p. 141 | What Is the Prospect? by R. F. Cottrell

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Apr 16, 1872

What Is the Prospect?

By R. F. Cottrell

The last message of probation is here, and it must soon close. How will it be with us as individuals when mercy shall cease to plead, and sweet pardon no longer be extended? It is well to ask ourselves the solemn question now: “Who shall be able to stand?” before “the great day of his wrath is come.” Now, while it is called today, now, while pardon may be found, while our state may be changed, sins may be put away and evil propensities overcome, now is the time to be benefited by the solemn inquiry.

Warning upon warning has been given; prophets of ancient time have spoken; Jesus and his apostles have advertised us of the perils of the present days, and the Spirit of God has echoed and reiterated these things to us of this last generation, in the most thrilling manner. Have we heard? Have we heeded the solemn admonitions? Are we advancing in the work of preparation for the “hour of temptation,” which is to try them that dwell upon the earth? Are we making progress, or do we find ourselves turning back, with our faces toward Egypt? Are we losing ground which once we thought we had gained? If this is our case, what reason have we to hope that we shall finally stand with the overcomers? Onward from victory to victory should be our course. Hold the ground already taken, while we still advance in the conquest of the strong holds of the enemy. When an advance step is taken, never recede from it. They shall be victors who hear and heed the voice of our great Captain, not fearfully hesitating, but courageously trusting in his promise.

The reforms introduced among us as a people are from Heaven, and not of men. They ARE reforms in other words. We cannot do as well without them as with them. They are for helps to the final victory. We need them. If they were not needed, they would not have been recommended. We need them. If we trifle with them, we trifle with the precious gifts of God, given for our salvation. Who will presume to make light of the dealings of God with us? “Be ye not mockers, lest your bands be made strong; for I have heard from the Lord God of hosts a consumption, even determined upon the whole earth.” Isaiah 29 : 22. This terrible consumption is right before us. The Lord is about to “rise up as in mount Perazim,” and to “be wroth as in the valley of Gibeon,” and “do his work, his strange work; and bring to pass his act, his strange act.” We are warned; shall we escape? The Lord is sifting his people. Shall we be found wheat, or tares and chaff? This is the great question; the question which each of us must settle as individuals, and settle for eternity.

Brethren, let us advance. Let us hold fast, lest we lose the crown. Let us give fresh battle to every sin, to every ungodly passion and propensity. Let the old man be crucified with his deeds. Have confidence, yes, confidence in the present work of the Lord; for it is by faith that the victory is won. Arouse! Get on the whole armor of God. Perils surround us; the enemy is near, and the last great struggle is at hand. Forward, not backward, is the word. Courageous and persevering faith shall win the crown of glory. Let us advance.

R. F. COTTRELL.