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 >advent 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, flee
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 eveninglight age. We are
now living in the fourth epoch—the closing days of this
world's history. The fulfillment 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 endeavored 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.
