Chapter 33—The Sins of Babylon
I saw the state of the different churches since the second angel
proclaimed their fall. They have been growing more and more corrupt;
yet they bear the name of being Christ’s followers. It is impossible
to distinguish them from the world. Their ministers take their text
from the Word, but preach smooth things. The natural heart feels no
objection to this. It is only the spirit and power of the truth, and the
salvation of Christ, that is hateful to the carnal heart. There is nothing
in the popular ministry that stirs the wrath of Satan, makes the sinner
tremble, or applies to the heart and conscience the fearful realities of a
judgment soon to come. Wicked men are generally pleased with a form
without true godliness, and they will aid and support such a religion.
Said the angel, Nothing less than the whole armor of righteousness can
overcome, and retain the victory over the powers of darkness. Satan
has taken full possession of the churches as a body. The sayings and
doings of men are dwelt upon instead of the plain cutting truths of the
word of God. Said the angel, The friendship and spirit of the world are
at enmity with God. When truth in its simplicity and strength, as it is
in Jesus, is brought to bear against the spirit of the world, it awakens
[190]
the spirit of persecution at once. Many, very many, who profess to be
Christians, have not known God. The character of the natural heart
has not been changed, and the carnal mind remains at enmity with
God. They are Satan’s own faithful servants, notwithstanding they
have assumed another name.
I saw that since Jesus had left the Holy place of the heavenly
Sanctuary, and had entered within the second vail, the churches were
left as were the Jews; and they have been filling up with every unclean
and hateful bird. I saw great iniquity and vileness in the churches; yet
they profess to be Christians. Their profession, their prayers and their
exhortations, are an abomination in the sight of God. Said the angel,
God will not smell in their assemblies. Selfishness, fraud and deceit
are practiced by them without the reprovings of conscience. And over
all these evil traits they throw the cloak of religion. I was shown the
125