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100% Chance of Rain
The Latter Rain
Updated 2007-07-06
(Outline Excerpts)
By Ryan McCoy
4.
A Counterfeit Latter Rain experience comes before the true
Latter Rain even in Adventist Church!
a.
“The enemy is determined to mix error with truth.” {8T 184.1}
b.
“God will arouse His people; if other means fail,
heresies will come in among them, which will sift
them, separating the chaff from the wheat. The Lord
calls upon all who believe His word to awake out of sleep. Precious
light has come, appropriate for this time. It is Bible truth,
showing the perils that are right upon us. This light should lead us
to a diligent study of the Scriptures and a most critical examination of the
positions which we hold. God would have all the bearings and positions of truth
thoroughly and perseveringly searched, with prayer and fasting.
Believers are not to rest in suppositions and ill-defined ideas of what
constitutes truth. Their faith must be firmly founded upon the
word of God so that when the testing time
shall come and they are brought before councils to answer for
their faith they may be able to give a reason for the hope that is in them,
with meekness and fear.” {5T 707.3}
c.
“Some he deceives in one way, and some in another. He
has different delusions prepared to affect different minds. Some look
with horror upon one deception, while they readily receive another. Satan
deceives some with Spiritualism. He also comes as an angel of light and
spreads his influence over the land by means of false reformations.
The churches are elated, and consider that God is working
marvelously for them, when it is the work of another spirit.
The excitement will die away and leave the world and the church in a
worse condition than before.” {EW 260.1}
d.
False Revivals - “I saw that God has honest children among
the nominal Adventists and the fallen churches, and
before the plagues shall be poured out, ministers and people will be called
out from these churches and will gladly receive the truth.
Satan knows this; and before the loud cry of the third angel
is given, he raises an excitement in these religious bodies,
that those who have rejected the truth may think that God is with them.
He hopes to deceive the honest and lead them to think that God
is still working for the churches. But the light will shine,
and all who are honest will leave the fallen churches, and take
their stand with the remnant.” {EW 261.1} (also GC 464.1)
1.
“Nominal” Definition 3a - “existing or being something in name or form
only” –Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
2.
“Those who have had opportunities to hear and receive of the
truth and who have united with the Seventh-day Adventist church,
calling themselves the commandment-keeping people of God, and yet
possess no more vitality and consecration to God than do the
nominal churches, will receive the plagues of God just as
verily as the churches who oppose the law of God.” --19MR 176 (1898).
{LDE 172.2}
e.
“Before the final visitation of God's judgments upon the earth there will
be among the people of the Lord such a revival of primitive
godliness as has not been witnessed since apostolic times. . . . The enemy of
souls desires to hinder this work, and before the time
for such a movement shall come, he will endeavor to prevent it by
introducing a counterfeit. In those churches (nominal
Adventists & the fallen churches)(see: EW 261.1) which he can bring under
his deceptive power, he will make it appear that God's special
blessing is poured out; there will be manifest what is thought
to be great religious interest. . . .” {GC 464.1} {LDE 158.2} (next
paragraph follows in both ref’s)
f.
“There is an emotional excitement, a mingling of the
true with the false, that is well adapted to mislead.
Yet none need be deceived. In the light of God's Word it is not difficult to
determine the nature of these movements. Wherever men neglect the testimony
of the Bible, turning away from those plain, soul-testing truths which require
self-denial and renunciation of the world, there we may be sure that God's
blessing is not bestowed.” –{GC 464.2} {LDE 158.3}
g.
SDA Bible Commentary Vol. 7 – Revelation 18 “Falsehoods will be
urged upon the attention of God's people, but the truth is to stand
clothed in its beautiful, pure garments. The Word, precious in its
holy, uplifting influence, is not to be degraded to a level with common,
ordinary matters. It is always to remain uncontaminated by the fallacies
by which Satan seeks to deceive, if possible, the
very elect.” {7BC 984.2}
h.
"Satan's purpose is, through his devices, to
make of none effect the testimonies of the Spirit of God. If he
can lead the minds of the people of God to see things in a perverted light,
they will lose confidence in the messages God sends through His servants;
then he can the more readily deceive, and not be detected."
{12MR 201.1}
1.
If the intimation that the latter rain could fall (before National Sunday
Law enforcement, etc) in response to “Operation Global Rain” is believed and
accepted by many, and this does not happen (it won't), it could very easily
cause them to lose confidence in the testimonies, and why should this surprise
us? This is exactly "Satan's purpose", "to make
of none effect the testimonies of the Spirit of God." The
testimonies tell us the Latter Rain is not yet, and the
scriptures tell us to be patient and wait for it. In this movement
so far all I've honestly seen is impatience over the latter
rain.
A.
"Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the
Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the
earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early
and latter rain. You also be patient. Establish your
hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand." -James 5:7,8
B.
Do you notice how patience is really a theme here? Patience, or waiting
is mentioned four times. "The Lord does not repeat
things that are of no great consequence." -Ms 107, 1897
2.
What would be the ramifications for those who don't receive this
counterfeit latter rain?
A.
This would create two classes, those "with the spirit" and those
"without."
a.
Those "with the spirit" could easily begin to deride those "without" and
begin to intimate that those "without the spirit" were to be the ones lost, &
would be shaken out, etc.
b.
This could very easily set the stage for persecution in the church.
B.
This would result in God's true children being made
to feel they had been "passed by" and had missed the latter rain.
a.
This could result in a host of other problems for God's true children:
i.
Feelings of disappointment, depression, despondency, worthlessness, inadequacy,
etc. (Just as Satan would have them feel.)
ii. This
could easily result in some losing their faith due to the feeling it was "too
late" for them.
C.
God's work would be hindered due to divisions in the church.
a.
Remember from above, "The enemy of souls desires to hinder the work."
This seems to be his plan to do exactly so, and he MUST do this BEFORE the true
revival! And from what I see, it's prophesied in a concrete way, without
condition. It will happen and it seems that only the work of "a few" with
God's help can limit the extent of this damage!
i.
A warning against such attempts at “control” over the events and
timing of the latter rain.
1.
