Daniel 2:37-38 “Thou, O king, art this head of gold. And after thee shall arise another kingdom inferior to thee, and another third kingdom of brass, which shall bear rule over all the earth.”

ABSTRACT

This article delves into the enduring victory of God’s church amid historical triumphs and defeats, the sealing process for eternal life, the transformative power of Christ’s righteousness, and the mission empowered by purity and obedience, guiding the community toward preparation for Christ’s return.

HISTORY’S HEROIC STAND!

Throughout history, humanity has sought to memorialize its triumphs, often overshadowing moments of defeat. For instance, during a visit to Paris, we marveled at the Arc de Triomphe, an enduring symbol of military victory. Similarly, in Rome, we observed ancient arches such as the Arch of Septimius Severus, erected in 203 AD to celebrate Rome’s victories over the oriental tribes. Despite the fall of the Roman Empire, these arches continue to stand, testaments to their creators’ desire to honor success. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence reveals that God’s church prevails through divine protection and faithfulness, as seen in the perseverance against worldly powers. Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place (2 Corinthians 2:14, KJV). Ellen G. White states, “The sanctuary in heaven is the very center of Christ’s work on behalf of men. It concerns every soul living upon the earth. It opens to view the plan of redemption, bringing us down to the very close of time, and revealing the triumphant issue of the contest between righteousness and sin” (The Great Controversy, p. 488, 1888). Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us (Romans 8:37, KJV). Sr. White explains, “In this vision the ‘Advent people’ were traveling a high and dangerous path towards the city of New Jerusalem [heaven]. Their path was lit from the path’s beginning by a bright light ‘which an angel told me was the midnight cry.’ Some of the travelers grew weary and were encouraged by Jesus; others denied the light, the light behind them went out, and they fell ‘off the path into the dark and wicked world below’” (Early Writings, p. 14, 1882). This phenomenon mirrors humanity’s tendency to enshrine moments of glory. However, amidst these relics of worldly triumph, we are reminded of a more significant victory—the survival of God’s people. As we stood near the Coliseum, the battleground of early Christianity, the contrast between the fallen Roman Empire and the enduring church was striking. God’s church, though persecuted, has remained victorious. The question emerges: “Who is she that looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners?” (Song of Solomon 6:10). This verse captures the image of a church destined for triumph. But why was the church targeted so fiercely?

PERSECUTION’S POWERFUL PAYOFF!

It is crucial to reflect on the intense battle early Christians faced against imperial and papal Rome. Why did the empire use every imaginable method to silence us, from gladiators to wild beasts? Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence demonstrates that persecution tests faith but leads to ultimate victory through God’s sustaining power. No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD (Isaiah 54:17, KJV). Sr. White writes, “There is a time of trouble coming to the people of God, but we are not to keep that constantly before the people and rein them up to have a time of trouble beforehand” (Selected Messages Book 1, p. 180, 1958). And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it (Colossians 2:15, KJV). Sr. White elaborates, “The true Christian’s joys and consolation must and will be in heaven” (Early Writings, p. 58, 1882). These questions invite us to delve deeper into the enduring conflict and ultimate triumph of God’s people.

REMNANT’S RADIANT TRIUMPH!

The history of Christianity is marked by periods of intense persecution, particularly during the reign of imperial and papal Rome. The Roman Empire, with its armies and banners, dominated the world for centuries, attempting to extinguish the Christian faith. Despite the persecution, including us being thrown to gladiators and wild beasts, the church persevered and remains present today. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence illustrates that God’s remnant overcomes through divine intervention and steadfastness. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes, “None but the hundred and forty-four thousand can learn that song; for it is the song of their experience” (The Great Controversy, pp. 648-649, 1888). The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tabernacles of the righteous: the right hand of the LORD doeth valiantly (Psalm 118:15, KJV). Sr. White states, “Only those who receive the seal of the living God will have the passport through the gates of the Holy City” (SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, p. 970, 1957). The ultimate victory of God’s remnant church, as seen by Sr. White in vision, will not be forgotten. This victory is described in Acts of the Apostles (p. 590), where Sr. White witnesses the triumph of the 144,000, a unique group who experience trials unlike any other. To share in this triumph, we are advised to strive to be among the 144,000. The sealing of God’s people is central to this victory, for it is written. This seal, unlike a visitor’s visa, is a permanent mark for those who will dwell in God’s kingdom. Just as individuals need various clearances to move from one country to another, so must we be prepared for the kingdom of God. But what transformative experience must one undergo to receive this seal?

