The Age of Earth and the 6000-Year Timeline

The true age of the world is approximately six thousand years, a fact that aligns perfectly with the chronological record provided in the Holy ScripturesEGWSRGES 3.4+1. While some human theories suggest the earth has existed for tens of thousands or even millions of years, these are based on erroneous inferences drawn from nature that contradict the literal Mosaic account of creationEGWSRGES 3.4+1.

The Six-Thousand-Year Chronology

The history of our world is defined by a specific timeline revealed through divine inspiration:

• The Duration of the Conflict: For six thousand years, the great controversy between Christ and Satan has been in progress, during which time the powers of evil have sought to deceive and destroy the human raceGC 655.4+2.

• Human Endurance: Man was originally endowed with such great vital force that the race has been able to withstand the weight of disease and crime for six thousand years1BC 1082.1+2.

• The Effects of Sin: The continual transgression of God's law for six thousand years has resulted in the current state of sickness, pain, and death seen throughout the world2MCP 510.2+2.

• Satan's Practice: The adversary has had more than six thousand years of practice in perfecting his skills of deception and ruinHF 11.4+2.

Biblical Creation vs. Philosophical Theory

The Bible is the most ancient and authentic history we possess, lighting up the past where human research cannot penetrateEd 173.1+1.

• Literal Days: Creation week consisted of seven literal days, not indefinite periods of timeTM 135.2+1.

• The Sabbath Memorial: God established the seventh-day Sabbath as a perpetual memorial of the fact that He created the heavens and the earth in six literal days and rested on the seventh Exodus 31:13-1718MR 31.3+1.

• Rejection of Infidel Geology: Theories claiming the world is tens of thousands of years old are classified as infidel geology because they reject the direct testimony of the Word of GodEGWSRGES 3.4+2.

The Significance of the Current Period

We are now living in the very last scenes of this earth's history, nearing the final crisis4MR 110.4+2. As we approach the close of this six-thousand-year period, the intensity of the conflict increases because the deceiver knows his time is short Revelation 12:12HF 11.4+1. The history of the past, including the fulfillment of specific prophetic periods, gives us confidence that the final events will occur exactly as predicted Daniel 9:24-27CIHS 79.1+1.

The Lord encourages us to study prophetic history so that we may understand where we stand today in the prophetic chain that stretches from Genesis to Revelation10MR 171.1+1. By beholding the power that laid the foundations of the earth, we find the only unsullied history of our raceEd 173.1+1.

The final events leading to the return of Jesus include a period of unprecedented religious and political upheaval known as the early time of trouble, followed by the close of human probation and the final seven last plaguesGP 89.4. These events are clearly outlined in prophecy to prepare God's people for the end of the world Matthew 24:12-14DD 36.3.

Events Before the Close of Probation

Before every person’s case is decided in the heavenly sanctuary, several major developments will take place on earth:

• The Image to the Beast and Sunday Law: Political and religious leaders will unite to form an image to the beast, eventually issuing a universal Sunday lawGP 89.4. This movement will culminate in a death decree for those who remain faithful to God’s commandments Revelation 12:17GP 89.4.

• The Loud Cry and Latter Rain: During this early time of trouble, the church will experience a powerful revival and reformation known as the latter rainGP 89.4. This enables the proclamation of the third angel’s message with a "loud cry," reaching every nation and tongue before the end Revelation 14:9-12GP 89.4+1.

• The Shaking and Sealing: A great shaking will occur among believers, separating those who are half-hearted from those who are truly consecratedLDE 51.1+1. The faithful will receive the seal of the living God in their foreheads prior to the close of probation Revelation 7:1-31SM 66.2.

• Deceptions and Fanaticism: Satan will work with lying wonders and miracles, including shouting, drums, and dancing, which will be falsely attributed to the Holy Spirit 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10LDE 159.1+1.

The Close of Probation and the Great Time of Trouble

Once the investigative judgment in heaven is finished, Jesus will conclude His work as mediator Revelation 22:11GP 89.4+1.

• The Irrevocable Fiat: The decree will go forth: "He that is unjust, let him be unjust still... and he that is holy, let him be holy still" Revelation 22:111EGWLM 42.2+1.

• The Time of Jacob’s Trouble: Following the close of probation, the righteous will experience a period of intense mental anguish and a deep sense of unworthiness, though their sins have already been blotted out Jeremiah 30:7GP 93.1.

• The Seven Last Plagues: With the Spirit of God withdrawn from the earth, the wicked will be left under Satan’s full control, and the seven last plagues will fall Revelation 16:14-15GP 93.1.

The Second Advent of Christ

The climax of all prophecy is the personal and visible return of Jesus Christ in power and gloryARSH July 3, 1860, page 51.14+1.

• The Resurrection and Translation: At the sound of the last trump, the righteous dead will be raised incorruptible, and the living saints will be changed in a moment to meet the Lord in the air 1 Corinthians 15:51-52+1USLP 49.1+1.

