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30. The Three Angels' Messages |
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- We believe the messages of Revelation 14:6-12 are
valid for the end time. In their connection as a threefold message,
they constitute the last message of warning and salvation to a perishing
world and are to be proclaimed to every nation, kindred, and people.
- The message of the first angel points to the everlasting gospel and
announces that the hour of judgment has come. It urges all mankind to
fear the God of creation, give Him the glory, and worship Him. Revelation
14:6, 7.
- The second angel's message announces the fall of Babylon. In the course
of the centuries, religious systems that were false and contrary to
Scripture developed, leading to enormous confusion (Babylon). This was
shown in a special sense in the middle of the 19th century, when the
churches rejected the Biblical message of Christ's soon return.
The message of the third angel points to the results of accepting false
religious systems. It contains the most fearful threat ever addressed
by God to mankind. According to Revelation 14:9-12,
the mark (Sunday) stands in contrast to the fourth commandment (Sabbath)
of the Bible. Exodus 20:8-11. Mankind's attention
is directed to God's law, especially the Sabbath commandment (the seal
of God).
- The purpose of this last message of mercy is to point men to the binding
force of all ten of God's commandments and to prepare a people for the
second coming of Jesus Christ. It is also pointed out that the hour
of judgment has begun and only through Jesus Christ is acquittal from
the guilt of sin possible. These three messages, symbolized by the three
angels, bring about a reformation, leading to repentance and conversion.
The characteristics are unmistakable: "Here is the patience of
the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the
faith of Jesus." Revelation 14:12.
- All who reject this merciful call will suffer the predicted judgments
of God, poured out in the seven last plagues. Revelation
16.
- The preaching of the three angels' messages began with the rise of
the Advent Movement and will close with the loud cry of the third angel.
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IMS Beliefs 
