Understanding the Universal and Individual Close of Probation

There is only one universal close of probation for the entire world, though individuals may effectively close their own probation through death or the rejection of the Holy SpiritGP 89.4+2. While some have suggested that probation closes for certain groups, such as Seventh-day Adventists, earlier than for the rest of the world, this is an erroneous claim that lacks scriptural or prophetic supportEVRR237+1.

The Universal Close of Probation

The final close of probation is a singular, decisive event occurring in the heavenly sanctuary when Jesus Christ completes His work as a mediatorEVRR237+1.

• The Final Decree: When Christ's intercession ends, He pronounces the irrevocable fiat: "He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still" Revelation 22:11EVRR237+1.

• A Sudden Event: This hour comes silently and unnoticed by the world, like a thief in the night, while people are still engaged in their daily activities of building, eating, and drinkingEVRR251+1.

• The Timing: It takes place immediately before the outpouring of the seven last plagues and the great time of trouble Revelation 16:17-21GP 89.4+1.

• Universal Scope: The probation of all closes at the same time when Jesus leaves His position in the most holy place and puts on the garments of vengeanceEVRR251+1.

Individual Probation

While the corporate close of probation for the world is a single future event, individuals determine their eternal destiny during their current lifetimeCOL 260.1+1.

• Death as a Boundary: For many, probation closes at death, as there is no second chance or future probation granted after this life Hebrews 9:271SM 189.3+2.

• The Unpardonable Sin: Individuals can close their own probation by persistently disregarding the law of God and wearying the Holy Spirit until they reach a point where they no longer desire to reformEze 13:22+2.

• Present Opportunity: Because life is uncertain and no one knows when their personal opportunity to seek salvation will end, the current time is the only guaranteed period for character preparationDG 272.7+2.

Events Preceding the Final Close

Several specific spiritual and political developments occur shortly before the universal close of human probationGP 89.4.

• The Sealing: God’s people receive the final seal of protection and redemption in their foreheads just before the close of probation Revelation 7:1-3EVRR237+1.

• The Loud Cry and Latter Rain: Prior to the end, the Holy Spirit is poured out in the "latter rain" to empower the church to give a final warning message—the loud cry—to the world Joel 2:28EVRR650+1.

• The Sunday Law: A universal Sunday law will be issued, serving as the final test for inhabitants of the earth to decide for or against God's law before their destiny is fixedGP 89.4+1.

• Satanic Delusions: Satan will manifest great power through wonders and miracles, which he will continue right up until probation closes to deceive as many as possible2SM 50.4+1.