The Story of the Seer of Patmos

Sardis

The message to Sardis is addressed to Protestantism. The period covered by Thyatira was the era of papal persecution. This church was once the church of God, one of the candlesticks among which the Son of man was seen to walk, but when that organization prostituted itself by joining hands with the state, when, in other words, it followed the example of Balaam and worked the works of Jezebel, the oil was withheld from the candlestick, and given to those who were willing to obey God in preference to the head of the church. God regards character, not name; and the faithful few to whom the light was entrusted, were mentioned in a part of the message to Thyatira. They were the ones who knew not the works of Jezebel. [1]

These became the forerunners of Protestantism. The darkness was first broken when Wycliffe, "the morning star of the Reformation," translated the Bible into the English language. The first streaks of dawn lighted up the sky, and in the course of two hundred years, the sun had arisen in its splendor. The church came out of the wilderness, leaning on the arm of her Beloved. The twelve hundred and sixty years of darkness ended. It was like the return of spring after a severe winter. Life of every kind sprang into existence. Energy, long dormant, seemed suddenly imbued with a hitherto unknown activity. Discovery followed discovery; inventions were multiplied; men, accustomed to spending a lifetime in one village, now found the world opening before them through publications and increased facilities for travel. Every branch of science was explored, governments bestirred themselves, and the dust of the Middle Ages was shaken off. America was discovered and settled. Men knew not why it happened at such a time and under such circumstances; but God was preparing a cradle for the new-born cause of Protestantism. Germany might have nourished it; England had an opportunity to cherish it; but it was in America that the new church found congenial environments for growth: and while all nations receive the Sardis message, it is particularly applicable in the United States, or at least, the United States becomes the center for the movement therein mentioned.

Sardis means "prince of joy"; and the name is most appropriate for those who received the light of the eighteenth century, and the first half of the nineteenth century. Protestantism [2] is an active, living principle, based upon eternal truths. It came as the result of the opening of the Scriptures to the common people. The doctrine of justification by faith makes every man responsible to God alone, and necessitates freedom of conscience. When it is once made known that every man is equal in the sight of God, a deathblow is struck to all tyranny in government; and with freedom of conscience, comes also a government by the people and for the people. In the days of Luther, Germany and the other countries of Europe, had an opportunity to develop this twofold nature of Protestantism. For a time it seemed that all Europe would be transformed; but gradually, there was a return to papal principles in Germany, and nearly all of the other countries, which had espoused the cause of Protestantism, followed her example. The return was largely due to the educational work of the Jesuits, who arose to counteract the teachings of the Reformers.

Since the days of Wycliffe, there had been in England followers of God, walking in all the light which they had received. Upon these God placed "none other burden"; but as the light increased, Protestantism in its broadest sense, was offered to England. The history of England was, for a time, a struggle between the papacy, and Protestantism under the name of Puritanism. The Commonwealth was Puritanism in power; and it was then demonstrated that there was not yet strength enough to resist the crown of tyranny when it lay within the grasp of man. England returned allegiance to her own royal family; but so strong were the principles of Protestantism that her government [3] has been, since the days of the Commonwealth, a government by the people. It was in England that the first Anglo-Saxon branches of Protestantism had birth, and it was because of lack of freedom in the mother country, that separatists from the English church sought homes in America.

Diagram of the Seven Churches



The messages to the seven churches cover the period from the beginning of Christ's ministry to His second coming. This line of prophecy follows the church from the purity of the first century, until it unites with the state and persecutes the true people of God, and finally emerges from the Dark Ages and separating from the world prepares to meet its Lord and Master in the clouds of heaven.

The history of the first period is found in the New Testament, the second was plainly foretold by Christ. During the Pergamos and Thyatira periods the darkness was so dense that the historians of this period are unreliable, therefore the Lord gives the parallel history of the times of Balaam and Jezebel as guides for these periods. The history of the fifth and sixth periods can be received from the preceding generation, while the last period is present time.

It is true that freedom was not always granted in those early days; for the very ones who crossed the ocean because of oppression at home, oppressed, in America, those who did not worship God in the prescribed way. Nevertheless, America was destined to be the home of Protestantism; and gradually, the shackles of the Dark Ages were dropped off, and the equal rights of mankind were acknowledged. The Constitution of the United States was the first document ever granting complete freedom of worship, and placing in the hands of the people the sole power of the government. It was a world-wide wonder, not the work of any man, but the culmination of those principles born in Germany in the sixteenth century. The Constitution was adopted in 1789; the sun was darkened in 1780. These events, taking place as they did, were as if God saw the end hastening on, and as a source of encouragement to His followers, placed the sign of His approval in the heavens. A few years later the papal power was completely broken, and then the countries of southern Europe, France, Spain, Italy, and others, were free to choose between the principles of the papacy and those of Protestantism. America responded with its free government. During the fifty years following the adoption of the principles of Protestantism in America, the various branches [4] of the Protestant church had their period of probation. One by one the denominations arose, separating farther and farther from t1he physical, intellectual, and spiritual tyranny of the papacy. To each denomination was offered the law of God and the faith of Jesus. The time came when each had an opportunity to accept or reject, as seemed good to them; but the decision then made, decided their eternal destiny.

