We have by the grace of God, been made to know our lost and ruined condition—born under the imputation of the one sin of Adam (Rom. 5:12; Ps. 51:5) and as a consequence of that sin, inheriting a totally corrupt and fallen nature (Gen. 6:5; Rom. 8:7; Jer. 17:9) with the motions of sin working in our members, and bringing forth fruit unto death (Rom. 7:5, Rom. 3:10-19). We are thereby proved guilty before God, children of wrath, (Eph. 2:3) under the condemnation of death (Rom. 5:12-18; 6:23) meriting only eternal punishment, utterly helpless and hopeless in and of ourselves (Eph. 2:12) because unable either to exhaust the penalty due to our sin, or to present that perfect obediential righteousness, which His holy law requires of His creatures (Luke 10:25-28).

We have also been led to see the Salvation of God, which He has in FREE and SOVEREIGN GRACE, provided in His Son Jesus Christ (Eph. 1:1-9), whom He has appointed (1 Pet. 2:4), to be the SUBSTITUTE (Rom 5:6), for all who shall believe on Him (John 3:16), and have, by faith, leaned our guilty souls on Him, relying absolutely on His substitutional obedience and suffering, in life and in death (Eph. 5:2) as our only and sufficient hope of pardon, and acceptance with God. His blood is the evidence not only of wrath borne, but also of Perfect obedience fulfilled (Rom. 5:9,18), the merits of which SUFFERING-OBEDIENCE are imputed to us, who believe, for our justification, in which we are considered by God, as those, who, while PERSONALLY "ungodly" (Rom. 4:5) are yet "constituted righteous," by the imputation of the "ONE RIGHTEOUSNESS," or "THE OBEDIENCE OF THE ONE" (Rom. 5:19. He not only suffered the penalties of the Law (broken), but also presented its required perfectness (Eph. 5:2); whereby we obtain a right and title to everlasting life and glory (compare John 1:12 with Romans 8:14-17 and 1 Peter 5:10), for so "grace reigns through Righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord" (Rom. 5:21).

Having thus been made to see our state by nature, and to receive the remedy provided by God Himself; as a result of such a marvelous deliverance, and translation from The Kingdom of Darkness—The Kingdom of Satan; into The Kingdom of Light—The Kingdom of God’s dear Son (Col. 1:13) we SHOULD seek to KNOW and Do the will of our King. We should desire to LEARN and ACT UPON the principles of the Kingdom to which we belong. In the words of the Apostle Paul to the Romans (12:1, 2), we should present our bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is our reasonable service, and not be conformed to this world; but be transformed by the renewing of our minds, that we may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

The will of God cannot be known, or the principles of His Kingdom learned, except from His own Written Word, which is the ONLY AUTHORITATIVE REVELATION OF GOD, concerning Himself, and His past, present, and future purposes and ways in all things natural and spiritual; temporal and eternal: therefore it is manifestly the duty (and should spring from an heart-felt love to God) of every Christian diligently to search the Scriptures, that he might know what is revealed, in order that he might have true fellowship with Him in His thoughts and estimate of things heavenly and earthly; and thus PRACTICALLY walk with Him, according to Colossians 1:9-11. "That ye might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness."

It surely must be evident to all who profess and call themselves Christians, that there must necessarily be a marked contrast between the practical carrying out of the principles of the Kingdom of Darkness, and those of the Kingdom of Light: between those of the Kingdom of Satan, and those of the Kingdom of God; the one, working for the glorification of man, and leading away from God, hating Truth and loving falsehood; the other, leading to God, and having the glory of God as its chief end in view.

But where is this separating line of demarcation recognized in the professing churches of today? God says, to those who profess to be His people, "If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him" (1 John 2:15). This truth is seldom recognized or acknowledged amongst the "churches" of the day.

On the contrary, the love of the world is abundantly manifested, by all the worldliness, now so closely associated in one form or another, with both the Established Church, and the Free Churches.

There are the almost innumerable, man invented expedients for raising funds, as well as for attracting and amusing the people, and maintaining the roll of church members; there is the strange advertisement and announcements of secular and witty subjects for sermons; the musical services, both vocal and instrumental, the so-called "Sacred Oratorios," Concerts, Dramatic Entertainment of all kinds; worldly sport, and many other modern man-pleasing contrivances of worldly wisdom, which beguile unstable souls; all of which go hand-in-hand with the so-called "places of worship," which are to a very large extent maintained by the aid of such things; but for which there is not one word of authority or example, either in the teaching or practice of Christ or the Apostles.

And not only is there all this worldliness in association with the general profession of Christianity, but there is also the consequent corruption and perversion of Truth; false doctrine abounds, man’s traditions make the Word of God of none effect. Science, falsely so called, is made to take the place of God’s Word and is regarded as Truth, in opposition to the Scriptures, which, we are blasphemously told, contain inaccuracies; and almost all teaching connected with the Christianity of today, may be characterized as indefinite, and more or less speculative, with the necessary outcome of indefiniteness of the practical walk and position of God’s people, in relation to evil.

Even where there is little or no worldliness manifested, and where a measure of doctrinal truth is taught, there is often found a very serious absence of right prophetical instruction, which is absolutely essential if we are in any measure scripturally to walk in the practical path of Truth: and in its place we find the solemn misapplication of Scripture, in which many things which are literal and prophetic of the future, are spiritualized (as it is called) and applied to present circumstances, and so the Word of God is robbed of its true interpretation. This has the most solemn consequences; because it fails to point out the character and doom of the age in which we live, as well as the Christian’s involvement and responsibility through association with all its unscripturalness and evil; and consequently Christians are left to go blindly on, in paths that are surely and swiftly leading to Antichristian apostasy and the judgments of God, without being aware of the dangers that surround and await them.

But whence all this worldliness, and departure from the simplicity of Truth, which is found associated with the professing Church of God? We can only obtain a right and true answer to this question from the Scriptures themselves. Now Scripture tells us that "The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him, neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned" (1 Cor. 2:14).

And does not this explain how these things have come about? It is because the great majority of those who are the professed teachers of Christendom are merely natural men, who having not the Spirit of God, receive not the things of God, but only Satan’s counterfeit the form of godliness, with a denial of the power thereof (2 Tim. 3:5). Such were found, even in the Apostles’ days, evil men who crept in unawares; those who enter not by the door (which is Christ) into the sheepfold, not by personal and living faith in Him; but who climb up some other way—by outward rites and ceremonies—man-made ministers, who by a worldly college education, are vainly supposed to be fit to teach spiritual truth, which really they cannot understand, being unregenerate. These, as far as the Church of England is concerned, blasphemously profess to make, all whom they sprinkle with water, "members of Christ, children of God and inheritors of the Kingdom of Heaven," so deluding their thousands. Others, amongst the various dissenting bodies, in many cases God’s own children, from different motives arising from false teaching, and being ignorant of the qualifications necessary for the public ministry of the Word, and not recognizing the responsibility of such a position, constitute themselves ministers. Such often being utterly ignorant of the purposes and will of God, as revealed in His Word, and only very partially understanding the Gospel, must necessarily fail to instruct the people of God in those things which are of the utmost importance, if they are intelligently to worship and serve God, and walk in fellowship with Him in separation from evil.

And why is not all this recognized by multitudes who are God’s children?

It is because of the almost universal indifference to these things, and the fearful laxity and indefiniteness of thought, even amongst real Christians, on subjects of Truth, which ought to be clearly understood by all God’s children, in order that they might, according to the exhortation of Scripture, "be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear" (1 Pet. 3:15). They should "henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking The Truth in love, grow up into Him in all things, which is the Head, even Christ." (Eph. 4:14, 15).

Where is the spirit of the Bereans, who tested the teaching, even of the Apostle Paul, by the Scriptures? (Acts 17:11). We need again to be exhorted to take heed WHAT we hear (Mark 4:24) and How we hear (Luke 8:18), and to take heed and beware of the leaven (false doctrine) of the Pharisees; (Matthew 16:6, 12) to take heed that we be not deceived (Luke 11:8), and also, that the light which is in us, be not darkness (Luke 11:35).

