Basic HTML Version
258
Early Writings
straight testimony. They will rise up against it, and this is what will
cause a shaking among God’s people.
I saw that the testimony of the True Witness has not been half
heeded. The solemn testimony upon which the destiny of the church
hangs has been lightly esteemed, if not entirely disregarded. This
testimony must work deep repentance; all who truly receive it will
obey it and be purified.
Said the angel, “List ye!” Soon I heard a voice like many musical
instruments all sounding in perfect strains, sweet and harmonious. It
surpassed any music I had ever heard, seeming to be full of mercy,
compassion, and elevating, holy joy. It thrilled through my whole
[271]
being. Said the angel, “Look ye!” My attention was then turned to
the company I had seen, who were mightily shaken. I was shown
those whom I had before seen weeping and praying in agony of
spirit. The company of guardian angels around them had been
doubled, and they were clothed with an armor from their head to
their feet. They moved in exact order, like a company of soldiers.
Their countenances expressed the severe conflict which they had
endured, the agonizing struggle they had passed through. Yet their
features, marked with severe internal anguish, now shone with the
light and glory of heaven. They had obtained the victory, and it
called forth from them the deepest gratitude and holy, sacred joy.
The numbers of this company had lessened. Some had been
shaken out and left by the way. The careless and indifferent, who
did not join with those who prized victory and salvation enough to
perseveringly plead and agonize for it, did not obtain it, and they
were left behind in darkness, and their places were immediately
filled by others taking hold of the truth and coming into the ranks.
Evil angels still pressed around them, but could have no power over
them.
I heard those clothed with the armor speak forth the truth with
great power. It had effect. Many had been bound; some wives by
their husbands, and some children by their parents. The honest who
had been prevented from hearing the truth now eagerly laid hold
upon it. All fear of their relatives was gone, and the truth alone was
exalted to them. They had been hungering and thirsting for truth; it
was dearer and more precious than life. I asked what had made this