Capitol Free SDA

Many a cute sermon has been preached on the subject of the dry bones of Ezekiel. Laughable messages have been heard on the subject strictly for entertainment purposes. However as we take a closer look at the message contained in the book of Ezekiel, we find that there is much more serious content for reflection contained in its sacred pages.

The first question is: What generation does the prophet Ezekiel speak to?

“And the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man what is that proverb that ye have in the land of Israel, saying, The days are prolonged, and every vision faileth? Tell them therefore, Thus saith the Lord God; I will make this proverb to cease, and they shall no more use it as a proverb in Israel; but say unto them, The days are at hand, and the effect of every vision…” Ezekiel 12:23

 “Son of man, behold, they of the house of Israel say, The vision that he seeth is for many days to come, and he prophesieth of the times that are far off” Ezekiel 12:27

Ezekiel saw our generation. Though his words had application for his times, his visions were less for his day and more for ours. “The days are at hand, and the effect of every vision” were his words. Ezekiel’s generation did not see the effects or the fulfillment of every vision.

Can it be that Ezekiel saw the second coming of Jesus?

Ezekiel indeed saw the second coming of Jesus, though he did not understand the full light of this great subject as it has been revealed to us today.

“Afterward he brought me to the gate, even the gate that looketh toward the east: And behold, the glory of the God of Israel come from the way of the east: and his voice was like a noise of many waters: and the earth shined with his glory.” Ezekiel 43:1,2

Ezekiel stated here that he saw the glory of God coming from the “way of the east”, and that his voice was as the noise of many waters, and also that the whole earth shined with the glory of God.

Matt 24:27 tells us,

“For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.”

When Jesus comes, he will be seen coming out of the eastern sky, and every person on earth will see him on that day. Ezekiel indeed represents those who will see Jesus coming in the east.

“For in my jealousy and in the fire of my wrath have I spoken, Surely in that day there shall be a great shaking in the land of Israel; So that the fishes of the sea, and the fowls of the heaven and the beasts of the field, and all creeping things that creep upon the earth, and all the men that are upon the face of the earth shall shake at my presence and the mountains shall be thrown down and the steep places shall fall, and every wall shall fall to the ground…Thus I will magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know I am the Lord.” Ezekiel 39:23

Didn’t John see in Revelation the mountains disappearing at the great earthquake at the coming of the Lord.  Ezekiel sees what the final generation will see as did John.

It will be clear to any serious reader that Ezekiel is speaking to this generation.

The second question for consideration is, “What do the bones in Ezekiel 37 represent?”

“Then he said unto me, Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel: behold, they say, Our bones are dried, and our hope is lost: we are cut off for our parts” Ezekiel 37:11

The bones represent the “house of Israel”, which today represents the church. See Gal 3:29 and Romans 9.

Therefore just before the second coming of Jesus, the church will be in the same state spiritually as these dry bones.

What does it mean to be spiritually dead?

“And you hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins: Wherein in time ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience.” Ephesians 2:1.2

These dry bones are a symbol of church that is walking “according to the course of this world.” It is a worldly church conducting itself after the ways of the world, because of sin in its midst, and its willful trespasses of the principles of God.

Did the bible ever speak about a church that was dead? Indeed it does.

“And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou has a name that thou livest, and art dead.” Revelation 3:1

The church of Sardis represents that time period just before the Second Advent Movement of the “Philadelphia” church. It was the church of the protestant reformation. This church was becoming more and more worldly just before the arrival of the Second Coming message of watchfulness.

How would that message bring a dead church to life (those who remain.)?

“But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased…And he said, Go thy way Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end.” Daniel 12:4,9

The last portions of the book of Daniel’s prophecies were to be closed to the understanding until the time of the end. This book began to be opened during the last lap of the protestant reformation in the late 1700’s and the early 1800’s.

What was the church called upon to do with the open book at the time of the end?

