Chapter 29—Snares of Satan
I saw that Satan bade his angels lay their snares especially for those
who were looking for Christ’s second appearing, and keeping all the
commandments of God. Satan told his angels that the churches were
asleep. He would increase his power and lying wonders, and he could
hold them. “But,” he said, “the sect of Sabbathkeepers we hate; they
are continually working against us, and taking from us our subjects,
to keep the hated law of God. Go, make the possessors of lands and
money drunk with cares. If you can make them place their affections
upon these things, we shall have them yet. They may profess what
they please, only make them care more for money than for the success
of Christ’s kingdom or the spread of the truths we hate. Present the
world before them in the most attractive light, that they may love and
idolize it.
“We must keep in our ranks all the means of which we can gain
control. The more means the followers of Christ devote to His service,
the more will they injure our kingdom by getting our subjects. As
they appoint meetings in different places, we are in danger. Be very
vigilant then. Cause disturbance and confusion if possible. Destroy
love for one another. Discourage and dishearten their ministers; for we
hate them. Present every plausible excuse to those who have means,
lest they hand it out. Control the money matters if you can, and drive
their ministers to want and distress. This will weaken their courage
and zeal. Battle every inch of ground. Make covetousness and love of
earthly treasures the ruling traits of their character. As long as these
traits rule, salvation and grace stand back.
“Crowd every attraction around them, and they will be surely ours.
And not only are we sure of them, but their hateful influence will not
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be exercised to lead others to heaven. When any shall attempt to give,
put within them a grudging disposition, that it may be sparingly.”
I saw that Satan carries out his plans well. As the servants of God
appoint meetings, Satan with his angels is on the ground to hinder the
work. He is constantly putting suggestions into the minds of God’s
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