V. Second Address Encourages Believers

Following this “Address to the Public,” an “Address to Adventists” appeared in the Advent Herald. In this they were reminded that they hold to the same hope as did the apostles, and, as their fellow heirs to the promises made to Abraham, would soon receive immortality and an eternal inheritance at the advent. And now, united in sympathy with one another, they must patiently bear the tribulations of their lot while they wait for the advent, which must be at the very doors. Evidently the seventh-month movement was not yet repudiated. In listing the “signs” of the nearness of the advent that “confirm us in our position,” the writer adds:PFF4 865.6

“And, finally, the recent movements in the history ot those ‘who went forth to meet the Bridegroom’—the Adventists. On their part, rising to trim their lamps after a season of slumbering and sleeping, the peculiar features of which we cannot but regard as the ‘pangs’ of the ‘hour’ which is to witness the promised deliverance! ...PFF4 865.7

“Let us hold fast where we are, and we can have nothing to fear. And everything for which we hope is lost if we do not! It appears to be very clear that there can be no other slumbering and sleeping time, that is to be followed by the cry of preparation. He who sleeps now, will be likely to be waked up by the coming of the Lord Himself!” ^{21[Himes], “Address to Adventists,” Advent Herald, Nov. 20, 1844, pp. 116, 120 (Italics supplied.)}PFF4 865.8

It is noted that the latest possible crucifixion date, A.D. 34, would give A.D. 37 as the terminus of the 70 weeks, and 1847 as the terminus of the 2300 years. But the advent is expected earlier than that, and “the dates we have adopted” are regarded as the most correct. We must be constantly ready. ^{22Ibid., p. 119.}PFF4 866.1