END OF TIME SERIES 

 PART EIGHTEEN -C

THE ETERNITY BEYOND

A DETAILED VIEW OF THE REWARD OF THE FAITHFUL! 

Patiently Walt for the Reward

"If the time seems long to wait for our Deliverer to come; if, bowed by affliction and worn with toil, we feel impatient for our commission to close, and to receive an honorable release from the warfare, let us remember-and let the remembrance check every murmur-that God leaves us on earth to encounter storms and conflicts, to perfect Christian character, to become better acquainted with God our Father and Christ our Elder Brother, and to do work for the Master in winning many souls to Christ, that with glad heart we may hear the words, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.' "Review, October 25,1881 (Christian Service, 274:3-275:0).

"Be patient, Christian soldier. Yet a little while, and He that shall come, will come. The night of weary waiting, and watching, and mourning is nearly over. The reward will soon be given; the eternal day will dawn. There is no time to sleep now, -no time to indulge in useless regrets. He who ventures to slumber now will miss precious opportunities of doing good. We are granted the blessed privilege of gathering sheaves in the great harvest; and every soul saved will be an additional star in the crown of Jesus, our adorable Redeemer. Who is eager to layoff the armor, when by pushing the battle a little longer, he will achieve new victories and gather new trophies for eternity?" -Review, October 25, 1881 (Christian Service, 275:1).

8-Counsels on Stewardship 348:1-350:2

"There is reward for the wholehearted, unselfish workers who enter this field, and also for those who contribute willingly for their support. Those engaged in active service in the field, and those who give of their means to sustain these workers, will share the reward of the faithful.

"Every wise steward of the means entrusted to him, will enter into the joy of his Lord. What is this joy? -' Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.' There will be a blessed commendation, a holy benediction, on the faithful winners of souls. They will join the rejoicing ones in heaven, who shout the harvest home.

"How great will be the joy when the redeemed of the Lord shall all meet, -gathered into the mansions prepared for them! 0, what rejoicing for all who have been impartial, unselfish laborers together with God in carrying forward His work in the earth! What satisfaction will every reaper have, when the clear, musical voice of Jesus shall be heard, saying, 'Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.' 'Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.'

"The Redeemer is glorified because He has not died in vain. With glad, rejoicing hearts, those who have been colaborers with God see of the travail of their soul for perishing, dying sinners, and are satisfied. The anxious hours they have spent, the perplexing circumstances they have had to meet, the sorrow of heart because some refused to see and receive the things which make for their peace, are forgotten. The self-denial they have practiced in order to support the work, is remembered no more. As they look upon the souls they sought to win to Jesus, and see them saved, eternally saved-monuments of God's mercy and of a Redeemer's love-there ring through the arches of heaven shouts of praise and thanksgiving." -Review, October 10, 1907 (Christian Service, 348:1-349:0).

Realization Greater Than Expectation.- "Christ accepted humanity, and lived on this earth a pure, sanctified life. For this reason He has received the appointment of judge. He who occupies the position of judge is God manifest in the flesh. What a joy it will be to recognize in Him our Teacher and Redeemer, bearing still the marks of the crucifixion, from which shine beams of glory, giving additional value to the crowns which the redeemed receive from His hands, the very hands outstretched in blessing over His disciples as He ascended. The very voice which said. 'Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world,' bids His ransomed ones welcome to His presence.

The very One who gave H is precious life for them, who by His grace moved their hearts to repentance, who awakened them to their need of repentance, receives them now into His joy. Oh, how they love Him! The realization of their hope is infinitely greater than their expectation. Their joy is complete, and they take their glittering crowns and cast them at their Redeemer's feet. "-Review, June 18,1901 (Counsels on Stewardship, 349:1-2).

Only a Little While Now.- "It will only be a little while before Jesus will come to save His children and to give them the finishing touch of immortality. 'This corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality.' The graves will be opened, and the dead will come forth victorious, crying, '0 death, where is thy sting? 0 grave, where is thy victory?' Our loved ones who sleep in Jesus will come forth clothed with immortality.

"And as the redeemed shall ascend to heaven, the gates of the city of God will swing back, and those who have kept the truth will enter in. A voice, richer than any music that ever fell on mortal ear, will be heard saying, 'Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.' Then the righteous will receive their reward. Their lives will run parallel with the life of Jehovah. They will cast their crowns at the Redeemer's feet, touch the golden harps, and fill all heaven with rich music." -Signs, April 15, 1889 (Counsels on Stewardship 350:1-2).

Gratitude of the Redeemed.- "All praise, honor, and glory will be given to God and to the Lamb for our redemption; but it will not detract from the glory of God to express gratitude to the instrumentality He has employed in the salvation of souls ready to perish." -6 Testimonies, 311:0 (Publishing Ministry, 402:7).

