The True Test by Adelaide D. Wellman

Pacific Press Publishing Association · Mountain View, California · May 26, 1914

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 41, No. 20.

The True Test

By Adelaide D. Wellman

THE term "supernatural" is regarded by many persons as synonymous with "divine"; but Holy Writ informs us that there are malevolent beings, as well benevolent, who possess supernatural power.

The revelator states that one third of the "angels that excel in strength" lost their holiness of character, but he does not say that they lost also their power. Instead, he declares that they are able to perform such marvelous feats as to deceive mortals most effectually.

One of these feats, mentioned by another of the sacred writers, is that of assuming the guise of heavenly beings. Doubtless these evil angels are the creatures that appear sometimes to persons as the "spirits" of dead friends. "Lying spirits" they certainly are; for the Scriptures teach unmistakably that the dead sleep in unconsciousness until the resurrection. Moreover, the origin of these supposed "materialized spirits" is indicated by their malign influence over those whom they are able to deceive. Playing upon the tenderest sensibilities of the bereaved and sorrowing, they have in myriads of instances gained a hold upon them that has proved most lamentable in its effects.

The real test of any claim to a heavenly source is not superhuman power, but conformity to the word of God.

Adelaide D. Wellman.