
6. Persecution affecting life and limb is not tolerated in even catholic countries as it formerly was. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.6
7. The Scriptures are printed in all the European languages, and freely circulated and read, thousands of copies being circulated in France yearly. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.7
8. Protestants are tolerated in the strong holds of popery, even Rome itself; Where the church of England has had a place of worship and regular services according to the forms of that church, for more than twenty years. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.8
Popery, then, notwithstanding it is spreading over a wide surface has for the last forty-three years, lost much of its vital energy, and is certainly being destroyed since 1739. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.9
FOURTH ERROR
“4. He makes Michael, in Daniel 12:1, to mean Christ, who is about to stand up to judge the world, and raise the dead; and his theory cannot subsist without this interpretation; but St. Jude, verse 8th, informs us that Michael is an archangel. Thus with the main pillar the whole system comes to the ground.” HST October 1, 1841, page 99.10
That the import of the term “Michael,” is the main pillar of Miller’s whole theory, was new to us. We had thought, (nor is our mind changed by this assertion) that Miller’s system was based upon the broad basis of the whole tenor of the prophetic Scriptures, but mainly upon the seventh eighth and ninth chapters of Daniel, if indeed there is any one main pillar more than another. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.11
But to the point, “He makes Michael mean Christ.” This is the grave charge and grand error. Let us read the text. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.12
Daniel 12:1, “And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people;” etc. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.13
1. “Shall stand up.” The import of this term, is, to reign as a monarch, or king. Daniel 11:2. “There shall stand up yet three kings in Persia,” Three kings shall yet reign in Persia, verse 3rd, “A mighty king shall stand up,” Shall reign. Verse 20th, “Then shall stand up in his estate a raiser of taxes;” Shall reign in his estate. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.14
In this sense, Daniel uniformly in this vision uses the term: to reign as king. The text will read, “Michael shall reign, the great prince which reigneth for the children of thy people.” HST October 1, 1841, page 99.15
2. “Thy people.” This either means the Jews, Daniel’s nation, or the whole Israel of God. And it is perfectly immaterial to our present purpose, which, if it be the Jewish nation, has God any where appointed a created angel to be their prince, or king? If so, when and where. But of Christ it is said, Luke 1:32, 33, “The Lord God shall give to him the throne of his father David; and he shall reign over the house of Jacob forever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.” HST October 1, 1841, page 99.16
Christ, then, is the promised prince of Israel or Jacob, and to be so forever, without end. Hence, whether Jacob means his natural seed, or spiritual, or both, Christ is their prince. To him belongs the crown and to him it will be given. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.17
4. “Michael.” The first time this word occurs, we believe, is Daniel 10:13, “But lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me.” HST October 1, 1841, page 99.18
On this text Bishop Horsley remarks; “now Daniel calls him ‘one of the chief princes,’ or one of the capital princes,’ or ‘one of the princes that are at the head of all;” for this I maintain to be the full, and not more than the full import of the Hebrew words. Now we are clearly got above the earth into the order of celestials, who are the princes that are first, or at the head of all! Are they any other than the three persons in the Godhead? Michael, therefore, is one of them? This is not left in doubt. Gabriel, speaking of him to Daniel, calls him, “Michael, your prince,” and, “great prince which standeth for the children of thy people;” that is, not for the nation of the Jews in particular, but for the children, the spiritual children, of that holy seed, the elect people of God; a description which applies particularly to the son of God, and to no one else; and in perfect keeping with this description of Michael in the book of Daniel, is the action assigned to him in the Apocalypse, in which we find him fighting with the old dragon, the deceiver of the world, and victorious in the combat. That combat who was to maintain? in that combat who was to be victorious but the seed of the woman? From all this it is evident that Michael is the name of the Lord himself, in his particular character of the champion of his faithful people, against the violence of the apostate faction and the wiles of the devil.” HST October 1, 1841, page 99.19
“But” the Herald continues, “St. Jude, verse 9th, informs us, that Michael is an archangel.” On the import of this word Bishop Horsley says. “The word, by etymology, clearly implies a superiority of rank and authority in the person to whom it is applied. It implies a command over angels; and this is all that the word of necessity implies.” But who is the Lord of angels 1 Hebrews 1:6, “When he bringeth the first begotten into the world, he saith, and let all the angels of God worship him.” Christ then is clearly the Lord of angels. Once more. 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 1 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and the trump of God, and the dead in Christ shall rise first.” It is clear from this text that the archangel’s voice will call forth the saints from their dusty beds. But Christ, (John 5:25, 28, 29,) claims this prerogative for himself. “The dead shall hear the voice of the son of God and they that hear shall live.” “All that are in the graves shall hear his voice and shall come forth.” The archangel, therefore, whose voice will call forth the dead when the Lord descends, is the son of God. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.20
“And at that time,” What time? 1 When Michael reigns for his people. 2. When “there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was before.” 3. When all Daniel’s “people that shall be found written in the Book (of Life) shall be delivered.” 4. When “many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake to everlasting life.” When “the wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and ever.” HST October 1, 1841, page 99.21
According to Paul, the Lord will descend, and the archangel’s voice will be heard, and the dead in Christ, will rise first. Also, according to the same apostle, all that are Christ’s at his coming, whether dead or living, (if written in the book) will be caught up to meet the Lord in the air. But he will come in flaming fire to take vengeance on them that know not God and obey not the gospel; who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of God. This will be a time of trouble such as the world never knew before. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.22
Thus even admitting all that is asserted, that this text is the main pillar of the system, it will yet stand. For Michael is Christ, about to stand up, or reign, “to judge the world,” and to “raise the dead.” For he “shall judge, (execute judgment on) the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom,” 2 Timothy 4:1. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.23
FIFTH ERROR
5 “He makes out two days of Judgment, and of resurrection, one thousand years apart—one for the righteous, and the other for the wicked.” HST October 1, 1841, page 99.24
On the first point, viz: that there will be two days of judgment, in the sense of a judicial trial, the writer of this article dissents from Mr. Miller. But at the same time denies that Mr. Miller’s opinion on that point is a fundamental error. It affects no other part of the system, land is infinitely to be preferred to the old theory of a general judgment of all men at one and the same time in their resurrection bodies—and that time at Christ’s second coming. This latter opinion is so utterly at variance with the whole tenor of scripture that it cannot be for a moment admitted. But before entering at large into the order of the judgment, we will just test the doctrine of two resurrections. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.25
