Warnings For The Future

We could have concluded our study of the principles and rules of interpretation with the previous paragraph, but the analysis would not be complete. There are certain elements about the interpretation and application of beliefs that will be particularly important in the near future. The unity of the church will be at stake, and we are advised to be watchful. The messenger of the Lord shares her concerns as follows:VOTS 110.2

There will be those once united with us in the faith who will search for new, strange doctrines, for something odd and sensational to present to the people....VOTS 110.3

Any man could misinterpret and misapply God’s Word, denouncing people and things, and then take the position that those who refused to receive his message had rejected the message of God....VOTS 110.4

I know that many men take the testimonies the Lord has given, and apply them as they suppose they should be applied, picking out a sentence here and there, taking it from its proper connection, and applying it according to their idea....VOTS 110.5

The very last deception of Satan will be to make of none effect the testimony of the Spirit of God.... Satan will work ingeniously, in different ways and through different agencies, to unsettle the confidence of God’s remnant people in the true testimony. ^{13Statements from the chapter “Attitudes Toward the Testimonies,” Selected Messages 1:40-48.}VOTS 111.1

When the shaking comes, by the introduction of false theories, these surface readers, anchored nowhere, are like shifting sand. They slide into any position to suit the tenor of their feelings of bitterness....VOTS 111.2

The enemy will bring in false theories, such as the doctrine that there is no sanctuary. This is one of the points on which there will be a departing from the faith. ^{14Last Day Events, 177.}VOTS 111.3

It is certain that in the coming crisis the interpretation and application of doctrines will play an important role— “new, strange doctrines,” “something odd and sensational,” “the introduction of false theories.” The internal crisis in the church disclosed in these statements will revolve around doctrine. Are you, dear reader, prepared for these events? How can we stand against the impact of the forces of evil working inside and outside the church?VOTS 111.4