In the Regions Beyond
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lasting influence upon the converts. They prized the precious truths
for which the apostles had sacrificed so much, and gave themselves
with wholehearted devotion to the cause of their Redeemer.
That this church did not escape persecution is shown by an ex-
pression in Paul’s letter to them. He says, “Unto you it is given in
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the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for
His sake; having the same conflict which ye saw in me.” Yet such was
their steadfastness in the faith that he declares, “I thank my God upon
every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all
making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the
first day until now.”
Philippians 1:29, 30, 3-5
.
Terrible is the struggle that takes place between the forces of
good and of evil in important centers where the messengers of truth
are called upon to labor. “We wrestle not against flesh and blood,”
declares Paul, “but against principalities, against powers, against the
rulers of the darkness of this world.”
Ephesians 6:12
. Till the close of
time there will be a conflict between the church of God and those who
are under the control of evil angels.
The early Christians were often called to meet the powers of dark-
ness face to face. By sophistry and by persecution the enemy endeav-
ored to turn them from the true faith. At the present time, when the
end of all things earthly is rapidly approaching, Satan is putting forth
desperate efforts to ensnare the world. He is devising many plans
to occupy minds and to divert attention from the truths essential to
salvation. In every city his agencies are busily organizing into parties
those who are opposed to the law of God. The archdeceiver is at work
to introduce elements of confusion and rebellion, and men are being
fired with a zeal that is not according to knowledge.
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Wickedness is reaching a height never before attained, and yet
many ministers of the gospel are crying, “Peace and safety.” But
God’s faithful messengers are to go steadily forward with their work.
Clothed with the panoply of heaven, they are to advance fearlessly and
victoriously, never ceasing their warfare until every soul within their
reach shall have received the message of truth for this time.
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