Shall we then any longer be indifferent to the claims of Christ upon His people; will any one say, that part of His revealed Word was not intended to be understood, or that it cannot be understood, or that because those who are esteemed good and earnest Christian teachers, differ so widely in their views, that therefore much of it must be uncertain in its meaning, and cannot DEFINITELY be known? Such thoughts should not be found in the minds of any of God’s people in the face of those words of the Holy Ghost, through Paul, declaring that, "all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works" (2 Tim. 3:16, 17). And Jesus said, "If any man Will DO His will, he shall know of the doctrine whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself" (John 7:17).

But alas, is not SENTIMENT made to take the place of DEFINITE KNOWLEDGE of Truth, amongst God’s people? Christians have need to beware of sentimentality in religion.

Christianity is not mere feelings, and indefinite imaginations of spirituality. Our feelings are capable of being acted upon by many an influence, altogether apart from God, and aye often so worked upon.

In the case of the unconverted; it is by no means an uncommon thing, to see the feelings so wrought upon, as to produce an apparent contrition and repentance, which is frequently mistaken for conversion; but with the sad proofs sooner or later, that it was nothing more than a temporary natural emotion, the result of natural causes, manifesting the shallowness of the supposed repentance. In the case of Christians, we see indefinite imaginations of growth in spirituality, produced by sentimentality in

preaching, without the least concern to be "sound in the Truth," "sound in doctrine," or to have any definite knowledge of Truth. There is much talk of living "a Christ-like life" and manifesting "Christian charity," and so forth, by many who yet speak disparagingly of doctrine, saying "let us rather seek to be practical Christians, loving one another; and not spending our time in studying doctrine, which has led to so much controversy and disputation among God’s people," as if it were an hindrance to practical Christian walk. This is virtually the cry of many of God’s own people.

But true Christianity rests not on mere feeling (though very far from being without feeling), but on fact; it is a personal and living faith (i.e. reliance of soul on ANOTHER—even JESUS upon His finished work—His suffering-obedience—the merit and preciousness of which, as imputed to the believer, alone brings solid and everlasting peace, and true joy.

And real spirituality is attained in proportion as we grow in grace, and in the knowledge of God and His word (2 Pet. 3:18; 1 Pet. 2:2), and become sound in doctrine (Titus 1:9), understanding the fundamental truths of Salvation, and being acquainted with the dispensational teaching of Scripture, which is necessary for our guidance into a right and scriptural path of service and practical fellowship with our Lord and Saviour; without which there can be no true and satisfactory spiritual growth. For we may be sure that we should not be exhorted to "hold fast the form of sound words" (2 Tim. 1:13), and to "speak the things which become sound doctrine" (Titus 2:1), nor to "withdraw" from such as "consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to Godliness" (1 Tim. 6:3-5); if it were not a very important and essential condition of true spirituality. Therefore let no one speak lightly of sound doctrine or definite Truth; but rather "study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, RIGHTLY DIVIDING THE WORD OF TRUTH" (2 Tim. 2:15).

Again, many are willing to admit that the Scriptures do very clearly lay down the way of Salvation—the doctrine of sovereign grace—but when it comes to a question about the PROPHETIC part of God’s Word, and the PRACTICAL PATH OF SEPARATION, which is a result of a right understanding of Prophecy; they put the subject away from them. They consider it presumption to seek to understand what God has said about the future, as if there was nothing clear and definite, except that which is necessary to Salvation; but surely no thinking Christian would presume to say this; especially if he remembers that all important Scripture in 2 Peter 1:19. "We have also a more sure (or abiding) word of Prophecy, whereunto ye do well that ye take heed in your hearts, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until The Day dawn, and The Day-Star arise" (Corrected rendering). Here we have God’s own estimate of the Prophetic Scripture, showing the GREAT IMPORTANCE of PROPHECY as a light to search the darkness of "this present evil age."

It is our duty as Christians to bow as implicitly to the declarations of God on Prophecy, as it is to bow to His declarations concerning the way of Salvation. Dare we say that they are minor matters, or unimportant?

But why is Prophecy either shunned or misunderstood by most Christians, and so often perverted by those who are the professed Teachers of God’s word?

It is doubtless because Satan knows only too well that Prophecy makes known his plans and his doom, and the doom of those who believe his lie; and that if the Prophetic Scriptures were understood by God’s people generally, they would be able to view the world, its history and its doom in the light thereof: therefore he has, according to his nature, blinded their eyes, craftily leading them, either to pervert the Truth or else to shelve it as a minor matter of secondary importance only, or as something difficult, if even meant, to be understood. Many refuse to listen and give heed to it, because they see that it would reveal their departure from the ways of God and Truth, and do not want to be disturbed from their ease in Zion.

Now God has, in His goodness and mercy, brought us to consider these things, and the Word of Prophecy has become a lamp unto our feet, and a light unto our path, showing us what the character of the present age or dispensation is, and what His purposes are concerning Christendom, Israel, and the Gentile Nations of the world. It has shown us their apostasies and doom, and how the present systems of the religiousness of the day, with their multitudinous sects and divisions, are altogether contrary to His precious Word, in their methods and teaching. It has in addition to these things, shown us the responsibility and involvement incurred by association with systems or persons who walk contrary to His Truth.

It is because of these things that we desire to take heed to His Word, and come out from among them and be separate (at least in such things as we CAN be separated from) according to the solemn call of 2 Corinthians 6:14-18, and thus to come outside that which may be called the camp of the worldly and unscriptural Christianity of the present day even as Christ came outside the camp of the religiousness of His day, bearing the reproach and rejection, even of those who professed to be His people. Not only did He stand apart from their corrupt religiousness but He came outside, even of their very city. "Let us go forth therefore unto Him without the camp, bearing His reproach for here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come" (Heb. 13:13,14).

And if we cannot at present go outside the great cities of the world and their commercial and other systems (particularly of the Roman World, which we know is soon to become the sphere in which evil of a special character is to be consummated and reach its climax), yet we CAN come outside the corrupt religious systems. We are conscious that this is only a partial separation, for we cannot be entirely separate from Christendom, as long as we profess the name of Christ, neither can we extricate ourselves from involvement in the complete ruin in which the Professing Church is found nor from suffering the consequences of its utter failure to maintain a right and scriptural testimony and standing in the earth, in its relation to God and His Truth, and to the world. We CAN, however, recognize and confess the ruin, and SEEK rectification, and CAN, though in a feeble way, stand in separation from the unscriptural and worldly religious systems of Christendom; for we must first "cease to do evil," before we can "learn to do well" (Isa. 1:16, 17).

"Let every one that nameth the name of Christ, depart from iniquity" (2 Tim. 2:19).

If our hearts have been made to recognize the ruined condition of the Church, and to distinguish between Truth and error; making a difference to some small extent, between the unclean and the clean in His sight (i.e. between things forbidden, and things sanctioned by God) and if we have taken our stand on the side of definite Truth, recognizing that TRUTH IS ONE and may be known: then this is the gift of God. We desire in true humility to ascribe the praise unto Him, for it is by the grace of God alone, that we are what we are, and stand where we do in relation to the churches and chapels of the day; and so must say from our hearts, "Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto Thy Name give glory, for Thy mercy and for Thy Truth’s sake" (Ps. 115:1).

We must know and remember that there are several Dispensations, or periods, or ages into which the history of the world has been divided by God, and of which the Scriptures speak, in each of which God acts in different methods, and on different principles towards man. The failure to recognize or understand the difference between these Dispensations, owing to the many false systems of interpretation that abound, is answerable for all the MIS-UNDERSTANDING and NON-UNDERSTANDING, as well as the PERVERSION of the Prophetic Scriptures. It has virtually turned the Scriptures upside down, by wrong interpretation of things written respecting the blessedness of the yet future Millennial Dispensation, as if they belonged to the present Dispensation. The Scriptures abundantly show that this Dispensation would be one of suffering and failure as regards the Truth and the People of God, and of increasing spiritual darkness and departure from the Truth; culminating in The Apostasy under Antichrist. Thus, Christendom as a whole, has consequently reversed God’s order of things, calling darkness, "light;" and evil, "good;" and not the least solemn thing in connection with it is, that multitudes of professing Christians love to have it so, not recognizing the departure from the Truth, nor being concerned to be kept from the world, and from false and evil doctrines.