“There will be those among us who will
always want to control the work of God, to dictate
even what movements shall be made when the work goes
forward under the direction of the angel who joins the third angel
in the message to be given to the world. God will use ways and
means by which it will be seen that He is taking the reins in His own
hands. The workers will be surprised by the simple means that
He will use to bring about and perfect His work of righteousness.--Testimonies
to Ministers, p. 300. (1885) {Ev 118.1}
A.
Might some of those “among us” also try “to dictate” or intimate even
when such “movements shall be made” concerning the work of the
fourth angel?
5.
“Causes for Delay in Outpouring of Latter Rain.”
a.
The Counterfeit – “Playing with Fire”
1.
“Then Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, each took his censer
and put fire in it, put incense on it, and
offered profane fire before the LORD, which He had not commanded
them. So fire went out from the LORD and devoured them,
and they died before the LORD.” –Leviticus 10:1,2
A.
Is the issue of what you believe about the Latter Rain, represented by a
Holy Fire, a salvation issue? Are some playing with “profane” fire before the
Lord, just like Nadab and Abihu by taking things into their own hands, “before
the time?” If some are saying that the Latter Rain is beginning to fall, when
in reality it might be the work of another spirit, are we in danger of our
salvation?
2.
“The natural heart is not to bring its own tainted, corrupting principles
into the work of God. There must be no concealing of the principles of our
faith. The third angel's message is to be sounded by God's people. It
is to swell to the loud cry. The Lord has a time
appointed when He will bind off the work; but when is that time?--when
the truth to be proclaimed for these last days shall go forth as a witness to
all nations, then shall the end come. If the power of Satan
can come into the very temple of God, and manipulate things
as he pleases, the time of preparation will be prolonged.”
{9MR 212.1}
- When Will the Latter Rain be Poured Out? / When
does the fourth angel join the third?
- A Caution Against Time-Setting Expressions. - “The
times and seasons God has put in His own power. And why has not God
given us this knowledge?-- Because we would not make a right use of it
if He did. A condition of things would result from this knowledge among
our people that would greatly retard the work of God in preparing a
people to stand in the great day that is to come. We are not to be
engrossed with speculations in regard to the times and the seasons which
God has not revealed. Jesus has told His disciples to "watch," but not
for definite time. His followers are to be in the position of those
who are listening for the orders of their Captain; they are to
watch, wait, pray, and work, as they
approach the time for the coming of the Lord; but no one will be
able to predict just when that time will come; for "of that
day and hour knoweth no man." You will not be able to say
that He will come in one, two, or five years,
neither are you to put off His coming by stating that it may not be for
ten or twenty years. . . . We are not to know the definite
time either for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit or for the coming of
Christ. … Why has not God given us this
knowledge?--Because we would not make a right use of it if He did. A
condition of things would result from this knowledge among our people
that would greatly retard the work of God in preparing a people to stand
in the great day that is to come. We are not to live upon time
excitement. . . .” --Review and Herald, March 22, 1892. {Ev
221.1} {LDE 33.1}
- The Chronology
1.
Chronology – definition at Merriam Webster’s – 3 an arrangement (as of
events) in order of occurrence
- After the way is prepared
1.
“When the way is
prepared for the Spirit of God, the blessing
will come. Satan can no more hinder a shower of blessing from
descending upon God's people than he can close the windows of heaven that rain
cannot come upon the earth.” -1SM 124 (1887). {LDE 188.2}
- After an early rain/former rain experience
1.
“Be glad then, you children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God;
For He has given you the former rain faithfully, and He will cause the
rain to come down for you— the former rain, and the latter rain
in the first month.” –Joel 2:23
2.
“The latter rain, ripening earth's harvest, represents the
spiritual grace that prepares the church for the coming of the Son of man.
But unless the
former rain has fallen, there will be no life; the green
blade will not spring up. Unless
the early showers have done their work, the latter rain
can bring no seed to perfection.” -TM 506 (1897). {LDE 183.3}
3.
“The outpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostles was
the beginning of the early, or former,
rain, and glorious was the result. To the end of time the presence
of the Spirit is to abide with the true church.” -AA 54, 55 (1911).
{LDE 184.4}
4.
“The convocations of the church, as in camp meetings,
the assemblies of the home church, and all occasions where there is
personal labor for souls, are God's appointed opportunities for giving
the early and the latter rain.” {TM 508.1}
A.
We must realize that the early rain being referred to here is
applied to today, an obvious reason for this was the early disciples didn’t have
“camp meeting.” This quote refers to an early outpouring of God’s spirit just
before the final events to prepare the 144,000 for their mission. (See the study
on the 144,000 – “The Awakening that will Surprise Many.”)
B.
The Early Rain results in the raising up and fitting of the 144,000.
a.
“He will raise up from among the common people
men and women to do His work, even as of old He called fishermen to be
His disciples. There will soon be an awakening that will
surprise many. Those who do not realize the necessity of what is to
be done will be passed by, and the heavenly messengers will work with those who
are called the common people, fitting them to
carry the truth to many places.” -15MR 312 (1905). {LDE 204.2}
5.
“If we do not place ourselves in an attitude to receive
both the former
and the latter rain, we shall lose
our souls, and the responsibility will lie at our own door.”
{TM 507.2}
- God’s people must be tested first. While they
will be brought to many tests, the greatest test is that of their
loyalty, and this is the test over the Sabbath.
1.
“Those who come up to every point,
and stand every test, and overcome,
be the price what it may, have heeded the counsel of the True
Witness, and they will be fitted by the latter rain for
translation.” {2SG 225.1}
2. Observance
of Sabbath is the Test - “None are condemned until they have had the light
and have seen the obligation of the fourth commandment. But
when the decree shall
go forth enforcing the counterfeit sabbath, and
the loud cry of the third angel shall warn men
against the worship of the beast and his image, the line will be
clearly drawn between the false and the true. Then those who still
continue in transgression will receive the mark of the beast.” --Ev 234,
235 (1899). {LDE 225.4}
A.
Notice the counterfeit sabbath (beginning with National Sunday Laws)
starts before the loud cry because the loud cry is against worship
of the beast and His image. You cannot have a loud
cry without National Sunday Laws and the latter rain first.
