The Christian Church Its Rise and Progress erbert By H. M. Riggle Author of "Man, His Present and Future," GOSPEL TRUMPET COMPANY Anderson, Indiana, U. S. A. PREFACE. In presenting this work to the reading public, I think it proper to state that in its preparation I have not gleaned extensively from the archives of history, but have treated the subject more from a Scriptural than from a historical standpoint. There are other works that treat the subject historically, some presenting a narrative of the church, others a mere compilation of historical facts and evidences. The author has endeavored to unfold some of the grandest and most beautiful truths contained in Holy Writ. Questions that are agitating the whole religious world have been treated. The church of God in all its magnificent splendor is portrayed in simple language. It is traced from its conception in the divine mind to its eternal home with God. Thus the reader is enabled to discern the church in its embryo state at the foundation of the world; to trace it through the four thousand years during which it was "a hidden mystery," "not made known to the sons of men," except in the types and shadows of the law; to see it when, at the ad vent of the Savior, it descended to earth as the heavenly Jerusalem, to be the golden city of a golden age and to become the light of the world, the joy of the earth; to follow it in its varied fortunes throughout all the centuries of the Christian era; and at last to behold it a bloodwashed, white-robed throng dwelling in the eternal city of the new earth, that "better" and "heavenly country.” The book is really a Biblical trace of the church. With reference to the church, the Christian dispensation is properly divided into four distinct minor ages-the morning-light age, the papal age, the Protestant age of sects, and the evening-light age. We are now living in the fourth epoch-the closing days of this world's history. The fulfilment of some of the most important prophecies of the Bible is upon us. The pen of inspiration has given us data by which to calculate our whereabouts in the stream of time. By the application of prophecy and revelation, I have endeavored to disclose the path of time and to trace the Christian church throughout the centuries of the Christian era. The subject treated is comprehensive, but I have en deavored to epitomize and present much truth briefly. The author has a deep sense of gratitude to God, who by his Holy Spirit has guided him, and whose sweet, comforting presence has been much felt in the preparation of this work. Believing that my humble efforts will not be fruitless, I now leave it in God's hand for the accomplishment of good. In Christian love, I am, Yours in the Master's service, H. M. Riggle. New Bethlehem, Pa., Jan. 2, 1911. |