The doctrine is nothing new, nor is it any thing new for its advocates to be unceremoniously attacked and condemned for holding it. Rev. Dr. Middleton, in John Wesley’s day made an attack on the Christian Fathers, and among others, Justin Martyr. One of his charges was, that “He believed the doctrine of the Millenium; or that all the Saints should be raised in the flesh, and reign with Christ in the enjoyment of all sensual pleasures, for a thousand years before the general resurrection.” HST October 1, 1841, page 99.26
To this Mr. Wesley replied: “These words you mark as though they were Justin’s words. I take knowledge, you hold no faith is to be kept with heretics; and that all means are fair which conduce to so good an end as driving the Christian heresy out of the world. It is only on this principle that I can account for your adding: ‘Which doctrine,’ (that of enjoying all sensual pleasures) ‘he deduces from the testimony of the prophets, and of St. John the apostle; and was followed in it by the fathers of the second and third centuries.’ “The doctrine (as you very well knew) which Justin deduced from the prophets and the apostles, and in which he was undoubtedly followed by the fathers of the second and third centuries, is this:—‘The souls of them who have been martyred for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and who have not worshipped the beast, neither received his image, shall live and reign with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead shall not live again until the thousand years are finished.’ Now, to say they believed this, is neither more nor less than to say they believed the bible.”—Wesley’s Works, Vol. 5. pp. 726, 727. HST October 1, 1841, page 99.27
Thus, according to John Wesley’s testimony, the Bible, Justin Martyr, and all the Christian Fathers during the second and third centuries, believed and taught the doctrine of two resurrections a thousand years apart. If this was their doctrine, it is difficult to see how it can be a fundamental error in Miller’s system to believe the same; unless, indeed, the prophets and apostle John are filled with fundamental errors. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.1
WE NOW CHALLENGE our brother True, and brother Browm, also, to produce one single text of scripture that leaches the doctrine of but one resurrection, and that a resurrection of all men. Let them do it if they can. And when they have done that, we hold ourselves bound to produce ten texts to that one which speak only of the resurrection of Christ’s people at his coming and kingdom. Both doctrines cannot be true, and that which can gain the greatest number of testimonies and the most explicit, testimonies, must be the true doctrine. The reader can in the mean time find for himself such texts as these:—“They that are Christ’s at his coming.”—“The dead in Christ shall rise first.”—“The resurrection of the just.”—“The resurrection of life.”—“Many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth.”—“They lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished.”—“This is the first resurrection; blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection.” HST October 1, 1841, page 100.2
When the thousand years are finished, therefore, the rest of the dead besides the blessed and holy will live or be raised. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.3
With those remarks, we will return to the doctrine of the order of the Judgment. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.4
The general Judgment will be before the resurrection or appearing of Christ in the clouds of heaven. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.5
1. Because the scriptures positively declare it will be so Revelation 20:11, 12. “I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it from whose face the earth and heaven fled away and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God, and the books were opened; and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged, out of those things which were written in the books according to their works.” HST October 1, 1841, page 100.6
Words can be no more plain and explicit than that the dead shall stand before God, small and great, and be judged out of the things written in the books according to their works. These are not men in their resurrection bodies, who stand before God, but the dead as such are judged. Then, in verse 13th, follows the resurrection of the dead—“The sea gave up the dead which were in it, and death and hell delivered up the the dead which were in them, and they were judged, (judgment was executed) every man according to their works.” According to this testimony, the Judicial judgment will be prior to the resurrection. The executive judgment by the Son of Man, on the just, at the beginning of the thousand years, when judgment shall be given to them, and by virtue of it, they live and reign; and on the unjust, at the end of the thousand years, when the rest of the dead shall live again. For “He,” the Father has “given the Son authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of Man.” Christ will come in the clouds of heaven to the Ancient of Days, before whom the judgment sets, and the books are opened, and there find all the nations gathered. (See Daniel 7:9-14.) Then in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump, he will separate them, the one from the other, by raising and glorifying his saints who are dead, and changing from mortality to immortality those who are alive; and they together shall be caught up, to meet the Lord in the air, and so shall they ever be with the Lord. Thus suddenly shall the nations be separated at Christ’s coming. (For a full exhibition of this subject, see report of the second conference on 2nd Advent.) HST October 1, 1841, page 100.7
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
BOSTON, OCT. 1, 1841.
OFFICE OF THE “SIGNS OF THE TIMES,“
14 Devonshire-street, (up stairs,) 14. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.8
All communications relative to the Signs of the Times, and the Publications of the Second Advent, should hereafter be addressed to JOSHUA V. HIMES, 14 Devonshire-street, Boston, Mass. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.9
Theological Books, Bibles, Testaments, Cruden’s Concordance; and Stationary also, as above. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.10
THE CONFERENCE
The next General Conference of Christians expecting the advent of the Lord, will commence in Casco Street Chapel, Portland, Me., on the 12th of October next, and be continued several days. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.11
Christians of all denominations, who look for the advent near, are affectionately invited to attend. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.12
Josiah Litch,
Henry Jones,
D. I. Robinson,
Wm. Miller,
J. V. Himes.
Sept. 15, 1841. Committee. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.13
Signs of these Times:—“Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time?” Luke 12:56. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.14
That the Bible abounds with incidents which it declares shall appear and precede the day of the Lord, must be obvious to every reader of that book. If we are wise then, shall we not understand by them, when they appear, that the great day of the Lord is at hand? Read and ponder the following. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.15
Luke 21:11, “And fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven.” HST October 1, 1841, page 100.16
An Extraordinary Meteor:—The Cheltenham (Eng.) Free Press of the 19th ult. says—“Between 12 and 1 o’clock on Saturday night, an alarm was given that Eastcourt Mansion, at Charlton Kings, was on fire, a great light being observed on the roof of the house, and on the trees and hills at some distance. In the course of a few minutes the meteor decreased, and presented to the eyes of the spectators the figure of a man with his arms extended. The figure appeared to turn round, dwindled to a beautiful star, and then entirely disappeared. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.17
Luke 21:25, “And there shall be signs in the Sun.” HST October 1, 1841, page 100.18
Singular and Beautiful Phenomenon.—To-day, Aug. 29, 1840, at half past one o’clock, P. M. two very briliant circles were seen round the Sun, the colors of which resembled the hues of the most perfectly marked rainbow, at the time of their most beatiful appearance, the sun shone out briliantly, and the sky was clear and serene. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.19
Bay State Democrat.
