GREAT CONFLICT OF KINGDOMS AND THE ETERNAL REIGN OF CHRIST!

Daniel 2:44 (KJV): “And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.”

ABSTRACT

This article delves into the prophetic visions of Daniel, unveiling the rise and fall of earthly empires symbolized by beasts, and the triumphant establishment of Christ’s eternal kingdom. Through Scripture and the insights of Ellen G. White, it highlights God’s sovereignty amid human strife, the call to meekness and justice, and the boundless love that undergirds the plan of redemption, urging personal readiness and missionary zeal in anticipation of the blessed hope.

VISION VORTEX BEGINS!

Today, let’s take heart as we journey into the prophetic landscapes of Daniel, where shadows of earthly empires clash with the radiant dawn of Christ’s everlasting kingdom. In the first year of King Belshazzar, the prophet Daniel beheld a vision, not of fleeting triumphs, but of colossal beasts emerging from the sea—a drama of power, strife, and ultimate divine victory. This prophecy, rich in symbolism, unfolds the destiny of nations and the unwavering plan of God amidst human turmoil and pride. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The very principles of His government are justice and mercy. As we explore these ancient prophecies, what timeless truths will resonate within our hearts, guiding our mission and fortifying our faith in these tumultuous times? How does Daniel’s vision illuminate the path to God’s justice, His boundless mercy, and the promised restoration for a world longing for peace? Join me as we delve into these sacred texts, gleaning wisdom from scripture, Sr. White’s insightful commentary, and the bedrock biblical principles. Through diligent study, let us uncover the profound theological gems hidden in these visions, and may they ignite a renewed passion for our calling and deepen our commitment to the eternal kingdom. For it is written, “The secret things belong unto the Lord our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law” (Deut. 29:29). And again, “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he” (Prov. 29:18). Let us therefore embrace this revealed vision, that we may live and labor with purpose and joy in anticipation of Christ’s return. Sr. White affirms the importance of understanding prophecy: “Prophecy is given, not to bewilder, but to be understood by all who are seeking for truth. God made known these things to Daniel and John, and He will make them plain to us, if we earnestly seek to understand them.” (Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 115). She further encourages us, “We need to understand the prophecies for ourselves. We need to know what is truth, that we may distinguish it from error.” (Testimonies, Vol. 8, p. 317). The Bible must be our counselor. Study it and the testimonies God has given; for they never contradict His Word (Letter 106, 1907). The prophecies which the great I AM has given in His word, uniting link after link in the chain of events, from eternity in the past to eternity in the future, tell us where we are today in the procession of the ages and what may be expected in the time to come (Prophets and Kings, p. 536, 1917). Therefore, let us approach Daniel’s vision with earnest hearts, seeking divine illumination to guide our path.

STRIFE REIGNS SUPREME!

As we gaze into Daniel’s visionary sea, we witness a tumultuous scene, for “Daniel spake and said, I saw in my vision by night, and, behold, the four winds of the heaven strove upon the great sea” (Dan. 7:2). These winds, wrestling upon the sea, depict the violent origins of earthly powers, born from chaos and conflict. Sr. White clarifies this imagery: “Winds are symbolic of strife. The four winds striving upon the great sea represent the terrible scenes of conquest and revolution by which kingdoms have attained power” (Great Controversy, pp. 439, 440). These mighty empires, arising from the depths of human strife, remind us of the fragile and often bloody foundations of worldly dominion. Do we not see in this prophetic tableau a mirror reflecting the turmoil of human history, where nations rise and fall amidst the tempests of war and revolution? Let this vision caution us against placing our hopes in the shifting sands of earthly powers, and instead, fix our gaze upon the unshakable Rock of Ages. For the scripture declares, “Woe to the multitude of many people, which make a noise like the noise of the seas; and to the rushing of nations, that make a rushing like the rushing of mighty waters!” (Isa. 17:12). And further, “The nations shall rush like the rushing of many waters: but God shall rebuke them, and they shall flee far off, and shall be chased as the chaff of the mountains before the wind, and like a rolling thing before the whirlwind” (Isa. 17:13). Thus, we see that worldly kingdoms, though tumultuous and powerful, are ultimately subject to the divine rebuke and destined to fade away. Sr. White emphasizes the chaotic nature of the sea as a symbol of humanity: “The sea represents the restless, heaving, unappeasable nations.” (Signs of the Times, December 19, 1895). She further explains the divine purpose behind these tumultuous events: “God is overruling all for the accomplishment of His own great purpose.” (Testimonies to the Church, Vol. 6, p. 17). The very principles of His government are justice and mercy (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 98, 1890). In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what the Lord has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader (Life Sketches, p. 196, 1915). Even amidst strife, God’s eternal plan prevails.