" 'Thou shalt delight thyself in the Lord; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it. ' Isaiah 58: 14." -6 Testimonies, 312:2 (publishing Ministry, 404:1).

10-Gospel Workers 512:1-519:2

The Reward of Service.-"When thou makest a dinner or a supper,' said Christ, 'call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbors; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompense be made thee. But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: and thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.' [1 Luke 14: 12-14).

"In these words Christ draws a contrast between the self-seeking practices of the world, and the unselfish ministry of which He has given an example in His own life. For such ministry He offers no reward of worldly gain or recognition. 'Thou shalt be recompensed,' He says, 'at the resurrection of the just.' Then the results of every life will be made manifest, and every one will reap that which he has sown."-Gospel Workers, 512:1-2.

"All who consecrate body, soul, and spirit to God's service will be constantly receiving a new endowment of physical, mental, and spiritual power. The inexhaustible supplies of heaven are at their command. Christ gives them the breath of His own spirit, the life of His own life. The Holy Spirit puts forth His highest energies to work in heart and mind.

" 'Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily.' Thou shalt 'call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and He shall say, Here I am.' 'Thy light' shall 'rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday: and the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.' [Isaiah 58:8-11 ).

"Many are God's promises to those who minister to His afflicted ones. He says: 'Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble. The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and Thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. The Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: Thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.' 'Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.' [Psalm 41 :1-3; 37:3). 'Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with the first-fruits of all thine increase: so shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.' 'There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.' 'He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will He pay him again.' 'The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.' [Proverbs 3:9, 10; 11:24; 19:17; 11:25].

"While much of the fruit of their labor is not apparent in this life, God's workers have His sure promise of ultimate success. As the world's Redeemer, Christ was constantly confronted with apparent failure. He seemed to do little of the work which He longed to do in uplifting and saving. Satanic agencies were constantly working to obstruct His way. But He would not be discouraged. Ever before Him He saw the result of His mission. He knew that truth would finally triumph in the contest with evil, and to His disciples He said: 'These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.' [John 16:33]. The life of Christ's disciples is to be like His, a series of uninterrupted victories -not seen to be such here, but recognized as such in the great hereafter.

"Those who labor for the good of others are working in union with the heavenly angels. They have their constant companionship, their unceasing ministry. Angels of light and power are ever near to protect, to comfort, to heal, to instruct, to inspire. The highest education, the truest culture, the most exalted service possible to human beings in this world, are theirs.

"Often our merciful Father encourages His children and strengthens their faith by permitting them here to see evidence of the power of His grace upon the hearts and lives of those for whom they labor. 'My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: so shall My word be that goeth forth out of My mouth: it shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir-tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle-tree: and it shall be to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.' (Isaiah 55:8-13).

"In the transformation of character, the casting out of evil passions, the development of the sweet graces of God's Holy Spirit, we see the fulfillment of the promise, 'Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and in stead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree.' We behold life's desert 'rejoice, and blossom as the rose.' (Isaiah 35:1].

"Christ delights to take apparently hopeless material, those whom Satan has debased and through whom he has worked, and make them the subjects of His grace. He rejoices to deliver them from suffering, and from the wrath that is to fall upon the disobedient. He makes His children His agents in the accomplishment of this work, and in its success, even in this life, they find a precious reward."-Gospel Workers, 513:2-516:02.

"The angels were waiting to welcome Jesus, as He ascended after His resurrection. The heavenly host longed to greet again their loved Commander, returned to them from the prison house of death. Eagerly they pressed about Him as He entered the gates of heaven. But He waved them back. His heart was with the lonely, sorrowing band of disciples whom He had left upon Olivet. It is still with His struggling children on earth, who have the battle with the destroyer yet to wage. 'Father,' He says, 'I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.'

"Christ's redeemed ones are His jewels, His precious and peculiar treasure. 'They shall be as the stones of a crown,' - 'the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,' (Zechariah 9:16; Ephesians 1:18]. In them 'He shall see of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied.' (Isaiah 53:11].

"And will not His workers rejoice when they, too, behold the fruit of their labors? The apostle Paul, writing to the Thessalonian converts, says: 'What is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? for ye are our glory and joy,' (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20]. And he exhorts the Philippian brethren to be 'blameless and harmless,' to 'shine as lights in the world; holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain.' "(Philippians 2:15-16]. Gospel Workers, 517:1-517:3.