• The Destruction of the Wicked: Those who have rejected the truth and received the mark of the beast will be destroyed by the brightness of His coming 2 Thessalonians 2:8OFH1 37.2.

• The Millennium: This event ushers in the thousand-year period during which the saints reign with Christ in heaven before the final destruction of the wicked and the creation of a new earth Revelation 20:4-6GP 89.4.

We are encouraged to watch and be ready, for these events will transpire in rapid succession, catching the world as a snare Luke 21:31LDE 232.4+1.

The masterful, overwhelming delusion of Satan masquerading as Christ occurs in the final scenes of earth's history, just before the end of the world, to fasten both rulers and subjects in deceptionDD 41.3+1. This crowning act of the great deceiver is designed to urge the entire world to unite with him in his last struggle against the government of heavenDD 41.3+1.

The Nature of the Masterful Delusion

Satan will employ his most subtle and masterly power to lure victims to their destruction by appearing as the benefactor of the human raceTM 365.2.

• A Supernatural Appearance: Satan will disguise himself and appear as a dazzling being, pretending to be Christ HimselfCW 152.1+2.

• Demonic Miracle-Working: Fearful sights of a supernatural character will be revealed in the heavens as miracle-working demons go forth to the kings of the earthDD 41.3+1.

• Wonderful Miracles of Healing: These false christs will perform amazing miracles of healing to win the confidence of the populationDD 41.3+1.

• Spiritualistic Captivation: This delusion is the "Omega" of subtle deceptions, involving spiritualistic theories that represent God and Christ in a way that makes them a nonentity11MR 211.2.

The False Claims of the Masquerading Deceiver

The claims of this dazzling being are designed to lead the world away from the Word of God and into open rebellion.

• Claiming Divine Titles and Worship: These individuals will claim the title and worship that belong only to the world's RedeemerDD 41.3+1.

• Contradicting Holy Scripture: They will profess to have new revelations from heaven that directly contradict the testimony of the BibleDD 41.3+1.

• The Claim of Sanctification: Just as he did in heaven and during the temptation in the wilderness, Satan will claim to be holy and sanctified while leading others to ignore the divine statutes4MR 346.2+1.

• A New Religion of Self-Exaltation: This confederacy of error seeks to inaugurate a new religion that banishes righteousness and substitutes divine precepts with laws framed by selfish hearts8MR 42.2.

• Undermining the Law of Jehovah: The primary objective of these false claims is to convince men that it is not necessary to obey the divine statutes or the law of God8MR 42.2+2.

How to Avoid Being Ensnared

While this delusion is so strong that it would, if possible, deceive the very elect, God has provided the means for His people to stand firm Matthew 24:24.

• Adherence to the Written Word: Those who search the Scriptures daily and make the Word of God their counselor will not be led astrayFW 45.2+2.

• Testing by the Law: Every manifestation must be tested by the sacred law of God; if they speak not according to this word, there is no light in them7BC 911.4+2.

• Understanding the Manner of Christ’s Coming: A true understanding of the literal, personal, and audible nature of the second advent protects against any false christ who appears in the secret chambers or the desertSITI July 27, 1888, page 456.6+2.

...le against the government of heaven. By these agencies, rulers and subjects will be alike deceived. Persons will arise pretending to be Christ Himself, and claiming the title and worship which belong to the world's Redeemer. They will perform wonderful miracles of healing and will...— DD 41.3 (1997)

...our own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.” Even Satan will disguise himself, and appear as Christ— CW 152.1 (1946)

...h and have turned unto fables. Satan himself abode not in the truth; he is the mystery of iniquity. Through his subtlety he gives to his soul-destroying errors the appearance of truth. Herein is their power to deceive. It is because they are a counterfeit of the truth that spiritual...— TM 365.2 (1923)

... in reference to a system of interpretation, not spiritism popularly called spiritualism.] way that sets God and Christ as a nonentity. The moments occupied in this kind of science are, in the place of preparing the way of the Lord, making a way for Satan to come in and confuse the minds with mysticisms of his own devising. Although they are dressed up in angel robes they have made our God and our Christ a nonentity. Why?—because Satan sees the minds are all fitted for his working. Men have lost track of Christ and the Lord God, and have been obtaining an experience that is Omega to one of the most subtle delusions that will ever captivate the minds of men. We are forbidden to discuss the character or set the ima...— 11MR 211.2 (1990)

But among the men of Babel there were living some God-fearing men who had been deceived by the pretensions of the ungodly and drawn into their schemes. These men would not join this confederacy to thwart the purpo...— 8MR 42.2 (1990)

...caught up together to meet him in the air, and that does not leave the earth utterly desolate—anything pretending to be the second coming of Christ that is not accompanied by all this, is a deception of Satan. Receive thou the love of the truth, and “take heed that no man deceive you.” J— SITI July 27, 1888, page 456.6

When Jesus returns, He will not touch the earth, but rather the saints will be caught up to meet Him in the airARSH June 19, 1856, page 61.15+2. This glorious gathering is the literal fulfillment of the promise that His followers will be taken to the Father's house for the duration of the millenniumDAR1909 636.3+1.