It is spiritual madness, and evidences an absence of true spirituality, for any to attempt to walk through a period which the Scripture terms "THE DARKNESS" and "THE NIGHT" (Rom. 13:12. Eph. 5:11):if they ignore, and are indifferent to THE ONLY TRUE LIGHT (the Prophetic Word. 2 Peter 1:19) which God has given, expressly for the purpose of guiding us safely through the darkness of "this present evil age" (Gal. 1:4) forewarning us of the dangers and snares, in order that we should not be allured and deceived by any of the lights of Satan’s kindling. The effect of God’s Prophetic Light, if we would but give heed to it in our hearts, as we are exhorted to do; would be, that we should clearly see the real characteristics of the Dispensation in which we live, both as regards the Church and the World, with all their unscripturalness and evil, as well as their apostasy and doom.

Firstly we should learn that this Dispensation is not to be the period when Truth shall be supreme or triumphant in the earth, but on the contrary, that it is to be the period of the rejection of God and His Truth; that instead of progress in Truth and towards God, there is to be an awful progress in evil, and departure from God. Instead of true Christianity being universal, it will be found with the MINORITY; and indeed, that it is not God’s purpose in this Dispensation, to gather the great majority into the Church. All who have ever believed and who shall yet believe, from Adam down to the Second Coming of Christ, are but the First fruits (Rev. 14:4) as compared with the Harvest that shall be gathered during the Millennial Dispensation (Rom. 11:16, 26; Isa. 11:9; Jer. 31:31-34). Now, the Gospel is to be preached in all the world (Greek—oikoumenh/oikoumenē) FOR A WITNESS unto all Nations, and then shall the end (i.e., of this Dispensation) come (Matthew 24:14).

It is God’s purpose, we are told, to take out of the Gentiles a people for His Name (Acts 15:14), viz., the called-out-ones, the redeemed OUT of every kindred and tongue, and people, and nation (Rev. 5:9).

"Wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and MANY there be which go in thereat; because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and FEW there be that find it" (Matthew 7:13, 14). They who constitute the "LITTLE FLOCK," are exhorted not to fear, because it is the Father’s good pleasure to give them the Kingdom (Luke 12:32). "Not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble are called: but God hath chosen the foolish things of the world, to confound the wise" (1 Cor. 1:26-29). Christ Himself, when giving that prophetic outline of the history of Christendom, in the seven parables of Matthew 13; foretold what would be the result of the preaching of the Gospel during the present age. So that in these few Scriptures, we have abundant evidence that Christianity would not be universally received in the Present Dispensation; but that failure as regards anything like a universal reception of Truth, would be the character of the age in which we live.

Secondly, we should learn that true Christianity throughout the present period, is to share the suffering and rejection of Christ, who Himself was "despised and rejected of men, a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief" (Isa. 53:3). And who said, "The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of His household?"(Matthew 10:24, 25). "Because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you, . . . if they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept My saying, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for My Name’s sake." (John 15:19-21).

The Apostle Paul says in writing to the Philippians, "Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake" (Phil. 1:29). "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution" (2 Tim. 3:12). "For even hereunto were ye called; because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps" (1 Pet. 2:21). "But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy." (Read 1 Pet. 4:13-19).

And doubtless, the experience here described will be ours, in proportion as we are faithful to God and to His Truth, seeking to walk according to His Word, in separation from the abounding evil and unscripturalness of the World and the Church.

Thirdly, we should learn that a further characteristic of Christendom would be, that a false profession, and consequent corruption of Truth would abound, and would wax worse and worse until the end of this Dispensation, "When the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from Heaven with His mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of His power; when He shall come to be glorified in His saints, and to be admired in all them that believe . . . in that day" (2 Thess. 1:7-10). That will be the Millennial Morn, when shall commence the period of Truth’s supremacy and triumph.

This characteristic also, we should learn from those same seven parables of Matthew 13, in which we are taught that as soon as the good seed had been sown, the enemy would come and sow tares among the wheat, which tares are explained to be, the children of the Wicked One (v. 38). Then, that this Kingdom should grow, and become as a tree in whose branches the birds of the air (the symbol of evil men) should lodge, finding rest and shelter. Then we are taught in the next parable how that the leaven (that which corrupts—evil doctrine—Matthew 16:12) would be hidden by the woman (the symbol of the system of corrupt Christianity) in (or amongst) the meal (i.e., the pure Truth of God) till the whole was leavened or permeated with false doctrine and the "traditions of men which make the Word of God of none effect" (Mark 7:13).

And we must remember that each of these stages in the progress of evil, when once introduced, continues until the end of the age.

All this evil, the Apostle Paul also told the elders of the Church at Ephesus, should come to pass. "For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them" (Acts 20:29, 30).

And only a few years after this, we find that Jude had to exhort the Christians to contend earnestly for the Faith once delivered unto the saints, because certain men had already crept in unawares doing their deadly work (Jude 3, 4). And the Epistles abundantly testify that such would be the characteristic of the Professed Church in this Dispensation—a continual increase of evil, and departure from the Truth witness (2 Tim. 3:13). "Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived."

And again, "Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the Faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron" (1 Tim. 4:1,2; See also 2 Tim. 3:1-8). "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the Truth, and shall be turned unto fables" (2 Tim 4:3,4). "And because iniquity shall abound, the love of the many (or the greater part) shall wax cold" (Matthew 24:12).

And all this is covered over with "a form of Godliness," but a denial of the power (2 Tim. 3:5). And what will be the end of it all? Why, that those who are merely professors, who are found within the sphere of the dominion and influence of the coming Antichrist will apostatize and worship him (Rev. 13:8) and will finally share his, and the apostate nations’ doom, at the Second Coming of Christ (2 Thess. 1 and 2). The rest, who still retain the profession of Christianity, whether true or false, will constitute Christendom (in whatever part of the world they may be found) and will be dealt with separately, at the same period— "the Day of the Lord." These, who are in different parables represented under the titles of "Sheep and goats," "Wise and foolish Virgins" —(Matthew 25) as well as "Wheat and tares," will be separated by the Angels, who are to come forth as the reapers "to gather out of His (Christ’s) Kingdom, all things that offend, and them which do iniquity (i.e., the mere Professors) and shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the Kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear" (Matthew 13:41-43).

This is the picture of Gentile Christianity as given in the "Scripture of Truth;" God’s estimate of it. And we know also from the Romans 11 that it is finally to be cut off from being God’s witnessing body in the earth, because it has not continued in His goodness, even as Israel were nationally or corporately broken off from their position of blessing and honor, as God’s witnessing body, because of their unbelief; in which unbelief they will remain, "until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in," when they shall again be grafted into their own olive tree of Abrahamic blessing.

Can we then, in the face of all this Scripture light, which, as we have said, is God’s estimate of the character and condition of Christendom; can we any longer talk of progress, or imagine that there is any real advancement, corporately towards God and Truth, in the Professed Church today? For who, that has but the slightest knowledge of the methods and doctrines, of many systems or churches of Christendom (even amongst so-called Protestants) with all their worldliness, can deny that these characteristics are continually becoming more and more manifest at the present time?

Not only would a knowledge of Prophetic Truth, guide us to a right understanding of the characteristics of the Professed Church, but it would also guide us to a right estimate of the character of the World. It would teach us, not merely that it is "evil" (Gal. 1:4) being filled with unregenerate and rebellious men, haters and rejectors of God and Truth, and being under the curse—the consequence of the Fall—but also that it contains innumerable evil spirits, with Satan as their chief, whose title is, "the God of this world" [or age] (2 Cor. 4:4), "the Prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience" (Eph. 2:2).

