Address to the Clergy, and Skepticism and Divine Revelation

This book is an address to clergy which was published in 1886 and written by John Ellis. These great and significant changes in the attitude of people towards the Church took place during the 19th century, and it is obvious to everyone. No one can doubt that some of these changes are permanent. It is no less obvious that some of them herald other, more noticeable changes. Serious people in all branches of the Infinite Church are watching the impending crisis situation that may lead to the restoration of what was before. The attitude of people to the Word of God, the neglect of theology and the proud independence of individual research, as well as the more or less active antagonism of the scientific spirit of this time, are all ancient causes of concern. There has never been a greater need for watchmen in Israel than there is now; and we recommend to the clergy of all denominations the content of this heartfelt message. Nineteen centuries ago, the Jewish church and clergy were waiting for the Messiah to establish a literal kingdom on earth, in accordance with their understanding of the Holy Prophecies, but the Lord in His wisdom did not come as the learned rabbis expected; and when He came to the Church on earth — to His own — His own did not recognize Him; for His kingdom was not of this world, and it did not correspond to the wisdom and preconceptions of the Jews. Therefore, not accepting Him with joy, they again experienced, persecuted and crucified Him.