In the early days of the nineteenth century God took a man, hitherto unacquainted with the Bible, and opened to him the beauties of the prophecies. As Luther found in Christ a Saviour, [5] and with the light that entered his mind, attacked the papacy, so William Miller, in 1818, saw light in the books of Daniel and Revelation. He studied with care the twenty-three hundred days, spoken of by Daniel, and became convinced that the second coming of Christ was near at hand. He applied every test, but all pointed forward to the year 1843 as the time when the world must welcome its Saviour. The condition of the people at the first advent of Christ, was now repeated; when the time approached for the message of His second coming, the world lay in ignorance: and not the world only, but the church which bore the name of Christian. Nay, more! the very churches which in their zeal for truth had faced hardship and persecution, in protesting against the errors of the papacy,-these churches were quiet when great changes were right upon them. But unto the church of Sardis, John was bidden write: "These things saith He that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead."

He, who walked among His churches, and who sought diligently for signs of life, searching among the seven stars,-the leaders of the churches,-found that, although Sardis claimed to have life, it was dead. Strange condition! So quietly had this life been lost, that, looking back upon the activity of the past, and priding itself upon what great things had been done by Protestantism, this church had allowed the very principles of the papacy to twine about it until its life was choked.

There was a time in the history of Pergamos, [6] when Christianity thought Paganism was dead; but in reality, the religion which was apparently vanquished, had conquered. Paganism baptized, stepped into the church. In the days of Sardis this history was repeated. Protestantism thought itself free from the principles of the Dark Ages; but the plant was sturdy and long lived, and although Protestantism reared itself aloft like a mighty oak, the rootlets of the papacy were planted with the oak, and soon the vine encircled the tree, and sapped its very life. Protestantism reared the structure, and the papacy is supported by it. "Be watchful," says the divine message to Sardis, "and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God." There was, at the time this message came, some life still in the oak, but unless haste was made to "strengthen the things which remain," death would follow.

"Remember, therefore, how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent." The truths already received were indeed life; but a church, as well as an individual, must make constant progress, or they will suffer spiritual death. [7]

For nine years William Miller was convinced that he ought to give his message to the churches; but he waited, hoping that some recognized authority would proclaim the glad news of a sooncoming Saviour. In thus waiting, he but proved the truth of the message; there was a name that they lived, but they were fast dying. In 1831 Miller gave his first discourse on the prophecies. He was a member of the Baptist church, and in 1833, he received from this church, license to preach. This was the very year in which appeared another sign in the heavens,-the third spoken of by the Saviour in Matthew 24:29. In November, 1833, "the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind." God was calling to the dying church of Sardis by the voice of man and by signs in the heavens. "If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee."

As the time, which was supposed to be the time of the second advent approached, men of learning and position helped spread the message. The light of this message flashed throughout the world. "Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments." Three years after Miller was convinced of the near coming of Christ, that is, in 1821, Joseph Wolff, known as the "missionary to Asia," began to give the same message. He visited Egypt, Abyssinia, Palestine, Syria, Persia, Bokhara, and India,-everywhere proclaiming the soon coming of the Messiah. In 1837 he was in America; and after preaching in several large [8] cities, he visited Washington, where, in the presence of all the members of the Congress of the United States, he preached on the personal reign of Christ.

In England the same message was given by Edward Irving, a minister of the Church of England. South America heard of Christ's soon coming from the pen of Lacunza, formerly a Spanish Jesuit. Gaussen, finding that many mature minds claimed that prophecy could not be interpreted, gave the message of the soon coming of Christ to the children of Geneva. In Scandinavia, the truth was proclaimed by children; for God used child-preachers, when older persons were restricted by law.

In 1838 Josiah Litch and William Miller published an exposition of the ninth chapter of Revelation, in which it was predicted that the Ottoman Empire would fall in 1840. The exact fulfillment of this prophecy on August 11, 1840, when the Turkish government surrendered its independence, and has since been known as "the sick man of the East," was a startling proof to many that prophecy could be understood, and that men were living in the end of time.

This message of the personal appearance of Christ was one of the most world-wide proclamations ever given. Every kindred, nation, and people were suddenly aroused from their lethargy by the cry,-"Behold the Bridegroom cometh, go ye out to meet Him." This truth is inseparably connected with the wording of the message to Sardis. "Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white: for they are [9] worthy." The very sins of idolatry and fornication, which characterized the mother church in the days of Thyatira, were staining the garments of her daughters during the Sardis period. But "he that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment." The white raiment is the righteousness of Christ,-"the fine linen clean and white." "And I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels." A most precious promise, and a most solemn warning, are combined in these closing words of the message to Sardis. The second coming of the Son of man had been proclaimed to all the world. To him that accepted truth, it was promised that his name should remain in the book of life, and should be confessed in the presence of God. The books of heaven are opened. Christ promises to witness for all who are true to His cause on earth. The church of Sardis lived in the period when Daniel saw [10]

"One like the Son of man [who] came . . . to the Ancient of Days." It was at the end of the twenty-three hundred days of Daniel 8:14, that Christ was brought in before the Father. He entered the Holy of Holies in the sanctuary above. "The judgment was set, and the books were opened." Then there came before Him all who had ever named the name of Christ, and to those whose garments were unspotted, was given the fine linen of Christ's righteousness.

