Note and Comment by Editor

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · May 25, 1916

Note and Comment

By Editor

Conditions After the War

As we have remarked before, the conditions created by the great European conflict have so engrossed the minds of men that many conditions of less importance, and yet of real significance, are passing without notice. During the past few months there has been much unrest among those engaged in industrial pursuits. Strikes in New York, Pittsburgh, Chicago, and other large commercial centers, involving thousands of workers in several industries, have passed with ’but little notice. These are the more significant, for the reason that business conditions have been comparatively very prosperous in consequence of increased demands from Europe in almost every branch of commercial activity. What the effect will be upon the laboring masses when this wave of prosperity recedes, as in the judgment of many it is bound to do, and particularly what conditions will prevail in the great industrial world of Europe after the present conflict is over, is a question of grave concern.

The words of the apostle James indicate that the last days will be marked with growing unrest, and that the conflict between the rich and the poor will deepen. This prospect is giving grave concern to some in the Old World at the present time. Lord Rosebery of England believes that from the bankrupt condition in which Europe will be left by the war, there will come a great social upheaval. According to the Washington Post of May 12, 1916, he says:—

“One thing is absolutely certain: the war will leave all the combatants, whether victorious or otherwise, financially exhausted. It will mean general impoverishment all over Europe, both of the individual and of the state; and that impoverishment must immediately produce new social conditions. That is a grave outlook.”

Lord Rosebery also seriously questions whether or not the bringing about of peace conditions will amount to anything more than an armed truce. He says:—

“No one knows whether the condition of affairs after the war will be a real and permanent peace or a constant armed anticipation for war. It depends on the policy of the states of Europe whether they will come to realize the hideous curse inherent in war, to both victors and losers.”

On whatever conditions peace may be arranged, we are fully warranted by the Scriptures of truth in saying that peace will be only temporary. It will only serve as an opportunity to the nations of Europe to prepare for a still more mighty struggle, even the battle of the last great day. The prophet Joel (Joel 3:9-16) clearly outlines the state of affairs that will exist just prior to the coming of the Lord. If the present conflict does not gradually deepen into the last great struggle, it is but the prelude of that which will come.