"Wonderful will be the revealing as the lines of holy influence, with their precious results, are brought to view. What will be the gratitude of souls that will meet us in the heavenly courts, as they understand the sympathetic, loving interest which has been taken in their salvation! All praise, honor, and glory will be given to God and to the Lamb for our redemption; but it will not detract from the glory of God to express gratitude to the instrumentality He has employed in the salvation of souls ready to perish,"-Gospel Workers, 518:1.

11-Bible Commentary Volume 7, 988:1-990:6

1 (Isaiah 33:21). No Engulfing Ocean.- "The sea divides friends. It is a barrier between us and those whom we love. Our associations are broken up by the broad, fathomless ocean. In the new earth there will be no more sea, and there shall pass there 'no galley with oars.' In the past many who have loved and served God have been bound by chains to their seats in galleys, compelled to serve the purpose of cruel, hardhearted men. The Lord has looked upon their suffering in sympathy and compassion. Thank God, in the earth made new there will be no fierce torrents, no engulfing ocean, no restless, murmuring waves," -Manuscript 33, 1911 (7 Bible Commentary, 988).

1-4, (Isaiah 30:26). God's Family United at Last.

Now, the church is militant, now we are confronted with a world in midnight darkness, almost wholly given over to idolatry. But the day is coming in which the battle will have been fought, the victory won. The will of God is to be done on earth, as it is done in heaven. Then the nations will own no other law than the law of heaven. All will be a happy, united family, clothed with the garments of praise and thanksgiving-the robe of Christ's righteousness.

"All nature in its surpassing loveliness will offer to God a constant tribute of praise and adoration. The world will be bathed in the light of heaven. The years will move on in gladness. The light of the moon will be as the light of the sun, and the light of the sun will be sevenfold greater than it is now. Over the scene the morning stars will sing together, and the sons of God will shout for joy, while Christ and God will unite in proclaiming, 'There shall be no more sin, neither shall there be any more death.' " Review, December 17, 1908 (7 Bible Commentary, 988).

4 (see EGW on 1 Corinthians 15:51-55). The Christian's Summer.- This earth is the place of preparation for heaven. The time spent here is the Christian's winter. Here the chilly winds of affliction blow upon us, and the waves of trouble roll against us. But in the near future, when Christ comes, sorrow and sighing will be forever ended. Then will be the Christian's summer. All trials will be over, and there will be no more sickness or death.

1, 2 (chapter 7:17; see EGW on Luke 23:40-43).

Higher Education In the Future Life.- "Christ, the heavenly Teacher, will lead His people to the tree of life that grows on either side of the river of life, and He will explain to them the truths they could not in this life understand. In that future life His people will gain the higher education in its completeness. Those who enter the city of God will have the golden crowns placed upon their heads. That will be a joyful scene that none of us can afford to miss. We shall cast our crowns at the feet of Jesus, and again and again we will give Him the glory and praise His holy name. Angels will unite in the songs of triumph. Touching their golden harps, they will fill all heaven with rich music and songs to the Lamb." Manuscript 1,1909 (7 Bible Commentary, 988).

2 (chapter 2:7; Genesis 2:9; see EGW on Genesis 3:22-24; John 5:39). Life-giving Power In Tree of Life.- "The tree of life is a representation of the preserving care of Christ for His children. As Adam and Eve ate of this tree, they acknowledged their dependence upon God. The tree of life possessed the power to perpetuate life, and as long as they ate of it, they could not die. The lives of the antediluvians were protracted because of the life-giving power of this tree, which was transmitted to them from Adam and Eve." -Review, January 26, 1897 (7 Bible Commentary, 988).

(John 1 :4). Life-giving Fruit Ours Through Christ. "The fruit of the tree of life in the Garden of Eden possessed supernatural virtue. To eat of it was to live forever. Its fruit was the antidote of death. Its leaves were for the sustaining of life and immortality. But through man's disobedience, death entered the world. Adam ate of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, the fruit of which he had been forbidden to touch. His transgression opened the floodgates of woe upon our race.

"Of Christ it is written, 'In him was life; and the life was the light of men.' He is the fountain of life. Obedience to Him is the life-giving power that gladdens the soul.

"Christ declares: 'I am the bread of life; he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.' [John 6:57, 63; Revelation 2:7, last part, quoted)"-Signs, March 91, 1909 (7 Bible Commentary, 988-789).