The Manner of His Appearing

The second advent is a personal, visible, and audible event that occurs in the clouds of heaven with power and great gloryARSH June 19, 1856, page 61.15+2.

• The Descent from Heaven: The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, the voice of the archangel, and the trump of GodFP1889 151.5+2.

• Meeting in the Air: There is no scriptural evidence that Christ stands upon the earth at this time; instead, the living righteous and the resurrected saints are caught up together in the clouds to meet the Lord in the airFP1872 13.1+2.

• A Personal Presence: This is not a secret or spiritual coming, but a physical occurrence where "the Lord himself" is seen by allPTUK June 14, 1894, page 372.4+1.

The Destination of the Saints

Immediately following this meeting in the air, Jesus receives His people to Himself to take them to the place He has preparedSITI October 6, 1890, page 506.1.

• To the Father's House: Christ does not take the saints to an earthly kingdom at this point, but to the many mansions in His Father's house John 14:2-3DAR1909 636.3.

• A Thousand Years in Heaven: The redeemed remain with the Lord in heaven for one thousand yearsADRE September 1850, page 49.6+1.

• The State of the Earth: During this millennium, the earth remains desolate and is not inhabited by the saints until the end of the thousand years, when the New Jerusalem descendsSAIN 62.1+1.

The Resurrection and Translation

The return of Jesus marks the final victory over death for the righteousSITI July 30, 1885, page 454.2+1.

• The First Resurrection: The dead in Christ are raised first, awakening to life to die no moreHvn 41.3+2.

• The Transformation of the Living: Those who are alive and remain are changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, putting on immortalityMBC90 8.5+2.

• United Forever: Together, the risen and the translated saints are gathered to be forever with the LordFP1889 151.5+2.

This "blessed hope" serves as the ultimate comfort for the church, as it ensures that we will be with our Savior exactly as He promised 1 Thessalonians 4:18SITI October 1, 1885, page 585.8+1.

During the millennium, the redeemed are in heaven where they sit on thrones and are committed the work of judgment Revelation 20:4EVRR687. At the close of this period, Christ returns to earth a third time to resurrect the wicked, execute final justice, and eventually create a new heaven and a new earthEVRR692+1.

Events During the Millennium in Heaven

While the earth lies desolate and empty, the saints dwell in the presence of God and the LambSAIN 65.2+1.

• Reigning as Kings and Priests: The redeemed live and reign with Christ for a thousand years, fulfilling their role as a royal priesthood Revelation 20:4, 6EVRR687+1.

• The Work of Judgment: Judgment is given to the saints, who examine the records of the unsaved world and fallen angels 1 Corinthians 6:2-3EVRR687+1.

• Investigating the Records: The saints will look into the heavenly record books to understand the reasons why certain individuals are missing from the kingdom, allowing them to fully accept the divine decisions madeEVRR687.

• Determining Punishment: In union with Christ, the righteous compare the acts of the wicked with the Bible and decide the portion of suffering each must endure based on their works Revelation 20:12-13GC 660.4.

The Condition of the Earth During the Millennium

The earth undergoes a period of utter silence and darkness while the saints are in heavenARSH January 16, 1900, page 40.7+1.

• Desolation and Waste: The Lord makes the earth empty and waste, scattering its inhabitants so that no man is left upon it Isaiah 24:1-3+1SAIN 65.2.

• Satan’s Imprisonment: Satan is bound to the desolate earth, having no one left to deceive until the thousand years are finished Revelation 20:2-3SITI April 21, 1887, page 248.1+1.

• A Darkened World: The atmosphere passes away with a great noise, leaving the earth without form and void, covered in dismal mists and fogs 2 Peter 3:10ARSH January 16, 1900, page 40.7.

The Third Advent and the Second Resurrection

At the end of the thousand years, Christ and the saints return to the earthEVRR692+1.

• Christ Returns with the Saints: Unlike the second advent when Christ comes for His saints, at the third advent He comes with them Zechariah 14:5EVRR692+1.

• The Descent of the New Jerusalem: The Holy City, New Jerusalem, descends from God out of heaven and settles upon a great plain prepared when Christ's feet touch the Mount of Olives Revelation 21:2+1EVRR693+1.

• The Resurrection of Damnation: Jesus calls forth the wicked dead—the "rest of the dead" who lived not again until the thousand years were finished John 5:28-29+1EVRR692+1.

• The Marks of the Curse: While the righteous were raised in immortal bloom, the wicked come forth with the same sickly, deformed bodies and marks of the curse they had when they went into the grave7BC 986.4+2.