Both are absolute requirements for the loud cry. See also: EW 86
(1854) {LDE 186.4}, (EW 271.2)
3. “The
Sabbath will be the great test of loyalty; for it is the point of
truth especially controverted. When the final test shall be brought to
bear upon men, then the line of distinction will be drawn between those who
serve God and those who serve him not. While the observance of the false Sabbath
in compliance with the law of the State, contrary to the fourth commandment,
will be an avowal of allegiance to a power that is in opposition to God, the
keeping of the true Sabbath, in obedience to God's law, is an evidence of
loyalty to the Creator. While one class, by accepting the sign of submission to
earthly powers, receive the mark of the beast, the other, choosing the token of
allegiance to divine authority, receive the seal of God.” {GC88 605.2}
- After National Sunday Law enforcement
1.
“It is time for thee, LORD,
to work: for they have
made void thy law.” –Psalm
119:126
2.
“When
the law of God has been made void,
and apostasy becomes a national sin,
the Lord will work in behalf of his people. Their
extremity will be his opportunity. He will manifest his
power in behalf of his church.” {RH, December 24, 1889 par. 5}(LDE
133.3)
A.
“When our nation, in its
legislative councils, shall enact laws to bind the consciences of men
in regard to their religious privileges, enforcing Sunday observance, and
bringing oppressive power to bear against those who keep the
seventh-day Sabbath, the law of God will, to all intents and
purposes, be made void in our
land, and national apostasy will be followed by national ruin.”
-7BC 977 (1888). {LDE 133.5}
3.
“When
Sunday observance shall be enforced by law, and the world
shall be enlightened concerning the
obligation of the true Sabbath, then whoever shall transgress the
command of God to obey a precept which has no higher authority than that of
Rome, will thereby honor popery above God. He is paying homage to Rome, and to
the power which enforces the institution ordained by Rome. He is
worshiping the beast and his image.” {LDE 226.1} {GC 449.1} (The loud
cry is against "worship of the beast and his image." (Ev 234, 235
1899))
4.
“But when
the decree shall go forth enforcing the counterfeit Sabbath,
and when the
loud cry of the third angel shall warn men against the worship of
the beast and his image, the line will be clearly drawn between
the false and the true. Then those who still continue in
transgression will receive the mark of the beast in their foreheads or in their
hands.” {BTS, February 1, 1913 par. 5} & {ST, November 8, 1899 par. 2}
5.
“The great issue so near at hand [enforcement
of Sunday laws] will weed out those whom God has not
appointed and He will have a pure, true, sanctified
ministry prepared for the latter rain.” --3SM 385 (1886).
{LDE 179.2}
6.
“Soon the last test is to come to all inhabitants of the
earth. At that time
prompt decisions will be made. Those who have been convicted under
the presentation of the Word will range themselves under the bloodstained banner
of Prince Emmanuel.”--9T 149 (1909). {LDE 213.1}(Chapter 14 – The Loud Cry)
7.
“Heretofore those who presented the truths of the third angel's message
have often been regarded as mere alarmists. Their predictions that religious
intolerance would gain control in the United States, that church
and state would unite to persecute those who keep the commandments of God, have
been pronounced groundless and absurd. It has been confidently declared that
this land could never become other than what it has been--the defender of
religious freedom. But as the question of enforcing Sunday observance is
widely agitated, the event so long doubted and
disbelieved is seen to be approaching,
and the third message will produce an effect which it could not have
had before.” {GC 605.3}
A.
And of course as this event comes to pass this will develop into the loud
cry as the United States leads the way and all the world wanders after.
8.
“Thus the message of the third angel will be proclaimed.
As the time comes for it
to be given with greatest power, the Lord will work through
humble instruments, leading the minds of those who consecrate themselves to
His service. The laborers will be qualified rather by the unction of His Spirit
than by the training of literary institutions. Men of faith and prayer will be
constrained to go forth with holy zeal, declaring the words which God gives
them. The sins of Babylon will be laid open. The fearful results of
enforcing the observances of the church by civil authority,
the inroads of spiritualism, the stealthy but rapid progress of the papal
power--all will be unmasked. By these solemn warnings
the people will be stirred. . .” {GC 606.2} {FLB 330.2}
A.
It is clearly stated here that there will be church-state enforcement
prior to the loud cry “to be given with greatest power” that lays open the sins
of Babylon.
9.
“The time is not far distant when the test will come to every soul.
The mark of the beast will be urged upon us. Those who have step
by step yielded to worldly demands and conformed to worldly customs will not
find it a hard matter to yield to the powers that be, rather than subject
themselves to derision, insult, threatened imprisonment, and death. The
contest is between the commandments of God and the commandments of men.
In this time the gold
will be separated from the dross in the church. True godliness
will be clearly distinguished from the appearance and tinsel of it.
Many a star that we have admired for its brilliancy will then go out in
darkness. Chaff like a cloud will be borne away on the wind,
even from places where we see only floors of rich wheat.
All who assume the ornaments of the sanctuary, but are not
clothed with Christ's righteousness, will appear in the shame of their
own nakedness.” {5T 81.1}{Mar 200.3}
10.
“In revelation 14 John beholds another scene. He sees a people
whose fidelity and loyalty to the laws of God's kingdom, grow with
the emergency. The contempt placed upon the
law of God only makes them reveal more decidedly their love for that law.
It increases with the contempt that is placed upon it.” (MS 163,
1897). {7BC 981.9}
11.
“When the law
of God is most derided and brought into the
most contempt,
then it is time for every true follower of Christ,
for those whose hearts have been given to God, and who are fixed to obey God,
to stand unflinchingly for the faith once delivered to the saints. "Then
shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked,
between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not."
It is time to fight
when champions are most needed.1”
(RH June 8, 1897). {7BC 981.12}
A.
See (MS 175, 1899). {7BC 983.2} below: “The armies of the living God will
take the field.”
- During the “Small time of Trouble” (Sunday Laws
begin the Small Time of Trouble)
1.
“The commencement of that time of trouble," here
mentioned does not refer to the time when the plagues shall begin to be poured
out, but to a short period
just before they are
poured out, while Christ is in the sanctuary.
At that time, while the work of
salvation is closing, trouble will be coming on the earth, and the nations will
be angry, yet held in check so as not to prevent the work of the third angel.