(Psalm 19:10; John 6:54-57.) Tree of Life Planted for Us.-"The sons of men have had a practical knowledge of evil, but Christ came to the world to show them that He had planted for them the tree of life, the leaves of which were for the healing of the nations." -Manuscript 67,1898 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

"The leaves of the tree of life are proffered you. They are sweeter than honey and the honeycomb. Take them, eat them, digest them, and your faintheartedness will pass away."-Manuscript 71,1898 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

"Christ. . was the tree of life to all who would pluck and eat."-Manuscript 95, 1898 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

Bible, the Tree of Life to Us.-"Let all bear in mind that the tree of life bears twelve manner of fruits. This represents the spiritual work of our earthly missions. The Word of God is to us the tree of life. Every portion of the Scripture has its use. In every part of the Word is some lesson to be learned. Then learn how to study your Bibles. This book is not a heap of odds and ends. It is an educator. Your own thoughts must be called into exercise before you can be really benefited by Bible study. Spiritual sinew and muscle must be brought to bear upon the Word. The Holy Spirit will bring to remembrance the words of Christ. He will enlighten the mind, and guide the research." -Letter 3, 1898 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

Christ, the Tree of Life.-"Christ is the source of our life, the source of immortality. He is the tree of life, and to all who come to Him He gives spiritual life." -Review, January 26, 1897 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

3, 4. A Definition of Heaven.- "Christ is the truth of all that we find in the Father. The definition of heaven is the presence of Christ.

10-12 (chapters 4:3; 10:1; see EGW on chapter 10:7; 2 Peter 3:9). Christ's Intercession Soon to Cease. The One who has stood as our intercessor; who hears all penitential prayers and confessions; who is represented with a rainbow, the symbol of grace and love, encircling His head, is soon to cease His work in the heavenly sanctuary. Grace and mercy will then descend from the throne, and justice will take their place. He for whom His people have looked will assume His right -the office of Supreme Judge." -Review, January 1, 1889 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

Probation Ends When Least Expected.- "When probation ends, it will come suddenly, unexpectedly-at a time when we are least expecting it. But we can have a clean record in heaven today, and know that God accepts us; and finally, if faithful, we shall be gathered into the kingdom of heaven." -Manuscript 95, 1906 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

No Second Probation.- "There is not a second probation for anyone. Now is probationary time, before the angel shall fold her golden wings, the angel of mercy, and shall step down from the throne, and mercy, mercy is gone forever." Manuscript, 1894 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

(John 9:4) Time of Probation's Close Not Revealed.- "God has not revealed to us the time when this message will close, or when probation will have an end. Those things that are revealed we shall accept for ourselves and for our children; but let us not seek to know that which has been kept secret in the councils of the Almighty.

"Letters have come to me asking me if I have any special light as to the time when probation will close; and I answer that I have only this message to bear, that it is now time to work while the day lasts, for the night cometh in which no man can work. Now, just now, it is time for us to be watching, working, and waiting.

"The Word of the Lord reveals the fact that the end of all things is at hand, and its testimony is most decided that it is necessary for every soul to have the truth planted in the heart so that it will control the life and sanctify the character. The Spirit of the Lord is working to take the truth of the Inspired Word and stamp it upon the soul so that the professed followers of Christ will have a holy, sacred joy that they will be able to impart to others. The opportune time for us to work is now, just now, while the day lasts. But there is no command for anyone to search the Scriptures in order to ascertain, if possible, when probation will close. God has no such message for any mortal lips. He would have no mortal tongue declare that which He has hidden in His secret councils." -Review, October 9, 1894 (7 Bible Commentary, 989-990).

13-17 (chapter 1:8). The Alpha and Omega of Scripture.-[Revelation 22:13-17, quoted.] "Here we have the Alpha of Genesis and the Omega of Revelation. The blessing is promised to all those who keep the commandments of God, and who cooperate with Him in the proclamation of the third angel's message." -Review, Herald, June 8, 1897 (7 Bible Commentary, 990).

14 (chapter 20:12, 13; see EGW on Genesis 3:2224; Romans 3:31; 2 Corinthians 3:7-11). City of God for Commandment Keepers.- "None who have had the light of truth will enter the city of God as commandment breakers. His law lies at the foundation of His government in earth and in heaven. If they have knowingly trampled upon and despised His law on the earth, they will not be taken to heaven to do the same work there; there is no change of character when Christ comes. The character building is to go on during the hours of probation. Day by day their actions are registered in the books of heaven, and they will, in the great day of God, be rewarded as their works have been. It will then be seen who receives the blessing. 'Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. Review, August 25, 1885 (7 Bible Commentary, 990).

12-My Life Today 347:1-369:4

Christ Presents Me With a Crown and Harp

'Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.' 2 Timothy 4:8."

"Oh, what joy unspeakable, to see Him whom we loved-to see Him in His glory who so loved us that He gave Himself for us -to behold those hands once pierced for our redemption stretched out to us in blessing and welcome!"-Signs, November 2, 1882 (My Life Today, 847:2-8).

