An End of Wickedness by R. F. Cottrell

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Jan 7, 1886

An End of Wickedness.

By R. F. Cottrell

"Oh let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end." Ps. 7:9.

This prayer was indited by the Holy Spirit. As a consequence, the petition will surely be granted. It is a prophetic prayer; and as a prophecy it is certain to have its fulfillment. Therefore it is certain that wickedness will come to an end. The only question remaining is, How will this result be reached? There are but two ways possible for this to be accomplished.

1. The first is, by the conversion of all the wicked, including the devil and his angels as well as all the wicked of the earth. Have we any proof that all the wicked will cease their wickedness, that all will become holy and happy in immortal life? If there is no evidence to prove that all the wicked in the universe will be converted, the only alternative is—

2. That all the wicked will be destroyed—will cease to exist—and so their wickedness will come to an end. Is there any proof of this? There is. We cite another prophetic prayer as proof. Ps. 104:35: "Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more." This prayer will be answered; and when it is, the wicked will no longer exist; for "to be" means to exist. And in the prospect of that happy time which shall follow the destruction of all the wicked, when all in Heaven and earth shall be heard saying, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever" (Rev. 5:13), the inspired writer immediately exclaims, "Bless thou the Lord, O my soul! Praise ye the Lord!" R. F. COTTRELL.