The Final Conflict and Destruction

The resurrection of the wicked provides Satan with a new multitude to deceive for a short seasonARSH November 29, 1864, page 6.9+1.

• The Last Great Deception: Satan goes out to deceive the resurrected billions, gathering them together for battle against the City of God Revelation 20:8EVRR693+1.

• Surrounding the City: This vast army, led by Satan and including kings and warriors, marches over the broken earth to surround the New Jerusalem Revelation 20:91SG 216.1.

• The Final Execution of Judgment: As the wicked prepare to attack, fire comes down from God out of heaven and devours them Revelation 20:9ARSH November 29, 1864, page 6.9+1.

• The Second Death: This is the final perdition of ungodly men, an everlasting destruction from which there is no resurrection Revelation 20:14-15ARSH November 29, 1864, page 6.9+2.

• A New Earth: After the fires of judgment have purified the planet, God fulfills His promise to create a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells forever 2 Peter 3:13+1EVRR687+1.

Life on the new earth will be a return to the original perfection and joy of the Garden of Eden, where the redeemed live in a state of eternal peace, health, and purposeful activityHvn 144.3+1. This restored world will be the everlasting kingdom of glory and the eternal inheritance of the saintsDAR1909 657.1+1.

The Atmosphere and Environment of the New Earth

The new earth will be a tangible, material world of surpassing beauty and harmonyARSH August 28, 1853, page 60.6+1.

• A Restored Paradise: The Garden of Eden, which was withdrawn from the earth before the flood, will be restored more gloriously adorned than at the beginningHvn 134.3.

• The Absence of the Curse: There will be no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain, for the former things associated with sin will have passed away Revelation 21:4RH May 13, 1890, par. 7. Even the animal kingdom will be restored to a state of purity and peace, where the wolf and the lamb feed together Isaiah 65:25TBI 11.3.

• Nature as a Symbol: All features of nature will symbolize what Christ is to man, and the light of that "perfect day" will be the life and glory of God and the Lamb Revelation 21:23SSP 353.1+1.

• New Heavens and Sea: While the first heaven and earth pass away, there will be a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells 2 Peter 3:13DAR 702.2+1. Although the old sea will be no more, a new sea may exist in the restored creationDAR 702.2+1.

The Occupations and Pleasures of the Redeemed

The saved will not live as "immaterial spirits" in an indefinable region, but as real beings engaged in active, purposeful livesHvn 144.3+1.

• Building and Planting: The redeemed will engage in the same occupations that brought happiness to Adam and EveHvn 144.3. They will build their own houses and inhabit them, and they will plant vineyards and eat the fruit thereof Isaiah 65:21-22Hvn 185.2+1.

• Gardening and Field Work: The Eden life will be lived in its fullness, including the joy of working in gardens and fieldsHvn 144.3+1.

• Scientific and Spiritual Study: The redeemed will spend eternity studying the great theme of redemption and the wonders of God's creationGCDB January 29, 1893, page 25.5+1.

• Social Associations: There will be holy associations and pleasures as the saints meet with the patriarchs, prophets, and apostles to worship togetherRH May 13, 1890, par. 7+1.

Worship and the Tree of Life

The spiritual life of the new earth will center around the presence of God and the sanctuarySSP 353.1+1.

• The Tree of Life: The redeemed will have free access to the tree of life, which yields twelve manner of fruits every month and has leaves for the service of the nations Revelation 22:2SSP 353.1+1. Partaking of this fruit will bring the story of redemption to their soulsSSP 353.1.

• The River of Life: Ever-flowing streams, clear as crystal, will flow from the throne of God, providing the water of life to the inhabitants Revelation 22:1Hvn 143.3+1.

• Sabbath Worship: The holy Sabbath will be observed throughout eternity as a day of joy and worshipChSa 76.2+1. From one Sabbath to another, "all flesh" will come to worship before the Lord Isaiah 66:22-23GNT 216.2+1.

• A Pure Language: For the first time, all nationalities, tribes, and peoples will gather with one common, pure language to serve the Lord with one consent Zephaniah 3:9SSP 353.1.

The Eternal Home

The new earth is the "better country" that the faithful have sought throughout the ages Hebrews 11:14-16Hvn 143.3.

• The Holy City: The New Jerusalem will be the metropolis of the new creation, where God Himself will dwell with His people Revelation 21:2-3RH May 13, 1890, par. 7+1.

• Physical Restoration: Those who enter this land will be restored to perfect health and immortal bloomSSP 356.1+1. The "child" shall grow up as a "calf of the stall," and no one in that land will ever die Malachi 4:2SSP 356.1.

• Seeing God’s Face: The greatest joy of the new earth will be that the servants of God shall see His face, and His name shall be in their foreheads Revelation 22:4RH May 13, 1890, par. 7.

