A Definite Work by Charles P. Whitford

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jul 22, 1875

A Definite Work.

By Charles P. Whitford

The third angel’s message of Rev. 14: 9-12, contains a solemn warning, the giving of which is a specific work. Those who reject it are to drink of the “wine of the wrath of God.” Rev. 14: 10. The seven last plagues contain this wrath; “for in them is filled up the wrath of God.” Rev. 15: 1. The first plague is poured out upon the very men who have the “mark of the beast, and that worship his image,” sins which the third angel warns them against. From the declaration of this angel, we see that it is of the utmost importance that we understand what the beast is, and what constitutes his mark and his worship, that we may avoid them, and thus escape the wine of the wrath of God.

It is, then, a matter of solemn moment that we inquire what the mark of the beast is, against which there is uttered so terrific a warning. The objection may arise in the minds of some that we cannot tell what the mark of the beast is; that there are various opinions respecting it; and that we cannot settle with assurance and certainty upon anything in relation to it. But would God put forth such a solemn declaration, attaching as a penalty the wine of his wrath without any mixture of mercy, to be inflicted on all who worship the “beast and his image,” and then leave us to guess what these things mean? Would not such a position charge God with folly, and the height of injustice? Would it not be more reasonable to conclude that the clear truth exists on this point, and that it is not only the privilege but the duty of all who profess to be God’s children to learn and obey it, and thus escape the storm of his wrath which is soon to burst with all the fury of a sin-avenging God upon the heads of all who do not heed the message of the third angel.

God does not punish the wicked without their knowing, or having a full opportunity to know, for what cause the punishment is inflicted. Now if it is the truth that this warning is for those to whom the message is given, and if we are not to be left in darkness in respect to what the “worship of the beast and the reception of his mark” represents, is it not logical to conclude, with the full assurance of the justice and reasonableness of all God’s requirements and threatenings, that we can understand what the mark of the beast is?

The message containing this warning is the last to be given before the revelation of the Lord from Heaven, and as all Adventists agree that we have reached the last days, and the two preceding messages have been given in the past; and as facts compel us to admit that the third and last message is now being proclaimed, we are forced to the conclusion that the time has come when it is not only our privilege, but our duty, to understand what the mark of the beast is. No matter if your learned minister can give you no light on this subject. He may possibly be of that class of shepherds described by the prophet Isaiah: “Shepherds that cannot understand.” But the angel declared to Daniel concerning these last days, “The wise shall understand.” Chap. 12:10.

And now, dear reader, if you have become interested in this subject, and desire to know what the terrible sins are against which the last message of mercy utters so solemn a warning, for a full discussion of this subject we would cite you to such works as these: “Mark of the Beast and Seal of the Living God,” “The Three Angels’ Messages,” &c., published at the REVIEW AND HERALD Office, Battle Creek, Mich.

It is evident that the proclamation of the message of the third angel is being attended with the special blessing of the Lord. This is no small evidence in favor of the correctness of our position, yet it would be extremely unsafe for us to rest on this evidence alone, without being able to give from the Bible the reasons of our faith.

Those that heed the warning which is now being given to the world against the worship of the beast and his image, and the reception of his mark, will soon realize a mighty deliverance. They will be sheltered from the seven last plagues, in which is filled up the wrath of God, and will sing the song of Moses and the Lamb on Mount Zion. In view of an eternal life of glory in the kingdom of God, saved from sin and all its consequences, I beseech you, dear fellow-mortal, to heed the warning voice of the last message of mercy to fallen man. Despise it not. Its last notes will soon die away, and then will

Stern justice lift the avenging sword To slay the mockers of God’s word.

Oh! then improve the present; for yet a little while and the sweet voice of mercy will be heard no more. Fear not the reproach or revilings of men, but be willing, if necessary, to suffer persecution. Be wise, and sacrifice all for the glory that shall be revealed, and do it now. Let the signs of the times admonish you to make no delay. The days are evil; therefore, redeem the time.

CHARLES P. WHITFORD.

Berkshire, Vt.