"Those who. . place themselves in God's hands. . will see the King in His beauty. They will behold His matchless charms, and touching their golden harps, they will fill all heaven with rich music and with songs to the Lamb."-Review, June 15, 1905 (My Life Today, 347:4).

Given a White Robe of Righteousness

"The conflict is over. All tribulation and strife are at an end. Songs of victory fill all heaven as the redeemed stand around the throne of God. All take up the joyful strain, 'Worthy, worthy is the Lamb that was slain, and lives again, a triumphant conqueror. -Review, November 26, 60 1903 (My Life Today, 348:4).

Victory Over Death

"We have a living, risen Saviour. He burst the fetters of the tomb after He had lain there three days, and in triumph He proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, 'I am the resurrection, and the life.' And He is coming. Are we getting ready for Him? Are we ready so that if we shall fall asleep, we can do so with hope in Jesus Christ?

"The Life-giver is soon to come. . to break the fetters of the tomb. He is to bring forth the captives. . The last thoughts they had were of the grave and the tomb, but now they proclaim, '0 death, where is thy sting? 0 grave, where is thy victory?' The pangs of death were the last things they felt. . When they awake the pain is all gone. '0 grave, where is thy victory?' Here they stand, and the finishing touch of immortality is put upon them, and they go up to meet their Lord in the air. The gates of the city of God swing back upon their hinges, . . and the ransomed of God walk in through the cherubims and seraphims. Christ bids them welcome and puts upon them His benediction. -Manuscript 18, 1894 (My Life Today, 349:23).

"There, there is no burial train, no mourning, no death, no parting, no broken hearts; and Jesus is there, peace is there. . In His presence is fullness of joy, at His right hand there are pleasures forevermore!" -Signs, February 8, 1892 (My Life Today 349:4).

No More Sin

" '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: and they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads.' Revelation 22:3, 4."

"Then we shall enjoy with Him all the glories of the world to come throughout the ceaseless ages of eternity. . There is nothing in the kingdom of God to disturb or annoy. This is the life that is promised to the overcomer-a life of happiness and peace, a life of love and beauty. . There is no sin, no distracting care, nothing to mar the peace of the inhabitant." -Signs, November 10, 1887 (My Life Today, 350:3-4).

As Heirs, We Inherit the Kingdom

"Before the ransomed throng is the holy city. Jesus opens wide the pearly gates, and the nations that have kept the truth enter in. There they behold the Paradise of God, the home of Adam in his innocency.

"Now is fulfilled the Saviour's prayer for His disciples, 'I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.' 'Faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy,' Christ presents to the Father the purchase of His blood, declaring, 'Here am I, and the children whom Thou hast given Me.' 'Those that Thou gavest Me I have kept.' Oh, the wonders of redeeming love! the rapture of that hour when the infinite Father, looking upon the ransomed, shall behold His image, sin's discord banished, its blight removed, the human once more in harmony with the divine!"-Great Controversy, 646:1- 2 (My Life Today, 351:2-3).

Families Will Be Reunited

" 'Refrain thy voice from weeping, and thine eyes from tears: for thy work shall be rewarded, salth the Lord; and they shall come again from the land of the enemy. And there Is hope In thine end, salth the Lord, that thy children shall come again to their own border. ' Jeremiah 31: 16, 17."

"Christ is coming with clouds and with great glory. . He will come to raise the dead, and to change the living saints from glory to glory. . There will be a relinking of the family chain. " -Desire of Ages, 632:3 (My Life Today, 352:2).

"Oh, wonderful redemption I long talked of, long hoped for, contemplated with eager anticipation.

"With joy unutterable parents see the crown, the robe, the harp, given to their children. The days of hope and fear are ended. . Their children have been redeemed. Signs, July 1, 1886 (My Life Today, 352:5).

"There we shall see on every hand the beautiful trees of Paradise, in the midst of them the tree of life. There we shall behold with undimmed vision the beauties of Eden restored. There we shall cast at the feet of our Redeemer the crowns that He has placed on our heads, and touching our golden harps, we shall offer praise and thanksgiving to Him that sitteth on the throne. . May you all be among those who shall enter through the gates of pearl into the city of our God. May you, as unbroken families, dwell forever in that haven of rest. To this end may God help you now to strive for the crown of life.-Review, September 3, 1903.

We Shall Recognize Each Other

'Now I know in part; but then I shall know even as also I am known.' 1 Corinthians 13:12."

"In the mansions above we shall meet to part no more. We shall know each other in our heavenly home." -Signs, June 20, 1911.

A Beautiful Country

'And truly if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that Is, a heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.' Hebrews 11:15, 16."

"The grass will be a living green, and will never wither. There will be roses and lilies and all kinds of flowers there. They will never blight or fade or lose their beauty and fragrance.

