p. 9 | Our Glorious Hope by H. F. Phelps

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jul 4, 1907

Our Glorious Hope

By H. F. Phelps

H. F. PHELPS

In the early days of this message we were so impressed with its reality that we believed the coming of Christ was even then near at hand. And now, after the lapse of so many years, I can say that I know the coming of my blessed Lord is very near. That event toward which I have been looking so long, and which has been the joy of my soul, hasteth greatly. It is not far away.

Then, and through the succeeding years, we believed we were in the last generation. Now I am persuaded that we are in the last days of the last generation, and that the grand culmination will come quickly.

At that time, and all the way along, we thought we heard the cry of peace and safety; for the popular pulpits continually told the people that all the world was to be converted, and there would be a thousand years of peace during which time swords and spears would be turned into implements of peace, and the nations would learn war no more. We told the people that this was an evidence of sudden destruction. But now, in view of the gigantic preparations for war, in view of the literal fulfilment of the words of the prophets of long ages ago, that “in the last days,” “the people,” “many nations,” would come and say the very things that are now being said at the peace conventions of the world (Isa. 2:2-4; Micah 4:1-3), I know—I am positive—that “sudden destruction cometh upon them, . . . and they shall not escape.”

This is a cry of peace that will be heard by all the world as the delegates of the nations at The Hague shall return again to tell these things to their people. This, then, is a sign, the handwriting upon the walls of time. All the world can read it, and they will read it as a sign just in proportion as we tell them what it means. Momentous responsibilities! Important moment! A world sign, and a world message, to tell the people of its terrible significance! A time of trouble such as never was, and a people already upon the stage to tell the people of the world how to be saved out of it! Will this people arise to their God-given opportunities? Will they be equal to the occasion?

In the early days of the message a spirit of devotion led some to sell all they had, putting the proceeds into the cause, depending on God for their daily needs. If such a course was necessary and commendable then, it is a thousand times more so now. As the lovers of the truth made real sacrifices then in order to advance the work, there should be no end to the sacrifices at this time in order to finish the work.

It is more than probable that we did not so fully realize the magnitude of the work, but we felt sure, and told the people that “this generation shall not pass, till all these things are fulfilled.” And now, even though we are commanded to carry this gospel of the kingdom to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people, I do know for a certainty that “this generation shall not pass,” till that work is accomplished. “This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.”

This is a mighty work! It is a greater work than man can perform. But it is the work of God, and he is almighty, and abundantly able to finish that which he has begun. He will pour out of his Spirit upon all flesh. He will establish centers of light amid all the nations, and we may act a part in this great and glorious work. It is ours to “lift up the standard,” and lift it high. It will thus become a witness to all nations. Honest souls will be attracted to the light, and embrace the truth. But the vast majority will see the light only as a witness. Having no root in themselves, they yield not to its attractions.

Go forward with courage, brethren. Enter all open doors as fast as possible. Scatter the printed page like the leaves of autumn. The Master Workman will not suffer his word to return unto him void. He knows where every honest soul is located. To all these he will bring the printed page, the Bible worker, or the minister, and they will be saved. All others will see, and hear, and know enough of God's last message of mercy to constitute it a witness, and then the end shall come, and we shall reap the reward of our labors. May the day hasten, even though some of our plans may not be realized.

Minneapolis, Minn.