the experience and views of those carrying forward the work of reform
in our own time, similar use has been made of their published works.
It is not so much the object of this book to present new truths
concerning the struggles of former times, as to bring out facts and
principles which have a bearing on coming events. Yet viewed as
a part of the controversy between the forces of light and darkness,
all these records of the past are seen to have a new significance; and
through them a light is cast upon the future, illumining the pathway of
those who, like the reformers of past ages, will be called, even at the
peril of all earthly good, to witness “for the word of God, and for the
testimony of Jesus Christ.”
To unfold the scenes of the great controversy between truth and
error; to reveal the wiles of Satan, and the means by which he may
be successfully resisted; to present a satisfactory solution of the great
problem of evil, shedding such a light upon the origin and the final
disposition of sin as to make fully manifest the justice and benevolence
of God in all His dealings with His creatures; and to show the holy,
unchanging nature of His law, is the object of this book. That through
its influence souls may be delivered from the power of darkness, and
become “partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light,” to the
praise of Him who loved us, and gave Himself for us, is the earnest
prayer of the writer.
E.G.W.
[xiii]