Leading the World by C. M. S.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jul 13, 1911

Leading the World

By C. M. S.

FROM a study of the prophecies of Revelation we have for many years understood that the United States was to play a leading rôle in the last great world movement brought to view in that scripture. Recently at the installation of a new pastor at the Vermont Avenue Christian church in Washington, D. C., Representative D. T. Morgan, of Oklahoma, made this striking statement:—

Washington being the political center of the country, it is easy to suppose that it will one day be the religious center, and that the sect gaining control here will be able to disseminate its ideas throughout the country and have an enormous following. Here in Washington, where the highest ruler on earth resides, and where decisions are rendered from the highest tribunal in the world, a spirit of religion should pervade and accompany the political influence to all parts of the country and world.

The fulfilment of this statement would be a perfect fulfilment of the prophecy of Revelation in reference to the work of that power represented by the two horned beast. And it is significant that in this statement of Mr. Morgan's we have the prediction of a union of church and state in this country. That is what is involved in his declaration that “a spirit of religion should pervade and accompany the political influence to all parts of the country.” The movement to weave religion into the legislation of the land is gaining ground constantly; and in spite of the fact that there are those yet in the national Congress who stand loyally against this dangerous innovation, the great volume of the religious forces of the country is directing its power and influence in that direction. The unification of the great religious denominations of the country and of the world is already started and well under way, and the ever-increasing influence of the Roman Catholic Church at the head of our government indicates the direction which this unification and control will take, once it has been fully achieved. It was not many months ago that Cardinal Gibbons in Baltimore took occasion to commend the Episcopal Church for having “advocated in strong and earnest language the reunion of the various Christian churches.” He said:—

I pray with them that the day may be hastened when the words of our common Redeemer, Jesus Christ, may be fulfilled; that there will be one fold and one Shepherd. However, this consummation can only be attained when all Christians shall recognize the one chief Pastor.

It is not to be a matter of compromise with the Protestant churches and the Catholic Church, each surrendering some of their contentions and uniting on a common ground; but it is to be a surrender absolute on the part of professed Protestants, that they all may meet on some common ground dictated by the Roman hierarchy. Then will it be said that they have entered one common sheepfold, and are under the direction and care of one shepherd, the representative of Jesus Christ on earth, the Pope.

C. M. S.