308
The Great Controversy
The testimony of the prophecies which seemed to point to the
coming of Christ in the spring of 1844 took deep hold of the minds
of the people. As the message went from state to state, there was
everywhere awakened widespread interest. Many were convinced that
the arguments from the prophetic periods were correct, and, sacrificing
their pride of opinion, they joyfully received the truth. Some ministers
laid aside their sectarian views and feelings, left their salaries and
their churches, and united in proclaiming the coming of Jesus. There
were comparatively few ministers, however, who would accept this
message; therefore it was largely committed to humble laymen. Farm-
ers left their fields, mechanics their tools, traders their merchandise,
professional men their positions; and yet the number of workers was
small in comparison with the work to be accomplished. The condition
of an ungodly church and a world lying in wickedness, burdened the
souls of the true watchmen, and they willingly endured toil, privation,
and suffering, that they might call men to repentance unto salvation.
Though opposed by Satan, the work went steadily forward, and the
advent truth was accepted by many thousands.
[369]
Everywhere the searching testimony was heard, warning sinners,
both worldlings and church members, to flee from the wrath to come.
Like John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ, the preachers laid
the ax at the root of the tree and urged all to bring forth fruit meet
for repentance. Their stirring appeals were in marked contrast to the
assurances of peace and safety that were heard from popular pulpits;
and wherever the message was given, it moved the people. The simple,
direct testimony of the Scriptures, set home by the power of the Holy
Spirit, brought a weight of conviction which few were able wholly
to resist. Professors of religion were roused from their false security.
They saw their backslidings, their worldliness and unbelief, their pride
and selfishness. Many sought the Lord with repentance and humil-
iation. The affections that had so long clung to earthly things they
now fixed upon heaven. The Spirit of God rested upon them, and with
hearts softened and subdued they joined to sound the cry: “Fear God,
and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come.”
Sinners inquired with weeping: “What must I do to be saved?”
Those whose lives had been marked with dishonesty were anxious to
make restitution. All who found peace in Christ longed to see others
share the blessing. The hearts of parents were turned to their children,