At that time
the "latter rain," or refreshing from the presence
of the Lord, will come, to give power to the
loud voice of the third angel, and prepare the saints to
stand in the period when the seven last plagues shall be poured out.” {EW
85.3}
2.
“The unbelieving world will soon have something to think of besides their
dress and appearance; and as their minds are torn from these things by
distress and perplexity, they will have nothing to turn to. They are
not prisoners of hope, and therefore do not turn to the Stronghold. Their
hearts will fail them for repining and fear. They have not made God
their refuge, and He will not be their consolation then, but will laugh at their
calamity, and mock when their fear cometh. They have despised and
trampled upon the truths of God's word. They have indulged in extravagant dress,
and have spent their lives in hilarity and glee. They have sown to the
wind; they must reap the whirlwind.
In the time of distress and
perplexity of nations there will be many who have not given
themselves wholly to the corrupting influences of the world and the service of
Satan, who will humble themselves before God
and turn to Him with their whole heart and find acceptance and pardon.”
{1T 268.3}
A.
There will be (at minimum) a “second outpouring” of the Latter Rain to
prepare the “gentiles” joining the church at the 11th hour, for
the Great Time of Trouble that will be just
ahead of them. This is described in “type” in the book of Acts.
They must be prepared by God for this time or they would not be able to stand
without an intercessor during the plagues.
3.
“But Providence has a part to act in
the battle of Armageddon. When
the earth is lighted with the glory of the angel of Revelation eighteen,
the religious elements, good and evil, will awake
from slumber, and the armies of the living God will take
the field.” (MS 175, 1899). {7BC 983.2}
A.
“All the intelligences of heaven are in this army.
And more than angels are in the ranks. The Holy Spirit,
the representative of the Captain of the Lord's host, comes
down to direct the battle. Our infirmities may be many, our
sins and mistakes grievous; but the grace of God is for all who seek
it with contrition. The power of Omnipotence is enlisted in
behalf of those who trust in God." {DA 352.2}
- After Satan begins to make appearances as
Christ
1.
SDA Bible Commentary Vol. 7 – Revelation 18:1 - Message Prepares for
Translation.-- “Amid the confusing cries, "Lo,
here is Christ! Lo, there is
Christ!" will be borne a special testimony,
a special message of truth appropriate
for this time, which message is to be received,
believed, and acted upon.” {7BC 984.2}
- After the Churches become active Laborers in
Christ’s service
1.
“When the
churches become living, working churches, the
Holy Spirit will be given in answer to their sincere request. . . .
Then the windows of heaven will be open for the showers of
the latter rain.” --RH Feb. 25, 1890. {LDE 193.2}
2.
“The great outpouring of the Spirit of God, which
lightens the whole earth with His glory, will not come until we
have an enlightened people, that know by experience what it
means to be laborers together with God.
When we have entire,
wholehearted consecration to the service of Christ, God will
recognize the fact by an outpouring of His Spirit without measure;
but this will not be while the largest portion of the church are not
laborers together with God.” -ChS 253 (1896). {LDE 193.3}
3.
“The God-fearing, commandment-keeping people should be diligent,
not only in prayer, but in action;
and this will bring the truth before those who have never heard it.”
-{RH, December 24, 1889 par. 4}
- After “the storm of persecution really breaks
upon us”
1.
“When the
storm of persecution really breaks upon us, . . .
then will the message of the
third angel swell to a loud cry, and the whole earth will be
lightened with the glory of the Lord.” --6T 401 (1900). {LDE 208.2}
2.
Persecution Leads to Unity Among God's People – “When
the storm of persecution really breaks upon us, the true sheep will
hear the true Shepherd's voice. Self-denying efforts will be put forth to save
the lost, and many who have strayed from the fold will come back to follow the
great Shepherd. The people of God will draw together and present to the
enemy a united front. In view of the common peril strife for
supremacy will cease, there will be no disputing as to who shall be
accounted greatest.” -6T 401 (1900). {LDE 152.2}
3.
“As trials thicken around us, both separation and
unity will be seen in our ranks. Some who are now ready to take up
weapons of warfare will in times of real peril make it manifest that they have
not built upon the solid rock; they will yield to temptation. Those who have
had great light and precious privileges but have not improved them
will, under one pretext or another, go out from us.”
-6T 400 (1900). {LDE 175.2}
- After the Shaking
1.
God could not display His power in behalf of ancient Israel until they
were purified. God will wait until His remnant church is purified before He
will pour out the Latter Rain.
A.
Israel was cleansed before they could stand before their enemies
– “In the case of Achan's sin God said to Joshua: "Neither will I be with
you any more, except ye destroy the accursed from among you."
(Joshua 7:12) How does this instance compare with the course pursued by those
who will not raise their voice against sin and wrong, but whose
sympathies are ever found with those who trouble the camp of Israel with their
sins? Said God to Joshua: "Thou canst not stand before
thine enemies, until
ye take away the accursed thing from among you." He pronounced the
punishment which would follow the transgression of His covenant.” {3T 267.3}
B.
“neither will I be with you any more,
except you destroy the accursed
from among you” –Josh 7:12
C.
“There is an accursed thing in your midst, O Israel:
you cannot stand before your enemies,
until you take away the accursed thing
from among you.” Josh 7:13
2.
“He will purify His church even as He purified
the temple at the beginning and close of His ministry on earth. All
that He brings upon the church in test and trial comes that His people may gain
deeper piety and more strength to carry the triumphs of the cross to
all parts of the world.” -9T 228 (1909). {LDE 153.4}
A.
The experience at the cross was literally an earth shaking event for the
disciples, (not to mention the events leading up to the cross,) and Pentecost
did not come until after this experience had weeded out those “whom God had not
appointed” (Judas) out of their ranks. Which is right in line with 3SM 385
above. This experience was but a type of what will happen at the end of time.
Will these prophecies be repeated?
B.
“The prophecies which were fulfilled in the outpouring of the
former rain at the opening of the gospel are again to be
fulfilled in the latter rain at its close. Here are "the times of
refreshing" to which the apostle Peter looked forward when he said: "Repent ye
therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times
of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and He shall send
Jesus." Acts 3:19, 20. {GC 611.3}
3.