We are told that "the whole world lieth in wickedness," or rather, in the Wicked One (1 John 5:19). And Paul exhorted the Ephesian Christians, thus, "Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil, for we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers (or rather, authorities) against the rulers of the darkness of this world (or rather, against the world rulers of this Darkness) against wicked spirits in heavenly places" (marginal reading) (Eph. 6:11, 12).

Now with this knowledge, we ought to be prepared to find, that underlying much of that which we have hitherto considered to be innocent and harmless (whether as respects the amusements, or the so-called science of the day, and the inventions of men) there would be the power of Satan. This is discerned only by the instructed Christian, but it is none the less a real and deadly power of evil, working in and amongst men; even "the working of Satan, with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness, in them that perish; because they received not the love of the Truth, that they might be saved" (2 Thess. 2:9, 10).

Are not the workings of Spiritualism, lying wonders, with all their consequent train of evils, seen in their manifold developments; such as Mesmerism, Hypnotism, Telepathy, Thought reading, and other similarly unnatural or supernatural manifestations? All of which are now sought to be explained on so-called scientific principles; and in many cases are even used by the Professing Church.

And these we must not be surprised to find, are by many received, even as the work of God: and no wonder; for the Scripture says that "Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light, etc." (2 Cor. 11:14). Then surely, it behooves us, not to be ignorant of his devices.

And in speaking of the more immediate last days (i.e. the time of the unequalled tribulation) Christ Himself said, that such great signs and wonders shall be shown, insomuch that if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect (Matthew 14:24). And we know from the Revelation, that the climax will be that Antichrist’s false Prophet, will make fire come down from Heaven on the earth in the sight of men; and will also make an Image of the Beast (Antichrist) and will have power to give breath unto the Image that it should speak, etc., and will thus "deceive them that dwell on the earth, by means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the Beast" (Rev. 13:11-18; compare with Rev. 19:19-21). And this is the picture which the Scripture gives of the World especially of the Roman World, of which England forms a part.

May we not then well ask in the words of Scripture, "What communion hath light with darkness? What concord hath Christ with Belial?" We do not need any stronger argument, why Christians should be separate from the World.

And if the professed churches of Christendom and even so-called Protestant churches and chapels of England have allied themselves with the world, adopting its principles and practices, and its science falsely so-called; then again, we say, what stronger argument do Christians want, in order to see why they should be separate from such worldly Christianity, and come out from it, and touch not the unclean thing? (see 2 Cor. 6:14-18).

Now let us beware of imagining that these things are overdrawn; or that they are far off: practically saying what Israel said when Ezekiel had to prophecy of evil and desolation— "The vision that he seeth is for many days to come, and he prophesieth of the times that are far off" (Ezek. 12:27).

And let us beware of joining in the cry of those who by their unconcern and indifference, practically say, "Where is the promise of His Coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the Creation" (2 Pet. 3:4.)

THE Prophetic Scriptures not only teach us what are the characteristics of the Church, and the World, during the present Dispensation, showing us what we should expect to see in connection with them; but it also furnishes us with a number of definite statements respecting events which are to be accomplished BEFORE the Coming of the Lord at the end of this Dispensation. These are given to us as signs of the times, that we may know when His glorious Coming is near at hand, although we know not the day nor the hour, this being purposely and wisely kept secret, and ,known only to God (Matthew 24:36).

The greater part of the unfulfilled Prophetic Scriptures, more particularly relate to the last seven years of this age, which are without doubt drawing very near to us as we may learn, by comparing the characteristics of the present time with the Prophetic Scriptures.

But without going into any minute details, which the present testimony will not admit of, we might perhaps with advantage, briefly mention some of the principal events, which we are told to expect, and exhorted to take heed unto; giving just one or two Scripture proofs of the facts stated.

No doubt we are all, more or less, acquainted with the facts of Israel s past history, and remember how that on account of their continued rebellion and idolatry, God took from them that national supremacy in the earth, which He had given to them as His people; and caused them to go into captivity, and to be scattered amongst the Nations (Amos 5:21-27; Ezek. 36:16-20; Zech. 7:9-14, etc., etc.). He removed His Glory—the symbol of His presence and favor—from among them; the departure of which, Ezekiel witnessed (Ezek. 9:3; 10:4, 18-19; 11:22-23).

And in consequence of this, God delegated National supremacy to certain Gentile Nations, the period of whose history is called in Scripture, "The times of the Gentiles" (Luke 21:24); until the fulfillment of which, Jerusalem is to be trodden down of them. These "times" commenced with Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, whose Kingdom was succeeded by the Medo-Persian, then by the Grecian, and lastly by the Roman Kingdom, under which latter Kingdom or Empire, divided as it now is into many Kingdoms; we of this present time, live. Now, the Prophetic outline of these four great Gentile Empires—to which God delegated National supremacy, in the place of Israel during the period of her rejection—are very clearly given to us in the Book of Daniel, symbolized in the second chapter, by the great Image of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream and also in the seventh chapter by the four great Beasts of Daniel’s dream.

In the vision of the Image, we are taught, by the four different metals, the character of the governmental power of these Kingdoms; the deterioration in the metals, showing the deterioration that would be found in the kind of governmental power of the successive Empires; until at last we find it represented by "iron mixed with miry clay," which is explained to be a mingling of the Kings or Rulers with the seed of men (v. 43). From this we understand that the form of governmental power during the latter part of the time of the Roman Empire, would be what has been called Popular or Democratic government; i.e., while indeed there is a nominal Sovereign or Ruler, yet the affairs of the Nations are practically, in great measure, controlled by the will or voice of the people by their vote.

Clay-iron, therefore, is to be the character of the Governments that will be found in the Ten Kingdoms, into which the Roman Earth is finally to be divided. This we learn from the ten toes of the Image (Dan. 2:41) and the ten horns of the Fourth Beast (Dan. 7:24, Rev. 17:12). Five are to be found in the Eastern, and five in the Western, division of the Empire; represented by the two feet of the Image; this ten-fold division has never yet been fulfilled; and therefore necessitates the revival of the Eastern Branch of the Roman Earth.

The vision of the four Beasts teaches us, the moral character of these four great Empires, which are estimated by God (according to their manner of using the power committed to them) as wild Beasts; the last being more dreadful and terrible in the sight of God, than the others; culminating, under Antichrist, in fearful evil against God, and His saints whose portion is one of deep suffering during this period. As saints of the High Places, however, they are finally to possess the Kingdom with Christ (Daniel 7:18,22,27).

Then, shall these saints of His, we, who by faith in the precious blood of Jesus, are yet to possess the Kingdom, reigning with Christ; shall we now, be found identified with this dreadful and terrible Fourth Beast—the governmental power to today—participating in its actings against God and His Truth and people? Our citizenship is in Heaven. (Phil. 3:20).

We must beware of seeking to reign as Kings, before the time (1 Cor. 4:8). It is for us, who are Christians, to wait in separation and patience, for the "Times of Restitution" (Acts 3:21) when the Sovereignty of the World shall become the Sovereignty of our Lord and of His Christ (Rev. 11:15). Then we shall indeed be associated with Him, in His righteous Government, when He shall unite in Himself, the Headship of the World and the Headship of the Church—Kingship and Priesthood.

We think the following remarks on this subject are conclusive: "They who are connected with ‘the Stone’ that smites the Image, should be dissociated from all which that ‘Stone’ is to destroy. They who through God’s marvelous grace are united with the Son of Man now, and will be associated with Him in the glory of His Kingdom hereafter, should be separated from all that that Kingdom will destroy with judgment, when it is manifested in its glory" (Prospects of the Ten Kingdoms, p. 294, by B. W. Newton, 1873.).

The Scripture teaches us that throughout the whole sphere of the Ancient Roman Empire, divided finally into Ten Kingdoms, is to predominate a mighty system of Commerce, in which Wickedness is said to be hidden, and which system is presently to have its center, in the yet to be restored Babylon, in the land of Shinar; this we are taught in the vision of the Ephah (the symbol of Commerce). (Zech. 5:5-11. Read also Rev. 18).