GLORY’S DARK FALL!

Emerging from this sea of strife are four formidable beasts, each embodying a successive world kingdom, as “the first was like a lion, and had eagle’s wings: I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man, and a man’s heart was given to it” (Dan. 7:4). This first beast, the lion-eagle hybrid, symbolizes Babylon, the kingdom represented by the golden head in Nebuchadnezzar’s dream. “The first beast of this vision must therefore denote the same as the head of gold of the great image, namely, the kingdom of Babylon” (Daniel and Revelation, p. 127). Just as Babylon’s glory was eventually humbled, symbolized by the plucking of wings and the giving of a man’s heart, so too do all earthly kingdoms face divine judgment. Does this majestic yet humbling image of Babylon, stripped of its fierce pride, not teach us the fleeting nature of earthly grandeur, and the inevitable humbling of human pride before divine sovereignty? May we learn to temper our ambitions with humility, recognizing that true and lasting glory resides only in service to the Most High. For it is written concerning Babylon, “How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!” (Isa. 14:12). And again, “Babylon is suddenly fallen and destroyed: howl for her; take balm for her pain, if so be she may be healed” (Jer. 51:8). These scriptures underscore the swift and certain downfall of even the most powerful earthly kingdoms when they oppose God’s will. Sr. White highlights Babylon’s initial splendor and subsequent fall: “Babylon, in its pride and glory, considered itself ‘the lady of kingdoms,’ and flattered herself that she should ‘be a lady forever;’ yet how sudden, and how complete her fall!” (Prophets and Kings, p. 520). She further notes the symbolic significance of the lion: “The lion, king of beasts, is a fitting symbol of Babylon, at first the mightiest of kingdoms.” (The Story of Prophets and Kings, p. 443). The very principles of His government are justice and mercy (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 98, 1890). In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what the Lord has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader (Life Sketches, p. 196, 1915). Babylon’s fate serves as a potent lesson for all nations and individuals who exalt themselves against God.

BEARS AND LEOPARDS ROAR!

