unfulfilled propliecies will be accomplished, either by- fixing dates on the one hand, or bidding us wait for the conversion of the world on the other. — On all these points let the j^lain meaning of Scripture be our only guide, and not the traditional interpretations of men. Let us not be ashamed to say that we expect a literal fulfilment of unfulfilled prophecy. Let us frankly allow that there are many things Ave do not understand, but still hold our ground tenaciously, — believe much, — wait long, — and not doubt that all will one day be made clear. Above all, let us remember that the first coming of Messiah to suffer^ was the most improbable event that could have been conceived, and let us not doubt that as He literally came in person to suffer, so He wdll literally come again in i3erson to reign.
The second grand lesson before us, is a luarning against over-sanguine and extravagant expectations as to things loliicli are to happen before the end comes. It is a warning as deeply important as the preceding one. Happy w^ould it have been for the Church, if it had not been so much neglected.
We are not to expect a reign of universal peace, happiness, and prosperity, before the end comes. If we do, we shall be greatly deceived. Our Lord bids us look for ''wars, famines, pestilence," and 23ersecution. It is vain to expect j)eace until the Prince of Peace returns. Then, and not till then, the swords shall be beaten into ploughshares, and nations learn war no more. Then, and not till then, the earth shall bring forth her increase. (Isai. ii. 4. Psal. Ixviii. 6.)
We are not to expect a time of universal purity of
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doctrine and practice in the Churcli of Christ, before tlio end comes. If we do, we shall be greatly mistaken. Our Lord bids us look for the rising of '^ false prophets," tlie '^abounding of iniquity," and the " waxing cold of the love of many." The truth will never be received by all professing Christians, and holiness be the rule among men, until the great Head of the Church returns, and Satan is bound. Then, and not till then, there will be a glorious Churcli, without spot or blemish. (Ephes. v. 27.)
We are not to expect that all the world will be con- verted before the end comes. If we do, we shall be greatly mistaken. ^^ The Grospel is to be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations," but we must not think that we shall see it universally believed. It will "take out a people," wherever it is faithfully preached, as witnesses to Christ, but the full gathering of the nations shall never take place until Christ comes. Then, and not till then, shall the earth be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea. (Acts XV. 14 ; Habak. ii. 14.)
Let us lay these things to heart, and remember them well. They are eminently truths for the present times. Let us learn to be moderate in our expectations from any existing machinery in the Church of Christ, and we shall be spared much disappointment. Let us make haste to spread the Gospel in the world, for the time is short, not long. — The night cometh when no man can work. Troublous times are ahead. Heresies and persecutions may soon weaken and distract the churches. A fierce war of principles may soon convulse the nations. The doors now open to do good may soon be shut for ever.
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