SEALING’S SUPREME SECRET!

To receive this seal, one must undergo a transformative experience, separating themselves from sin and preparing for eternal life. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence confirms that separation from sin enables the reception of God’s mark. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light (1 Peter 2:9, KJV). Sr. White explains, “The angel with the writer’s ink horn is to place a mark upon the foreheads of all who are separated from sin and sinners” (SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, p. 1161, 1955). In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace (Ephesians 1:7, KJV). Sr. White calls for personal reflection and diligent study of the Scriptures in Testimonies for the Church (Vol. 5, p. 216, 1889). This solemn work signifies that those who are sealed will be candidates for heaven, without spot or blemish before God. Revelation 14:5 affirms this, stating that those who are sealed must be “without spot.” The necessity of preparing for this seal is further emphasized by Sr. White, who calls for personal reflection and diligent study of the Scriptures. To obtain this seal, individuals must attain perfection of character, striving toward the likeness of Christ. But how does perfection of character become central for those seeking the seal?

ESSENTIAL EXPERIENCE UNVEILED!

The sealing of God’s people is a critical aspect of the journey, preparing individuals to stand in the final days. The Scriptures and Spirit of Prophecy emphasize that the mark of God is reserved for those who have separated themselves from sin and sinners. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence shows that purity qualifies us for heaven’s candidacy. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full (John 16:24, KJV). Sr. White elaborates, “The perfection of character is essential for the reception of the Holy Spirit” (SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, p. 1118, 1957). Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage (Galatians 5:1, KJV). Sr. White notes that we are called to press “toward the mark set before us—the perfection of His character” (SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, p. 1118, 1957). This solemn work signifies that those who are sealed will be candidates for heaven, without spot or blemish before God. Revelation 14:5 affirms this, stating that those who are sealed must be “without spot.” The necessity of preparing for this seal is further emphasized by Sr. White. To obtain this seal, individuals must attain perfection of character, striving toward the likeness of Christ. But why is perfection of character a central requirement for those who seek to be sealed by God?

PERFECTION’S PEAK PURSUIT!

Perfection of character is a central requirement for those who seek to be sealed by God. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence highlights that overcoming sin leads to spiritual maturity and completeness in Him. O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph (Psalm 47:1, KJV). Sr. White highlights that Enoch lived a life of close communion with God, even in a time of moral decay and corruption (Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 88-89, 1890). For thou, LORD, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands (Psalm 92:4, KJV). Sr. White describes a church that perfectly reflects Christ’s character, as described in Christ’s Object Lessons (p. 69, 1900). We all stumble in many ways, yet the goal of life is to overcome sin and reach the standard set by Christ. Sr. White elaborates on this. Without preparation, any effort toward godliness is in vain. We are called to press “toward the mark set before us—the perfection of His character.” When the community attains this level of spiritual maturity, the Holy Spirit will fill us, and we will be complete in Christ. As the recording angel declares, “It is finished,” God’s people will be ready for the harvest, representing a church that perfectly reflects Christ’s character. This transformation is vital for those who will stand as part of the 144,000 in the final moments of earth’s history. But how does the experience of Enoch serve as a powerful example of the life required to receive God’s seal?

ENOCH’S ETERNAL EXAMPLE!

