p. 19 | E. O. HAMMOND by E. O. Hammond

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Dec 30, 1873

E. O. HAMMOND

By E. O. Hammond

Self-Deception.

THERE is a very large class of professed Christians who will come up to the close of probation self-deceived. From the language of our Saviour, we conclude that the disappointed, self-deceived ones will out-number those who will be successful in life's battle. While he represents those to be few who find the narrow way, he adds, Many will say unto me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not done many good deeds in thy name? only to hear the heart-rending reply, “Depart from me; I never knew you.” These facts should stimulate us to self-examination and most earnest searching for truth as for hid treasures.

But why this awful deception? Are some thus doomed by fate? “Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth.” Isa. 45:22. Would the God of Heaven thus mock his creatures by extending to them this gracious invitation when he had foreordained their destruction? Says the apostle, “Be not deceived, God is not mocked; whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” How plain it is that God has set before us life and death, then placed upon us the responsibility of making our own choice.

Some show their lack of wisdom by measuring themselves by their brethren. Others harden their hearts, and despise reproof; and when God condescends to point out their defects, they will not see; while another class, whom we may call fanatics, boast themselves of their love to God and his truth, when, at the same time, they are robbing him, and manifesting their covetousness in their deal with their neighbors. Such have large hope and little conscientiousness, and do not see the exceeding sinfulness of sin. God has given us great light. None need be deceived. If we faithfully heed the warnings and admonitions contained in the word of God, and those given by the Spirit of prophecy, we can thus make our calling and election sure, and finally be gathered with those who have made a covenant with God by sacrifice.