“When
the reproach of indolence and slothfulness shall have been wiped away from the
church, the Spirit of the Lord will be graciously manifested.
Divine power will be revealed. The church will see
the providential working of the Lord of hosts.” -9T 46 (1909). {LDE
193.4}
4.
“When
the law of God is made void the church will be
sifted by fiery trials, and a larger proportion than we now
anticipate will give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.”
--2SM 368 (1891). {LDE 174.2}
5.
Early Writings View of the Shaking leading to the Latter Rain – “Early
Writings – Spiritual Gifts Vol. 1 – The Shaking, Pages 269-271” – Broken up (in
order) by topic.
A.
Pleading with God
a.
“I saw some, with strong faith and agonizing cries,
pleading with God. Their countenances were pale and
marked with deep anxiety, expressive of their internal struggle.
Firmness and great earnestness was expressed
in their countenances; large drops of perspiration fell from their
foreheads.1 Now and then their faces would light up with
the marks of God's approbation, and again the same solemn, earnest, anxious look
would settle upon them.” {EW 269.1} (Early Writings – Spiritual Gifts Vol. 1 –
The Shaking)
i. 1 -
Again from the shaking experience leading up to the cross.
1.
“And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like
great drops of blood falling down to the ground.” –Luke 22:44
B.
Evil angels attempt to shut them off from Jesus
a.
“Evil angels crowded around, pressing darkness upon them to shut out
Jesus from their view, that their eyes might be drawn to the darkness that
surrounded them, and thus they be led to distrust God and murmur against Him.
Their only safety was in keeping their eyes directed upward.
Angels of God had charge over His people, and as the poisonous
atmosphere of evil angels was pressed around these anxious ones, the
heavenly angels were continually wafting their wings over them to scatter the
thick darkness.” {EW 269.2} (Early Writings – Spiritual Gifts Vol. 1 – The
Shaking)
C.
Encouragement from Jesus received at times
a.
“As the praying ones continued their earnest cries,
at times a ray of light from Jesus came to them, to
encourage their hearts and light up their countenances.”1
{EW 270.1} (Early Writings – Spiritual Gifts Vol. 1 – The Shaking)
i. 1 –
From Ellen White’s first vision – “If they kept their eyes fixed on Jesus, who
was just before them, leading them to the city, they were safe. But soon some
grew weary, and said the city was a great way off, and they expected to have
entered it before. Then Jesus would encourage them by raising His glorious
right arm, and from His arm came a light which waved over the Advent
band, and they shouted, "Alleluia!" Others rashly denied the light
behind them and said that it was not God that had led them out so far.
The light behind them went out, leaving their feet in
perfect darkness, and they stumbled and lost sight of the mark
and of Jesus, and fell off the path down into the dark and wicked world
below.” {EW 14.1}
D.
Some do not participate in agonizing and pleading & are left in
“perfect darkness”
a.
“Some, I saw, did not participate in this work of
agonizing and pleading.1
They seemed indifferent and careless. They were not resisting the
darkness around them, and it shut them in like a
thick cloud. The angels of God left these
and went to the aid of the earnest, praying ones.2
I saw angels of God hasten to the assistance of all who were
struggling with all their power to resist the evil angels and
trying to help themselves by calling upon God with
perseverance. But His angels left those who made no effort to help
themselves, and I lost sight of them.2” {EW
270.1} (Early Writings – Spiritual Gifts Vol. 1 – The Shaking)
i. 1
- This agonizing and pleading is not a one time event, nor a yearly event, but a
daily continual struggle.
ii. 2
– Probation has now been closed for this group! See section titled– “After
the close of the Sealing Time for the Church” below
E.
Guardian angels around the saints are now doubled & the saints are
clothed in armor. (Sealed)
a.
“Said the angel, "List ye!" Soon I heard a voice
like many musical instruments all sounding in perfect strains,
sweet and harmonious.1
It surpassed any music I had ever heard, seeming to be full
of mercy, compassion, and elevating,
holy joy. It thrilled through my whole being. Said the angel,
"Look ye!" My attention was then turned to the company I had
seen, who were
mightily shaken. I was shown those whom I had before
seen weeping and praying in agony of spirit. The
company of guardian angels around them had been doubled, and they
were clothed with an armor from their head to their feet. They
moved in exact order, like a company of soldiers.2
Their countenances expressed the
severe conflict which they
had endured, the
agonizing struggle they had passed through.
Yet their features, marked with severe internal anguish,
now shone with the light and glory of heaven. They had obtained the
victory, and it called forth from them the deepest gratitude and holy,
sacred joy.” {EW 270.4} (Early Writings – Spiritual Gifts Vol. 1 – The
Shaking)
i. 1
- “Amidst the deepening shadows of earth's last great crisis,
God's light will shine brightest, and the song of hope
and trust will be heard in clearest and loftiest strains.” -Ed 166
(1903). {LDE 201.5}
ii. 2
– “But Providence has a part to act in the
battle of Armageddon. When the earth is lighted with the glory of the
angel of Revelation eighteen, the religious elements, good and
evil, will awake from slumber, and the armies of
the living God will take the field.” (MS 175, 1899). {7BC 983.2}
F.
New believers take the place of those shaken out.
a.
“The numbers of this company had lessened. Some had
been shaken out and
left by the way. The careless and indifferent, who did not join
with those who prized victory and salvation enough to perseveringly plead and
agonize for it, did not obtain it, and they were left behind in
darkness, and their places were immediately filled by others taking hold
of the truth and coming into the ranks. Evil angels still pressed around
them, but could have no power over them.” {EW 271.1}
(Early Writings – Spiritual Gifts Vol. 1 – The Shaking)
i. Why
could the evil angels now have no power over them? The next paragraph from
Ellen White explains!
G.
The Latter Rain
a.
“I heard those clothed with the armor speak forth
the truth with great power. It had effect.
Many had been bound; some wives by their husbands, and some children by their
parents. The honest who had been prevented from hearing the truth now eagerly
laid hold upon it. All fear of their relatives was gone, and the truth alone was
exalted to them. They had been hungering and thirsting for truth; it was dearer
and more precious than life. I asked what
had made this great change.
