Among world developments which have significance for students of prophecy and heralds of the message of the advent is a sign of the nearness of the Lord's return, now assuming pronounced importance and taking first place in the affairs and thinking of men. Industrial turmoil and strife is affecting nearly all aspects of human life today. The sign of James 5, which was particularly declared to convey the meaning that "the coming of the Lord draweth nigh," is now assuming proportions which compel the consideration of all men.
Without placing lesser emphasis on other Bible signs, we must realize that the -time is here for greater emphasis—and clearer exegesis—to be given James 5. It will not do merely to repeat what we said twenty years ago. A great many things have happened meanwhile. We are in a different world today. This whole question of industrial and labor relations calls for a restudy. God set it forth as a significant evidence of the nearness of the end. With all its prophetic significance, the heralds of the advent should be proclaiming it today with the most searching effectiveness.
This sinister, portentous fued between capital and labor; this long-smoldering war of classes and groups, of ideas and social systems, dividing men in all nations; this heaping up of enormous treasure for the few with the corresponding impoverishment of the many; this deep-seated, widespread social discontent; this menacing roar of the masses against the hard lot forced upon them; this epidemic of strikes which plagues men everywhere; this compelling demand of the workers for a much greater share of the product of their toil—all of which are molding and shaping world developments into the very pattern long foretold—present Adventist preachers with an opportunity of major importance and unusual possibilities.
You will not take it amiss, I know, if I speak a word of friendly caution. Let me urge you to stand apart from the industrial conflict itself and not take sides ; just as Jesus stood apart from the political animosities, forces, abuses, and injustices which divided groups and classes in His day, and preached His saving message to all. We have no message against any group or class or nation or race or language or breed of men. Rather we have a message for all men, no matter what their affiliation or status may be, rich or poor, employer or worker, oppressor or oppressed, master or slave. Just "preach the Word," calling attention to the prophetic significance of the present industrial upheaval as a sign of the stupendous event of which it is the harbinger. Do not inveigh against classes and groups, against organizations and movements, against parties and leaders.
Simply point to Christ and His near return, and make it plain that the sole hope of men and the world, the solution of every current problem, trouble, and abuse, is in Him and the kingdom He is about to establish.
[Further discussion of this timely topic will appear in forthcoming is sues.—EDITOR.]