The experience of Enoch serves as a powerful example of the life required to receive God’s seal. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence proves that holiness in corrupt times foreshadows the remnant’s purity. Thine hand shall be lifted up upon thine adversaries, and all thine enemies shall be cut off (Micah 5:9, KJV). Sr. White affirms, “True sanctification comes through the working out of the principle of love” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 560, 1911). Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it (Isaiah 58:14, KJV). Sr. White states, “Genuine faith is followed by love, and love by obedience. All the powers and passions of the converted man are brought under the control of Christ. His Spirit is a renewing power, transforming to the divine image all who will receive it” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 219, 1889). Enoch “walked with God” and was taken to heaven without experiencing death. Sr. White highlights that Enoch lived a life of close communion with God, even in a time of moral decay and corruption. His godly character reflects the state of holiness that those who are redeemed must attain in the last days. Enoch’s life is a foreshadowing of the experience of the 144,000, who, like him, will walk in purity and conformity to God’s will. These individuals will warn the world of Christ’s second coming, and their lives will serve as a condemnation to the ungodly, just as Enoch’s life did in his time. This state of holiness is not only desirable but necessary for those who seek to be part of the remnant church that triumphs in the end. But how must one reflect Christ’s righteousness to be among the victorious remnant church?

RIGHTEOUSNESS REIGNS SUPREME!

To be among the victorious remnant church, one must reflect Christ’s righteousness. This righteousness is described in Scripture as being without spot or blemish, and it is the key to receiving the seal of God. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence establishes that sanctification imparts purity for standing before God. LORD, how long shall the wicked, how long shall the wicked triumph? (Psalm 94:3, KJV). Sr. White writes, “When this intimacy of connection and communion is formed, our sins are laid upon Christ; His righteousness is imputed to us. He was made sin for us that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. We have access to God through Him; we are accepted in the Beloved. Whoever by word or deed injures a believer thereby wounds Jesus. Whoever gives a cup of cold water to a disciple because he is a child of God will be regarded by Christ as giving to Him” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 229, 1889). And my tongue shall speak of thy righteousness and of thy praise all the day long (Psalm 35:28, KJV). Sr. White explains, “By His perfect obedience He has made it possible for every human being to obey God’s commandments” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 312, 1900). We are reminded of the cost of this righteousness, purchased by the precious blood of Christ, who was “without blemish and without spot.” As we strive to reflect Christ’s character, we must understand that His righteousness is not only imputed to us but also imparted through the work of sanctification. The character of Christ, which was pure and undefiled, becomes ours as we walk in obedience and surrender to His will. This understanding is crucial for those seeking to receive the seal and stand in the presence of God at His second coming. But what does the experience required to be sealed by God involve?

SEALED FOR SPLENDOR!

The experience required to be sealed by God involves a deep separation from sin, a striving for perfection of character, and the reflection of Christ’s righteousness. Those who seek this seal must follow the example of Enoch, living a life of holiness and communion with God in preparation for Christ’s return. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence verifies that transformation prepares the community for eternity. For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart (Hebrews 4:12, KJV). Sr. White declares, “This is what it means to be clothed with the garment of His righteousness. Then as the Lord looks upon us He sees, not the fig-leaf garment, not the nakedness and deformity of sin, but His own robe of righteousness, which is perfect obedience to the law of Jehovah” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 311, 1900). Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8, KJV). Sr. White affirms, “The only way in which he can attain to righteousness is through faith. By faith he can bring to God the merits of Christ, and the Lord places the obedience of his Son to the sinner’s account. Christ’s righteousness is accepted in place of man’s failure, and God receives, pardons, justifies, the repentant, believing soul, treats him as though he were righteous, and loves him as he loves his Son” (Review and Herald, November 4, p. 7, 1890). By understanding the weight and significance of this sealing, the community can be ready to stand as part of the victorious remnant church, free from spot or blemish, and sealed for eternity. But how must we understand the necessity of having Christ’s righteousness as our own?

CHRIST’S CONQUERING CLOAK!