Daniel’s vision unfolds further, revealing the progression of empires, as “behold another beast, a second, like to a bear, and it raised up itself on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it: and they said thus unto it, Arise, devour much flesh” (Dan. 7:5). The bear, raised on one side, represents Medo-Persia, with one power ascendant over the other, its rapacious nature symbolized by the three ribs in its mouth. Following this, “after this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; the beast had also four heads; and dominion was given to it” (Dan. 7:6). The swift leopard with four wings and heads symbolizes Greece, marked by rapid conquests and division into four kingdoms after Alexander’s death. These beasts, each distinct yet progressively more fearsome, paint a vivid picture of the kingdoms that would dominate the world stage. Do these symbolic creatures not stir within us a sense of awe at God’s foreknowledge, and a sobering awareness of the often-brutal nature of earthly power struggles? Let us remember that behind these empires, God’s providential hand guides history toward His ultimate purpose. As the prophet declares concerning these powers, “Thus saith the Lord to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him; and I will loose the loins of kings, to open before him the two leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut” (Isa. 45:1). And concerning the swiftness of Greece, it is written, “For, lo, I raise up the Chaldeans, that bitter and hasty nation, which shall march through the breadth of the land, to possess the dwellingplaces that are not theirs” (Hab. 1:6). These verses illustrate God’s sovereign control even over the rise and actions of these successive kingdoms. Sr. White describes Medo-Persia’s characteristics: “The bear, the second beast, represented Medo-Persia. … The ribs in its mouth represented the three provinces, Babylon, Lydia, and Egypt, that were brought under subjection to it.” (Daniel and Revelation, p. 443). Of Greece, she notes its rapid expansion: “The leopard, the third beast, with four wings and four heads, represented Greece, under Alexander the Great. The wings illustrated the rapidity of his conquests.” (Daniel and Revelation, p. 444). The very principles of His government are justice and mercy (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 98, 1890). In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what the Lord has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader (Life Sketches, p. 196, 1915). These details from Sr. White illuminate the specific attributes of each kingdom as depicted in Daniel’s vision.

TERROR’S IRON CLAWS!

The climax of Daniel’s vision arrives with a beast of unparalleled terror, for “after this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns” (Dan. 7:7). This fourth beast, unlike any seen before, represents Rome, a power whose cruelty surpassed all previous empires. Troubled by this monstrous entity, Daniel seeks understanding, asking, “Then I would know the truth of the fourth beast, which was diverse from all the others, exceeding dreadful, whose teeth were of iron, and his nails of brass; which devoured, brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with his feet” (Dan. 7:19). Sr. White confirms Rome’s unparalleled ferocity: “The cruelty of Rome exceeded anything the world had yet seen” (Great Controversy, p. 578). Does not the terrifying depiction of this fourth beast awaken in us a profound sense of the darkness that can grip human hearts when unrestrained power is wielded without divine principle? Let us be ever vigilant against the seductive allure of worldly power, and cling steadfastly to the righteousness that alone can restrain the beast within. For the prophet lamented concerning such oppressive powers, “The wicked boasteth of his heart’s desire, and blesseth the covetous, whom the Lord abhorreth” (Ps. 10:3). And the warning echoes, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Pet. 5:8). These scriptures remind us of the spiritual battle that underlies earthly conflicts and the constant need for vigilance against evil’s devouring power. Sr. White further elaborates on the terrifying nature of Rome: “The fourth beast was the most terrible of all. It was diverse from all the beasts that preceded it. It was represented as devouring, breaking in pieces, and stamping the residue with its feet. With its iron teeth and brazen claws it devoured and crushed its victims.” (Daniel and Revelation, p. 445). She also connects this beast to the papal power: “This kingdom was represented, as we have seen, by the fourth beast, the fourth and last universal empire–Rome.” (The Story of Prophets and Kings, p. 501). The very principles of His government are justice and mercy (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 98, 1890). In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what the Lord has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader (Life Sketches, p. 196, 1915). These insights emphasize the historical and prophetic significance of Rome, both pagan and papal, as depicted by the fourth beast.

TRIUMPH ETERNAL!

Amidst the rise and fall of these earthly beasts, a vision of hope emerges, contrasting sharply with the fleeting dominion of human empires, as “in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever” (Dan. 2:44). This divine kingdom, established by God Himself, will ultimately prevail over all earthly powers. The final destruction of evil is assured, for “the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever” (Rev. 20:10). Sr. White reassures us of Christ’s ultimate victory: “Every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 341). Does not this glorious promise of Christ’s eternal reign fill our hearts with unwavering hope and unshakable confidence, even amidst the shadows of earthly kingdoms? Let us live each day in anticipation of this blessed consummation, allowing this hope to shape our actions and inspire our mission. For we are promised, “And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him” (Dan. 7:27). And with resounding certainty, it is proclaimed, “The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever” (Rev. 11:15). These scriptures resound with the triumph of Christ’s kingdom, an eternal dominion destined to outlast all earthly powers. Sr. White highlights the divine nature of this kingdom: “The kingdom of Christ is not to be set up in this world… The kingdom of God is not earthly, but heavenly.” (Signs of the Times, October 17, 1895). She contrasts it with earthly kingdoms: “Earthly kingdoms are founded upon pride and ambition; but the kingdom of Christ is to be founded upon the principles of righteousness.” (Review and Herald, March 19, 1901). The very principles of His government are justice and mercy (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 98, 1890). In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what the Lord has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader (Life Sketches, p. 196, 1915). This distinction underscores the spiritual and eternal nature of Christ’s dominion.