In this glorious state, the people of God, so long pilgrims and wanderers, will finally find their true home beside living streams and peaceful plainsHvn 143.3. Every power of the mind and body will be developed in a world where the glory of God is the light and the love of Christ is the atmosphereARSH March 10, 1863, page 117.20+1.

Yes, the redeemed will build and inhabit their own country homes on the earth made new, finding a permanent residence in that "better country" after their long journey as pilgrims and wanderers Hebrews 11:14-16Hvn 143.3+1. This is not a state of idle dreaming but a continuation of the industrious and wholesome life God originally intended for humanityAH 137.3+1.

Building and Personal Ownership

The inhabitants of the new earth will not be tenants, nor will they fear that their labor will benefit others through death or displacementARSH December 3, 1861, page 6.12+1.

• Constructing Homes: The redeemed will literally build houses and live in them, fulfilling the promise that they shall not build for another to inhabit Isaiah 65:21-22ARSH December 3, 1861, page 6.12+1.

• Planting and Harvesting: They will plant vineyards and orchards, personally enjoying the fruit of their own labor Isaiah 65:21ARSH December 3, 1861, page 6.12+1.

• The Inheritance of the Saved: This inheritance is called a "country," where the heavenly Shepherd leads His flock to fountains of living waters Hebrews 11:14-16Hvn 143.3.

The Beauty of the Rural Landscape

The environment of the new earth will be characterized by peaceful, natural beauty that surpasses the most lovely country homes of this present worldHvn 143.3+2.

• Natural Features: The landscape will consist of wide-spreading plains that swell into hills of beauty, and the mountains of God will rear their lofty summitsHvn 143.3.

• Rivers and Trees: Ever-flowing streams, clear as crystal, will flow through the land, and waving trees will cast their shadows upon the paths prepared for the ransomed Revelation 22:1Hvn 143.3.

• Restored Eden: The Garden of Eden, which was withdrawn from the earth before the flood, will be restored more gloriously adorned than at the beginning to serve as a home for the savedHvn 134.3.

A Life of Vitality and Peace

Living in these country homes, the redeemed will experience a state of perfect safety and health that is impossible in our current worldARSH July 1, 1862, page 39.20.

• Immortal Health: The inhabitants will possess bodies vigorous with immortal health, clothed in celestial loveliness and free from the aches or weariness of the present lifeARSH July 1, 1862, page 39.20.

• Safety from Temptation: A home on the new earth will be a place of perfect safety where the tempter’s power will never come to disturb the peace of the familyARSH July 1, 1862, page 39.20.

• Enduring Beauty: Unlike earthly flowers that fade, the beauty of the new earth and the associations within its homes will bloom through everlasting agesARSH July 1, 1862, page 39.20.

In this glorious future, the people of God will find a home that is a veritable refuge, where the voice of weeping and crying shall never be heard again Isaiah 65:19Hvn 143.3+1. They will finally enjoy the "blessed fatherland of the just," a country undefiled by sin and an inheritance that fadeth not awayARSH November 17, 1863, page 199.18+1.

The redeemed saints will be arrayed in glorious white robes that represent the perfect righteousness of Christ wrought into their characters7BC 965.2+1. This heavenly garment is a literal covering of light and beauty, similar to the original robe of light that enshrouded Adam and Eve in their innocence before the fall14MR 96.2+1.

The Nature of the White Robes

The white raiment is not merely an outward decoration but a reflection of an internal transformation and purity of soulMYP 420.2+1.

• A Reflection of Christ: Those who have Christ dwelling within them will be surrounded by a divine atmosphere, and their faces will reflect the light from His faceMYP 420.2.

• Purity and Motive: This spotless robe is characterized by purity of heart and motive, signifying that the character has been washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb7BC 965.2+1.

• Heavenly Texture: The garment is of heavenly texture, woven in the loom of heaven with not one thread of human invention or self-righteousness in its composition16MR 243.2+1.

• A Fragrant Presence: The white robes of the redeemed are described as being fragrant with perfume from the garden of the LordMYP 420.2.

Restoration of the Lost Garment of Light

The robes given to the saints represent the restoration of the glory lost at the beginning of human history14MR 96.2.

• The Original Robe: In Eden, Adam and Eve were enshrouded in a robe of light and security, which departed from them the moment they transgressed God's law14MR 96.2+1.

• Replacing Dark Robes: When they sinned, they lost their garments of heavenly innocence and instead drew about themselves "dark robes of ignorance" of God1BC 1084.6.

• Garments of Light: Through redemption, the sinner may rise from the dust and once again stand forth arrayed in garments of light, transformed by beholding Jesus7MR 144.3.

The Experience of the Redeemed in Glory

In the visions of the future, the redeemed are consistently seen standing before the throne of God in these radiant vestures7MR 78.1+1.