A similar appearance was witnessed June 17th, 1841. Numerous and exceeding large dark spots have also been seen on the sun. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.20
Again—Luke 21:25, “In the stars.” HST October 1, 1841, page 100.21
“It is computed by the French astronomers that more than fifteen hundred fixed stars have disappeared within three centuries past. La Place says that one of the stars situated in the northern hemisphere, gave the most indisputable evidence of having burned. It was so bright as to be visible to the naked eye at mid-day—“first of a dazzling white, then reddish yellow, and lately of an ashy pale color.” The conflagration lasted and was visible 16 months when the star forever disappeared.” Free Trader. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.22
Luke 21:25, “On earth distress of nations, with perplexity.” Let each make their own comment on this text. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.23
Luke 21:26, “Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after all those things that are coming on the earth.” HST October 1, 1841, page 100.24
Is there nothing of this at the present time? HST October 1, 1841, page 100.25
Joel 2:30, “And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke.” HST October 1, 1841, page 100.26
In connection with this text read the following from an exchange paper. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.27
The Shower of Blood:—Prof. Troost has published a long article in the Nashville Banner with reference to the recent shower of blood which occurred at Lebanon, Tenn. on the 17th ult. The explanation which he gives of this remarkable phenomenon differs essentially from that of Prof. Hallowell. He took especial pains to investigate all the facts in the case, and says there can be no doubt that the drops of blood found upon the tobacco leaves did really full from a small red cloud passing swiftly from East to West. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.28
The extent of the shower was from forty to sixty yards in breadth, and six or eight hundred in length: It was thinly scattered, probably a drop every ten or fifteen feet, irregularly dispersed. Some of the pieces which fell were nearly two inches long. Prof. Troost believes the fragments to be animal matter, but does not consider any part of them to be blood. There was about them an offensive smell of putrid matter, and the fibres were distinctly visible. On exposing the particles to the action of heat, they were affected precisely as a piece of beef. “There is no doubt,” says the Professor, “that this substance is animal matter, and belongs to our globe.” HST October 1, 1841, page 100.29
He then enumerates many instances in which remarkable showers have been observed, from the year 472 to the present day If the facts as stated by him are correct, there can be no ground for the explanation of Prof. Hallowell that the matter was thrown off by insects in their chrysalis state. Prof. Troost, ascribes it to the action of a hurricane, which he thinks, may have taken up part of an animal which was in a state of decomposition and have brought it in contact with an electric cloud, in which it was kept in a state approaching to a partial fluidity or vicosity. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.30
The shower alluded to, fell in Lebanon, Tennessee, August, 1841. Take into the account, also, the bloody hue of the heavens several times within the last five years. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.31
These are but a few of the items which go to swell the catalogue of fearful sights and great signs. HST October 1, 1841, page 100.32
“Watch ye therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour when the Son of Man cometh.” HST October 1, 1841, page 100.33
Libraries. A supply of Family, and Neighborhood Libraries on the prophecies, relating to the second coming of Christ, will be furnished at the Conference, in Portland, Oct. 14. They will cost from $3 to $10, according to the wants of the place for which they are designed. Every town in Maine, ought to be supplied. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.1
Don’t Forget. What? Why, don’t let delinquent subscribers forget to improve the opportunity to send by their friends, their money for the “Signs of the Times,” to the Portland Conference. An agent will be there to receive subscriptions. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.2
A Proposition. Will the friends of this paper make an effort to double the list? Who will try? It is only for each subscriber to get ONE. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.3
Progress of the Cause. We learn by Brother Jones, that the Messrs. Lillies, of the Dutch Reformed Church, have recently embraced, and are boldly preaching the doctrine of the Advent near. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.4
Misplaced. Our article on the “Kingdom of God,” by mistake, was put under the wrong head. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.5
The articles on the “Eight Fundamental, Errors,” ought to be thoroughly read-“ HST October 1, 1841, page 101.6
CORRESPONDENCE
Messrs Editors—The cry is now being made in Christendom, “behold the bridegroom cometh,” many are aroused from their slumbers, and are trimming their lamps, that they may be ready to go forth and meet him. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.7
Is this really the predicted “midnight cry” of the scriptures; or is it but another of the false alarms by which the world, or portions of it, in past times have been so grievously troubled. Whatever affects either of these questions cannot be otherwise than a matter of deep moment. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.8
I would present the 45th, and following verses of the 51st chapter of Jeremiah, as a portion of scriptures from which possibly an additional gleam of light in deciding them may be obtained.—45th verse. “My people go ye out from the midst of her, and deliver ye every man his soul from the fierce anger of the Lord.” 46th. “And lest your heart faint, and ye fear for the rumor that shall be heard in the land, a rumor shall both come one year; and after that in another year shall come a rumor, and violence in the land, ruler against ruler.” 47th. “Therefore behold the days come, that I will do judgment upon the graven images of Babylon, and her whole land shall be confounded, and all her slain shall full in the midst of her.” 48th. “Then the heaven and the earth and all that is therein shall sing for Babylon, for the spoilers are come upon her from the north.” HST October 1, 1841, page 101.9
This is probably one of those passages of the prophetic scriptures which have a double bearing, referring to one thing, first—as a type—and afterwards more fully to another as an antitype. If so, still, a comparison of the 45th verse with the 4th verse of the 18th of Rev., and of the 18th verse, with the 1st verse of the 19th of Rev. will make it evident; that the principal designed reference is to the destruction of the mystic Babylon of the apocalypse. This view is confirmed by the fact, that no express command was ever given to the Jews as a people to flee out of ancient Babylon, that they might not be overwhelmed in its ruins—and also from the further fact, that the expression “ruler against ruler,” implies that in the land to be destroyed there are separate governments having independent rulers; which accords much better with the political condition of mystic Babylon, than with that of the ancient city. It is the opinion of almost the whole body of protestant commentators that the prophecy in those verses is not to be limited to literal Babylon, but reaches down to its great antitype. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.10
With this application, if a just one, the passage presents very clearly the distinguishing features, that are to mark each of the two years immediately preceding the destruction of Rome, or Mystic Babylon;—which is yet future;—and we assume from the scriptures, that it will take place at, or very near the time of the 2nd advent of our Lord. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.11