This great change in the heavenly sanctuary, corresponding to the entering in of the high priest in the earthly, or typical service, on the day of atonement, was made known to the church of Sardis. Those who opened the prophecies where this truth is made known, misinterpreted the cleansing of the sanctuary to be the second coming of Christ. Nevertheless, while mistaken in the event which transpired, they were not mistaken in the time; and the heart cleansing necessary to prepare a people for the beginning of the investigative judgment, which has been going on in heaven since 1844, is the same preparation necessary to welcome the Son of God in the clouds of heaven. Although Christ did not then come to the earth,-the outer court of the heavenly sanctuary,-but entered within the most holy place before the Ancient of Days, to act as mediator in the investigative judgment, the message to prepare for His coming, will continue to the end of time. Some of those who witnessed the signs given to Sardis and listened to the advent message, will see Him when He comes in the clouds of heaven. So near is Sardis to the end. [11]

Philadelphia

The Saviour, walking in the church of Sardis, found a few whose garments were undefiled. They were those in whom life remained after the body was dead; and to these the call came to separate from the lifeless form, that their own life might be saved. The message of the soon coming of Christ was a universal message. It offered an opportunity to all to repent, and as many as believed, took up the cry with the enthusiasm which characterized the Apostolic Church. They were experiencing their "first love," and those who welcomed Christ were bound together with a love surpassing that of Jonathan for David. The oneness of spirit which Christ prayed might be found among His followers was more perfectly developed among those [12] who heeded the closing message to Sardis, than among any others since the day of Pentecost; and to this company of believers scattered every where, yet united in heart and purpose, the name Philadelphia signifying "brotherly love" is applicable.

Some who heard the advent message, accepted it through fear; others were attracted by the forcible arguments; but whatever may have been the motive, all were tested, and those who accepted because of real love for the Saviour, composed the Philadelphia church. Of this church no complaint is made; and as love is the ruling power of the throne of God, the Saviour appears to recognize the Philadelphian church as a par of His own being, heirs with Christ of the everlasting promises made to David. "These things saith He that is holy, He that is true, He that hath the key of David."

When the call was made, saying, "the Bridegroom cometh," Christ, the Heavenly Bridegroom, passed into the presence of His Father, there to receive dominion and power; and a door in heaven was opened to the faithful and true ones on earth. This door was the entrance into the most holy place in the temple, where Jehovah sat enthroned over the mercy seat. He is surrounded by His angels, and the law of God is the foundation of His throne. This was shown in type and shadow in the tabernacle, built by Moses. To Israel in the wilderness, the glory of God appeared in the shekinah above the mercy seat. The attention of the Philadelphian church is directed to the heavenly sanctuary. It was opened by the Saviour Himself, as He entered the most holy place at the close of the [13] twenty-three hundred days. He sends the message to all, "I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it." The door stands open to all, who by faith, will enter, and no combination of circumstances, instigated by men or demons, can shut out the soul that keeps the eye of faith centered upon the Saviour within that shining portal. The time of test for those who were looking for their Lord, came in the autumn of 1844. At first the expiration of the twenty-three hundred days was thought to be in the spring of 1844. On further investigation, it was found that the decree of Artaxerxes, from which the prophetic period is reckoned, went into effect in the autumn of the year 457 b. c.; hence, this reckoning would cause those days to expire in the autumn of 1844 a. d. Here was a waiting time, in which those who loved the Lord, prepared, by deep heart searching, to receive Him. Many inquired, "What must I do to be saved?" Those who were looking upward received the light of the investigative judgment, when, in the autumn of 1844, the door in heaven opened, and Christ approached the Father. But many who had only professed to believe in the advent, changed when the time passed and He did not come, and now scoffed at those who still clung to the message, "Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come." The heavenly door opened, but those who turned back to the world were left in darkness; while those who sought earnestly for their mistake in interpreting prophecy, received a flood of light, straight from the throne. Through this open door in the heavenly temple, there was seen "the ark of His testament," containing the ten commandments: and [14] from that time, the Sabbath of the Fourth Commandment became a test to the people of God. The God who had led His people thus far, was still leading them by His Word. Many precious rays of light that had been hidden by tradition during the Dark Ages, now opened up to their understanding. The Sabbath reform now became the message to the world. The traditions which connected the Philadelphian church with the Dark Ages, were portrayed in vivid colors; and man was called to exalt the law of God, and remove his foot from desecrating the Sabbath of Jehovah. Hitherto, all the Protestant churches opened their doors to receive the message; but when the Sabbath truth was proclaimed, the churches closed their doors against those who accepted the new doctrine. When the door in heaven opened, the doors of the Protestant churches closed. Every open door should be a reminder of the heavenly door opened by Christ, which no man can close, from whose portals shines forth a stream of light upon the pathway of all whose minds are staid upon Him. Those who forsook the new light, that came with the "open door," are referred to as those "of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not."

