Chapter 29—A Firm Platform
I saw a company who stood well guarded and firm, and would
give no countenance to those who would unsettle the established faith
of the body. God looked upon them with approbation. I was shown
three steps—one, two and three—the first, second and third angels’
messages. Said the angel, Woe to him who shall move a block, or stir a
pin in these messages. The true understanding of these messages is of
vital importance. The destiny of souls hangs upon the manner in which
they are received. I was again brought down through these messages,
[169]
and saw how dearly the people of God had purchased their experience.
It had been obtained through much suffering and severe conflict. Step
by step had God brought them along, until he had placed them upon a
solid, immovable platform. Then I saw individuals as they approached
the platform, before stepping upon it examine the foundation. Some
with rejoicing immediately stepped upon it. Others commenced to find
fault with the laying of the foundation of the platform. They wished
improvements made, and then the platform would be more perfect, and
the people much happier. Some stepped off the platform and examined
it, then found fault with it, declaring it to be laid wrong. I saw that
nearly all stood firm upon the platform, and exhorted others who had
stepped off to cease their complaints, for God was the master-builder,
and they were fighting against him. They recounted the wonderful
work of God, which had led them to the firm platform, and in union
nearly all raised their eyes to heaven, and with a loud voice glorified
God. This affected some of those who had complained, and left the
platform, and again they with humble look stepped upon it.
I was pointed back to the proclamation of the first advent of Christ.
John was sent in the spirit and power of Elijah to prepare the way for
Jesus’ coming. Those who rejected the testimony of John were not
[170]
benefited by the teachings of Jesus. Their opposition to the proclama-
tion of his first advent placed them where they could not readily receive
the strongest evidence of his being the Messiah. Satan led on those
who rejected the message of John to go still further, to reject Jesus and
111