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The Great Controversy 1888
into the observance of forms, and the spirit of vital godliness will
disappear. This truth has been repeatedly illustrated in the history of
the church. God requires of his people works of faith and obedience
corresponding to the blessings and privileges bestowed. Obedience
requires a sacrifice and involves a cross; and this is why so many of the
professed followers of Christ refused to receive the light from Heaven,
and, like the Jews of old, knew not the time of their visitation. [
Luke
19:44
.] Because of their pride and unbelief, the Lord passed them by
and revealed his truth to those who, like the shepherds of Bethlehem
and the Eastern magi, had given heed to all the light they had received.
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