As the Jewish nation, at the first advent, turned from the Saviour, and rejected the Son of God, so many in 1844 crucified the Son of man afresh. But He will one day be lifted up in the eyes of all men; and those who have followed close beside Him, entering by faith, within the second veil, will be seated on thrones and will reign with Him. To the disciples in Gethsemane, was given an opportunity to drink of the [15] cup of which He drank. To the faithful ones in 1844, it was, likewise, given to drink of the cup of the world's scorn. To such is the promise, "Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth." Before His second coming, there will be such a time as the world has never seen. God's people will be saved from this; for He will hide them in His "pavilion." "Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus." Patience will be developed by keeping the commandments and by clinging to the faith of Jesus. If He tarry, wait for Him; for He says to Philadelphia, "Behold, I come quickly."

To the faithful in Thyatira, the angel said, "That which ye have already, hold fast till I come." To Philadelphia came the words, "Hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown." The people in Thyatira may have had but a few rays of light, compared with those living in the later period; for the light was but dawning in Thyatira, while its midday rays shone in Philadelphia; but the crown is the reward of character, and he who receives one, will have been faithful to all the light which shone upon his pathway. Heaven can be enjoyed by those only, who have developed a character in harmony with the truth. Every man is a candidate, but only he who striveth lawfully, will inherit the crown. It belongs to him who receives a white stone with a new name. For six thousand years the angelic hosts have been watching for the circle of perfection to be completed, [16] and when the last character mold is filled, time will cease to be.

Some from the Philadelphian church will become pillars in the temple of God,-living pillars, holding up a structure of life. The most wonderful promises are made to those living in this period; for heaven itself was spread out before the overcomer; and yet this is true for all who overcome. The message to the Philadelphian period reaches to the end of time, and all who receive the crown will have passed through its experiences. The patience, faith, and love of Jesus, will characterize those who sit at last on the left, and on the right, of the throne in heaven. "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches."

Laodicea

The last church to which John was bidden to send a message was Laodicea. The messages to Sardis and to Philadelphia, separately cover a period extending to the second coming of Christ; but in addition to the experiences portrayed in the [17] fifth and sixth messages, that which is directed to Laodicea is also applicable. It is given by the Amen, the One with whom yea is yea, and nay is nay,-the One who changeth not. He is also "the faithful and true Witness"; for the Laodicean message is given to the people at the time when the investigative judgment is in progress; and while the message is going forth, the names of the very ones who receive it, will be called in the court of heaven, and Christ will stand as the faithful and true Witness; but Satan as the accuser of the brethren. "The Beginning of the Creation of God," who gave His life at the foundation of the world, is watching His people in the closing hours of probationary time. The cry, "Babylon is fallen," was proclaimed when the churches rejected the advent message; and as in the Thyatira period, the true separated from those who turned from the light; so in the days when the principles of Protestantism are again disregarded, this time by the daughters of Babylon, a separation is necessary. The light of the sixteenth century came from an opened Bible. Justification by faith was made known as opposed to justification by works. Later the temple in heaven was opened, and the true Sabbath was made known. This had long been trampled in the dust; but its observance was a cross too heavy for many to lift, and they turned back toward the Dark Ages. The principles of Protestantism were repudiated by the churches, and the principles of Republicanism by the state; while the nominally Protestant denominations returned to the days of Pergamos. But some went forward to proclaim the third angel's message, [18] as given in the fourteenth chapter of Revelation.

Upon this last church-the remnant,-shine the accumulated rays of all past ages. It is a church highly favored, and one of which heaven and earth have a right to expect great things. But like the churches of the past, it has disappointed heaven, and Christ sorrowfully says of them, 'I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot. "Spiritual pride is the worst of evils, and the hardest to reach. Heaven and earth are waiting for the closing up of history. The climax has been reached in the controversy. Satan is preparing for the final struggle. The armory of heaven awaits the signal of its Leader. The church of God on earth, is the only object which can retard the progress of events. It becomes the center of interest for the universe. The Saviour still bids the hosts hold till the servants of God are sealed. Angels are hurrying to and fro between heaven and earth, but God will go no faster than His church. For centuries He has walked with it, holding its star in His right hand. Every encouragement has been offered to speed the work; but when the church hesitates, He goes no faster than it can go, lest the light be so far in advance that His followers will lose their way.