“And he said unto me, take it, and eat it up; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey…And he said unto me, Thou must prophesy again…” Revelation 10:10,11

John was here representing the Second Advent Movement, which was the remnant that came out of Sardis. Eating the book symbolized how they studied and prophesied. The sweet taste was the prospect of the joy of Christ Second Coming, and the bitter feeling/taste, was the disappointment of 1844 when he didn’t come.

What did God tell Ezekiel to do to those dry bones?

“Again he said unto me, Prophesy upon these bones, and say unto them, O ye dry bones, hear the word of the Lord.”

The question was asked concerning the church of the protestant reformation, “Can these bones live?” Not until they heard the prophecies from Ezekiel who represented the Second Advent Movement. Prophesy upon these bones.

How was Ezekiel able to prophesy upon the bones?

“Moreover he said unto me, Son of man, eat that thou findest; eat this roll, and go speak unto the house of Israel. So I opened my mouth, and he caused me to eat that roll. And he said unto me, Son of man, cause thy belly to eat and fill thy bowels with this roll that I give thee. Then did I eat it; and it was in my mouth as honey for sweetness” Ezekiel 3:1,2

He had eaten/studied the open book, symbolizing the Advent Movement. It was also to him/them as honey for sweetness. This is how he was able to preach prophecy to the bones/dead church of Protestantism. He was able the to bring revival to the “few in Sardis” that had not been defiled. He was then able to “strengthen” those who remained.

The Holy Spirit attended the preaching of Ezekiel thus causing the dead church/dry bones to come alive.

“Thus saith the Lord God unto these bones; behold, I will cause breath to enter into you, and ye shall live:” Ez. 37:5

“So I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived, and stood up upon their feet, and exceeding great army.” Ez. 37:10

Revival came to the Remnant in Sardis as the Holy Spirit attended the prophesying of men like Miller, Irving, and Wolff.

We have now come to a time where the remnant of the Advent Movement have become as dead man’s bones. Once again the call has come to “eat the little book” and to prophesy again. Why? Because the church has pursued a worldly course and has become dead in trespasses and sins. Revival and Reformation is our greatest need.

The time has come to “prophesy again.” The Holy Spirit will attend the words and dedication of the faithful messengers.

When the books of Daniel and Revelation are better understood, believers will have an entirely different religious experience. They will be given such glimpses of the open gates of heaven that heart and mind will be impressed with the character that all must develop in order to realize the blessedness which is to be the reward of the pure in heart. The Lord will bless all who will seek humbly and meekly to understand that which is revealed in the Revelation. This book contains so much that is large with immortality and full of glory that all who read and search it earnestly receive the blessing to those "that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein." One thing will certainly be understood from the study of Revelation--that the connection between God and His people is close and decided. {FLB 345.3}

     Let us give more time to the study of the Bible. We do not understand the Word as we should. The book of Revelation opens with an injunction to us to understand the instruction that it contains. . . . When we . . . understand what this book means to us, there will be seen among us a great revival. 346
{FLB 345.4}

The year 2008 was a notable year for the distribution of documentary video and “secret info” about future events and what the government was planning to do.  Many claim that these reports are simply proclaiming prophecy, while it is difficult to find evidence of such “inside info” in the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy. Much of what is actually rumor and conjecture is passed off as prophecy.

Part of what makes these videos so popular is the excitement of having “the scoop.” Some in Adventist circles take great delight obtaining and helping to circulate information that no one will ever obtain unless they view that particular report. The refrain is often, “It’s got to be true; they have the documentation.” Yet people enter the country every day illegally with documentation that appears valid. When you go to court, and the defense attorney has his client on the stand, it sounds like he has a concrete and credible case. You can almost guarantee that they are innocent based all the evidence. That is, until the cross-examination approaches the witness stand, and it doesn't seem so credible any more. How then do we judge the end times?  If we read our bibles daily, study bible prophecy, seek to share and study with others, live faithfully and obedient, we will know where we are in prophecy without sitting for hours listening to so called "insider information."

