Editorial by Editor

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jun 18, 1908

Editorial

By Editor

WE can now see with clearness that the ultimate goal of the evolution theory is the destruction of faith in revealed truth. Demanding recognition first in the field of science, it has extended its sphere of influence until it now dominates the field of theology. Having for its basic principle the proposition that in every field of activity, whether of material or spiritual agencies, there is constant progress toward a higher plane, this theory is bound to ignore all evidences of deterioration; and this seems to be most emphatically true in the interpretation of present conditions in the religious world. In the face of such revelations of moral turpitude as almost stagger conservative observers, the assertion is confidently made that this is merely an incident preliminary to thorough purification, the dust which accompanies a spiritual house-cleaning. In direct contradiction of such a view is the forecast made in the Scriptures: “Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived.” “In the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, . . . having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” If we accept the inspired utterances concerning existing conditions, we must reject those roseate explanations which make the worse appear the better. The fundamental mistake is in substituting human authority for divine authority, and human philosophy for divine revelation. The only certainty is found in the Word of God.

THERE is a demand now for men who can properly appreciate the present situation, and who are willing, at any cost to themselves, to be the instruments in the hands of God for accomplishing the divine will. There is such an opportunity now for the effacement of self and the exaltation of God and his truth, as comes but few times in the history of a world. John the Baptist, the preacher of the wilderness, with his heart open to the light of God, stood against the current of religious sentiment which flowed so strongly in his day, rejected the traditional views of the recognized leaders, and became “the voice” to proclaim present truth to the people. In him the words of the prophets became personality among men confused by leaders ambitious for place and power. Sacrificing himself on the altar of zeal for the cause of the Messiah, despised and rejected of men, he accomplished the work required to fulfil the divine program, and obtained the approval of heaven. The same condition has again come around, and the same opportunity is again offered, at the same cost to those who embrace it. Faith in the fulfilment of the prophecies, faith in the work which God is doing at this time, and faith in the triumph of the truth in this generation, must conquer all doubts, and nerve the successful worker for the conflict. There is now a wonderful field for the exploits of a holy ambition.