R. D. QUINN by R. D. Quinn

Review and Herald Publishing Assn. · Washington, D. C. · Jan 7, 1904

R. D. QUINN

By R. D. Quinn

Australia

QUEENSLAND.—At the close of the union conference held at Cooranbong, we came to Queensland, and shortly after arriving began a tent effort in Maryborough. There was a good interest manifested from the start, the attendance soon reaching four hundred. This enraged the ministers, and they began a vigorous campaign against us, from the pulpit and the press. This, however, did not seem to affect the interest materially, as scores of people continued to come, bringing their Bibles. It was manifest to all that special power was attending the message. People went to their ministers, inquiring if these things were so, saying they had never heard anything like it before. This only enraged them the more, and then was fulfilled precisely what was written many years ago in “Great Controversy,” page 607:—

“As the controversy extends into new fields, and the minds of the people are called to God’s down-trodden law, Satan is astir. The power attending the message will only madden those who oppose it. The clergy will put forth almost superhuman efforts to shut away the light, lest it should shine upon their flocks. By every means at their command they will endeavor to suppress the discussion of these vital questions.”

True to this prophecy, the churches all banded together, and erected an enormous tent near by. They next sent one thousand miles and secured the services of a well-known and popular evangelist, and opened up a fierce storm of opposition, attributing the power attending our work to Satan. Ministers, with a staff of leaders, stood at the entrances to our tent, warning every one away. For a time it seemed as if our meetings would be completely broken up. However, a few believed, eight faithful souls having already taken their stand. Others are interested. The tent is still up, and meetings are progressing nightly.

Now all this only emphasizes the certainty that we have reached a crisis in this work, and that the end is near. Ten years ago the cities of Queensland were wide open for the message. Our tent-meetings drew great crowds, encountering but little opposition. But, for the lack of laborers and money, the work has been hindered all these years, and now it must go forward under the most discouraging conditions. The third angel’s message, however, is to go forth with great power. What is needed most of all, just now, is a living, vital experience, which will bring the great outpouring of the Spirit of God, enlightening the whole earth with his glory.