An angel answered, "It
is the latter rain,
the refreshing from the presence of the Lord,
the loud cry of the third angel."
{EW 271.2} }(Early Writings – Spiritual Gifts Vol. 1 – The Shaking)
i.
They had been both sealed in Christ which is represented by the armor, and
they now speak the truth with great power, this power coming from the fourth
angel joining the third. This IS the Latter Rain, but not until
after the corporate shaking of God’s people. MAKE NO MISTAKE,
THIS HAS NOT HAPPENED YET! All this and Universal Sunday
Laws have not even happened yet!!!
- After the close of the Sealing Time for the
(remnant) Church (their decision on the Sabbath-Sunday issue
determines if they receive the Seal of God or the Mark of the Beast)
& Seal of God is received
1.
“Not one of us will ever receive the seal of God
while our characters have one spot or stain upon them. It is left with us
to remedy the defects in our characters, to cleanse the soul temple of
every defilement. Then
the latter rain will fall upon us as the early rain fell upon the disciples
on the Day of Pentecost.” {5T 214.2}{Mar 240.4}
A.
“The broken ranks will be filled up by those represented by Christ as
coming in at the eleventh hour. There are many with whom the Spirit of God is
striving. The time of God's destructive judgments is the time of mercy for
those who [now] have no opportunity to learn what is truth. Tenderly
will the Lord look upon them. His heart of mercy is touched,
His hand is still stretched out to save, while the door is
closed to those who would not enter. Large numbers will be admitted
who in these last days hear the truth for the first time.--Letter 103,
1903.” {LDE 182.2}
2.
“The refreshing from the presence of the Lord will never come to
hearts filled with impurity.” {RH, April 21, 1891 par. 11}
3.
“Repent and be converted, that your sins may be
blotted out when
the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.”
--The Review and Herald, March 29, 1892. {1SM 192.1}
4.
See also {EW 270.1} above.
- Finally, the way has been prepared, God’s
people have been fitted and accepted an early rain experience, the Law
of God has begun to be made void by the legislation and enforcement of
National Sunday Laws, and Satan has done His best to overpower those of
God’s people he has not been able to shake out. As God’s people see
there is no way out, the lessons of complete reliance on God they have
learned from their past experiences are now brought to memory. Now the
time has fully come and God’s people see that they are poor, blind,
weak, and naked, and they are not as prepared as they thought they
were. They now see that there is no way out except by His divine power
and leadership. It is now time for God to work. (Psalm
119:126)
1.
“God has thrust His people into the gap, to
make up the hedge, to raise up the foundation of many generations.
The heavenly intelligences, angels that excel in strength, are waiting, obedient
to His command, to unite with human agencies; and the Lord will
interpose when matters have come to such a pass that none but a divine power can
counteract the satanic agencies at work.
When His people shall
be in the greatest danger, seemingly unable to stand against the
power of Satan, God will work in their behalf.
Man's extremity is God's opportunity.” {2SM 373.1} {GCDB,
April 13, 1891 par. 22}
- Just before the final call (the loud cry) is
given to come out of Babylon & the final harvest
1.
“Notwithstanding the widespread declension of faith and piety, there are
true followers of Christ in these churches. Before the final visitation of God's
judgments upon the earth there will be among the people of the Lord such a
revival of primitive godliness as has not been witnessed since apostolic times.
The Spirit and power of God will be poured out upon His children.
At that time
many will separate themselves from those churches in which the love of this
world has supplanted love for God and His word. Many,
both of ministers and people, will gladly accept those great
truths which God has caused to be proclaimed
at this time to prepare a
people for the Lord's second coming. The enemy of souls desires to
hinder this work; and before the time for such a movement shall come, he will
endeavor to prevent it by introducing a counterfeit. In those churches which he
can bring under his deceptive power he will make it appear that God's special
blessing is poured out; there will be manifest what is thought to be great
religious interest. Multitudes will exult that God is working marvelously for
them, when the work is that of another spirit. Under a religious guise, Satan
will seek to extend his influence over the Christian world.” {GC 464.1}
- Before Universal Sunday Laws
1.
“The power attending the message will only madden those who
oppose it. . . . The church appeals to the strong arm of civil power, and in
this work, papists and Protestants unite. As the movement for Sunday
enforcement becomes more bold and decided,
the law will be invoked against commandment keepers. . . .” {FLB
330.3} {GC88 607.1}
A.
Note: “as the movement for Sunday enforcement becomes
more bold and decided” obviously means it has already
come into existence, or legislation, but is not being observed by God’s
faithful. This thought is reinforced by the following:
B.
“Those who trample upon God's law make human laws which they will force
the people to accept. Men will devise and counsel and plan what they will do.
The whole world keeps Sunday, they say, and why should
not this people, who are so few in number, do according to the
laws of the land?” -Ms 163, 1897. {LDE 136.3}
a.
Its obvious here that this statement is a reference to a time after basic
National Sunday Law legislation because “the laws of the land” have to
have already been enforced to even have this statement.
It cannot be argued that this applies to the present time, or a time
prior to National Sunday Law legislation for two reasons; #1. Sunday
Laws are currently NOT on books of every state in the union, #2.
The “laws of the land” or National (Federal) laws don’t even legislate Sunday at
this time.
2.
A Crisis Makes God's Interference Marked – “From time to time the
Lord has made known His manner of working. He is mindful of what is passing upon
the earth. And when a crisis has come, He has revealed Himself and
has interposed to hinder the working of Satan's plans. He has often
permitted matters with nations, with families, and with
individuals to come to a crisis that His
interference might become marked. Then He has let the fact be known
that there was a God in Israel who would sustain and vindicate His
people.” {LDE 152.3}
A.
Note carefully this Bible verse in Joel compared to the Ellen White quote
above. Notice that the corporate outpouring of the latter rain will show that
God is still in the midst of Israel:
B.
“23 Be glad then, you children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God;
For He has given you the former rain faithfully, and He will cause the rain to
come down for you— The former rain, and the latter rain in the first month.