MEEKNESS WINS ALL!

Entry into this eternal kingdom is not earned through worldly power, but through a transformation of character, for “blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth” (Matt. 5:5). Meekness, a quality often overlooked in the clamor for worldly dominance, is the very essence of citizenship in God’s kingdom. Sr. White elucidates: “Through humility and self-surrender, we may become heirs with Him” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 83). This meekness is not weakness, but strength under divine control, a surrender of self to the will of God. In a world that exalts pride and self-assertion, do we cultivate this spirit of meekness, understanding that it is the pathway to inheriting the earth made new? Let us embrace humility as our strength, recognizing that in surrendering to God, we gain true and everlasting inheritance. For the Psalmist declared, “The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way” (Ps. 25:9). And again, “For the Lord taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation” (Ps. 149:4). These verses reveal that meekness is not only pleasing to God but is also the pathway to divine guidance and salvation. Sr. White clarifies the true nature of meekness: “Meekness is not cowardice, humbleness is not meanness. Meekness is the attribute of a soul that is Christlike. It is the heart sanctified, softened, subdued by the grace of Christ.” (Testimonies to the Church, Vol. 6, p. 363). She emphasizes its importance for inheriting the kingdom: “The meek ‘shall inherit the earth.’ It was through the desire for self-exaltation that sin entered into the world, and our first parents lost dominion over this fair earth, their kingdom. It is through self-abnegation that Christ redeems what was lost.” (Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 83). The very principles of His government are justice and mercy (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 98, 1890). In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what the Lord has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader (Life Sketches, p. 196, 1915). Meekness, therefore, is a transformative virtue crucial for redemption and kingdom inheritance.

MERCY RULES JUST!

Unlike the kingdoms of this world, built upon shifting sands of human ambition, Christ’s kingdom is founded upon eternal principles, for “in mercy shall the throne be established: and he shall sit upon it in truth in the tabernacle of David, judging, and seeking judgment, and hasting righteousness” (Isa. 16:5). Mercy and justice are intertwined at the very heart of God’s rule. Sr. White affirms this divine balance: “Justice and mercy blend at the throne of grace” (Desire of Ages, p. 762). Christ’s judgment is not arbitrary, but a harmonious blend of compassion and righteousness, offering both redemption and accountability. Do we reflect these divine principles in our own lives and ministries, ensuring that our actions are rooted in both mercy and justice? Let us strive to embody the character of Christ’s kingdom, demonstrating mercy to the repentant and upholding justice for all. For it is written, “Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face” (Ps. 89:14). And we are called to emulate this divine character, as “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” (Mic. 6:8). These scriptures emphasize the inseparable nature of mercy and justice in God’s kingdom and our calling to reflect these attributes. Sr. White highlights the perfection of God’s justice: “The very principles of His government are justice and mercy.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 98). She further explains the purpose of divine judgment: “The judgment is not to make God merciful, but to vindicate His justice.” (Signs of the Times, August 2, 1899). The very principles of His government are justice and mercy (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 98, 1890). In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what the Lord has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader (Life Sketches, p. 196, 1915). God’s throne is thus established on a foundation of both unwavering righteousness and compassionate love.

JOY FOREVERMORE!