• A Great Multitude: John beheld an innumerable company from every nation and tongue, standing before the Lamb, clothed with white robes and holding palms of victory Revelation 7:98T 44.3+1.

• Out of Tribulation: These are they who came out of great tribulation and have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb to make them spotless Revelation 7:14YI June 27, 1895, par. 4+1.

• Walking with Christ: The promise to the overcomer is that they shall walk with Christ in white, for through His grace they are accounted worthy Revelation 3:4-5RH April 21, 1903, par. 14+1.

• Angelic Appearance: Heavenly beings and angels are also described as appearing in white apparel with faces bright and shining, setting the pattern for the redeemed host Acts 1:10EW 186.1+1.

Obtaining the Robe Today

It is during this life, before the close of probation, that we must obtain this white raiment through faith and repentanceHS 139.2+1.

• The Counsel of the True Witness: Jesus counsels His people to "buy" of Him this white raiment so that the shame of their spiritual nakedness does not appear Revelation 3:18YI October 21, 1897, par. 1+1.

• Exchanging Filthy Rags: As we plead for purity, the Lord commands that our "filthy garments"—our own self-righteousness—be taken away and replaced with a change of raiment Isaiah 64:6CCh 353.3+1.

• The Wedding Garment: This righteousness is the necessary "wedding garment" that makes a soul fit to sit at the marriage supper of the LambPr 241.2+1.

• Preparation for Translation: We are to be preparing now for translation, ensuring our characters are cleansed so that our names remain in the book of lifeAUCR October 1, 1906, par. 1+1.

The "white robes" are given to those who have resisted the wiles of the deceiver and remained loyal to GodCCh 353.3+1. They will eventually stand in the city of God around the great white throne, singing songs of triumph throughout the ceaseless ages of eternity7MR 222.2+1.

The redeemed will eat the life-giving fruit of the tree of life and the natural products of a restored earth, subsisting on a diet of fruits and grains as originally designed by the CreatorCG 380.1+1. This heavenly fare is the same "angels' food" that was represented by the manna given to the children of Israel Psalms 78:24-25TSDF 22.4.

The Tree of Life

The central feature of the celestial diet is the tree of life, which yields its fruit every month Revelation 22:2PUR June 2, 1904, par. 8.

• Supernatural Virtue: The fruit of this tree possesses a supernatural virtue that was intended to perpetuate life and serve as an antidote to deathHvn 172.2+1.

• Twelve Manner of Fruits: The tree bears twelve different kinds of fruit, providing a variety of glorious nourishment for the saintsTA 285.2+1.

• Healing Leaves: Not only is the fruit edible, but the leaves of the tree are for the healing and service of the nations, sustaining immortality Revelation 22:2Hvn 172.2+1.

• A Right to Eat: Those who keep the commandments of God and overcome through Christ's grace regain the right to eat of this tree, which was forfeited by Adam's disobedience Revelation 2:7+1SITI July 27, 1888, page 454.11+2.

The Original Diet Restored

In the new earth, the diet of the redeemed will be a return to the original plan established in the Garden of EdenCG 380.1+1.

• Fruits, Grains, and Nuts: The Creator's original appointment for human food—consisting of the natural products of the earth—will be fully restoredCG 380.1+1.

• No More Death: Because there will be no more curse or death in the restored Paradise, one animal will no longer destroy another for food; therefore, meat-eating will be entirely done away withLASW 127.3+2.

• Planting and Harvesting: The redeemed will engage in the joyful activity of planting vineyards and eating the fruit they have personally cultivated4SP 466.1+1.

The Spiritual Significance of Eating

Eating in the new earth is not merely for the gratification of appetite but is a sacred act of communion with the Source of lifeDA 660.3+1.

• The Bread of Life: The food eaten by the redeemed is a constant reminder of the sacrifice of Christ, as even the temporal bread we eat is the purchase of His broken body John 6:53-552SP 281.1+1.

• Partakers of Divine Nature: By eating the fruit of the land, the saints are partakers of the divine life and nature, growing strong in the power of the Lord’s mightPTUK September 15, 1898, page 578.6+1.

• Eternal Satisfaction: Jesus Himself will lead His people to the tree of life and the fountains of living waters, saying, "Eat ye all of it"CET 64.3+2.

While we are still on this earth, we are encouraged to educate our tastes toward these simple, wholesome foods—fruits, grains, nuts, and vegetables—as a preparation for the diet of heavenTSDF 22.4+2. If we are faithful to the end, we shall soon sit at the table of the Lord in the golden city and eat of the fruit of the tree of life foreverCET 79.3+2.

The redeemed saints will indeed have the wonderful privilege of traveling to worlds afar to visit the noble and sinless inhabitants of other planetsEGWSRGES 23.1+1. These unfallen beings, who have lived in strict obedience to God's commandments, will welcome the children of earth with unutterable delight to share the treasures of knowledge gained through ages of contemplating God’s handiworkAH 543.2+1.

