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The Great Controversy
the spirit of true humility, penitence, and faith—which alone could
render the service acceptable to God—was lacking. Instead of the
graces of the Spirit there were manifested pride, formalism, vainglory,
selfishness, oppression. A backsliding church closed their eyes to the
signs of the times. God did not forsake them, or suffer His faithfulness
to fail; but they departed from Him, and separated themselves from
His love. As they refused to comply with the conditions, His promises
were not fulfilled to them.
Such is the sure result of neglect to appreciate and improve the
light and privileges which God bestows. Unless the church will follow
on in His opening providence, accepting every ray of light, performing
every duty which may be revealed, religion will inevitably degenerate
into the observance of forms, and the spirit of vital godliness will
disappear. This truth has been repeatedly illustrated in the history of
the church. God requires of His people works of faith and obedience
corresponding to the blessings and privileges bestowed. Obedience
requires a sacrifice and involves a cross; and this is why so many of the
professed followers of Christ refused to receive the light from heaven,
and, like the Jews of old, knew not the time of their visitation.
Luke
19:44
. Because of their pride and unbelief the Lord passed them by
and revealed His truth to those who, like the shepherds of Bethlehem
and the Eastern Magi, had given heed to all the light they had received.
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