A Straightforward Way by W. A. S.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jan 20, 1910

A Straightforward Way.

By W. A. S.

Those who walked in the advancing light needed not to repudiate their former experience. They recognized the fact that the judgment hour came, according to prophecy, in 1844. But the great body of Adventists began to set other times for the coming of the Lord, repudiating past experience, and groping in confusion. At the same time they bitterly opposed the little band of seventh-day observers. Addressing himself to these opposers, Elder James White, in the Present Truth for December, 1849, wrote of the sure word of prophecy in the development of the advent movement:—

Once the whole advent host believed that the parable of the ten virgins applied exclusively to the advent movement. . . . We still believe what the whole host once believed and with holy confidence and energy published and preached to the world. . . . These men should be the last to oppose our views. . . . When we in 1843 sang, “My Bible leads to glory,” we sang a true sentiment. It did not stop in 1844, and “lead” us back around another way—no, no! but it led onward, . . . through the waiting time, and keeping of “the commandments of God,” into the kingdom. Glory to God, “my Bible leads to glory.” Amen. . . . Let the storm of persecution rise, and the fiery darts of the wicked fly all around us; thus armed with holy truth, we are safe. Glory to God, we are on the rock. My spirit grows warm, as I contemplate this glorious theme.

The Shining Way.

The way looked bright and short to those pioneers in the third angel’s message. And it has but grown brighter ever since with the rapid march of fulfilling prophecy and the onward sweep of the message from land to land. Not for a moment can we now tarry by the way, or settle down as if to remain long in this evil world.

“A scrip on my back, and a staff in my hand, I march on in haste through an enemy’s land; The road may be rough, but it can not be long; I’ll smooth it with hope, and I’ll cheer it with song.”

W. A. S.