"The lion, we should much dread and fear here, will then lie down with the Iamb, and everything in the New Earth will be peace and harmony. The trees of the New Earth will be straight and lofty, without deformity." Youth's Instructor, October, 1852 (My Life Today, 354:1, 4-5).

"In the New Earth there are no chilling winds, no disagreeable changes. The atmosphere is ever right and healthful." -Diary, March 24, 1859 (My Life Today, 354:6).

Eat of the Tree of Life

'In the midst of the street of it, and on neither side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.' Revelation 22:2."

"Out of the throne came a pure river of water, and on either side of the river was the tree of life. . The fruit was glorious; it looked like gold mixed with silver." Early Writings, 17 (My Life Today, 355:1-2).

"The redeemed saints, who have loved God and kept His commandments here, will enter in through the gates of the city, and have right to the tree of life. They will eat freely of it as our first parents did before their fall. The leaves of that immortal widespread tree will be for the healing of the nations. All their woes will then be gone. Sickness, sorrow, and death they will never again feel, for the leaves of the tree of life have healed them. Jesus will then see of the travail of His soul and be satisfied, when the redeemed, who have been subject to sorrow, toil, and afflictions, who have groaned beneath the curse, are gathered up around that tree of life to eat of its immortal fruit that our first parents forfeited all right to by breaking God's commands. There will be no danger of their ever losing right to the tree of life again, for he that tempted our first parents to sin will be destroyed by the second death." Youth's Instructor, October 1852 (My Life Today, 355:4).

"Upon the tree of life was most beautiful fruit, of which the saints could partake freely. . The most exalted language fails to describe the glory of heaven or the match less depths of a Saviour's love." -Early Writings, 289 (My Life Today, 355:5).

At the Marriage Supper

"In both the Old and New Testament the marriage relation is employed to represent the tender and sacred union that exists between Christ and His people. To the mind of Jesus the gladness of the wedding festivities pointed forward to the rejoicing of that day when He shall bring home His bride to the Father's house, and the redeemed with the Redeemer shall sit down to the marriage supper of the Lamb. He says, 'As the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride, so shall thy God rejoice over thee.' 'Thou shalt no more be termed Forsaken; . . but thou shalt be called My Delight [margin]; . . for the Lord delighteth in thee.' 'He will rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in His love, He will joy over thee with singing.' When the vision of heavenly things was granted to John the apostle, he wrote: 'I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to Him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and His wife hath made herself ready.'

"Jesus saw in every soul one to whom must be given the call to His kingdom."-Desire of Ages, 151:1-2 (My Life Today, 356:2-3).

"Having received the kingdom, He will come in His glory, as King of kings and Lord of lords, for the redemption of His people, who are to 'sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob' at His table in His kingdom, to partake of the marriage supper of the Lamb." -Great Controversy, 427:0 (My Life Today, 356:4).

The Glories of Our Heavenly Home

" 'And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass. And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones.' Revelation 21: 18-19. "

"The glorious city of God has twelve gates, set with pearls most glorious. It also has twelve foundations of various colors. The streets of the city are of pure gold. In this city is the throne of God, and a pure, beautiful river proceeding out of it, as clear as crystal. Its sparkling purity and beauty make glad the city of God. The saints will drink freely of the healing waters of the river of life.

"All faces will reflect the image of their Redeemer. There will then be no anxious, troubled countenances, but all will be bright, and smiling in spotless purity. The angels win be there, also the resurrected saints with the martyrs, and the best of all, and what will cause us the most joy, our lovely Saviour, who suffered and died that we might enjoy that happiness and freedom, will be there. His glorious face will shine brighter than the sun, and light up the beautiful city and reflect glory all around.

"Children will be there. They will never be engaged in strife or discord. Their love will be fervent and holy. They will also have a crown of gold upon their heads and a harp in their hands. And their little countenances, that we here see so often troubled and perplexed, will beam with holy joy, expressive of their perfect freedom and happiness.

"The saints will have crowns of glory upon their heads and harps of gold in their hands. They will play upon the golden harp and sing redeeming love, and make melody unto God. Their former trials and suffering in this world will be forgotten and lost amid the glories of the New Earth. And they will ever have the approving smiles of Jesus upon them, and their happiness will be complete. . The future abode of the saints will be all glorious." - Youth's Instructor, October, 1852 (My Life Today, 357:1-5).

Labor for Pleasure and Enjoyment

"There certainly is and ever will be employment in heaven. The whole family of the redeemed will not live in a state of dreamy idleness. There remaineth a rest to the people of God. In heaven activity will not be wearing and burdensome; it will be rest. The whole family of the redeemed will find their delight in serving Him whose they are by creation and by redemption." -Letter 11, 1899 (My Life Today, 358:6).