If about 1843, as Mr. Miller and many others suppose is the time appointed for the advent, the present year is the one first described; and according to the prophecy, the distinctive features of it is to be one of rumor simply;—and not of open warfare. And has it not thus far been eminently such—notwithstanding the strong indications and fears to the contrary, prevalent towards the close of the last year? It then appeared that the principal governments in Europe must inevitably be immediately involved in a general war. The following language of Mr. Litch in one of the November numbers of your paper, was but a fair expression of the sentiment of most reflecting persons at that time—“What a prospect, nothing short of one universal blaze of war all over the old world can be anticipated; it must come, and for it the nations are mustering.” If Mr. Litch and others had not overlooked the bearings now given to the prophecy before us, it would have been seen, that if they are correct, one more year must elapse before the demon of war in Europe would have the restraints taken off, and he be allowed to go forth to his fearful work. It is worthy of special notice, that the great Eastern Question, the chief source from which such imminent danger was then apprehended, instead of being permanently adjusted, has been kept in so critical a position that any time within the last eight months, either of the allied powers (it has been said) would have drawn from it a plausible pretext for an open rupture—yet it has been so overruled that thus far, by its flustrating and unsettled state, it has been only a most perplexing source of rumor and alarm. 38 HST October 1, 1841, page 101.12
The leading features of next year, if the prophecy applies to that time, will be different from those of the present; for in addition to rumor there will be violence in the land—the Roman land—and ruler then will be against ruler. And what are the probabilities of such a result? Is it likely that the warlike spirit—preparations that have characterized Europe for some time past, and still continue in undiminished extent and power—will gradually subside, or that they will continue to progress, until perhaps by another year they shall become sufficiently matured to burst forth in some terrible explosions. The latter is by far the most reasonable expectation. Look at the state of that country. The whole political heavens there are overhung with dark and angry clouds. Nor is there any thing in their prevailing aspect, to warrant the anticipation that they will yet break and die away, and all become permanently calm and peaceful. It is true, they occasionally look as if it might be so, but they quickly thicken up again in more threatening forms. They are evidently held and controlled by an invisible, overruling hand; and they are also as evidently becoming daily more highly charged with the elements of death and ruin. We continue to hear the distant rumbling of the occasional agitation of those elements, the sure prognostics of the coming storm. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.13
It certainly then is not improbable that the period is rapidly approaching, and is not now far in the future, when they will pour forth their destructive contents with overwhelming ruin on devoted Europe. It is far more probable that the great warlike crisis to which things are tending may come in this or the ensuing year, than that they either will continue as they are for a much longer period, or ultimately subside without an explosion. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.14
It is acknowledged that the simple fact of wars in the old world this year or the next, would not in itself be evidence that the 2nd Advent would occur in ‘43; but considered in connection with the great preparations preceding them and the evidence furnished by the scriptures and by other great providential movements, it would be strong presumptive proof that such an expectation might be correct. At all events, we think from the prophecy before us (if it refer as supposed) that the probability of the truth of Mr. Miller’s theory on that point, is confirmed, rather than diminished by the existing political condition of Europe. Observer. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.15
LETTER FROM JAMES WOLSTENHOLME
The following letter is from a respected brother in Providence, R. I. We are happy to insert it. It contains interesting facts relative to the effect of the doctrine of the near approach of Christ. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.16
“Thy word is truth.” John 17:17. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.17
My dear Bro. Himes:—I do not intend to preach from this text. I do not profess to be able. I intend to be brief; perhaps I may not, for you know the proverb truism “out of the fulness of the heart.”—My heart is full; therefore I may say too much for your limits; and I value the contents of every copy of the “small sheet,” too much to crowd out any of its valuable matter with any thing I can say, if I did not feel deeply impressed that it is my duty to speak out on this great subject according as I have received from the Father of lights, that his name (as I pray) may be glorified. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.18
I have just read the leading article in the Christian Herald of August 5th. on the “Exciting Subject,” the second coming of our Lord in 1843, written, I infer from the initial by “S,” I our dear Bro. Shaw; in which, to my mind, he shows that he has not bestowed so much labor on the investigation of the subject as its importance demands of him as a Christian; and more especially as a Christian editor. If he had, I think he would have written very differently. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.19
I hold the office of a Christian editor to be one of very great responsibility. And I also hold the doctrine of the final fulfilment of all prophetic periods in 1843, and the consequent second advent of our blessed Lord at that time, to be a subject of the greatest magnitude. And, to my mind, any Christian editor or minister who, dissenting from the doctrine, and undertaking its discussion, who does not prove from the word of God, corroberated by authentic history, that it is certainly false, incur great danger to themselves; and, what is still more awful to contemplate, place those souls who look up to them as true watchmen in Israel in the most imminent danger. Human speculations and “thinkings,” only serve to throw dust in the eyes of those who would “enter in” at the door of “knowledge.” It is this alone which has wrapped the word of our blessed Father in a web of mysticism to so many minds, and eclipsed its plain revelations in clouds of prejudice, making confusion where God has arranged in the most heavenly order; and creating discord in what He has revealed in the most divine harmony. Need I instance more than the modern doctrine of the Millenium and the restoration of the carnal Jews to Palestine? though many cases might be cited. Why such speculations should gain such extensive credence is quite simple; having a human origin they are so congenial to the human heart. “If another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.” John 5:43. HST October 1, 1841, page 101.20
The word of God is my standard. “Thy word is truth.” I have no confidence in man. As it is written—“Let God be true and every man a liar.” Though I agree with the views of Messrs, Miller and Litch in general, as to the final fulfilment of all prophecy in 1843, with the consequent advent of our Lord at that time, yet I will not trust even them nor any body else in any speculations that will not harmonize with the divine word as far as I know; and if any thing remains which I do not understand, I will “search” until I find the harmony, or discord, and accede to, or reject, as the case may be. HST October 1, 1841, page 102.1
