We accept the Bible as a revelation from heaven. What God has revealed in
that book, let no man call a mystery, or a secret of the Almighty. “The
secret things belong unto the Lord our God; but those things which are
revealed belong unto us and to our children forever.” Deut. 29:29. If the
sacred Scriptures, in a most clear and harmonious manner, point out the
signs of the approach of that great event, and if there is evidence that
“it is near, even at the doors,” the subject at once assumes great
importance.
When the disciples inquired, “What shall be the sign of thy coming, and of
the end of the world?” Jesus did not reprove them for inquiring into this
matter, nor tell them that it was purposely hidden from all men; but he
answered their question in the most definite manner.
The simple fact that the Lord mentions signs of his second advent, is the
best proof possible that his people were not to remain ignorant of the
relative nearness of the event. Add to this his injunctions to
watchfulness, and the blessings which he pronounces upon those who are
awake and watching at his coming, and it becomes a certainty that he would
not leave his people ignorant of the proximity of that event. Paul also
says that “unto _them that look for him_ shall he appear the second time
without sin unto salvation.” Heb. 9:28. And that a crown of righteousness
will be given “unto all them also that love his appearing.” 2 Tim. 4:8.
With these assurances we may look for plain and emphatic tokens of the
Saviour’s second coming.