"To the weary and heavy laden, to those who have fought the good fight of faith, it will be a glorious rest; for the youth and vigor of immortality will be theirs, and against sin and Satan they will no longer have to contend." -Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, 99 (My Life Today, 358:7).

Harmonious Social Life

'The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea. I have a goodly heritage.' Psalm 16:6."

"Heaven is full of joy. It resounds with the praise of Him who made so wonderful a sacrifice for the redemption of the human race. Should not the church on earth be full of praise? Should not Christians publish throughout the world the joy of serving Christ? Those who in heaven join with the angelic choir in their anthem of praise must learn on earth the song of heaven, the keynote of which is thanksgiving,"-7 Testimonies, 244:2 (My Life Today, 359:4).

"Everything in heaven is noble and elevated. All seek the interest and happiness of others. No one devotes himself to looking out and caring for self. It is the chief joy of all holy beings to witness the joy and happiness of those around them," -2 Testimonies, 239:0 (My Life Today, 359:5).

"If you have trials here, and feel lonesome, look away from this dark world to the bright glories of heaven. Set your affections upon heavenly joys, and then you will not feel so deeply the trials and disappointments of this life, for you will feel that you have a home in glory, a crown, a harp, and a lovely Saviour there. Strive for that blest inheritance which God has promised to those that love Him and keep His commandments." - Youth 's Instructor, October, 1852 (My Life Today, 359:6).

Study God's Wisdom Throughout Eternity

" 'The God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: the eyes of your understanding being enlightened.' Ephesians 1:17-18,"

"The science of redemption is the science of all sciences, the science that is the study of the angels and of all the intelligences of the unfallen worlds, the science that engages the attention of our Lord and Saviour, the science that enters into the purpose brooded in the mind of the Infinite-'kept in silence through times eternal,' the science that will be the study of God's redeemed throughout the endless ages. This is the highest study in which it is possible for man to engage. As no other study can, it will quicken the mind and uplift the soul.

"The subject is inexhaustible. The study of the incarnation of Christ, His atoning sacrifice, and mediatorial work will employ the mind of the diligent student as long as time shall last; and looking to heaven with its unnumbered years, he will exclaim, 'Great is the mystery of godliness.'

"In eternity we shall learn that which, had we received the enlightenment that it was possible to obtain here, would have opened our understanding. The themes of redemption will employ the hearts and minds and tongues of the redeemed through the everlasting ages. They will understand the truths which Christ longed to open to His disciples, but which they did not have faith to grasp. Forever and forever new views of the perfection and glory of Christ will appear. Through endless ages the faithful Householder will bring forth from His treasures things new and old."-Signs, April 18, 1906. (My Life Today, 360:1-2, 4-5).

"Since God is infinite, and in Him are all the treasures of wisdom, we may to all eternity be ever searching, ever learning, yet never exhaust the riches of His wisdom, His goodness, or H is power." -Signs, April 25, 1906.

Christ Will Teach the Redeemed

'And they shall be all taught of God.' " John 6:45.

"In the school of Christ students never graduate. Among the pupils are both the old and the young. Those who give heed to the instructions of the Divine Teacher constantly advance in wisdom, refinement, and nobility of soul, and thus they are prepared to enter that higher school, where advancement will continue throughout eternity. Over in this home of the blest, to bear in soul, body, and spirit, not the dark traces of sin and the curse, but the perfect likeness of our Creator, and through ceaseless ages to advance in wisdom, in knowledge and holiness, ever exploring new fields of thought, ever finding new wonders and new glories, ever increasing in capacity to know and to enjoy and to love, and knowing that there is still beyond us joy and love and wisdom infinite such is the object to which the Christian hope is pointing." -Good Health, August, 1882 (My Life Today, 361:1-2).

"In the world to come Christ will lead the redeemed beside the river of life and will teach them wonderful lessons of truth. He will unfold to them the mysteries of nature. They will see that a master hand holds the world in position. They will behold the skill displayed by the great Artist in coloring the flowers of the field, and will learn of the purposes of the merciful Father, who dispenses every ray of light, and with the holy angels the redeemed will acknowledge in songs of grateful praise God's supreme love to an unthankful world. Then it will be understood that 'God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.' "-Review, January 3, 1907 (My Life Today, 361:4).

"He [Christ] will impart rich stores of knowledge. He will unravel mysteries in the providences of God which in this life we are unable to understand." -Letter 242, 1908 (My Life Today, 361:5).

"We must get an education here that will enable us to live with God through the eternal ages. The education we begin here will be perfected in heaven. We will only just enter a higher grade." -Manuscript 16, 1895 (My life Today, 361:6).

