Preparation for a Quick Work by C. M. S.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D.C. · Oct 25, 1906

Preparation for a Quick Work

By C. M. S.

It is indeed remarkable how doors are opening in different parts of the world for the distribution of the Word of God. The Aglipay movement which has been going on in the Philippines is one of the movements tending to that end. While it is not a movement toward Protestantism directly, it is taking out from under the direct control of Rome about two million natives; and a new impetus, due to this movement, has been given to Bible distribution. That movement encourages the reading of the Scriptures. When candidates were being received into the Catholic Church each was presented with a candle, for which article each candidate paid.

The Aglipay bishop, instead of presenting a candle, hands each candidate a copy of the Gospels, which is paid for by the candidate. Upon one tour by one of these bishops fourteen thousand of the Gospels were sold.

In the province of Nueva Viscaya all the priests revolted from Rome and went over to the Independent Catholic Church, carrying with them the church property. In this province four thousand copies of the Scriptures were disposed of to the people. In the Island of Panay the bishop is co-operating with a colporteur for the distribution of fifty thousand copies of the Gospels. In Mindanao a similar movement is in progress, and there is said to be a marked desire for the Scriptures.

Another movement along the same line is the awakening of China. Recent steps that she has taken will have far-reaching effects. Recent decrees have been issued strengthening former decrees against foot binding; but China herself has needed to have her feet unbound, and this is being brought about. The study of the English language is now required in her higher schools, and in one whole province of some sixty million inhabitants it has been ordered that the New Testament be one of the books to be studied in the schools.

Surely there is a significance in these things. The English language is the most widely spoken of any language in the world. The third angel's message has more laborers in the English language than in any other. This wide distribution of the Bible and the rapid extension of the English language are some of the many indications that God is preparing for the close of his work.

C. M. S.