26… My people shall never be put to shame. 27
Then you shall know that I
am in the midst of Israel: I am the LORD your God and
there is no other. My people shall never be put to shame. 28 “And it shall
come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; Your
sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams,
your young men shall see visions. 29 And also on My
menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those
days.” Joel 2:23,26-29
3.
“When the
defiance of the law of Jehovah shall be almost universal,
when His people
shall be pressed in affliction by their fellow men, God will
interpose. The fervent prayers of His people will be
answered, for He loves to have His people seek Him with all
their heart and depend upon Him as their Deliverer.” -RH June 15, 1897.
{LDE 153.1}
A.
“Almost universal” = before Universal Sunday Laws.
4.
“Amidst the deepening shadows of earth's last great crisis,
God's light will shine brightest, and the song of
hope and trust will be heard in clearest and loftiest strains.” -Ed 166
(1903). {LDE 201.5}
5.
“As America, the land of religious liberty, shall unite
with the papacy in forcing the conscience and compelling men to honor the false
sabbath, the people of every country on the globe will be led to follow
her example.” -6T 18 (1900). {LDE 135.1}
6.
The latter rain clearly comes prior to Universal Sunday Laws, or there
could not be a loud cry against them! If there was not a
National Sunday Law being enforced and persecution going on what would the loud
cry be about?
- Before the work is closed up (the close of
probation) and the sealing for God’s people (coming out from the other
churches of the world) is finished.
1.
“The time has come
when we must expect the Lord to do great things for us. Our efforts must not
flag or weaken. We are to grow in grace and in a knowledge of the Lord.
Before the work is closed up and the sealing of God's people is finished,
we shall have the out-pouring of the Spirit of God. Angels from
heaven will be in our midst. . . . The present is the fitting up time for
heaven, when we each must walk in full obedience to all the commandments of
God.” Letter 30, 1907, pp. 2, 3. (To Mr. N. D. Faulkhead, February 5, 1907.)
{1MR 175.2}
- Before the plagues
1.
“Before the
final visitation of God's judgments upon the earth there
will be among the people of the Lord such
a revival of primitive godliness as has not been witnessed since apostolic times.
The Spirit and power of God will be poured out upon His children.”
-GC 464 (1911). {LDE 186.2}
- Basic understanding of the order of the final
events by the White Estate
1.
Last Day Events Book Index
1. Earth's Last Crisis
2. Signs of Christ's Soon Return
3. "When Shall These Things Be?"
4. God's Last Day Church
5. Devotional Life of the
Remnant
6. Lifestyle and Activities of
the Remnant
7. Country Living
8. The Cities
9. Sunday Laws
10. The Little Time of Trouble
11. Satan's Last Day Deceptions
12. The Shaking
13.
The Latter Rain
14. The Loud Cry
15. The Seal of God and the Mark
of the Beast
16. The Close of Probation
17. The Seven Last Plagues and
the Wicked
18. The Seven Last Plagues and
the Righteous
19. Christ's Return
20. The Inheritance of the
Saints
- Latter Rain comes just when it is needed,
not before! It comes in response to a great crisis! And
that is after National Sunday Laws!
1.
How do we know that the church won’t get serious about finishing the
work until National Sunday Law enforcement?
A.
“The work which the church has failed to do in a time of peace and
prosperity she will have to do in a terrible crisis under
most discouraging, forbidding circumstances. The warnings that worldly
conformity has silenced or withheld must be given under the fiercest opposition
from enemies of the faith. And at that
time the superficial, conservative class, whose
influence has steadily retarded the progress of the work, will renounce
the faith.” -5T 463 (1885). {LDE 174.3}
B.
“A great crisis awaits the people of God. A crisis
awaits the world. The most momentous struggle of all the ages is
just before us. . . . The question of enforcing Sunday observance
has become one of national interest and importance.
We well know what the result of this movement will be.
But are we ready for the issue? Have we faithfully
discharged the duty which God has committed to us of giving the people warning
of the danger before them? . . .” {5T 711.3}{Mar 131.1}
- Dangers of Incorrect “Chronology”
(order of events)
1.
There are some movements right now “among the people of the Lord” that
are stating that the Latter Rain comes before National Sunday Laws. This
backwards “rain brings the storm” theology is dangerous for several reasons:
A.
The storm brings the rain, to say otherwise is against the order
specified by God.
a.
“When the
storm of persecution really breaks upon us, . . .
then will the message of the
third angel swell to a loud cry, and the whole earth will be
lightened with the glory of the Lord.” --6T 401 (1900). {LDE 208.2}
b.
If we state that the latter rain comes before the storm, then we are
boldly violating counsel given about bringing on a time of trouble before the
time.
B.
Places the crisis and test over the Sabbath after the latter rain &
sealing
a.
“None are condemned until they have had the light and have seen the
obligation of the fourth commandment. But when the decree shall go forth
enforcing the counterfeit sabbath, and the loud cry of the third angel shall
warn men against the worship of the beast and his image, the line will be
clearly drawn between the false and the true. Then those who still continue in
transgression will receive the mark of the beast.” --Ev 234, 235 (1899). {LDE
225.4}
C.
Tears down, or displaces the very object that the loud cry is raised
against which is National Sunday Law enforcement. What is the loud cry against
if the latter rain and loud cry begin before National Sunday Laws?
a.
“The beast with two horns is also to say "to them that
dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast;"
and, furthermore, it is to command all, "both small and great, rich and poor,
free and bond," to receive "the mark of the beast." [REV. 13:11-16.] It
has been shown that the United States is the power represented by
the beast with lamb-like horns, and that this prophecy will be fulfilled
when the United States shall enforce Sunday observance,
which Rome claims as the special acknowledgment of her supremacy. But in this
homage to papacy the United States will not be alone.” {GC 578.3}
b.
“As foretold in the eighteenth of Revelation, the third angel's message
is to be proclaimed with great power by those who give the final
warning against the beast and his image: "I saw
another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was
lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying,
Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils,
and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.
For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the
kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the
earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. And I heard
another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, My people, that ye be not
partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have
reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities. Reward her even as
she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works: in the cup
which she hath filled fill to her double." Revelation 18:1-6. This is
the message given by God to be sounded forth in the loud cry of the third angel.
{8T 118.1,2}
c.