But ought I not to pay more defference to “sanctified learning”? Yes, indeed, with all my heart. But, where shall I find it? Not in the Colleges or Schools. No, not even at the feet of a “Gamaliel,” or any of the “Doctors of the Law.” They hatch fables and teach for doctrines the “traditions of men,” and propagate them for the word of God. I am cautioned to “beware” of their “leaven.” Where then can I find this sanctified learning? Where the learned Saul lost himself and all that he counted “gain.” At the foot of the cross, where the Comforter still remains to lead us into all truth; by which alone we can be sanctified. “Sanctify them by thy truth; thy word is truth.” On this learning alone, assisted by His grace, I will trust. For God has not changed. He yet chooses the “foolish things of this world to confound the wise.” And I am quite certain that He who withheld not His only begotten Son, but freely gave him up for us all; hath revealed His will to testify (witness) of himself and His requirements; and placed copies of it in all our hands; by which witnesses we shall be judged at His bar. His spirit is also given to “teach” us. If we “will do His will” we have the assurance of our Savior himself that we shall know whether the doctrine be of God. Hereby know we the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.” John 7:17. And this is the “work of God, that ye believe on him (The Word), whom He hath sent.” To say that God has revealed his word to us, and yet there is much of that same revelation which we can never understand—that must of necessity remain secret—is another of the numerous “traditions” of the “Doctors of the Law;” and to my mind it is impious. Does it harmonize with the character of the Almighty? No; all his ways harmonize with his love, as commended unto us by the gift of His Son; and His love doth harmonize with every other perfection. HST October 1, 1841, page 102.2
With these remarks, I would now briefly notice the third paragraph of the leading article, in the Christian Herald, by “S.” He says, “But the language now used proves a great lack of confidence somewhere. Scarcely any one is willing to say that he verily believes these things will take place in that year. But the language used is ‘near approach,’—‘nigh at hand,’—‘about 1843,’ etc. etc. Yet, when we ask them why they believe and think so, they tell us that by some eight or ten different ways they prove plainly from the Bible that Christ will come in 1843. Now if that is the year, why this leeway of none knows how many years?” HST October 1, 1841, page 102.3
Now, for our dear brother’s information, I would say—1st, That in plain language, I tell him, I for one have no “lack of confidence” in the doctrine of the second advent in 1843. Why? Because I believe the divine word foretells that period plainly—plainer than many important events in prophecy, which are now become matters of history. That word is truth. Our fathers believed then with less light; why should we doubt now with greater light? 2nd. I for one, (and I know others of the same mind,) am “willing to say that I verily believe (and hope) these things (the second advent, etc.) will take place in that year; and that the “language” “near approach”—“nigh at hand”—“about 1843,” is plainly rational; because, 1st, it is now 1841; and 2nd, although it is most probable the period will be fulfilled with characteristic exactness, yet, no man knoweth (nor professeth to know,) “the day nor the hour”—whether it will be in the middle or the close of the year; at even, or at midnight, or at cock-crowing, or in the morning. And why is this? To try our faith! of what sort it is, whether it be the “faith once delivered to the saints, such as Abraham’s, or the faith of those who perished in the wilderness. How harmonious! How reasonable! And 3rdly if you will bear with me, I will tell our brother why I do “believe so;” we will leave the “think” out. But first. I must inform him that less than 12 months ago I did not believe a word about it; as proof, about that time, I wrote to a friend of mine, in England, who had written me, exhorting me on the same subject. As to your notious about the fulfilment of all prophecy, and the end of the world, etc. I beg leave to differ; and I hope I may do so, without incurring the anathema of ‘Infidel,’ etc. Nor do I take it to be a strong argument of yours to exclaim—‘Aye, it was just so in the days of Noah!’ For that argument has been adopted by all the fanatics and maniacs in all ages of christendom—and they have not been a few—to frighten the credulous into a belief of their notions. We have n man here of the name of Miller, who has written a book pretending to show that the end of the world will be in 1843. Of course I cannot say that he is right; neither do I arrogate to myself a superiority of judgment and positively declare him wrong,—.” HST October 1, 1841, page 102.4
Subsequently, I saw some notices of “Miller the Prophet,” and his subject in the public print, the nature of which you are acquainted with; which together with the talk of “Dowlings” successful (?) “Reply,” fully confirmed my mind that this Miller was another of the fanatical alarmists. However, about the latter end of March, Mr. Miller commenced a course of Lectures in this city. I did not know of it until the second evening’s lecture, I believe, (on Sabbath) when I was accidentally led by the Town House, and seeing it much crowded, out of curiosity I crowded in within hearing; and I was soon struck, very forcibly, that these arguments were not those of a smatterer; that that was not the reasoning of a fanatic; that those conclusions were not those of a superficial thinker; that if even Miller was not right, he was an old gentleman of a very remarkable strong mind. I attended each subsequent evening’s lecture, and listened attentively. I found that although I had been brought up in the boasted blaze of gospel day, yet I knew scarce any thing of the word of God, in the letter even: that although I had long made a profesion of religion, yet I knew about nothing of the dealings and designs of God with our world, past, present, or future, 39 I felt ashamed before God for my ignorance; and I resolved to know for myself whether these things were so. I had confidence that the word of God was truth; that it was just right. I knew that truth must of necessity be harmonious in all its parts: therefore, I concluded, that if that doctrine or any other would harmonize with all the word of God revealed to us, it would follow of course it roust be the truth. With these views, I set to examining prophetic and historical, as well as doctrinal scripture and the history of the world. I have brought up every leisure hour, and redeemed many more, from my bed, and have examined nothing else, save my own heart, since: and I am now perfectly satisfied. HST October 1, 1841, page 102.5
For I find that the doctrine of the final fulfilment of all prophetic periods, and, consequently the second advent of our blessed Master in 1843, does harmonize with all fulfilled, prophecies; and, in a word, as far as I have found with all the word of God, as plainly revealed to us; as it stands corroborated by the most authentic history of the world, with wonderful minuteness. I find in this doctrine, too, the only satisfactory way of accounting for the present religious, political and social condition of the world; at least I to my mind. HST October 1, 1841, page 102.6
But what have I to do with the objectors, then? who say they can’t “admit it,” because, they don’t “think” so? I say, as I have said ever since, I began to think on this subject; if any man would prove to the world from the word of God, by preserving as strict a harmony therewith, and with authentic history of the word as Miller and Litch have done, that all prophetic periods will certainty not end in 1843 and per-consequence our Lord not re-appear, in that year, and give a good reason in the nature of things why it should not be in that year; he would be entitled to some respect. HST October 1, 1841, page 102.7
Until one, or both of these are done, I for one must continue to believe as I do in the exercise of common sense, by virtue of the strongest evidence, though all the reputed wise men in the world were to scoff. For, I feel assured, I am based on the rock of Eternal Truth, and I know it alone can make me “free;” and by it alone I hope to be sanctified. And my dear brethren in the Lord, by whatever name ye may be called, let me exhort you;—no more ask, is it Methodism? Is it Baptism, of its various grades? or Is it, by any name-so-ever among men: but enquire with faithful hearts, Is it the word of God? And my heart’s desire and prayer to God and the Father is, that he may sanctify us wholly; and that our whole spirit and soul and body may be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. HST October 1, 1841, page 102.8
THE KINGDOM OF GOD
The scriptures which speak of the time of the establishment of the kingdom of God, next demand our attention. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.1
1. The predictions of Daniel on this point. 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.” HST October 1, 1841, page 103.2