To understand the necessity of having Christ’s righteousness as our own, we must first grasp what His righteousness entails. Christ lived a life “without spot or blemish,” making His righteousness perfect and flawless. The Bible instructs us to follow Christ’s example, as “Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps.” This unblemished righteousness, however, cannot remain distant or theoretical; it must become part of our life. Revelation 19:8 refers to “the righteousness of saints,” indicating that this purity of life must be reflected in those who follow Christ. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence substantiates that adopting Christ’s purity symbolizes triumph. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9, KJV). Sr. White expands on this, explaining, “The palm branch in their hands is a symbol of their triumph, the white robe an emblem of the spotless righteousness of Christ which now is theirs” (The Great Controversy, p. 665, 1888). So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me (Hebrews 13:6, KJV). Sr. White explains, “He who has learned to listen to the voice of God will have power and strength to overcome the temptations of Satan” (Review and Herald, March 18, p. 5, 1884). Sr. White expands on this. Therefore, the righteousness of Christ must not merely be admired; it must be actively adopted by us. But how is the righteousness of Christ the key to keeping God’s law?

LAW’S LUMINOUS LINK!

The righteousness of Christ is the key to keeping God’s law, which cannot be obeyed by human effort alone. “We can keep the law only through making the righteousness of Christ our own.” Christ’s perfect righteousness must become a personal possession, as it is the only righteousness capable of meeting God’s holy standard. This concept is illustrated in Matthew 22, where Jesus describes a royal wedding banquet. In ancient times, royalty not only invited guests to weddings, but also provided special garments for them to wear. This signifies that it is not enough to be invited into God’s kingdom; one must also put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness. A simple acknowledgment of the truth is insufficient, as Sr. White explains in The Desire of Ages, “The greatest deception of the human mind in Christ’s day was that a mere assent to the truth constitutes righteousness.” This is why Jesus warns in Matthew 5:20 that the righteousness of the Pharisees—mere external compliance—will not secure entry into the kingdom of God. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence clarifies that true obedience stems from internalized righteousness. There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it (1 Corinthians 10:13, KJV). Sr. White states, “We can keep the law only through making the righteousness of Christ our own” (Reflecting Christ, p. 103, 1985). There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:1-2, KJV). Sr. White elaborates, “A pure heart is Christ’s dwelling place” (Review and Herald, June 20, p. 4, 1893). But how do the 144,000 embody this experience of Christ’s righteousness?

144,000’S DAZZLING DISPLAY!

The 144,000, as described in the book of Revelation, are a special group who fully embody this experience of Christ’s righteousness. Their triumph is seen in their spiritual victory, as they become trophies of God’s grace, standing as testaments to the power of Christ’s righteousness. These saints, like triumphal arches, symbolize God’s success in redeeming humanity through the righteousness of Christ. This victory is not achieved by human effort, but by the acceptance and appropriation of Christ’s righteousness. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence attests that grace transforms us into living symbols of victory. Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places (Ephesians 6:10-12, KJV). Sr. White writes, “The mind needs to be educated, the heart trained, the passions subdued” (Education, p. 57, 1903). Save us, O LORD our God, and gather us from among the heathen, to give thanks unto thy holy name, and to triumph in thy praise (Psalm 106:47, KJV). Sr. White affirms, “The Christian’s life should be one of progress, of continual growth in grace” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 93, 1889). It is crucial to understand that Christ’s righteousness must be internalized and lived out, rather than merely acknowledged. But how does understanding the importance of putting on Christ’s righteousness lead us to examine the experience of Paul in Ephesus?

PAUL’S PROFOUND LESSON!

In understanding the importance of putting on Christ’s righteousness, let us now examine the experience of Paul in Ephesus. Paul’s encounter with certain disciples reveals a valuable lesson about baptism and spiritual renewal. These disciples had been baptized by John the Baptist, a man of God, yet they lacked a full understanding of the gospel. After receiving the truth in its complete form, they were re-baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. This experience shows that spiritual victory in these last days requires more than a surface-level acceptance of religious truth; it necessitates a thorough, transformative understanding and application of God’s word. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence indicates that renewal demands full embrace of truth. If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God (Colossians 3:1, KJV). Sr. White explains, “To this class I would say: “Glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 225, 1889). For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:2, KJV). Sr. White states, “The reproof of the prophet is applicable to many in our day. They cannot gainsay the clear and convincing arguments that sustain the truth, but they accept it more as the result of human reasoning than of divine revelation. They have no true sense of their condition as sinners, they manifest no real brokenness of heart; but, like the Pharisees, they feel that it is a great condescension for them to accept the truth” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 226, 1889). But how is Christ’s righteousness the foundation for a victorious life?