And this Babylonish-Antichristian system, which is again symbolized by the woman sitting upon a scarlet colored Beast (Rev. 18:3) is for a time to be sustained by Antichrist ("The Little Horn" that arises, or "The Beast") until he shall assume supremacy over the Ten Kings, who shall have one mind and give their power and strength unto the Beast (Rev. 17:13). Then he will reign over the whole Roman Earth, until he and his hosts shall be destroyed by the personal and glorious Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Thess. 2).

The Restoration of Israel in Unbelief, before the Coming of Christ
(This was written before 1948. "The Scattered Nation" is now "The Returning Nation.")

Another great event to be looked for is the National restoration of Israel to their own Land, before the Coming of Christ; but in UNBELIEF and FOR CHASTISEMENT. The scriptural evidences of this, are far too numerous even to quote here: but just to give one or two references, as examples, we would ask you to read and consider Ezekiel 22:13-22; The Prophecy of Joel; Zechariah chapters 12, 13, 14; Isaiah chapters 2, 3; from which we may unmistakably know, that not only will Israel be restored to their own Land, but will attain to more: than their former greatness and prosperity, and will rebuild their Temple in Jerusalem; but all this will be apart from God. Finally they will, as a people, apostatize, and make a seven years covenant with Antichrist, which he will, in the midst of it, break, and set up his Idol— "the Abomination of Desolation" in their Temple; and will then become their great Oppressor and Desolator (Daniel 9:26,27).

We also learn that judgments are to be poured out upon them for their apostasy, and that they are to pass through great tribulation such as never has been, nor shall be any more; out of which, only a remnant will be saved, who will become the nucleus of Millennial Israel, who shall at the Coming of Christ, be converted, as a Nation born in a day (Matthew 24:15-22; Dan. 12:1; Joel 2:2; Jer. 30:7-8).

Therefore we see that this return of Israel to their own Land, and the yet future division of the territorial sphere of the Ancient Roman Empire, into ten confederated Kingdoms; necessitates the revival of the Eastern Branch of the Roman Empire; of which, Babylon is to become the great center, from whence Antichrist is ultimately to rule over the whole Ten Kingdoms.

In proof that Babylon, spoken of as "The Golden City," has yet to be re-built, and attain to more than its ancient splendor; and in proof that the FINAL and COMPLETE destruction of Babylon, prophesied of, has never yet taken place; we have but to read and consider the statements of such Prophecies as Isaiah 13, 14, 47; Jeremiah 50:51; Revelation 18, etc.

But, as a faithful and deeply instructed servant of God, writing some years ago, has solemnly said:

And now let us look at one or two examples only from those Scriptures just referred to, as evidences of the FUTURITY of the complete destruction of Babylon. Read Isa. 13:20. "It

shall never be inhabited, neither shall it be dwelt in from generation to generation: neither shall the Arabian pitch tent there." Now it is a well known fact, that today, a city is built upon part of the ruins of Ancient Babylon, called Hillah, containing upwards of ten thousand inhabitants; and that the Arabian still pitches his tent amongst its ancient ruins. Again, in Jeremiah 50:46; we read "At the noise of the taking of Babylon the earth is moved, and the cry is heard among the nations." And in Jeremiah 51:8, "Babylon is suddenly fallen and destroyed;" whereas, the taking of Ancient Babylon by Darius the Median, was done secretly at night (Dan. 5:31) there being no destruction of the City, but simply a change of occupant of the throne; and Babylon prospered many years afterwards, and only gradually declined. Again, in Jeremiah 51:26, "And they shall not take of thee a stone for a corner, nor a stone for foundations; but thou shalt be desolate for ever, saith the Lord." Now, those who have traveled in the East, tell us that the City, Hillah, which is built on the site of Babylon, is largely composed of stones taken from the actual ruins of the Ancient City. Therefore we say that these few things, if there were no other proofs, put it beyond all doubt, that many of the things prophesied concerning Babylon, have never yet been accomplished. Knowing that what God hath spoken must be fulfilled in every jot and tittle, we say confidently, in the strength of the "Scripture of Truth," that Babylon has not yet received its final destruction—from which it is never to arise—and therefore must be re-built, and become the center and seat of that great commercial system of wickedness, which will finally be headed up and controlled by Antichrist, for the last seven years of this present Dispensation. So that this is another event which must be accomplished, before the Lord comes for the saints, and in judgment upon the Apostates, and for the deliverance and restoration of Israel. (All this was confirmed by Bishop Thompson’s visit to Babylon in 1950).

And we are distinctly told in Scripture that before the Day of Christ, THE APOSTASY Must FIRST come, and that THE MAN OF SIN (Antichrist) must be revealed, etc., and that he, and his hosts, are to be destroyed by the brightness of Christ’s Coming (2 Thess. 2).

It must, therefore, be plainly manifest, that they who talk of expecting Christ’s return at any moment, and in secret, are declaring that which is according to the traditions of men, which make void the Word of God; and not according to those Scriptures of Truth, which alone are to be the Christian’s standard, and guide to a right knowledge of the revealed will of God. These tell us, that His Coming is to be IMMEDIATELY AFTER the tribulation of those days. If any shall say, "Behold He is in the desert;" we are not to go forth; or if they say, "Behold He i a in the secret chambers;" we are not to believe it; for as the lightening cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the Coming of the Son of Man be (Matthew 24:26-30).

We have said that the Prophetic Scriptures show us things that are yet to be fulfilled before the Coming of the Lord in glory; and have mentioned the final division of the Roman Empire into Ten federated Kingdoms; the character of Government that will be found in those Kingdoms; the predominance of that mighty system of Commerce, in which, as God showed to the Prophet Zechariah, "Wickedness" was hidden. We have also spoken of the restoration of Israel to their own Land in unbelief and for chastisement; of the revival of the East; the rebuilding of Babylon; and of the rise and doom of Antichrist.

And if we would but read more carefully and earnestly our Bibles, we should see his character and work fully described; how that he will rise gradually into prominence, his early career being symbolized by "a Little Horn" coming up amongst the Ten Horns (i.e., the Ten Kings, Dan. 7) at first supporting the mighty Babylonish system (Rev. 17:3) which he will finally control, when the Ten Kings "have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the Beast." (v. 13). We should learn also, how fascinating, magnificent, and mighty, yet crafty and deceiving, he will be; being energized by Satan: a cruel persecutor; a blaspheming Apostate; causing those who will not worship him, to be put to death. Consequently we should see how the Nations under his control, will apostatize, and worship him and the Devil (Rev. 13:4).

We should also learn respecting the last three and a half years of this age—the period of his supreme control and reign over the Ten Kingdoms. During this time the "two witnesses" prophesy; (Rev. 11) when Christianity (represented by the "woman") will be driven out of the Roman Earth; (Rev. 12) a time of fierce persecution of the Truth and people of God, both Jew and Gentile. It is at the commencement of this period, that he breaks the seven years covenant made with Israel, and becomes their great Oppressor (Dan. 9:27; Dan. 8:9-25). Also during this period will many and fearful judgments be poured upon the earth. The last act of Antichrist will be, to gather together the Ten Kings and their armies to Armageddon (Rev. 16:14-16) purposing to cut Israel off from being a Nation; (Ps. 83 and Ps. 2) and will bring his hosts to the Valley of Jehoshaphat, where they will be met, and destroyed, by the Lord Jesus in the brightness of His glory (Joel 3; 2 Thess 2; Rev. 19).

This destruction of Antichrist and his hosts, however, will not be the first act of the Day of the Lord. The Day of the Lord will commence in Heaven, when Christ is brought before the Ancient of Days (God) and invested with the sovereignty of Earth (Dan. 7:9-14; Rev. 11:15).

