An Age-Long Curse

Pacific Press Publishing Association · Mountain View, California · Dec 17, 1912

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 39, No. 49.

An Age-Long Curse

THE curse of religious caste began early in the Christian dispensation. It was extended and established by Constantine, a heathen emperor, who professed Christianity only for policy’s sake. There were as many ranks of ecclesiastical officers during the Dark Ages, as there were civil, and many of them still exist in name.

It is difficult for proud man to get back to the simplicity of the gospel of Christ. Jesus said: “Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.” Matt. 23: 10, 11. And that apostle claimed by the apostate church as its head, says to those upon whom God has placed responsibility: “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.” 1 Peter 5: 2, 3. That same church has “my lord bishop,” “the Lord our God the Pope,” and other extravagant and blasphemous titles. If Peter were their head, they would say as Peter said, do as Peter did.

The Word of God declares: “All flesh is grass,” and all the glory of man it makes as transient, and insignificant as the flower of the grass. The gospel of Jesus brings down the high and lofty, and elevates the lowly and humble. But it leaves no man room for boasting or glory, save in the cross of Jesus Christ and His abundant grace.