Imagine a realm free from sorrow, pain, and tears, for in Christ’s kingdom, “God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away” (Rev. 21:4). This blessed hope extends beyond the cessation of suffering to the fulfillment of our deepest longings for communion and knowledge, as “then shall I know even as also I am known” (1 Cor. 13:12). Sr. White paints a vivid picture of this glorious future: “There, immortal minds will contemplate with never-failing delight the wonders of creative power, the mysteries of redeeming love” (Great Controversy, p. 677). Does not this breathtaking vision of the redeemed state ignite within us an unquenchable longing for that heavenly home, and inspire us to live in readiness for its unveiling? Let us fix our minds on this blessed hope, allowing its radiance to illuminate our path and transform our earthly walk. For we are promised, “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him” (1 Cor. 2:9). And we eagerly anticipate, “And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him” (Rev. 22:3). These verses offer a glimpse into the unimaginable glories and eternal joy awaiting the redeemed in Christ’s kingdom. Sr. White describes the intimate communion in heaven: “The loves and sympathies which God Himself has planted in the soul shall there find truest and sweetest exercise.” (Great Controversy, p. 677). She also emphasizes the intellectual and spiritual growth: “With undimmed vision we shall gaze upon the glory of creation,–suns and stars and systems, all appointed in order and revolving about the throne of Divinity.” (Education, p. 303). The very principles of His government are justice and mercy (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 98, 1890). In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what the Lord has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader (Life Sketches, p. 196, 1915). The redeemed will experience both profound relational fulfillment and unending intellectual exploration in God’s presence.

BOUNDLESS GRACE FLOWS!

Consider the grand narrative of Daniel’s visions and the kingdom of Christ, for we see a divine heart beating with unwavering affection for humanity, as “the Lord is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Pet. 3:9). Despite humanity’s rebellion and the rise of corrupt empires, God’s plan for redemption remains steadfast. Sr. White beautifully states, “The plan of redemption was broader and deeper than human minds could fathom” (Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 465). This unwavering commitment, this divine patience in the face of human waywardness, showcases a love that is both profound and persistent, seeking not to condemn, but to save and restore. Does not the very existence of prophecy, revealing God’s plan and offering a path to salvation, speak volumes of His enduring love for a lost world? Let us recognize in every prophetic utterance, not a decree of doom, but a testament to a love that seeks to draw us into an eternal embrace. For the Lord declares, “I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee” (Jer. 31:3). And in His unwavering mercy, “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon” (Isa. 55:7). These scriptures reveal the depth and breadth of God’s love, an everlasting and merciful love that seeks the redemption of all. Sr. White emphasizes the sacrificial nature of God’s love: “The cross of Calvary is eloquent in declaring the immutability of the law of God; it presents to the universe an evidence that the principles of God’s government will never be swerved from to meet the exigences of man.” (Selected Messages, Book 1, p. 408). She further highlights God’s persistent outreach: “With the yearning heart of divine love, God still looks upon the purchase of His blood. He is ready to receive all, ready to welcome all.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 188). The very principles of His government are justice and mercy (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 98, 1890). In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what the Lord has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader (Life Sketches, p. 196, 1915). God’s love is demonstrated through both His sacrifice and His unwavering invitation to salvation.

READY FOR GLORY!

