Signs of the Last Days

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Sep 9, 1915

Signs of the Last Days

THERE are many indications that this generation is the generation that is to witness the culmination of earth's history. One of the signs given by the Saviour himself to identify the last days is this: “Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth.” The question, “What do these things mean?” is now on the lips of thousands. The great publishing firm of Houghton, Mifflin & Co. has recently issued a book entitled “Whither?” And the book reviewer says of it: “One is not asking a fanciful question who raises this query in the face of the events through which we are now passing. Whither is this old world traveling? How does it happen that in an age marked by progress such as has characterized none other, we are seeing everywhere a willful poverty of the spiritual life?” Materialism, doubt, skepticism, higher criticism, and disrespect for the law of Jehovah, have been undermining the true religious consciousness of this generation. The spiritual leaders who have given free rein to their questionings have led the flock into the wilderness, and are now asking one another how they got there, and what is the way out. With their backs to the light, their own shadows are pointing them farther into the darkness. The only remedy is, “Right about face, and back to the Bible.” But as that condition was to be a characteristic of the last days, we do not expect to see the great majority adopt the remedy. Nevertheless, the way is open, and the invitation still is, Come.