Page:Studies in the Scriptures - Series I - The Plan of the Ages (1909).djvu/277

 be of Christ's appointment is not unquestionable. Men are beginning to use their* reasoning powers on this and similar questions ; and they will act out their convi&ions so much more violently, as they come to realize that a de- ception has been practiced upon them in the name of the God of Justice and the Prince of Peace. In fact, the tend- ency with many is to conclude that Christianity itself is an imposition without foundation, and that, leagued with civil rulers, its aim is merely to hold in check the liberties of the masses.

O that men were wise, that they would apply their hearts to understand the work and plan of the Lord ! Then would the present kingdoms melt down gradually reform would swiftly follow reform, and liberty follow liberty, and justice and truth would prevail until righteousness would be established in the earth. But they will not do this, nor can they in their present fallen state; and so, armed with selfishness, each will strive for mastery, and the kingdoms of this world will pass away with a great time" of trouble, such as was not since there was a nation. Of those who will be vainly trying to hold to a dominion which has passed away, when the dominion is given to him whose right it is, the Lord speaks, urging that they are fighting against him a conflict in which they are sure to fail. He says:

" Why do the nations tumultuously assemble, and the people meditate a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together against the Lord, and against his Anointed, saying, Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us. He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh : the Lord shall have them in derision. Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure [saying], / have anointed my king upon my holy hill of Zion, ... Be wise now, therefore, ye kings : be instructed, ye judges of the

�� �