VICTORY’S VIBRANT FOUNDATION!

Christ’s righteousness is the foundation for a victorious Christian life. Without it, no amount of human effort or adherence to religious traditions can fulfill God’s requirements. As seen in both the parable of the wedding garment and the experience of Paul in Ephesus, it is not enough to merely acknowledge the truth or perform religious rituals; one must fully embrace and live out the righteousness of Christ. The 144,000, who stand as victorious trophies of God’s grace, demonstrate the power of Christ’s righteousness to transform and perfect the community. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence validates that harmony with God’s will ensures preparation for His return. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15, KJV). Sr. White declares, “As God has shown me the travels of the Advent people to the Holy City and the rich reward to be given those who wait the return of their Lord from the wedding, it may be my duty to give you a short sketch of what God has revealed to me” (Early Writings, p. 13, 1882). Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness (2 Peter 3:13, KJV). Sr. White affirms, “The greatest deception of the human mind in Christ’s day was that a mere assent to the truth constitutes righteousness” (The Desire of Ages, p. 309, 1898). Therefore, as we prepare for Christ’s return, we must continually seek to make His righteousness our own, ensuring that we live in complete harmony with His will. But how does the purity of the truth in God’s church grant it the power to impact the world?

PURITY’S PUNCHY POWER!

The purity of the truth in God’s church grants it the power to impact the world. To obtain this transformative power, we must follow Christ’s example in our daily lives, practicing the principles of God’s law. As Sr. White writes, “When those who profess to serve God follow Christ’s example; practicing the principles of the law in their daily life; when every act bear witness that they love God supremely, and their neighbor as themselves, then will the church have power to move the world.” This emphasizes that true power comes from embodying Christ’s love and reflecting His righteousness in all aspects of life. The power to change the world, therefore, is not about external influence or force, but about living a life of purity and obedience to God’s commandments. As strangers and pilgrims in this sinful world, we must strive to finish the work, so we can go to our true home with God. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence affirms that obedience yields world-moving influence. Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you (1 Peter 4:12, KJV). Sr. White writes, “True sanctification comes through the working out of the principle of love” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 560, 1911). Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering (Colossians 3:12, KJV). Sr. White explains, “The Christian’s life should be one of progress, of continual growth in grace” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 93, 1889). But how must we experience a separation from sin and sinners to have the power to fulfill God’s mission?

MISSION’S MIGHTY MARCH!

To have the power to fulfill God’s mission, we must also experience a separation from sin and sinners, a vital part of being sealed for eternity, as described in the Bible and Sr. White’s writings. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The evidence demonstrates that purity equips the community for eternal service. The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw (Revelation 1:1-2, KJV). Sr. White states, “A pure heart is Christ’s dwelling place” (Review and Herald, June 20, p. 4, 1893). Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength (Isaiah 26:3-4, KJV). Sr. White affirms, “The mind needs to be educated, the heart trained, the passions subdued” (Education, p. 57, 1903).

And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. (Revelation 12:11, KJV)

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SELF-REFLECTION

How can I, in my personal devotional life, delve deeper into the triumph of God’s remnant and the sealing process, allowing them to shape my character and priorities?

How can we adapt these profound themes of righteousness and purity to be understandable and relevant to diverse audiences, from seasoned members to new seekers or those from different faith traditions, without compromising theological accuracy?

What are the most common misconceptions about the 144,000 and Christ’s righteousness in my community, and how can I gently but effectively correct them using Scripture and the writings of Sr. White?

In what practical ways can our local congregations and individual members become more vibrant beacons of truth and hope, living out the reality of the church’s mission and God’s ultimate victory over evil?