“…the loud cry of the third angel shall warn men against the
worship of the beast and his image…” -Ev 234, 235 (1899). {LDE 225.4}
d.
“But the time to receive the mark of the beast, as
designated in prophecy, has not yet come.
The testing time has not yet come. There are true Christians
in every church, not excepting the Roman Catholic communion. None are
condemned until they have had the light and have
seen the obligation of the fourth commandment. But when
the decree shall go forth enforcing the counterfeit Sabbath,
and when the loud cry of the third angel shall
warn men against the worship of the beast and his image, the line will
be clearly drawn between the false and the true. Then those who still continue
in transgression will receive the mark of the beast in their foreheads or in
their hands.” {BTS, February 1, 1913 par. 5}
e.
National Sunday Law enforcement is the image to the beast
i. “But
in the very act of enforcing a religious duty by secular power, the churches
would themselves form an image to the beast; hence the enforcement of
Sundaykeeping in the United States would be an enforcement of the
worship of the beast and his image.” {GC 448.3}
ii. “But
when Sunday observance shall be enforced by law, and the world shall be
enlightened concerning the obligation of the true Sabbath, then whoever shall
transgress the command of God, to obey a precept which has no higher authority
than that of Rome, will thereby honor popery above God. He is paying homage to
Rome and to the power which enforces the institution ordained by Rome. He is
worshipping the beast and his image." {GC 449.1}
iii.
“When the leading churches of the United States, uniting upon such
points of doctrine as are held by them in common, shall influence the state to
enforce their decrees and to sustain their institutions, then Protestant America
will have formed an image of the Roman hierarchy, and the infliction of civil
penalties upon dissenters will inevitably result. . . .” {LDE 131.1}
iv.
“What is the "image to the beast"? and how is it to be formed? The image is made
by the two-horned beast, and is an image to the beast. It is also called an
image of the beast. [THE TWO-HORNED BEAST OF REVELATION 13:11-17 MAKES AN IMAGE
TO THE BEAST PORTRAYED IN REVELATION 13:1-10.] Then to learn what the image is
like and how it is to be formed, we must study the characteristics of the beast
itself--the papacy.” {LDE 228.1}
v. “The
"image to the beast" represents that form of apostate Protestantism which will
be developed when the Protestant churches shall seek the aid of the civil power
for the enforcement of their dogmas.” --GC 443, 445 (1911). {LDE 228.3}
vi. “The
Sunday idol is set up as was this image." {12MR 219.2}
f.
If we state that the latter rain comes before the storm, then we are
boldly violating counsel given about bringing on a time of trouble before the
time.
D.
Bringing on a time of trouble before the time by attempting to use the
latter rain and loud cry to bring on the loud cry, persecution and Sunday Laws.
a.
“The Lord does not move upon His workers to make them take a course
which will bring on the time of trouble before the time. Let them not
build up a wall of separation between themselves and the world, by advancing
their own ideas and notions. There is now altogether too much of this throughout
our borders. The message of warning has not reached large numbers of the world
in the very cities that are right at hand, and to number Israel is not to work
after God's order.” {TM 202.1}
b.
“The Lord does not move upon His workers to make them take a course which
will bring on the time of trouble before the time. Let them not build up a wall
of separation between themselves and the world by advancing their own ideas and
notions. There is now altogether too much of this throughout our borders. The
message of warning has not reached large numbers of the world in the very cities
that are right at hand, and to number Israel is not to work after God's order.
There is abundance of earnest work in cities that have not been worked. Let your
pen and will work to enlighten these souls in simple, stirring articles upon
faith and love.” {16MR 169.1}
c.
If we state that the latter rain and loud cry come before National Sunday
Laws
2.
Comments on the dangers of incorrect
chronology concerning the latter rain by one of our leading SDA, end time
event theologians.
A.
"...it is now being taught in our denomination that the latter rain and
sealing precede the national Sunday law crisis. It is frequently stated in our
denominational papers and gatherings that the latter rain is falling somewhere
else in the world-as evinced by lots of baptisms. (1) If the Sunday law crisis
precedes and leads into the other events (including the sealing and latter rain)
before the general close of probation, then a terrible crisis is ahead of our
denomination! This view, fully supported by the Bible and
Spirit of Prophecy, is the correct one. (2) If the
latter rain and sealing come first, then it is easier to conjecture that
we can remain in our sins while we receive the latter rain and are sealed,
still continuing in those sins until the second advent -with the
denomination experiencing no great crisis over strict obedience to the law of
God. This view is incorrect, and is bringing a
false hope to many of our people." -Pr. Vance Ferrell -
"The End of Time - A REMARKABLY COMPLETE COLLECTION OF SPIRIT OF PROPHECY
STATEMENTS ON FINAL EVENTS" Pg. 77 (The section in parentheses above about the
sealing and latter rain has not been added but is directly quoted
out of the book.) (Vance Ferrell is a well known theologian, pastor, and author
of many SDA books including the common "National Sunday Law Crisis" in print for
many, many years and available at any ABC.)
a.
“Vance Ferrell is an older member who now spends most of his time
publishing lowest-cost paperbacks of Spirit of Prophecy books for widespread
distribution (see back of this book). In earlier years, he was an Adventist
denominational canvasser, teacher, and pastor. His educational background
includes 22 years of formal education (based on 9 months per year), which
resulted in a B.A., M.A., and B.D. in theology and Biblical Languages from our
schools (Pacific Union College and Andrews University), plus training in
professional education. His only concern is to ground you in the faith and
encourage you to stand in its defense.” –www.present-truth.org
- The true Latter Rain Will be Called a False Light
by Those Who Refuse to Walk in the Advancing Glory
- Many Adventists Brace Themselves Against the
Light
“There is to be in the [Seventh-day Adventist] churches a wonderful
manifestation of the power of God, but it will not move upon those who
have not humbled themselves before the Lord, and opened the door of the
heart by confession and repentance. In the manifestation of that
power which lightens the earth with the glory of God, they
will see only something which in their blindness they think dangerous,
something which will arouse their fears, and they
will brace themselves to resist it. Because the Lord does
not work according to their ideas and
expectations they will oppose the work.
"Why | 
