1917_The_Finished_Mystery_Text

The significance of anarchy is appreciated by butfew. It means an utter absence of government,first the paralysis, and ultimately the ceasing, ofthe governmental functions which now affordprotection, peace and safety to property and life.As matters progress to the climax, as disasterafter disaster overtake human endeavor, anddisintegration descends into the dissolution oflaw and order, the whole earth will be "filledwith violence" (Gen. 6:11; Micah 6:12); andmen's hearts will utterly fail. (Luke 21:26.)Picture the worst revolutions ever known; thistrouble will outdo them all. Paint the darkestpicture, and none will be as black as the sablepall of this dreadful night, this reign of terroralready settling down upon mankind. Truly,"mourning, lamentation and woe" were theburden of God's Prophet Ezekiel, as he foresawthe destruction of his beloved city, Jerusalem—and of Pastor Russell, as he foreknew thedesolation of a world!FM381EZEKIEL 3PASTOR RUSSELL'SDIVINE ORDINATIONEzekiel 3:1.Moreover He said unto me, Son of man, eatthat thou findest; eat this roll, and go speakunto the house of Israel.— The Prophet was tofind something. As Ezekiel ate the book in thehand of God, so the "faithful and wise servant"of this day absorbed, assimilated, the Plan of theAges which was in the power (hand) of theAlmighty. Pastor Russell searched diligently tofind all that he could of the purposes of God. Ashe understood, he was to go speak to "the Houseof Sons" (Heb. 3:6), all the children, sons ofGod— to nominal Spiritual Israelites.Ezekiel 3:2.So I opened my mouth, and He caused me toeat that roll.— "I never knew any one so willingto do the will of God," said the private secretary