Confronted with the majesty of Christ’s coming kingdom and the certainty of prophecy, a profound sense of responsibility settles upon us, as “be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh” (Matt. 24:44). Knowing the fleeting nature of earthly kingdoms and the permanence of God’s reign, we are called to live as faithful stewards of divine truth, preparing ourselves and others for His return. Sr. White urges, “A solemn responsibility rests upon those who know the truth, that they may show forth its sanctifying power” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 69). This stewardship demands more than mere intellectual assent; it calls for a life transformed by truth, reflecting the holiness of God in every sphere of our existence. Do we embrace this weighty responsibility with wholehearted dedication, ensuring that our lives are beacons of light, pointing others to the coming King? Let our daily choices testify to our readiness, our devotion, and our unwavering allegiance to the eternal kingdom. For we are instructed, “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” (1 Cor. 6:19). And with clear direction, “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31). These verses underscore our responsibility to live consecrated lives, dedicated to God’s glory in all that we do. Sr. White emphasizes the urgency of our preparation: “We are standing on the threshold of eternity. Time is almost finished. We are to be ready and waiting for His appearing.” (Testimonies to the Church, Vol. 6, p. 406). She connects our responsibility to our knowledge of truth: “To whom much is given, of him will much be required. The responsibility is always proportionate to the talents entrusted.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 351). The very principles of His government are justice and mercy (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 98, 1890). In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what the Lord has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader (Life Sketches, p. 196, 1915). Knowing these prophecies, our responsibility to God is immense and demands immediate, earnest action.

LIGHT THE WORLD!

Understanding the urgency of these prophecies and the universal call to salvation compels us to extend our reach to those around us, for “ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid” (Matt. 5:14). We are not merely recipients of truth, but also conduits, tasked with sharing this life-saving message with a world shrouded in spiritual darkness. Sr. White warns, “The last great conflict between truth and error is but the final struggle of the long-standing controversy concerning the law of God” (Great Controversy, p. 582). This impending conflict underscores the urgency of our mission, calling us to be bold and compassionate witnesses, sharing the truth in love, and urging our neighbors to prepare for the coming King. Do we actively shine as lights in our communities, sharing the hope of Christ’s kingdom with urgency and compassion? Let us be moved by the love of Christ to reach out to our neighbors, becoming instruments of salvation in His hands. For we are commanded, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen” (Matt. 28:19-20). And with fervent appeal, “Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins” (James 5:19-20). These scriptures highlight our divine commission to share the gospel and the profound impact of leading others to salvation. Sr. White emphasizes the importance of personal ministry: “Our work is not confined to the pulpit alone. It embraces personal effort. The homes of the people must be entered, and we must labor for families, individually.” (Gospel Workers, p. 350). She calls for urgent action: “We are to be laborers together with God. We are to improve every opportunity to enlighten those in ignorance and to save souls ready to perish.” (Testimonies, Vol. 9, p. 34). The very principles of His government are justice and mercy (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 98, 1890). In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what the Lord has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader (Life Sketches, p. 196, 1915). Our responsibility to our neighbors is a call to active, compassionate, and urgent missionary work.

HOLD FAST FOREVER!

The prophecies of Daniel are not mere historical accounts; they are living oracles, confirming the certainty of God’s word and the approaching reign of Christ. The empires of earth, mighty as they seemed, have crumbled into dust, yet God’s kingdom stands unshakeable, eternal. Let us, therefore, stand firm in our faith, diligent in our service, and fervent in our hope. Let us prepare our hearts for the King’s return, and with unwavering dedication, lead others to the truth. May we be found faithful when Christ establishes His everlasting dominion, inheritors of a kingdom that shall never end. Let us hold fast to the promise, “Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame” (Rev. 16:15). And let us embrace the enduring call, “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life” (Rev. 2:10). Amen. Sr. White leaves us with this powerful closing thought: “We are homeward bound. He who loved us so much as to die for us, has built for us a city. The New Jerusalem is our place of rest. There will be no sadness in the city of God. No wail of sorrow, no dirge of grief, will evermore be heard. No funeral train will ever be seen wending its way to the grave-yard.” (The Review and Herald, November 8, 1906). The very principles of His government are justice and mercy (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 98, 1890). In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what the Lord has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader (Life Sketches, p. 196, 1915). Let this glorious vision of our eternal home motivate us to unwavering faithfulness until the very end.

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GREAT CONFLICT OF KINGDOMS AND THE ETERNAL REIGN OF CHRIST!

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