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Testimonies for the Church Volume 5
The word of God is not silent in regard to this momentous time, and
it will be understood by all who do not resist His Spirit by determining
not to hear, not to receive, not to obey. The Lord’s messages of
light have been before us for years; but there have been influences
working indirectly to make of no effect the warnings coming through
the Sentinel and the Testimonies, and through other instrumentalities
which the Lord sends to His people. Much more might have been done
with the Sentinel if these counterinfluences had not been at work to
hinder it. Even though nothing may be said against it, actions reveal
the indifference that is felt. And so long as the watchmen do not give
the trumpet a certain sound, the people are not alarmed and are not on
the lookout for danger.
The rebuke of God is upon us because of our neglect of solemn
responsibilities. His blessings have been withdrawn because the testi-
monies He has given have not been heeded by those who professed to
believe them. Oh, for a religious awakening! The angels of God are
going from church to church, doing their duty; and Christ is knocking
at the door of your hearts for entrance. But the means that God has
devised to awaken the church to a sense of their spiritual destitution
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have not been regarded. The voice of the True Witness has been heard
in reproof, but has not been obeyed. Men have chosen to follow their
own way instead of God’s way because self was not crucified in them.
Thus the light has had but little effect upon minds and hearts.
Will the people of God now arouse from their carnal lethargy? Will
they make the most of present blessings and warnings, and let nothing
come between their souls and the light God would have shine upon
them? Let every worker for God comprehend the situation and place
the Sentinel before our churches, explaining its contents and urging
home the facts and warnings it contains. May the Lord help all to
redeem the time! Let not unsanctified feelings lead any to resist the
appeals of the Spirit of God. Stand not in the way of this light; let it
not be disregarded or set aside as unworthy of attention or credence.
If you wait for light to come in a way that will please everyone, you
will wait in vain. If you wait for louder calls or better opportunities,
the light will be withdrawn, and you will be left in darkness. Accept
every ray of light that God sends. Men who neglect to heed the calls of
the Spirit and word of God, because obedience involves a cross, will
lose their souls. When the books are opened, and every man’s work