Christ came once on earth, as the man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; he put on the form of a servant and became obedient onto death, for us. But as certainly as he went into heaven with a cloud, so certainly he will come again with a cloud. When he thus comes and not before, he will receive his kingdom and dominion, to endure eternally. Those who think Christ established his kingdom at the time of his first advent, or soon after, will do well to think of this point. If he has had the kingdom more than 1800 years already, how can he receive it at a future coming in the clouds of heaven? HST October 1, 1841, page 103.3
The explanation of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, in the second chapter of Daniel, is of similar import. There the Stone (Christ) is described as smiting the image on his feet and grinding them to powder, and then after destroying the entire image, the stone became a great mountain and filled the whole earth. This is explained in verse 44. “The God of heaven shall set up a kingdom which shall never be removed.” HST October 1, 1841, page 103.4
Remark 1st. The kingdom of God will not come or be set up until the image is smitten and reduced to powder. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.5
Remark 2nd. The first blow of the Stone is to fall on the feet of the image. But this could not be done until the feet existed which was not until hundreds of years after Christ’s birth. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.6
Remark 3rd. The image stands yet, therefore the kingdom of God has not yd appeared, nor the Stone smitten the image. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.7
2. New Testament witnesses on this point. Luke 19:11. “He added and spake a parable because he was nigh unto Jerusalem and because they thought the kingdom of God should immediately appear.” “A certain Nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and to return. But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him sayings we will not have this man to reign over us.” “When he was returned having received the kingdom, he commanded those servants to be called unto him to whom he had given the money that he might know how much each one had gained by trading.” The fathful servants were rewarded, the unfaithful were condemned and punished, and his enemies exterminated. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.8
Remark 1st. The object of the parable; to correct a wrong impression on the mind of the people; they thought the kingdom of God should immediately appear. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.9
Remark 2nd. The parable taught them that the kingdom of God would not come until Christ goes away into a far country to receive a kingdom and return. Then will be the day of Judgment, when he returns; when the faithful will be rewarded, and the wicked will be cast off and punished. This is clearly to take place at the end of the world. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.10
1 Timothy 4:1. “I charge thee before God and the Lord Jesus Christ who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom.” HST October 1, 1841, page 103.11
In this passage, Christ’s appearing to judge the quick and the dead is placed at the time of the coming of Christ’s kingdom. The connection is too intimate, to be misunderstood. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.12
Revelation 11:15. According to this text, at the sounding of the last trump the kingdoms of this world will be given to Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever. Finally, the Bible does uniformly teach that the kingdom of God will appear at the end of this world and the coming of Christ to Judgment. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.13
It is this fact which gave the doctrine of the kingdom of God at hand such vast importance in the estimation of John, Christ and the apostles. It was with them, the all powerful reason why they should repent and do works meet for repentance. There is in then estimation a prize of infinite value at stake, that prize, the kingdom of God; and it can only be gained by holy, sanctified men; men who put on the Lord Jesus Christ. To attain this qualification requires the most persevering effort; and if we fail in the work the loss will be indescribable. Reader, what are your prospects? Strive to enter in at the strait gate. Oh, beware lest at last you be weighed in the balance and found wanting. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.14
A WORD
To the dear Brethren scattered abroad, who are waiting for the appearing of our blessed hope in 1843. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.15
Brethren, rejoice! yea, I say again, rejoice for the prospects of Zion! HST October 1, 1841, page 103.16
The “midnight cry” has sounded through the land, and many “wise virgins” having oil in their vessels, have trimmed their lamps. They who thus trimmed have great “light,” while the “foolish” are in darkness because “their lamps are none out.” The “wise,” therefore, reiterate the “cry” vigorously, and strive with zeal to swell the joyful sound louder and louder still, hoping that they may wake up at least, some, of their yet slumbering brethren. And although they are sorry that their “foolish” companions have no oil [faith] in their vessels, and they having none to spare lest there be not enough for them both, are resolved to make as great a light as possible, in Boston, by trimming their lamps so well, that the way may be illumined so bright that all those who oppose may be ashamed of their darkness, if possible; or at least, that many seeing their works may be led to glorify our Father who is in heaven, by getting ready to enter in with the bridegroom when He comes. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.17
The Brethren and Sisters in Boston, in addition to all their other works of “Faith and Love,” have instituted a Second Advent Library, which has been fitted up, etc. under the superintendance of our indefatigable brother, Elder J. V. Himes; and was opened and consecrated by religious exercises; and, I hope with the unction of the Holy One, on Monday evening last, by the name of “Berean Hall.” The motto adopted by the founders is—“These were more noble than those of Thessalonica; in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether these things were so. Therefore, many of them believed.” A very appropriate one, I think. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.18
I had the happiness, by invitation, though a stranger, to be present; and I am persuaded that it would have been a lesson to either an infidel or opposing brother, to have witnessed the self-devotedness, and the union of effort and love; to have heard the identity of sentiment, and the expressions of confidential reliance on that “more sure word of prophecy,” which is the “Truth;” and which is evidently simple, intelligible, and harmonious to them; and worthy of their strongest faith. Yea, any man would have been convinced that these men believe understandingly. Yes, and notwithstanding the tauntings of some of the Boston clergy of those members of their flocks who have courage to read, think, and believe for themselves on this most important subject—and who tell the simple and common people, that they [the people] can not understand this “sure” word of prophecy—(Brethren, is not this Papacy? even among Baptists)—if they had been there to have heard the fervid and affectionate supplications to the Source of Light and Truth for them, by their persecuted members, perhaps it might have done them good. Perhaps it might have led them to doubt the soundness of their own position, and have led them to “search” the “Truth.” It was a profitable season; and I trust that results will shew that the place is really consecrated. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.19
The objects of the founders of the Library are stated in the Signs of the Times. Their end is the glory of God. The means, the dissemination of Truth; especially in relation to the Second Advent of our Blessed Savior, in 1843. My heart’s desire and prayer to God is, that all their objects may be attained; and all connected with the project and its support, be repaid in “this life an hundred fold, and in that to come, life eternal,” and may they “shine as the stars forever and ever.” J. W. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.20
Providence, R. I., Sept. 8, 1841.