The FIRST act as regards the Earth, will be concerning Christendom; namely, "the First Resurrection" (Rev. 20:4-6) which will include all who have died in faith since Adam—"they that are Christ’s at His Coming"—(1 Cor. 15:23), called also, "the Church of the first-born-ones" (Heb. 12:23). At the same time-when the trumpet shall sound—will the living saints be changed, in a moment. (Compare 1 Thess. 4:13-17, with 1 Cor. 15:51, 52). THEN will the angels (the reapers of the harvest) come forth and separate the tares (mere professors) from the wheat (true believers) and will gather together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them. (See Matthew 13:30,41,42). THEN will the changed ones, together with the raised dead, be caught up to meet the Lord in the air (1 Thess. 4:17). From thence they will descend with Christ to the earth, in glory, when He will execute judgment upon the wicked; (Zech. 14:5; Col. 3:4; Jude 14; Isa. 24:21; 26:21) and bind Satan for a thousand years (Rev. 20:2,3). The spared remnant of Israel, will then be converted at once, as a Nation born in a day (Isa. 10:20-23; 31:4,5; 66:5-24).

Thus will the: Millennial reign of Christ he inaugurated upon God’s holy hill of Zion (Ps. 2:6; Isa. 11) and "the Church of the first-born ones" (Heb. 12:23), the Heavenly branch of His Kingdom, will reign with Him a thousand years (Rev. 20:4; Dan. 7:18,22,27) from the Heavenly Jerusalem above: whilst Israel on the earth, who will then form the earthly branch of Christ’s Kingdom, will be a righteous Nation, a Kingdom of Priests (Isa. 26:2; 60; 61; 62; Rev. 5:10) to whom shall be the first dominion (Micah 4:8). The Gentile Nations shall be subject to them, and blessed through them (Isa. 14:1-3; 49:22,23; chapter 60; Ps. 67), Jerusalem and Zion being the recognized center of the Earth’s Government (Isa. 2:2, 3; Jer. 3:17; Zech. 14:16-19). Creation shall be delivered from its groan, from the bondage of corruption (Rom. 8:19-23; Isa. 9:6-9). Truth shall be triumphant, and righteousness and peace shall go forth from Jerusalem (Ps. 72 & Ps. 85). Yet, although thus blessed, the Millennium will not be a Perfect state; for although Satan will be bound, the innate evil of man’s heart will still be working; (Isa 45:20; Zech. 14:17-19) some will yield a feigned obedience (Ps. 18:44, margin). At the close, Satan will be loosed for a season, and will go forth to deceive the Nations again, and gather them together to battle, and they will compass the Citadel of the Saints about, and the Beloved City, and fire will come down from God out of Heaven and devour them (Rev. 20:7-9).

The Millennial Dispensation will close with the Last Resurrection; and the Judgment of the Great White Throne; when Satan and all the wicked, will be cast into the lake of fire—the Second Death—and be tormented for ever and ever. (Rev. 20:10-15; John 5:28, 29; Rev. 21:8).

"Then cometh the end," when this Adamic Creation, shall be burned up, and pass away; no place being found for it; (2 Pet. 3:10-12; Rev. 20:11; 21:1) and when Christ will deliver up the Kingdom to God, even the Father, that God may be all in all (1 Cor. 15:24-28).

And all things will be made new. God will create a New Heaven and a New Earth (Rev. 21:1, 5; Isa. 65:17), into which, John, in the prophetic vision, saw the New Jerusalem descend, coming down from God out of Heaven (Rev. 21:2, 10, to 22:5) and wherein righteousness shall DWELL (2 Pet. 3:13) this will be the Eternal Home and inheritance of all the redeemed, with Christ.

Now all that we have said here, about the future, is but a mere outline of what the Prophetic Scriptures would teach us, if we would but give them even half the consideration that we do the affairs of this world, that concern our present comfort. Let no one imagine that the Scriptures quoted in support of these things are all that can be cited, for they are only examples, which if considered, would lead to a multitude of other Scriptures, which would abundantly confirm, and fill in the details concerning, all the events to which we have but merely referred.

Now let us briefly sum up, in our minds, the things of which we have thus far spoken; and let us consider what the state of the Professing Church is, to day, as viewed by God.

Think of all the worldliness connected with what are called "places of worship," with all their amusements; their many man-invented and man-pleasing contrivances, to maintain their hold upon the people. Think of all the false and unscriptural teaching of the man-made ministers of Christendom, both in the Established Church, and in Dissent; with all their manifest ignorance, or rejection of, definite Truth, as contained in God’s pure and Holy Word.

Think of all the sentimentalism, which constitutes by far the greater part of present-day Christianity; and of the utter indifference of professing Christians as to whether what is taught, is in accordance with the Word of God, or not.

And then remember, what God has forewarned us would be the characteristics of the Professing Church in these "last days" —evil waxing worse and worse, until the close of the age: God’s true children being in the minority and in suffering, rejected and despised, and even by Professing Christians, for the sake of the Truth. Think of all that He has told us would be found in the world, as well as in the Church—lying wonders working with all deceivableness; hatred of God and His Truth; the love of the greater part, even of Christians, waxing cold. Think of all the Prophetic instruction and warning given, concerning the end and doom of the wicked, both of the apostate nations, and of false professors.

Then, when we have considered these things, let us as Christians, ask ourselves: what should be the reasonable result of our salvation? What should be our position in relation to these things which are UNSCRIPTURAL, and THEREFORE EVIL; and in relation to those who hold false doctrine, and reject the Truth of God; and to those who associate with such as do these things?

Are we left to please ourselves, and to consider our own present comfort and ease concerning these things?

We must remember, that if we are truly God’s children, we are not our own; we are bought with a price, and should therefore glorify God in our body, and in our spirit, which are God’s (1 Cor. 6:20).

Again, are we to be peace-at-any-price Christians; deeming what men call peace and quietness, to be of the first importance, and regarding the interests of definite Truth—contention for the Faith once delivered to the saints—as of only secondary importance? What saith the Scripture? "Earnestly contend for the Faith which was once delivered to the saints" (Jude 3). "Hold fast the form of sound words" (2 Tim 1:13). "If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ and to the doctrine which is according to godliness . . . from such withdraw thyself" (1 Tim. 6:3-5).

And have we considered the force and importance of the words of Jesus who said, "Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I come not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law, and a man’s foes shall be they of his own household. He that loveth father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.

And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after Me, is not worthy of Me. He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for My sake, shall find it" (Matthew 10:34-39).

Do not the Scriptures clearly teach us that there is RESPONSIBILITY AND INVOLVEMENT attaching to us, BY ASSOCIATION or connection with evil, whether in doctrine or practice?

Listen to the inspired testimony of the Apostle John! "He that biddeth him (i.e., any who hold unsound doctrine—see context) God speed, is PARTAKER of his evil deeds." (2 John 10 11).

"Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good." (3 John 11). And speaking of those (professing Christians) who have the form of Godliness but deny the power thereof, the Apostle Paul writes, "from such, turn away" (2 Tim. 3:5).

And again, "I beseech you brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences CONTRARY TO THE DOCTRINE which ye have learned; and avoid them." (Rom. 16:17). And then in that practical warning to those who may be found in the closing days of this age, in the midst of Babylon, when it shall have become the seat of the Apostasy; God says through the Apostle John, to such, "Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not o f her plagues." (Rev. 18:4). Now we ask, what can possibly teach more plainly, the RESPONSIBILITY AND INVOLVEMENT of God’s children, THROUGH ASSOCIATION with evil?

Then we must draw your attention to yet one other most definite and imperative exhortation of the Holy Ghost, through the Apostle Paul, to the Corinthians; namely, that found in his second Epistle chapter 6:14-18. "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? Or what part hath he that believeth with an unbeliever? (R. V.). And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. WHEREFORE come out from among them, and be ye SEPARATE, saith the Lord, and TOUCH NOT the unclean; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty."

And this is written to the professing people of God, in regard chiefly to the worship and service of God, as may be clearly seen by the context. Hence its great importance to God’s people with respect to their connection or fellowship with any of the professing Christian bodies, with whom they associate: teaching us most distinctly and solemnly, the call of God to His people to separate from all the evil that is here described. And so abhorrent is all this unholy alliance or association with evil, that He regards it as seeking to link Christ with Satan, and asks "what concord hath Christ with Belial"?