A spirit of lukewarmness rests upon God's people. Says the Witness, "I would thou wert cold or hot." If very cold, something could warm them, or if too hot, their ardor could be controlled; but "because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of My mouth." There is danger that those who have seen the signs of His coming; those who have heard the advent message, and have followed [19] in the light which shone from the open door; and those who have sacrificed for the cause in many ways, will, near the close, when just about ready to receive the crown, rest satisfied in their past experiences. They say they are "rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing;" and forget that he who receives most, is accountable for the most. "And knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked." Think of it. He who prides himself on his wealth is, in the eyes of heaven, poverty-stricken, blind and naked. Heaven pities such a church, and the true Witness, who longs to plead for, and not against them, in the presence of the angels, counsels them, "Buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich." Faith and love is the wealth offered by Christ, and with these the possessor can purchase the treasures of heaven. "Buy of Me white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." The raiment offered is the righteousness of Christ. It is a garment of light, which will attract the world to Christ. This will clothe all the redeemed who are living on the earth when Christ appears. It is a reflection of the holiness of God, and comes to him only, who lives in constant communication with the Lord of Life. The life of him who is in touch with heaven, is like the glow of the incandescent light. When this counsel is heeded, the "loud cry" of Revelation 18:1 will sound throughout the world.

"I counsel thee to anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see." The oil for anointing, is the oil of His grace, which will give [20] spiritual eyesight to the soul in blindness and darkness, that he may distinguish between the workings of the Spirit of God and those of the spirit of the enemy. The way which these souls must travel, is a narrow way. Satan, as his time grows short, uses every device to deceive, if possible, the very elect; and as his deceptions become more delusive, only those eyes which are anointed with the oil of grace, can discern the spirits. The heavenly Merchantman opens His wares, and counsels us to buy of Him. He addresses those who have lost their first love, those who have lost their zeal and interest in spiritual things, and urges them to buy of the heavenly store. Many will be reproved for the sins mentioned in the Laodicean message, and such reproofs, unheeded, will cause those to be shaken out who are unwilling to receive the reproof of the Spirit.

Eternal interests are at stake; the time of probation is almost over; and Christ, as if loath to lose one single soul, reproves and rebukes, that sin may be discarded. There is no other time for preparation, for the Laodicean message covers ecclesiastical history to the very end of time. "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent."

To those hearts that have not yet admitted Christ as the one Ruler in the soul-temple, He says, "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock." He does not force Himself in, although His own heart is breaking over our hardness. He pleads in gentleness, and if allowed to enter, in the capacity of an intimate friend, He will sup with us. The very closest relationship is seen to exist between God and His remnant church. It [21] is as a brand plucked from the burning. Weak, trembling, and sinladen, this remnant of the race, is taken by the Saviour to sit with Him on His throne, even as He overcame, and sat down on the throne of the Father. Angels see the place, made vacant by the fall of Lucifer, filled by those whom sin had marred and defaced more than any other race. The Majesty of heaven reaches to the lowest depths of earth, and exalts man to the highest place in heaven,-a seat beside the King on His throne. The redeemed occupy a position nearer the Creator than they could have occupied, had there been no sin. Such is the wondrous love of Christ! To-day angels and inhabitants of unfallen worlds are watching the consummation of the plan. We who live to-day are the objects of their interest. "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches."

Questions for Study

Sardis

1. To whom was the Sardis message addressed? What period was covered by the message to Thyatira?
2. Describe the change in the condition of the church. Who were the forerunners of Protestantism?
3. When was the darkness first broken? How long before the sun shone in its splendor? How long had darkness reigned?
4. How did the change affect the world?
5. Where did God prepare a cradle for the newborn cause of Protestantism? What nations failed to shelter it?
6. What nation became the center of the movement?
7. Define Sardis. To whom is the name especially appropriate? What is Protestantism? Of what is it the result?
8. What is the result of teaching justification by faith? What gives a death blow to tyranny in government? What comes with freedom of conscience?
9. What opportunity was given Europe in the days of Luther? Give the result. What reason is assigned for the failure?
10. What had existed since the days of Wycliffe?
11. Give the history of Protestantism in England.
12. Was freedom always granted in America? What gradual change was made?
13. What is said of the Constitution of the United States? When did God place His sign in the heavens?
14. How did the breaking of the papal power affect the countries of southern Europe?
15. What can you say of the first fifty years of Protestant principles in America? What was offered each denomination?
16. Give the particulars in regard to William Miller's experience.
17. What line of prophecy did he study? With what results?
18. Give the condition of the churches. What does the Lord say of the condition of Sardis?
19. How had the life been taken from Protestantism?
20. What had been the experience of Christianity and paganism? When was the experience repeated?
21. Describe the experience of Protestantism and the papacy. What were they bidden to do?
22. What were they admonished to remember?
23. How long did William Miller wait before he proclaimed the message? Why? When did he begin preaching? To what church did he always belong?
24. What two events are recorded for the year 1833 a. d.? By what two ways was God calling to the Sardis church?
25. What class of men helped to spread the advent message?
26. Tell what you can of the "Missionary to Asia."
27. Who proclaimed the message in England? In South America? Relate the experience of Gaussen.
28. How was the message given in Scandinavia?
29. What was published in 1838? Give the particulars in regard to this prophecy.
30. How extensively was the advent message proclaimed? What was said to Sardis?
31. What two sins were found in the church at that time?
32. What is the white raiment? Give the closing words of the message to Sardis.
33. Whose name will be retained in the Book of Life? What was revealed to Daniel? At the end of what period was the judgment opened?
34. With what did this work correspond? What mistake was made? What is said of the mistake?
35. How long will this message be given? Who will see the second coming of Christ?