Modes of Heavenly Transportation

The transition from our mortal state to an immortal one brings a dramatic change in how we move through the vast reaches of spaceHvn 155.2.

• Tireless Flight with Wings: In visions of these distant realms, it is revealed that wings are given to the redeemed, enabling them to wing a tireless flight to worlds afarHvn 155.2+1.

• The Attendance of Angels: During these journeys from the City of God to bright and glorious places, an angel may attend the traveler to provide guidance and instructionHvn 88.3+1.

• A Promise to the Faithful: If one is found faithful, they, along with the 144,000, are promised the specific privilege of visiting all the worlds and viewing the handiwork of God throughout the universeEGWSRGES 23.1+1.

• Unfettered by Mortality: No longer restricted by the limitations of a fallen, physical body, the redeemed will possess a speed and freedom that allows them to explore the systems of suns and stars that circle the throne of DeityHvn 155.2.

The Purpose of Universal Travel

Traveling to other worlds is not merely for leisure but is part of the progressive education of the hereafterAH 547.2+1.

• Learning from Unfallen Beings: The saints will enter into the joy and wisdom of unfallen intelligences who thrilled with sorrow at human woe and now ring with songs of gladness over our redemptionHvn 155.2.

• Studying the Science of Salvation: The science of redemption, which is the study of angels and all the intelligences of unfallen worlds, will remain the highest study for the redeemed throughout endless agesTA 298.3+1.

• Vindicating God's Character: By living the life of Christ before the inhabitants of these unfallen worlds, the redeemed bear witness to the power of His grace and the justice of His lawPUR September 25, 1902, par. 10+1.

• A Lesson Book for the Universe: Our little world has been the lesson book of the universe, and the inhabitants of other worlds have watched the conflict between Christ and Satan with intense interestLDE 31.1+1.

Comparison to Earthly Travel

While we currently rely on slow and often difficult means of transportation—such as cars, trains, boats, or horses—to reach souls on this dark world, the future holds a vastly superior experience11MR 130.2+2.

• From Rugged Paths to Starry Hosts: On earth, we often travel rugged, thorny paths or crowded thoroughfares to share the truthPH113 10.2+1. In the new earth, the path is consecrated by Christ's footsteps and leads to the glory of creation displayed in the starry host of heavenEGWSRGES 23.1+1.

• The Speed of the Redeemed: While earthly "cars" (trains) were once seen as a noisy and fast invention of speed, they pale in comparison to the "lightning speed" and tireless flight promised to those who inherit the kingdom of GodLASW 4.2+2.

The Lord has given us a view of these other worlds to encourage us to remain steadfast, so that we may one day visit the place where good old Enoch now dwells and explore the millions of inhabited worlds that have never known the curse of sinEGWSRGES 23.1+2.

The number of galaxies, stars, and worlds in the universe of God is truly innumerable, surpassing the most advanced computations of human science Genesis 15:5MEDM April 1903, page 92.3. While modern instruments and photography have revealed millions upon millions of suns, we have only entered the very outskirts of the field of observationMEDM April 1903, page 92.3+1.

The Immensity of the Starry Host

The universe is composed of vast systems of suns and planets that testify to the infinite power of the CreatorSDP 258.2+1.

• Innumerable Stars: Human numbering once suggested only five or six thousand stars, but it has since been discovered that they are literally innumerable, just as God promised Abraham Genesis 22:17MEDM April 1903, page 92.3.

• The Magnitude of Galaxies: Some astronomers have computed that there are at least seventy-five million suns in the universe, with each fixed star serving as a sun to its own planetary systemATNM 135.1.

• The Milky Way: This grand feature of the firmament alone is estimated to contain no less than 18,000,000 suns, and the light from its most distant points may require a thousand years to reach the earthARSH August 25, 1859, page 112.1.

• Beyond Human Vision: Through long-exposure photography, thousands of stars are revealed in spaces that appear vacant even to the most powerful telescopes, suggesting that if an observer were transported to the most distant visible sun, the same infinite expanse would repeat itselfMEDM April 1903, page 92.3+1.

Worlds and Systems Circling the Throne

The organization of the heavens is not a matter of chance but follows a perfect, divine orderGCB May 28, 1909, page 200.15+1.

• Planetary Systems: Each of the millions of suns is the center of a planetary system, and each planet is accompanied by its own satellitesSDP 258.2+1.

• The Center of Creation: All these solar systems and universes revolve in a vast circle about the throne of God, which is the grand center of all creationSDP 98.1+2.

• Order and Harmony: These systems move in perfect order, performing their revolutions in their allotted time, and are held in their orbits by rays of power from the throne of lifeHvn 155.2+1.

The Inhabitants of Other Worlds

The vast regions of space are not empty voids but are filled with life and intelligent beingsEW 39.3+1.