In the 1990’s there may have been three or four of these types of circulations a year, but now with the advance of technology, we find about four per week sent out for distribution. Just prior to Y2k, many reported about how the military would take over America under President Clinton, and that he would impose martial law and remain president. It was also reported that the LA gangs were going to be used as an on the ground military force. In 2008 it was predicted based on secret information obtained by expert researchers that during the summer of 2008 the following would occur; we would go into a great depression, violence would erupt in all the major cities, martial law would be imposed, no one would be able to leave the places where they lived, no travelling would be allowed, The presidential election would be cancelled, President Bush would remain in office because of the state of emergency, and that many would be placed in concentration camps.

These types of “startling notices” are not new to our times. The circulation of reports designed to create excitement and alarm existed in Ellen Whites’ day as well. Most of them were passed off as prophecy about to be fulfilled, which brought a negative image to the world concerning Mrs. Whites’ writings. There are several problem areas as it relates to many of these documentaries and reports.

They are detrimental to the progress of the everlasting gospel, because they open the door to fanaticism.

"Not many years ago, a brother laboring in New York City published some very startling notices regarding the destruction of that city. I wrote immediately to the ones in charge of the work there, saying that it was not wise to publish such notices; that thus an excitement might be aroused which would result in a fanatical movement, hurting the cause of God. It is enough to present the truth of the Word of God to the people. Startling notices are detrimental to the progress of the work." {RH, July 5, 1906 par. 12

"I was not favorably impressed with the startling notices of your meetings. They savor of fanaticism. . . . Do not issue notices so worded as to create an alarm. When the Lord is ready for the advanced denunciation of wicked cities, He will let His people know. But this will be after these wicked cities have had an opportunity to hear the word and to receive the word that is unto life eternal." {Ev 130.4}

" Our work now is to enlighten and educate minds as to the sayings of the Scripture. Doors are now opened for the entrance of truth. Avail yourselves of the opportunity to reach those who have never heard the truth. Explain the truth, as did Christ, in many ways, by figures and parables. And Elder _____'s striking presentation of the truth by the means of charts may be followed to advantage. Let these things speak to the senses of the people. Do not encourage anything like a fanatical movement. Satan works in this line, seeking to draw away disciples after him by representations that, if it were possible, will deceive the very elect.-"-Letter 17

"I assure you that we are praying for you and for the work in New York City. But please do withdraw those startling notices of your meetings. If a fanatical wave should strike New York now, Satan would work upon human minds, setting in operation a work that none of you are prepared to handle. It is not excitement that we need at this time, but calm, steady, devoted effort for the education of the people."--Letter 17, 1902. {Ev 131.3}

They tend to expressions that can easily be interpreted as antagonism toward the civil authorities. It is possible that such can bring unnecessary misunderstandings as to who we are as a people. It can encourage wrong sentiments, particularly those not of our faith.

"By some of our brethren many things have been spoken and written that are interpreted as expressing antagonism to government and law. It is a mistake thus to lay ourselves open to misunderstanding. It is not wise to find fault continually with what is done by the rulers of government. It is not our work to attack individuals or institutions. We should exercise great care lest we be understood as putting ourselves in opposition to the civil authorities. It is true that our warfare is aggressive, but our weapons are to be those found in a plain "Thus saith the Lord." Our work is to prepare a people to stand in the great day of God. We should not be turned aside to lines that will encourage controversy, or arouse antagonism in those not of our faith." {CW 68.1}

" We should not work in a manner that will mark us out as seeming to advocate treason. We should weed out from our writings and utterances every expression, that, taken by itself, could be so misrepresented as to make it appear antagonistic to law and order. Everything should be carefully considered, lest we place ourselves on record as encouraging disloyalty to our country and its laws. We are not required to defy authorities. There will come a time when, because of our advocacy of Bible truth, we shall be treated as traitors; but let not this time be hastened by unadvised movements that stir up animosity and strife." {CW 68-69}

They potentially enable our adversaries and disseminate ammunition to be used to counteract the cause of present truth in the future.