THE TEACHER
‘To this end was I born,’ he said, ‘and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth.’ A needful mission—and gloriously fulfilled! When he said to some, ‘will ye also go away!’ well did they exclaim, ‘to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life! Of whom, but of him, shall we learn the truth we need? Who, but he, can tell us all that we need to know of God—of our duty to our Maker and our fellowmen—and of eternity? Shall we look to mankind for it? The world, in all of its own wisdom, knows not God. Will our own heart teach us! It is deceitful and wicked. Ignorance and error and dissension, are around us and in us. Who will teach us the Truth? He who speaks as never man spake. The Teacher come from God. He speaks the things that he does know. He testifies the things that he sees with the eye of his own Omniscience. The understanding of the world is compelled to acknowledge the divinity of his teachings, despite its bitterest enmity of heart against his doctrine. He speaks—and his word goes forth returnless. Earth has no tongue that can gainsay it. Hell is dumb under it. It passes on through all time. The universe has no power to raise a contradiction against it. It will remain when time is no more—an eternal substance. It will judge the world at the last day. It will bear the redeemed away into the kingdom prepared for them. Received by them in this probationary state, continued in unto the end of life’s trial, it will live in them with the power of an endless life. It will follow the condemned into their endless banishment—a ceasless thunder upon their conscience, ‘this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light: he that believeth shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned: depart from me, ye workers of iniquity, into everlasting fire.’ HST October 1, 1841, page 103.21
‘Come—come and learn of me,’ he calls, to the wandering, bewildered children of men. ‘Come—learn of me,’ he calls, in accents of mercy, sweeter than the tones of angels. It is to those who are great and wise in their own eyes and the eyes of the world. It is to the simplest, humblest, most obscure and abject of the lost race. ‘Come—learn of me—my words they are spirit and they are life. Hear, and ye shall live. Hear and do the the things which I say, and ye shall abide upon the rock of eternal security. Hear and do my sayings, and I will raise you up at the last day.’ HST October 1, 1841, page 103.22
“Will you go—reader, will you go to Jesus? Go, learn the great science of happiness and eternal life. Go, be made wise unto salvation. Go, thou weary, heavy laden—thou bondman to sin—thou, distracted amidst conflicting opinions of men—thou, trembling in doubt and fear and anxious solicitude amidst the shaking of human institutions—thou, doubtful of the path of duty—thou, uncertain of thy acceptance with God, and thy heirship to heaven—go to Jesus. He calleth thee. Go, he waiteth to teach thee. He has come from heaven to instruct you in what you need to know. He invites, he entreats you to come and learn of him. He, even he, condescends to be the teacher of such as we are. Go—go in a learner’s meekness, with a learner’s confidence. Sit down, in the deep study of his Record, at his blessed feet. Yield your ear, your heart, your soul, your life, to the reception and influence of the truth flowing from his lips. Dearer than all melody will his sayings breathe over your spirit, sweeter than the honey-comb will be his words to jour soul. Liberty from bondage, will be his law; and life from the dead, will prove the knowledge he imparts. Full as the noonday, will be the light his instructions communicate. His words will quicken you to newness of life. They will bring heaven’s kingdom within you—righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. They will be Christ in you the hope of glory. They will be in you eternal life.—Disciple. HST October 1, 1841, page 103.23
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
BOSTON, OCT. 1, 1841.