• Unfallen Beings: There are "worlds afar" inhabited by noble, majestic, and lovely beings who have lived in strict obedience to God's commandments and have never fallen through disobedienceEW 39.3+1.

• The Heavenly Family: These unfallen worlds and their inhabitants have watched the progress of sin on our earth with intense interest and sorrow, and they now ring with songs of gladness over the news of a ransomed soulSSP 348.3+1.

• Future Exploration: The redeemed will eventually have the privilege of visiting these countless worlds to view the handiwork of God and share in the treasures of knowledge gained by unfallen beings through ages of contemplationHvn 155.2+1.

God’s Personal Care for His Creation

Despite the overwhelming scale of the universe, the Creator maintains an intimate knowledge of every part13MR 265.1+1.

• Calling Them by Name: God "bringeth forth their host by number" and "calleth them all by names" through the greatness of His might Isaiah 40:26MEDM April 1903, page 92.3+1.

• The Power of His Word: It is the word of His power that upholds all these worlds, keeping them from falling or crashing into one another Hebrews 1:3GCB/GCDB 1895, page 218.7+1.

• A Lesson of Value: When we consider the immensity of these seventy-five million circular fields, we can better appreciate why David exclaimed, "What is man, that thou art mindful of him?"ATNM 135.1+1. Yet, this same infinite God knows your name and will never let you escape His noticeARSH October 17, 1899, page 663.9.

The created universe is of an age that is beyond finite comprehension, having its origins in a period that existed before the foundations of our world were laid3SG 90.2+1. While the history of our specific earth covers a period of approximately six thousand years since its creation in six literal days, the wider universe and the angelic host were brought into existence by the Word of God at an even earlier point in the distant past3SG 90.2+2.

The Pre-Existence of the Heavenly Universe

Before the earth was called into being, God had already established His government and created unnumbered worlds and intelligent beingsEd 129.1+1.

• The Origin of the Conflict: The great controversy between good and evil actually had its birth before time, as we measure it, beganLDE 302.1.

• The Fallen Cherub: Lucifer, the covering cherub, was a created being who held a high position in the heavenly courts long before the introduction of sin into our worldEGWSRGES 17.5+1.

• The Divine Law: God is the "King of kings" and "Lord of lords" who had His laws and commandments in place to hold jurisdiction over all created intelligences before this world was ever createdPK 506.2+1.

• The Son's Pre-Existence: Jesus Christ existed with the Father "before the foundation of the world," possessing a glory and a relationship that predates human historyIC 11.2+1.

The Specific Age of Our World

In contrast to the indefinite age of the wider universe, the Bible provides a reliable and authentic history of the beginning of our own worldEGWSRGES 17.5+1.

• Six Literal Days: The creation of the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that in them is, was accomplished by God in six literal days, consisting of an evening and a morningTEd 77.3+1.

• A Six-Thousand-Year History: Bible history reveals that our world is now only about six thousand years oldEGWSRGES 28.1+1.

• The Vitality of the Race: God endowed man at his creation with such great vital force that the human race has been able to withstand the accumulation of disease and the effects of perverted habits for six thousand yearsT22 15.1.

• Rejecting Infidel Supposition: The idea that the events of the first week of time required "seven vast, indefinite periods" or "tens of thousands of years" is an infidel supposition that strikes at the foundation of the Sabbath and impeaches the wisdom of GodEGWSRGES 28.1+1.

The Limits of Human Investigation

Human philosophy and "infidel geologists" often seek to account for creative works upon natural principles, leading them into a "boundless ocean of uncertainty"3SG 90.2+1.

• Incomprehensible Creative Works: The creative works of God are just as incomprehensible as His own existence, and the "how" and "when" of His work beyond what is revealed remains a mystery9MR 203.1+1.

• The Fallibility of Science: Without the light of Bible history, the study of relics and geology can prove nothing regarding the precise period of time these things have been in the earthEGWSRGES 28.1+1.

• The Higher Critic: While men pride themselves on being "higher critics" of the Word, it is actually the Lord God of the universe who is the true Higher Critic, having spread the canopy of the heavens and called the stars forth in their order9LtMs, Ms 43a, 1894, par. 12.

The Eternal Perspective

The Word of God carries the mind from the creation to the coming of the Son of man, and even forward to the future lifeRH March 2, 1886, par. 6.

• Ancient Mountains and Hills: Scripture recognizes the "ancient mountains" and "lasting hills" as representatives of God's power, yet even these are subject to the One who "spoke, and it was done"TEd 77.3+1.

• Upholding All Things: The same Word that brought unnumbered worlds into existence continues to uphold all things by His power, ensuring the "never-ending routine of the universe" remains in harmony2SP 162.2+1.

We are encouraged to contemplate the wonderful works of God and to recognize that while our world has a definite history of six millennia, the depths of God's wisdom and His ways are "past finding out"CT 426.4+1.

"O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!" Romans 11:33.