Basic HTML Version
Great Apostasy
205
I saw that at last the standard was lowered, and that the heathen
were uniting with the Christians. Although these worshipers of idols
professed to be converted, they brought their idolatry with them into
the church, only changing the objects of their worship to images of
saints, and even of Christ and of Mary His mother. As the followers
of Christ gradually united with them, the Christian religion became
corrupted and the church lost its purity and power. Some refused
to unite with them; such preserved their purity and worshiped God
alone. They would not bow down to an image of anything in the
heavens above or in the earth beneath.
Satan exulted over the fall of so many; and then he stirred up the
fallen church to force those who would preserve the purity of their
religion either to yield to their ceremonies and image worship or be
put to death. The fires of persecution were again kindled against the
true church of Christ, and millions were slain without mercy.
It was presented before me in the following manner: A large
company of heathen idolaters bore a black banner, upon which were
figures of the sun, moon, and stars. This company seemed to be very
fierce and angry. I was then shown another company bearing a pure
white banner, upon which was written, “Purity and holiness unto the
Lord.” Their countenances were marked with firmness and heavenly
[212]
resignation. I saw the heathen idolaters approach them, and there
was a great slaughter. The Christians melted away before them; and
yet the Christian company pressed the more closely together, and
held the banner more firmly. As many fell, others rallied around the
banner and filled their places.
I saw the company of idolaters consulting together. Failing to
make the Christians yield, they agreed to another plan. I saw them
lower their banner and then approach that firm Christian company
and make propositions to them. At first their propositions were ut-
terly refused. Then I saw the Christian company consulting together.
Some said that they would lower the banner, accept the propositions,
and save their lives, and at last they could gain strength to raise their
banner among the heathen. A few, however, would not yield to this
plan, but firmly chose to die holding their banner rather than to lower
it. Then I saw many lower the banner and unite with the heathen;
but the firm and steadfast would again seize it and bear it on high.
I saw that persons were continually leaving the company of those