Prophecy by M. E. Cornell

James White · Oakland, Cal. · Jul 23, 1874

Prophecy.

By M. E. Cornell

BY ELD. M. E. CORNELL.

"We have also a more sure word of prophecy, whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts. Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation." 2 Pet. 1 : 19, 20.

This is one of the most expressive and interesting texts found in the Bible. It speaks volumes without note or comment. It contains the following points:

The prophecy is a sure word.
That taking heed unto it is well doing.
That it is to shine until the day dawn, or the very dawn of the day of glory.
That all prophecy may be understood.

And while the text affirms these important facts, it stands as a complete refutation of several very dangerous errors, which are quite popular.

That prophecy is uncertain.
That it is difficult to be understood.
That it is unimportant.
That prophecy was all fulfilled at the first advent.

But every feature of the text proclaims its importance. Prophecy is like a light in a dark place, hence, those who disregard it walk in the dark. The truth stated is indispensible. No other truths can supply its place. It will not admit of a substitute. A light is provided that we may not stumble and fall in the perils of the last days. But if men will not take heed unto it, they must grope their way in the dark to perish at last. There is no danger that we will overestimate the importance of the prophetic word at this time.

The frequent references made to the prophets by the New Testament writers, are such as to give the impression that this portion of the Bible is of the utmost value. The prophecies are constantly referred to, as of the highest authority. There is no hint that they would expire by limitation, or be superceded at the first advent, or until Christ should come to make his jewels. Even the highly symbolic book of Revelation is so valuable to the inquirer after truth, that the Author of it has promised a blessing to all who read it. See Rev. 1 : 3.

The Apostle Paul has declared that, "All scripture is profitable," and the prophecies being a part of the scripture, must be profitable also. But how can that be profitable which cannot be understood? It is certain, therefore, that the whole Bible is for our learning.

Jesus told the unbelieving Jews that the reason of their stumbling and falling was, they knew not the time of their visitation. And why did they not know the time? Because they heeded not the word of prophecy. It was fulfilled before their eyes and they knew it not. And it is just so with the popular church of the present time. There are many prophecies and signs fulfilling in this generation, but the masses discern them not.

The movements are very rapid in all departments of the world, and changes are effected in a few months, that once required ages. The world is hastening to its close, and the masses are as ignorant of it as were the Jews of the first advent, or the antedeluvians of a coming flood.

Because we may not know the definite day, or year, when Christ will come, many have gone over to the position that we cannot know any thing about it. They will not give the subject sufficient attention to create an interest. The prophecies are neglected, because patient investigation is required to find out the meaning.

But the precious jewel of truth must not be found out so easily as not to be appreciated. It is of infinite value; and poor perishing mortals can well afford to search diligently for it; and there is no hope of obtaining the priceless treasure in any other way. The conditions are too plainly laid down for any mistake. How sad the thought that any soul should allow just one little word of only two letters to stand in the way of their enjoying the light of truth. But so it is, we cannot get around that little "IF".

"If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as hid treasure; then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God." "Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity, yea, every good path." Prov. 2 : 4, 5, 9.

Men do not expect to get gold, silver, or diamonds, except by diligent and persevering search, and they are generally well satisfied if they can obtain such precious jewels, even by the hardest. But how few, alas, are willing to make the necessary effort to gain that which is infinitely more valuable.

The Great Teacher said, "Search the scriptures," and of the prophecy of Daniel, He said, "Whoso readeth let him understand." It is absolutely certain, therefore, that those who will read and search diligently, may find the gem of heavenly truth, and when once in possession of it, the jewel is worth far more than all the wealth of earth. It brings to its possessor light, life, joy and peace, and opens the way to an immortal reward. Oh! reader, have you found the truth? Are you in possession of the immortal key to an endless life? If not, now is the favorable opportunity, and you cannot afford to let it pass. The "game of life," is being played, and can only be won by becoming vigilance. If this game is lost, all is lost. There is no second trial. It is once for all, and if there is nothing left; all is gone; lost and gone forever. Heaven help us all to take heed unto the sure word, and to so carry out our life enterprizes, that we shall wear the victors crown at last.

San Jose, Cal., July 15, 1874.