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Testimonies for the Church Volume 2
were not responsible for the light which they did not have. They had
the Bible, as we have; but the time for the unfolding of special truth
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in relation to the closing scenes of this earth’s history is during the
last generations that shall live upon the earth.
Special truths have been adapted to the conditions of the genera-
tions as they have existed. The present truth, which is a test to the
people of this generation, was not a test to the people of generations
far back. If the light which now shines upon us in regard to the Sab-
bath of the fourth commandment had been given to the generations
in the past, God would have held them accountable for that light.
When the temple of God was opened in heaven, John saw in
holy vision a class of people whose attention was arrested and who
were looking with reverential awe at the ark, which contained the
law of God. The special test upon the fourth commandment did not
come until after the temple of God was opened in heaven.
Those who died before the light was given upon the law of God
and the claims of the fourth commandment were not guilty of the sin
of violating the seventh-day Sabbath. The wisdom and mercy of God
in dispensing light and knowledge at the proper time, as the people
need it, is unsearchable. Previous to His coming to judge the world
in righteousness, He sends forth a warning to arouse the people and
call their attention to their neglect of the fourth commandment, that
they may be enlightened, and may repent of their transgression of His
law, and prove their allegiance to the great Lawgiver. He has made
provision that all may be holy and happy if they choose. Sufficient
light has been given to this generation, that we may learn what our
duties and privileges are, and enjoy the precious and solemn truths
in their simplicity and power.
We are accountable only for the light that shines upon us. The
commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus are testing us. If
we are faithful and obedient, God will delight in us, and bless us
as His own chosen peculiar people. When perfect faith and perfect
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love and obedience abound, working in the hearts of those who are
Christ’s followers, they will have a powerful influence. Light will
emanate from them, dispelling the darkness around them, refining
and elevating all who come within the sphere of their influence,
and bringing to a knowledge of the truth all who are willing to be
enlightened and to follow in the humble path of obedience.