Now, if RESPONSIBILITY BY ASSOCIATION with unscriptural doctrine and practices, is not taught here; what could the Apostle mean by saying "Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean"? Would he not rather have said, "remain where you are, do not separate from association with those who teach error and adopt unscriptural practices; but try and convert to the Truth those with whom you are linked, without being too severe, too decided or antagonistic to the evil?" This no doubt, is the language, or unspoken thought, of many of God’s people today; who, while recognizing very much that is unscriptural in many sects and denominations of Christendom, vet do not recognize their responsibility and involvement by continuing amongst them.

Listen to his exhortation to the Ephesians (chapter 5). "Have NO FELLOWSHIP with the unfruitful works of darkness (or, as it should more correctly be, the Darkness) but rather reprove them." And what is this "Darkness"? It is a description of "this Present evil day," in which we live. The context explains what the character of the Darkness is—it is a state of disobedience to God—(Eph. 5:6). Speaking of the children of disobedience, the Apostle says, "Be ye not therefore partakers with them, for ye were sometimes (i.e., in time past, like them) darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord." Darkness is therefore, that which is opposed to the Light of the Lord, the Light of His Truth, and verse 10 shows us that it is the reverse of proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. So we see it is a state of unconcern as to what the will of the Lord is for His children; the result of which, is, neglect of His Word. Surely, this is Darkness. And what more applicable description can we truthfully give, of the religiousness of the present day, if viewed from the only proper and true standpoint— "The Scripture of Truth."

Take Christendom as a whole; is it not one vast mass of religious corruption, leavened with evil doctrine and practice? When contrasted with the true mission and early standing of the Church in the days of the Apostles, it can only truthfully be described, as in a condition of complete ruin; in which we are all involved, and consequently suffer loss. Where is the true and humble submission in heart and practice, to the Word of God, which ought to characterize God’s people? Where is the effort, or even the desire to regulate our lives, practically, according to the principles of His Word? On the contrary, is there not on every hand, an awful and presumptive assertiveness on the part of professing Christians, setting up all kinds of man-invented theories to suit various fancies, opinions and ideas; and is not the claim practically put forth, that every one has a right to believe what he likes, and reject or neglect whatever clashes with his own thoughts, as though there were no such thing as definite and certain Truth? And this arises, either through the unregeneracy of the mere professor, or on the part of the child of God, through the needless ignorance of the principles of Truth (the result of neglect of the Word); failing to heed what the Holy Ghost has said through the Apostle Paul, that "ALL SCRIPTURE is given by inspiration of God and Is PROFITABLE": as witness those solemn words spoken through David— "THOU HAST MAGNIFIED THY WORD ABOVE ALL THY NAME." (Ps. 138:2).

And is it not the darkness of disobedience and unbelief, to neglect that which God has so highly exalted, and declared to be inspired by Himself, and profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, in order that the man of God may he perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works? And especially that part—the Prophetic part—concerning which He says, "Whereunto ye do well that ye take heed in your hearts, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until The Day dawn and The Day-Star arise." Then be assured that wherever there is found that which is contrary to the principles or teaching of the Word of God; unscriptural doctrine or practice, and laxity or indifference concerning what is taught—there is to be seen disobedience to God, which is this "Darkness," with which, God has exhorted His children to have "NO FELLOWSHIP," but to be separate from, and reprove.

Therefore, if by association with any of the professing bodies of Christendom, holding unscriptural doctrine, the Lord regards us as having fellowship with them in their works, and as becoming partakers of their evil; shall we continue to despise and set aside these solemn exhortations. God is calling us to separation from the evil, to guide our steps into the way of Truth, and preserve our feet from falling into the snares of the devil, lest any of us should be found connected with these awful systems, which either pervert or deny His Holy and Precious Truth.

Alas, these systems which now surround us, are ever increasing in evil, and will increase until the consummation, when, under Antichrist, multitudes who are merely professors will finally apostatize from even a profession of the name of Christ for we are told in Revelation 13:8, that "all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him (Antichrist) whose names are not written from the foundation of the world, in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain." Antichrist! whom the Lord shall destroy with the brightness of His Coming. (2 Thess. 2).

Shall we then continue, in the face of these solemn exhortations, our association with those who even assent to these awful departures from the Revealed Word of God; and so incur with them responsibility to God, and involvement in the consequent judgments under which such stand, and which will sooner or later, surely fall upon all who remain associated with the evils found in these systems.

Shall we willfully close our eyes to our responsibility and involvement in thus remaining in such associations, and refuse to heed the solemn call of God to His children, to come out from among them, and be separate, and touch not the unclean?

If Christians had any right estimate of the true character of Christendom, as God views it, and as described by Him in His Word; and really believed and understood the certain and awful doom which is hanging over it only waiting for the full development of the evil; it would solemnize their minds, and make them feel the urgent need of standing apart from the evil, in separation unto God and His Truth. Whatever isolation and suffering it might bring upon them, they would feel it their duty to testify against its spirit, its principles and methods.

We humbly pray that the Lord might deliver His people from all participation in the present evils, which are surely and rapidly leading on to the great final Apostasy; by permitting them in mercy, to see the responsibility of association with evil; and thus save themselves from being thereby Partakers of its sins and from receiving of its Plagues. (Rev. 18:4) when the judgments of that day—the Day of the Lord—shall be poured out upon this fearful system of the devil.

But alas! does it not seem that the present state, not only of Christendom at large, but also of the greater part even of God’s own true children, might be fitly described in the words addressed to the Church in Laodicea? (Rev. 3:14-22). Is there not manifest amongst us, and that, very extensively, a deplorable state of lukewarmness in this matter, even amongst many of those who recognize to some extent, the corrupt and fallen state of the Church of God? Oh that such might use the eyesalve of a sincere searching and inquiring into the Word of God, with a real desire to know what the ways and will of God are. They would then be able truly to see the course and end of this age; and be able in some measure to comprehend God’s estimate of the Professing Church, and its innumerable unscriptural principles and methods—its hypocrisy and its wickedness.

But instead of this, there is almost everywhere the self-satisfied state, which practically says, "I am rich and increased with goods, and have need of nothing;" while God is saying concerning such; "and knowest not —that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked." (Rev. 3:17).

Can we then any longer sit down in ease and seek arguments to persuade ourselves that it is of no great importance whether we continue to be linked with such bodies, who are acting against God? Have we forgotten those solemn words of our Lord, "He that is not with Me, is against Me"? Oh what a solemn and dangerous position!

Can any Christian really contemplate such a a position, with any true realization of its sclemnity, and not seek by all possible means, and without delay, to be delivered from it; to seek to cut the link of union and responsibility that holds them?

And can we fail to see, that such is the real position of those who are associated with the unscriptural and worldly—religious systems of Christendom, from whence continually arises so much that, though "HIGHLY ESTEEMED AMONG MEN," yet, IS ABOMINATION IN THE SIGHT OF GOD?"

Now the question comes; do we accept these truths; do we acknowledge the presence of the evil, and do we recognize the responsibility and involvement of association with it?

And if our answer is, Yes, I do, I must believe it, I cannot do otherwise; then we must faithfully ask ourselves the important question; what are we going to do with the truth about these things? Are we going to permit it to have its right and proper effect, and PROVE our belief in the Truths we profess, by giving PRACTICAL testimony to them? That is, are we willing to take the step of separation from the evil?

In such a question as this, we have to thank God that He has not left us without guidance in His Holy Word, but has graciously given us principles upon which He desires His children to act, and has also recorded the actions of His servants for our example and encouragement.

One principle is, unquestioning obedience to His expressed wish— "the obedience of faith."

And we have a beautiful example in faithful (i.e. faith-possessing) Abraham.

God called him to separate from his country, his kindred, and even from his father’s house, and gave him promises of blessing but no immediate or visible evidences of the blessing; and the Holy Ghost declares concerning him, that he "obeyed, and went out, not knowing whither he went." (Heb. 11:8). No staying to ask, "but what shall I do, if I leave and sever myself from all my relations? Where shall I find a home? What will become of me?" No, he believed God, and without questioning, "he went out;" and that was as far as he could see then. He left the future with God, in whom he trusted, he stepped outside his country and from his old associations, "not knowing whither he went;" relying upon a covenant-keeping God, and ever waiting for God’s guidance and direction, step by step, not knowing the way. All was new; all was strange; and doubtless he was misunderstood by all those whom he left behind, in the land of idolatry; but having faith he obeyed. He clearly saw the ONE STEP—separation from that which had been his home, and his all—and he took that one step in faith, not knowing what it would mean, what trials, what tests; nor fully, what blessed experiences would be his.