Philadelphia

36. What did the Saviour find? What was said of this class? What was offered by the advent message?
37. What was the experience of those giving the message? Define Philadelphia.
38. What two motives caused many to accept the message? Who composed the Philadelphia church?
39. How does Christ regard the Philadelphia church? Why?
40. What took place when the call was given, "The Bridegroom cometh"? To what was the door an entrance? How was this shown in type?
41. Where was the glory of God seen in the earthly sanctuary? Where is the attention directed?
42. Who opened the most holy place? When? What message is sent to all?
43. How many may enter the door? What is possible to the one whose faith centers in Christ?
44. What came in the autumn of 1844? What did further investigation reveal? How was the waiting time spent? What inquiry was made?
45. Who received light? When? What course did others pursue? Who were left in darkness? What class received a flood of light?
46. What was seen through the open door? What became the test from this time? Who was leading the people? How?
47. What was opened to the understanding? What became the message for the world? What was portrayed in vivid colors? State what is said of the law and the Sabbath.
48. What effect did the proclaiming of the Sabbath have upon the churches? Of what should every open door remind us? Who compose the synagogue of Satan?
49. What comparison is made between the first advent of Christ and 1844? Who will finally be seated on thrones?
50. What opportunity was given the faithful ones in 1844? What promise is given them? How will patience be developed?
51. What was the message to Thyatira? What message was given the Philadelphia church? How did the light of Thyatira compare with the light of Philadelphia?
52. What is said of the crown? Who only can enjoy heaven? How long have the angels been waiting?
53. What will some of the Philadelphia church become? To what period does the Philadelphian message extend?
54. What will characterize those who sit on the right of the throne?

Laodicea

55. Name the three churches, whose messages extend to the end of time. Who gave the message to Laodicea?
56. What was in progress during the period of the Laodicean message?
57. What contrast is given between Christ and Satan? When was the cry, "Babylon is fallen," first given? What is necessary?
58. Where did the light of the sixteenth century come from? What two important truths were made known at this time? What is said of the Sabbath?
59. What was repudiated by the church? By the state? What did some proclaim?
60. What is said of the remnant? What does Christ say of them? For what are heaven and earth waiting?
61. What two forces are preparing for the struggle? What is the only power that can retard the work?
62. What command does the Saviour give? For what are the Lord and the angels waiting?
63. What does the true Witness say of the church? What danger lies before those who have sacrificed for the truth? What will they say?
64. What is their true condition? Who pities the church? What counsel is given them?
65. Describe the white raiment offered. Who receive it? What is said of the life of the one in touch with heaven?
66. What remedy is offered for spiritual blindness? What is said of Satan's work?
67. What counsel is given by the heavenly Merchantman?
68. For what will many be reproved? What are at stake? To what time does the Laodicean message extend?
69. Describe Christ's attitude towards those who have not accepted Him. If admitted, what does He promise to do?
70. What honor will be conferred upon the remnant? What place will they fill?
71. From the lowest depths to what is man exalted? What is said of the place occupied by the redeemed?
72. Who are watching for the consummation? Give the closing words of the message.

Notes:

1. The Lord bless thee, O habitation of justice, and mountain of holiness. (Jer. 31:23) Because they have committed villany in Israel, and have committed adultery with their neighbours' wives, and have spoken lying words in my name, which I have not commanded them; even I know, and am a witness, saith the Lord. (Jer. 29:19,23) I have given the dearly beloved of my soul into the hand of her enemies. (Jer. 12:7-11; Jer. 11:15-17; Acts 5:29; Eze. 20:35,37) If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land. (Isa. 1:19)


2. If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? (Gen. 4:7) He shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain. (2 Sam. 23:4) Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased. (Dan. 12:4; Hos. 2:14-22) The chariots shall rage in the streets, they shall justle one against another in the broad ways: they shall seem like torches, they shall run like the lightnings. He shall recount his worthies: they shall stumble in their walk; they shall make haste to the wall thereof, and the defence shall be prepared. The gates of the rivers shall be opened, and the palace shall be dissolved. (Nahum 2:4-6; Psa. 40:13-14) Go, ye swift messengers, to a nation scattered and peeled, to a people terrible from their beginning hitherto; a nation meted out and trodden down, whose land the rivers have spoiled! All ye inhabitants of the world, and dwellers on the earth, see ye, when he lifteth up an ensign on the mountains; and when he bloweth a trumpet, hear ye. (Isa. 18:1-4,7)


3. Neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength. (Neh. 8:10) In him was life; and the life was the light of men. (John 1:4) Whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. (Rev. 22:17) For there is no respect of persons with God. (Rom. 2:11) I will overturn, overturn, overturn, it: and it shall be no more, until he come whose right it is; and I will give it him. (Eze. 21:26-27) The small and great are there; and the servant is free from his master. (Job 3:19; Prov. 29:2; Isa. 9:2) It is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and, the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire. (2 Pet. 2:22; 2 Cor. 6:14; Isa. 8:20; Deut. 6:6-9) If we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. (1 John 1:7; Acts 15:28; Prov. 11:5; Luke 19:20-23) How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. (1 Kings 18:21) My son, fear thou the Lord and the king: and meddle not with them that are given to change: For their calamity shall rise suddenly; and who knoweth the ruin of them both? (Prov. 24:21-22)


4. Whoso causeth the righteous to go astray in an evil way, he shall fall himself into his own pit: but the upright shall have good things in possession. (Prov. 28:10) When the wicked rise, men hide themselves: but when they perish, the righteous increase. (Prov. 28:28) The anointed of the Lord, was taken in their pits, of whom we said, Under his shadow we shall live among the heathen. (Lam. 4:19-20) Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the Lord pondereth the hearts. (Prov. 21:2) I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. (Rev. 13:11) Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established. (Prov. 24:3) The nations shall see and be confounded at all their might: they shall lay their hand upon their mouth, their ears shall be deaf. (Mic. 7:16) In those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light. (Mark 13:24; Luke 21:25; Gen. 1:14) He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints. (Rev. 13:10) The earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth. (Rev. 12:16)


5. Let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by shewing mercy to the poor; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquility (Dan. 4:27) 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. (Rev. 18:4) If it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. (Josh. 24:15) I will make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir. (Isa. 13:12) God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Cor. 4:6)


6. Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Tim. 2:15; Dan. 8:14; Matt. 24:33) Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. (1 Thess. 5:21) He came unto his own, and his own received him not. (John 1:11) I saw the wicked buried, who had come and gone from the place of the holy, and they were forgotten in the city where they had so done: this is also vanity. (Eccl. 8:10) 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 hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. (Rev. 3:1; Isa. 1:11-15; Matt. 6:5) This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. (Matt. 15:8-9) Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? (Rom. 6:16)


7. Her priests have violated my law, and have profaned mine holy things: they have put no difference between the holy and profane, neither have they shewed difference between the unclean and the clean, have hid their eyes from my sabbaths, and I am profaned among them. (Eze. 22:26-28) The heads thereof judge for reward, and the priests thereof teach for hire, and the prophets thereof divine for money: yet will they lean upon the Lord, and say, Is not the Lord among us? none evil can come upon us. (Mic. 3:11) Because, even because they have seduced my people, saying, Peace; and there was no peace; and one built up a wall, and, lo, others daubed it with untempered morter. (Eze. 13:10-12) Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. (Rev. 3:2) 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) Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. (Rev. 3:3)


8. (Heb. 2:1 margin) Quench not the Spirit. (1 Thess. 5:19) Grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. (Eph. 4:30) The remnant of Jacob shall be in the midst of many people as a dew from the Lord, as the showers upon the grass, that tarrieth not for man, nor waiteth for the sons of men. (Mic. 5:7) The stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. (Rev. 6:13) That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. (John 1:9) Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. (Rev. 3:4) Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. (Matt. 28:19)


9. The Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel. (Acts 9:15) How hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. (Acts 2:8,11) Said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise? (Matt. 21:16) Saying to the sixth angel which had the trumpet, Loose the four angels which are bound in the great river Euphrates. And the four angels were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and a year, for to slay the third part of men. (Rev. 9:14-15) Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand. (Joel 2:1)


10. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous, And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets. (Matt. 23:29-32; Acts 7:52-53; Rev. 19:8; Isa. 61:10) He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. (Rev. 3:5; Isa. 4:3 margin; Rev. 3:5; Luke 9:26) I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people. (Rev. 14:6; Matt. 10:33; Mark 8:34) A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened. (Dan. 7:9-10)


11. I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. (Dan. 7:13-14) For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us. (Heb. 9:24) The books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. (Rev. 20:12; Matt. 22:9-14; Rev. 6:11) Into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people. (Heb. 9:7; Heb. 8:5) Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. (1 John 3:3; 2 Pet. 1:4; Isa. 25:9) Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. (Heb. 6:19-20; Heb. 7:24-25) He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. (Rev. 3:6)


12. Though ye have lien among the pots, yet shall ye be as the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold. (Psa.68:13) Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch no unclean thing; go ye out of the midst of her; be ye clean, that bear the vessels of Lord. (Isa. 52:11; Jer. 51:6,45; Rev. 14:6) 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. (Acts 3:19) Thou art beautiful, O my love, as Tirzah, comely as Jerusalem, terrible as an army with banners. (Song Sol. 6:4)


13. Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. (John 6:26) Behold, thou art fair, my beloved, yea, pleasant. (Song Sol. 1:16) Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. (1 Cor. 12:27; Dan. 7:13) And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth. (Rev. 3:7) Speak unto Aaron thy brother, that he come not at all times into the holy place within the vail before the mercy seat, which is upon the ark; that he die not: for I will appear in the cloud upon the mercy seat. (Lev. 16:2) The temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail. (Rev. 11:19)


14. Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens. (Heb. 8:1) I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. (Rev. 3:8) All thine enemies have opened their mouth against thee: they hiss and gnash the teeth: they say, We have swallowed her up: certainly this is the day that we looked for; we have found, we have seen it. (Lam. 2:16; John 10:28-29; Jude 24; Heb. 11:27; Dan. 8:14; Dan. 8:16-27; Dan. 9:20-27; Ezra 7:11-26; John 1:41 margin; Luke 3:21-22; Acts 10:38; Acts 8:4; Ezra 7:9; Dan. 9:25; Matt. 25:7; Heb. 10:32-34) From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. (John 6:66; 2 Pet. 3:3-4; Rev. 14:6-7; Matt. 25:10; Matt. 6:23; 1 Pet. 3:15; Psa. 119:105; Rev. 11:19)


15. (Ex. 31:18; Ex. 32:15; Deut. 10:1-5; Ex. 40:3; Heb. 9:2-5; 1 John 5:3) Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye. (Mark 7:13) If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words: Then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord. (Isa. 58:13-14) Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. (Rev. 3:9)


16. Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. (Rev. 3:10; Dan. 12:1; Jer. 30:7) For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock. (Psa. 27:5; Rev. 14:12) Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. (Rev. 3:11) For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law. (Rom. 2:12)


17. Hence forth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day. (2 Tim. 4:8; Rev. 21:7 margin; Rev. 22:17; Isa. 55:1; Zech. 9:16) Thou shalt also be a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God. (Isa. 62:3; 1 Pet. 2:5; Gal. 2:9) Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. (2 Pet. 1:4) Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. (Rev. 3:12) Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all. (Gal. 4:26) For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works. (Eph. 2:10; Isa. 45:23; Matt. 25:34) If a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. (2 Tim. 2:5; Rev. 14:12) He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. (Rev. 3:13; Rev. 3:14; Rev. 3:3,11)


18. Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever. (Heb. 13:8) From Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood. (Rev. 1:5; Rev. 3.5) And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God. (Rev. 3:14) What agreement hath the temple of God with idols? (2 Cor. 6:16) The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple. (Psa. 119:130) Six days thou shalt work, but on the seventh day thou shalt rest. (Ex. 34:21) Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it. (Isa. 56:1-2) The kings of the earth, and all the inhabitants of the world, would not have believed that the adversary and the enemy should have entered into the gates of Jerusalem. (Lam. 4:12)


19. (Lam. 5:6; Isa. 1:9; Rev. 12:17; Isa. 1:3) They regard not the work of the Lord, neither consider the operation of his hands. (Isa. 5:12) I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. (Rev. 3:15) When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom. (Prov. 11:2; Rom. 8:22) The devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time. (Rev. 12:12; 2 Thess. 2:9-10; Gen. 19:16; Rev. 7:1-3; Heb. 1:14; Gen. 33:14; Rev. 1:13; Rev. 2:1; Deut. 3:28) Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth. (John 12:35) What man is there that is fearful and fainthearted? let him go and return unto his house, lest his brethren's heart faint as well as his heart. (Deut. 20:8) His word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay. (Jer. 20:9; Matt. 26:51-55; 2 Sam. 7:1-13) So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth. (Rev. 3:16; Jer. 3:32-36)


20. Therefore thus saith the Lord, If thou return, then will I bring thee again, and thou shalt stand before me: and if thou take forth the precious from the vile, thou shalt be as my mouth: let them return unto thee; but return not thou unto them. (Jer. 15:19; Mark 10:31; Luke 12:47-48; Hosea 12:8) Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked. (Rev. 3:17) Now ye are full, now ye are rich, ye have reigned as kings without us: and I would to God ye did reign, that we also might reign with you. (1 Cor. 4:8; Hosea 12:14) The Lord said unto Satan, The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire? (Zech. 3:1-6; Prov. 8:18-21; Rev. 19:8) If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked. (2 Cor. 5:3; 2 Cor. 5:21; 2 Cor. 4:4-6; 2 Cor. 3:18) I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. (Rev. 3:18; Psa. 104:2) All that sat in the council, looking steadfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel. (Acts 6:15) As truly as I live, all the earth shall be filled with the glory of the Lord. (Num. 14:20-21)


21. Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not. (Mal. 3:18) For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. (Matt. 24:24) For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience. (Col. 3:6; Luke 1:17) Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel? (Eze. 18:31) The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved. (Jer. 8:20; Rev. 22:11-12; Rev. 22:10) As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. (Rev. 3:19; John 16:8-9) Ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof. (Prov. 1:25; John 17:23; Song Sol. 5:2) Behold I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. (Rev. 3:20) Which doeth great things past finding out; yea, and wonders without number. (Job. 9:10) To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne? even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. (Rev. 3:21) He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. (Rev. 3:22)