Well, not really. But now that I have your attention, I want to make a point. Historically, dictators have always helped the cause of God. Nero, Diocletian, many popes, Stalin, Ceausescu and others all suppressed God’s people and unwittingly motivated deeper commitment, zeal and determination to spread the truth. Historically, the more restriction and oppression there is, whether from state or church, the more sincere people rise up to work for God. They see that their mission rises above these difficulties and that they must be faithful stewards of that mission so long as God gives them breath.
Oppression is sad, yet a profound principle is involved. The more controlling an organization becomes, the less unity there is. If someone in authority says, “Don’t read that book or magazine” or “Don’t go to that meeting,” what do you think many people will do? The very things they were told not to do. Opposition to the truth increases interest in it. But it also creates disunity. Note that it is opposition to truth that creates disunity. It does not arise from Christ-like defenders of truth. Is it any wonder there is so much disunity today?
Controlling authorities tend to calculate first whether a work fits into their plans (and is “loyal” to them) rather than if God is in it, and then grant permission only if it meets their minds. But for those called to a special work for God or to uphold His special truths in the midst of apostasy, the best thing that can happen is for them to experience opposition. It draws attention to what God is doing through them. Plus, it often brings others to their aid who would not otherwise recognize the need for help.
I’m not advocating needless antagonism. We must cooperate with all faithful souls wherever possible. But why should we fear disapproval? No really good work for God has been without opposition. Think about the apostles, the reformers, William Miller, etc. Their work flourished, in part, because God permitted them to have severe opposition. His ways are sometimes hidden in difficult shadows.
In the closing work, perhaps we should expect surprising things to happen. There will be those among us who will always want to control the work of God. . . . [But] God will use ways and means by which it will be seen that He is taking the reins in His own hands. The workers will be surprised by the simple means that He will use to bring about and perfect His work of righteousness.
Testimonies to Ministers, p. 300.
“The Lord will work in this last work in a manner very much out of the common order of things, and in a way that will be contrary to any human planning.” Manuscript Releases, volume 2, p. 19. It sounds like God is going to work around existing structures that oppose His work, doesn’t it?
Proper stewardship of our mission in this world puts us at odds with the devil and all his agencies. You can rest assured that every faithful soul will face severe tests of loyalty to God and to His truth. The opposition is often at the hands of people who are supposed to have the same mission.
Maybe we need more dictators, so more good people will wake up and get on with their calling. What do you think?