What are we going to do? It is a solemn and urgent question, and one that each child of God, who has come to a measure of the knowledge of His Truth, and of the abounding evil, must answer for himself to God. The responsibility of acting in accordance with light received, rests upon those who have the light.

The question remains—Where aye we going to take our stand? Is it to be with the despised "few," on the side of God and His down-trodden Truth, willing to have fellowship with Jesus in His suffering and rejection at the hands of men, and even His own professed people, the great ones of Christendom; and to be esteemed fools, narrow-minded, bigoted and of weak intellect, if not absolutely mad? Are we prepared to take such a position, refusing to be associated with all that the Christianity of today calls good and great; choosing rather, if need be, to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season, esteeming the reproach of (or for) Christ, greater riches than the treasures in Egypt, having respect unto the recompense of the reward; and thus gaining that conscious blessing which is the result of "the obedience of faith"?

Or, shall we still go on to delude ourselves; admiring and associating ourselves with, all the worldly greatness of the Truth-rejecting and Truth-perverting Christianity (so-called) with which we are surrounded today; receiving the approbation and praise of men, who exalt error, calling philanthropy, "Christianity," and latitudinarianism (i.e. that broad comprehensiveness which embraces every shade and form of doctrine and practice) "Christian charity;" and so practically place ourselves on the side of Satan and his lie? Which?

It is now for us each, to CONSIDER and ACT. To consider whether we are going to put God and His Truth FIRST; or, our present comfort and ease in our social and religious circles: whether we shall seek peace at the expense or sacrifice of Truth, and so be peace-at-any-price men and women; or whether we shall seek the true peace—the result of the obedience of faith—the peace of God which passeth all understanding?

It is an individual matter to be considered as in the sight of an all-searching God, remembering the words of Christ, "He that is not with Me is against Me, and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad." And although we may rejoice and praise God that He is longsuffering, and full of compassion, and plenteous in mercy, and remembereth that we are dust; yet we must seek, not to be found presuming upon His tender mercy and gentleness; but rather, that we may know, and have grace to do, His will.

And then, having considered, it but remains for us to ACT. For it is useless to remain in a camp, where all is insubordination and rebellion against authority and rule; and simply declare that we take no part, nor have any sympathy with the insubordination and rebellion, and imagine that we can thus escape the responsibility.

We must act, by coming outside the camp, and thus practically take our stand, and testify against the evil within, by our act of separation, not shunning to declare our reasons for such action. Thus only, can we be freed from the just charge of being partakers with the evil, and from the responsibility which such connection or association must bring.

And if we consider this question, in the light of the unspeakable and eternal blessings, which are ours through the everlasting grace, mercy, and love of God in Christ Jesus, as strangers and pilgrims on the earth, seeking a better Country, that is an Heavenly, a City prepared by God; is it not really a blessed position?

As one has well said, "Was it not a blessed thing to be such a Prophet as Zechariah? Was it not a blessed thing to be such a Prophet as Jeremiah, or Isaiah, witnesses for God’s Truth in the midst of a disobedient and gainsaying people? Is there no honor in such a place? Would we not desire it?"

And shall we less esteem, or desire, fellowship with our Lord and Savior, who suffered all (by rejection, reproach, and at last, death) for us? Now although we speak of the honor and blessedness of the place of separation from the worldly—religiousness of Christendom yet we must not delude ourselves by imagining that it is a place of ease and peace as regards our attitude towards the world, or towards the professed people of God and their maxims and practice; for, to be faithful, we must say, we shall have to face many difficulties, many obstacles, and possibly endure suffering. As a faithful servant of God has pointed out, "true and humble separation unto God, must bring us oft-times into antagonism and opposition to all that the world and worldly—Christianity calls good, great and wise." Whereas their cry, the false cry of the worldly-wise, and the religious teachers of Christendom, will be—peace! peace!! ours must be—woe! woe!! to the inhabitants of the earth, to the nations that forget God and despise His Truth, and to the majority of Christendom, who will presently yield themselves to the coming Antichrist, in the great final Apostasy, which is yet surely and awfully to be destroyed by the wrath of God and of the Lamb. And then will men call upon the rocks to fall on them and hide them from the face of Him that sitteth on, the Throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb; for the great day of their wrath will have come and who shall be able to stand? And can we have fellowship with the systems that lead to such an end as this? God forbid!

"If we resist not evil in its incipient forms, we have little reason to think that we shall withstand its final aggregation" (Babylon and Egypt, p. 566, B. W. Newton, 1890).

"Faith discerns in the incipient form of things, features which the world discerns not till the hour of matured development, and faith acts accordingly" (Thoughts on Isaiah, p. 30, B. W. Newton, 1894.)

In conclusion, we must say, we feel there can be no doubt in the minds of any of God’s children, who are in any measure acquainted with the things of which we have spoken, that the world with all its arrangements and systems, is fast becoming more and more manifestly under the power and control of Satan and his host of evil spirits; and that spiritual darkness has well nigh universally set in upon the Professing Church. There remains, alas, very very few who are prepared really to submit themselves to the Truth of God, and seek to give the right effect to their professed faith, by striving to walk in the footsteps of Truth, without the camp, willing to bear reproach. for Christ’s sake.

Therefore we feel that it behooves us, and all who have the interest of God and His Truth at heart, to seek to discover where the true servants of God aye; where the Truth is really known and loved, in order that we may be associated with such, that we be not found fighting, even unwittingly, against God. And shall we not do well to ask ourselves the reproving question that Jehu the seer, put to Jehoshaphat King of Judah, who had formed an unholy alliance with Ahab King of Israel, namely: Shouldest thou help the ungodly and love them that hate the Lord?" (2 Chron. 19:2). Shall we not rather seek to have fellowship with David and with David’s Lord, who said, concerning those who are the enemies of God and of His Truth, I count them mine enemies" (Ps. 139:21,22); and with Christ when He said— "Whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is My brother, and My sister and mother." (Mark 3:35).

We feel and would say with a departed servant of God, "IT BEHOOVES US TO TAKE HEED THAT NO SELF-INTEREST, NO ATTACHMENT TO INDIVIDUALS OR TO SYSTEMS, INTERFERE WITH OUR SUPREME ATTACHMENT TO REVEALED TRUTH."

Such we trust is our humble desire; and also that God may be pleased in His sovereign love and great mercy, to grant unto His children, true eyesalve that they may SEE the evils of Christendom, and ESTIMATE them according to the estimate of God, and then seek to STAND IN SEPARATION from them, and cleave with all sincerity, unto the Truth.

We would add, that what we have written is but a very imperfect outline of the important Truths of God’s Word; for we are conscious of much failure and feebleness of testimony, and make no claim or pretence to any ministerial position: but if God shall be pleased in His wisdom and grace to own and bless our testimony to any, and bring them into a more practical fellowship with Himself in separation from the evil; then we must ask such, to join us in ascribing all the praise to His Name, to whom alone it is due.

And we would very earnestly recommend (which we do with great confidence) the writings of the late Mr. BENJAMIN WILLS NEWTON, as the most scriptural, faithful and clear expositions of the Truth of God, that can anywhere be found; equally as regards its doctrinal, prophetical, and practical parts; to which, under the blessing of God, we owe a great debt, and which we thankfully acknowledge. We would especially commend to those who may be concerned to understand more fully, the character and condition of Christendom, Babylon and Egypt, their future and doom.

"The NIGHT is far sent, the DAY is at hand: let us therefore cast of the works of (the) DARKNESS, and let us put on the armour of LIGHT." (Rom. 13:12).

Providence Baptist Ministries © 2006 PBM Desktop Publications © 2006 All rights reserved Revised: February 14, 2005