"The time will come when unguarded expressions of a denunciatory character, that have been carelessly spoken or written by our brethren, will be used by our enemies to condemn us. These will not be used merely to condemn those who made the statements, but will be charged upon the whole body of Adventists. Our accusers will say that on such and such a day one of our responsible men said thus and so against the administration of the laws of this government. Many will be astonished to see how many things have been cherished and remembered that will give point to the arguments of our adversaries. Many will be surprised to hear their own words strained into a meaning that they did not intend them to have. Then let our workers be careful to speak guardedly at all times and under all circumstances. Let all beware lest by reckless expressions they bring on a time of trouble before the great crisis which is to try men's souls." {CW 69.1}

"The less we make direct charges against authorities and powers, the greater work we shall be able to accomplish, both in America and in foreign countries. Foreign nations will follow the example of the United States. Though she leads out, yet the same crisis will come upon our people in all parts of the world."  70 {CW 69.2}

They tend to distract from the advancement of the third angel’s message that we are commissioned and commanded to conduct.

"It is our work to magnify and exalt the law of God. The truth of God's holy word is to be made manifest. We are to hold up the Scriptures as the rule of life. In all modesty, in the spirit of grace, and in the love of God, we are to point men to the fact that the Lord God is the Creator of the heavens and the earth, and that the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord. {CW 70.1}

 In the name of the Lord we are to go forward, unfurling His banner, advocating His word. When the authorities command us not to do this work; when they forbid us to proclaim the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, then it will be necessary for us to say as did the apostles: "Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard." Acts 4:19, 20." {CW 70.2}

One true prediction makes room for the reception of future false predictions.

The one prediction that came the closest to being true during the 2008 year was that which related to the economy. However, even Satan at times makes right predictions. See the witch of Endor and her consultation with King Saul. Since the election, new predictions and pronouncements have been introduced. One prediction coming to pass will keep you coming back for more. Of certainty, God is always 100% accurate in his revelation of future events.

If there is anything secretive that needs to be revealed, God will reveal it through inspiration.

“Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secrets unto his servants the prophets.” Amos 3:7

They contradict prophecy in many instances.

One recent report comes from one claiming to already be in hiding from authorities. This particular expert foretells a “Marxist Communistic Atheistic takeover of America”, and states that this must happen in order to fulfill prophecy. However, neither the Bible, nor Spirit of Prophecy speaks about such a thing as a fulfillment of prophecy. In fact the bible speaks in Revelation 13 and in “Great Controversy” about a well intentioned Christian Church movement in their demands upon the state that will bring about final events. This is what we are to be looking for; and not a Marxist takeover. Many who use what they claim as documentation, is actually fabrication. These are put together in such a way that it will easily convince the average viewer or reader, and those who do not study the prophecies.

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. {GC 445.1}

It is a church based movement that marches the world to the events preceding the Second Coming of Jesus.

The same report speaks against the introduction of Black History in educational lines to balance the European focus of history. It is stated that this is the fulfillment of what Ellen White says that the aim of the papacy to “undo all that Protestantism has done.” The implication is that Protestantism was a white European movement. Have we not read about the Ethiopians, the Abyssinians, and the Western African Sabbath-Keepers in “Great Controversy.” I am concerned that some are gleaning information from groups that are, should I say “respecters of persons” when it comes to philosophy.

It is not our work to spread the latest “inside scoop”; but to spread the word of truth like the leaves of autumn, as in Great Controversy, Patriarchs and Prophets, Steps to Christ, Desire of Ages, and invitations to attend meetings where present truth is preached. Thus the message of Jesus Second Coming, the call out of Babylon, the magnification of God’s Holy Law, and the invitation to receive the faith of Jesus will go forth like a tidal wave across the distant continents and Jesus will surely come.

Repeating the passage in inspiration;

Our work now is to enlighten and educate minds as to the sayings of the Scripture. Doors are now opened for the entrance of truth. Avail yourselves of the opportunity to reach those who have never heard the truth. Explain the truth, as did Christ, in many ways, by figures and parables. And Elder _____'s striking presentation of the truth by the means of charts may be followed to advantage. Let these things speak to the senses of the people.

 

Pastor Eric Betts