IMPORTANT WORKS
SPALDING’S LECTURES,
Will be published on the 8th inst. at 14 Devonshire Street, (up stairs.) HST October 1, 1841, page 104.1
MILLENNIAL MUSINGS
A selection of soul-stirring hymns and spiritual songs, from various authors, relative to the return of the Lord, and the preparation of his saints to meet him in peace. It is designed for Second Advent Meetings for prayer and conference. It will be out the 8th of October. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.2
MILLER’S NEW WORK,
Will contain a Lecture on the 24th chapter of Matthew, and one on Hosea 6:1-3; with several other articles of importance, never before published. With an Appendix. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.3
12,000
TRACTS ON THE SECOND ADVENT
Just Out
These Tracts consist of twelve distinct discourses, and articles which are contained in the First and Second Reports of the General Conference. They are designed for gratuitous distribution. Price from 2 to 3 cents, except the Essay on the Millennium, of 74 pages, which is 6 cents. More particular notices of their contents in our next. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.4
CONFERENCE AT PORTLAND
Let it be fully attended. Let the Ministers and Brethren in that vicinity, that can, all come. Several interesting communications from Mr. Miller will be read to the Conference. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.5
THE CONFERENCE
A fourth Session of the Conference of Christians expecting the advent of the Lord, will be held in the Lecture Room of the Broadway Tabernacle, New York. It will commence October 26, at 10 o’clock! A. M. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.6
A FIFTH SESSION
Will be held in Low Hampton, N. Y. (at the residence of Mr. Miller,) in the Baptist Chapel, to commence on the second day of November, at 10 o’clock A. M. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.7
RECEIPTS FOR REPORTS & PUBLICATIONS
| Brought Over, | $389,54 |
| Valentine Cushman, | 2,00 |
| Oliver F. Daland, | 2,75 |
| Joseph Bates, | 10,00 |
| Calvin French, | 25,00 |
| 428,29 |
SECOND ADVENT REPORTS. NO. II
The Proceedings of the Lowell Conference are now ready for delivery. Price 20 cents. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.8
THE WORLD LOST
If it had light in itself, it would not need another light. If it bad life in itself, it would not need to receive it anew. If it were not lost, Heaven need not come to seek and to save it. “I am come a light into the world,” saith Christ,” that whosoever believeth in me should not abide in darkness. He that heareth my word and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation, but is passed from death unto life. I am the resurrection and the life.” Said John, “He that believeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him.” HST October 1, 1841, page 104.9
The world is lost. If it were not, righteousness would spring and flourish in the spontaneousness and abundance of, an indigenous product. Vice, if found at all, would be the sparse and sickly exotic. All experience shows the reverse of this. Sin and crime have proved universally spread, luxuriant and rampant, as natural growth. Virtue, as a foreign plant, has struggled for existence, against incongeniality of soil and climate, and the choking influence of prevalent vice. If Man were not lost, evil, if found at all upon his moral character, would be but the occasional excrescence on the tree of his nature. That tree would, notwithstanding, flourish in beauty, laden with the flowers and fruits of goodness. If moral evil were but a wart upon human nature, how easy the removal of the blemish, leaving the character fair and sound in native healthfulness. Instead of this, it proves, to all human surgery, the constitutional cancer. The out-breaking ulcer, cut out of the system at one point, quickly appears in another; proving that the virus has its subsistence in the whole system, circulating in the life-steam, flowing out from the heart through every fibre. When we have broken off from outward transgressions, we discover principles of evil within, too subtile to have been communicated to us in example; too deep to have been rooted by habit; and too mighty to be subdued by human determination alone, or by the mere letter of the law. We feel that the power that created us originally in holiness, is needed to create us anew to righteousness, since we have become lost to it. We feel the need of an Omnipotant and Infinite Redeemer, to deliver us from our guilt and to change our character, so that we may be at peace with God, and our hearts become the pure fountain of a holy life. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.10
The condition of the physical, is made to correspond with the character of the moral world. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.11
----“Nature,
Through all her works, gives signs that all is lost.”
HST October 1, 1841, page 104.12
She has a mortal malady, manifest in the symptoms of her disease, and declared in the “sure word of prophecy.” With her winter chill and her summer fever, her vernal bloom is as the hectic brightness on the consumptive’s cheek, while corruption and dissolution prey upon the vitals beneath. In the intervals of her earthquake heavings, her dark and self-desolating storms, her calm and brightness are as the ease and quietude and hope in the intermission of the paroxsims of pain, convulsive strivings and assaulting death, in the mortally deceased. Nature is consuming her own life in eking out a limited existence with just strength and duration enough to correspond with the world’s moral character, and to answer the purposes of man’s probation. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.13
The world, therefore, needs a Redeemer. Jesus our Lord is the Savior it needs. To as many as receive him, he gives power to become the Sons of God. Their souls are pardoned and renewed to holiness here, and by death their bodies sleep to be revived in the resurrection to immortality and incorruptibilty and glory. And when the elements of the visible heavens and earth shall have been “dissolved” he will revive them in a “new heaven and a new earth,” an eternal and befitting abode for his redeemed people, “Behold,” he saith, “I make all things new.” HST October 1, 1841, page 104.14
As many as act upon this principle, demonstrate its truth. Giving up all for lost in Nature, and seeking to find all in Christ, they experience salvation. Created anew to holiness of heart and life, they enjoy the kingdom of heaven on earth; and, as Death opens the portal to Paradise and glory, they pass away, with the triumphant song, “O Death, where is thy sting! O Graves where is thy victory!”—Dis. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.15
THE CHRISTIAN TO THE WORLD
No—never may my heart revert,
Deceiving world, to thee again!
I never may the Cross desert
For what my soul has proved so vain:
Tis true thy face doth wear a smile,
And thou art skilled to practice charms,
That might again my heart beguile
And draw me to thy fatal arms—
HST October 1, 1841, page 104.16
But I have proved thy falsity;
Mine eyes have seen thy emptiness;
Thy Friendship is but Treachery,
Thy Bliss the prelude to Distress:
And in the light revealing this,
Another world is brought to view,
Where love is love, and bliss is bliss,
And all is permanent as true.
HST October 1, 1841, page 104.17
LIGHT! LIGHT!! LIGHT!!!
Books on the Second Advent. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.18
Friends at a distance who are anxious to read these works, but heretofore have found it difficult to obtain them, are hereby informed that Books and publications, of all kinds, have been deposited in the following places. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.19
Maine.
East Corinth, John Ewer, Agent.
Bangor, R. Tylor, Agent.
Portland, John Pierson, Agent.
Wolwich, Samuel Fulerton, Agent.
East St. Albans, Charles B. Smith, Agent.
HST October 1, 1841, page 104.20
New Hampshire.
Exeter, A. R. Brown, Agent.
Portsmouth, T. F. Barry, Agent.
New York.
Low Hampton, Wm. S. Miller, Agent.
C. M. Gilchriste & Co. Glenns Falls.
La Roy Sunderland, 26 Fulton St. N. Y. City.
HST October 1, 1841, page 104.21
Canada.
Dr. James Lull, Agent. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.22
Agents in other places will be noticed in our next HST October 1, 1841, page 104.23
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. |
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
Is published on the 1st and 15th of each month at No. 14 Devonshire Street. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.24
Joshua V. Himes, & Josiah Litch, Editors. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.25
Terms.—One Dollar a year, payable in advance. Six copies for Five Dollars, Thirteen copies for Ten Dollars. All communications should be directed to “J. V. Himes, Boston, Mass.” post paid. HST October 1, 1841, page 104.26