Travel to Worlds Afar

'These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb.' Revelation 14:4."-My Life Today, 362:1.

"Then was the melody of heaven heard by mortal ears, and the heavenly choir swept back to heaven as they closed their ever memorable anthem. The light faded away. . ; but there remained in the hearts of the shepherds the brightest picture mortal man had ever looked upon, and the blessed promise and assurance of the advent to our world of the Saviour of men, which filled their hearts with joy and gladness, mingled with faith and wondrous love to God. "-Review, December 9, 1884 (My Life Today, 363:4).

"0 that today the human family could recognize that song! The declaration then made, the note then struck, will swell to the close of time and resound to the ends of the earth. When the Sun of Righteousness shall arise, with healing in His wings, that song will be re-echoed by the voice of a great multitude, as the voice of many waters, saying, 'Alleluia, for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.'" -1 Selected Messages, 250:2 (My Life Today, 363:5).

Worship Together

'For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make, shall remain before me, saith the Lord, so shall your seed and your name remain. And it shall come to pass, that from one new moon to another, and from one sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the Lord.' Isaiah 66:22-23."

"In the beginning the Father and the Son had rested upon the Sabbath after their work of creation. When 'the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them,' the Creator and all heavenly beings rejoiced in contemplation of the glorious scene. 'The morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy.'

"When there shall be a 'restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began,' the creation Sabbath, the day on which Jesus lay at rest in Joseph's tomb, will still be a day of rest and rejoicing. Heaven and earth will unite in praise, as 'from one sabbath to another' the nations of the saved shall bow in joyful worship to God and the Lamb. -Desire of Ages, 769-770.

"So long as the heavens and the earth endure, the Sabbath will continue as a sign of the Creator's power. And when Eden shall bloom on earth again, God's holy rest day will be honored by all beneath the sun." -Desire of Ages, 283:2 (My Life Today, 364:2-3, 6).

Privilege of Open Communion With God

" 'I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.' " Revelation 21 :22.

"We may address Him by the endearing name, 'Our Father,' which is a sign of our affection for Him and a pledge of His tender regard and relationship to us. And the Son of God, beholding the heirs of grace, 'is not ashamed to call them brethren.' They have even a more sacred relationship to God than have the angels who have never fallen.

"All the paternal love which has come down from generation to generation through the channel of human hearts, all the springs of tenderness which have opened in the souls of men, are but as a tiny rill to the boundless ocean when compared with the infinite, exhaustless love of God."-Review, October 22, 1908 (My Life Today, 365:2-3).

"Heaven is a ceaseless approaching to God through Christ. The longer we are in the heaven of bliss, the more and still more of glory will be opened to us; and the more we know of God, the more intense will be our happiness."-Desire of Ages, 331:8 (My Life Today, 365:5).

"And what is the happiness of heaven but to see God? What greater joy could come to the sinner saved by the grace of Christ than to look upon the face of God and know Him as Father?" -8 Testimonies, 268:0 (My Life Today, 365, 6).

"How much comfort it gives to behold Him here by the eye of faith, that we may by beholding be made like Him, but what will it be to behold Him as He is, without one dimming veil between?" -Bible Echo, January 15, 1892 (My Life Today, 365:7).

The Veil Will Be Drawn Aside

" 'Now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face.' 1 Corinthians 13: 12."

Why the Great Controversy Was Permitted

" 'And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the Intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.' " Ephesians 3:9, 10.

The Eternal Weight of Glory

" 'For our light affliction, which Is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. ' 2 Corinthians 4:17."

"I was pointed to the glory of heaven, to the treasure laid up for the faithful. Everything was lovely and glorious. The angels would sing a lovely song, then they would cease singing and take their crowns from their heads and cast them glittering at the feet of the lovely Jesus, and with melodious voices cry, 'Glory, Alleluia! I joined with them in their songs of praise and honor to the Lamb, and every time I opened my mouth to praise Him, I felt an unutterable sense of the glory that surrounded me. It was a far more, an exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Said the angel, 'The little remnant who love God and keep His commandments and are faithful to the end will enjoy this glory and ever be in the presence of Jesus and sing with the holy angels.' "-Early Writings, 66:1 (Faith I Live By, 359:1-2).

"The work of salvation is not child's play, to be taken hold of at will and let alone at pleasure. It is the steady purpose, the untiring effort, that will gain the victory at last. It is he who endureth to the end that shall be saved. It is they who patiently continue in well-doing that shall have eternal life and the immortal reward."-2 Testimonies, 101:1-102:0 (Faith I Live By, 359:5).

Living the Life of Eden