Buzzwords of the Remnant: The Close of Probation

For many of us with Seventh-Day Adventist roots, we often speak from our own cherished lexicon. When discussing topics like the "loud cry message" or "the shaking," it might sound like nonsensical gibberish to others. Each of these buzzword subjects deals with Last Day Events, and as you can imagine, they include a definite element of apprehension. This morning's specific topic may be the most anxiety-inducing of them all: the close of probation. As we will learn, this is essentially the ultimate deadline.

Most of us, as flawed and mortal humans, tend to despise deadlines. Life on this sin-broken planet seems crammed full of them—production deadlines, project deadlines, tax deadlines, maintenance deadlines—the list goes on and on. In a sense, deadlines are similar to expiration dates, which we see everywhere, from vitamins to groceries, urging us to consume by a certain date. Well, this world has an ironclad, non-negotiable deadline: the close of probation.

The Biblical Foundation of the Close of Probation

In Mathew chapter 24, the disciples approach Jesus with a question recorded in verse 3: "Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?

" Jesus answers in verses 37-39: "But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be."

Luke chapter 17, adds another comparative element. Not only does he liken the end of time to the time of Noah, but he also compares it to the time of Lot. In Luke 17:28-30, we read: "Likewise as it was also in the days of Lot: They ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built; but on the day that Lot went out of Sodom, it rained fire and brimstone from heaven and destroyed them all.

Even so will it be in the day when the Son of Man is revealed."

The Close of Probation in Historical Context

Looking back at the times of Noah and Lot, we see a common denominator: both included a close of probation. In Noah's time, this was symbolized by the closing of the ark's door by a heavenly angel. Once shut, salvation for those outside was no longer available. Similarly, in Lot's time, heavenly angels led Lot and his family out of Sodom, and from the moment they were clear of the city, salvation for those inside was no longer available.

What do these stories teach us about probation? For one, the issue of eternal probation is within the purview of God alone. It was a heavenly decree that closed the ark's door and ordered Lot to leave the city. It will be a heavenly command that closes probation in the end times.

The Moral Conditions Leading to Probation's End

Another tragic observation is that once the door was shut, nothing could open it again.

God has demonstrated His mercy and longsuffering throughout history. So, what were the sins and moral conditions that led to probation closing in Noah's and Lot's times? In a conversation with His disciples, Jesus said in Luke 17:26, "And as it was in the days of Noah, so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man." He goes on to describe normal life activities like eating, drinking, marrying, and building. These activities aren't inherently sinful, but they can become godless when they exclude God.

Ellen G. White in the book "Patriarchs and Prophets" describes the antediluvian world as one where people gratified their desires, denied God's existence, and worshiped their own creations. Similarly, Sodom was characterized by luxury, pride, and sensual indulgence. The people defied God and His law, despite knowing the consequences.

Modern Parallels and Moral Decay

Today, we live in a world with rampant moral decay and idolatry, much like in Noah's and Lot's times.

Many embrace a philosophy of living for today without regard for future consequences. God is watching, just as He was then, calling us to repent.

The close of probation is a final decision, with no reprieve or last-minute stay of execution. God's great mercy will end, but even this is an expression of His mercy, as it brings the drama of good and evil to a close. At that time, prolonging probation will not result in more lives being saved.

The Dangers of Universalism

During Noah's time, many professed to worship God but rejected Noah's preaching. They believed it was against God's character to punish, leading to the doctrine of universalism—the belief that everyone will be saved. This is a dangerous lie.

The loud cry message of Revelation 18 will immediately precede the close of probation. It will be the final warning to come out of Babylon, representing false religion and worship.

Many apostate doctrines have crept into the protestant churches, including the Seventh-Day Adventist Church.

The Cosmic Week and the End of Probation

The Millennial Calendar or Cosmic Week theory suggests that the return of Jesus will be at the end of 6,000 years of Earth's existence, followed by a 1,000 year period when the earth will be desolate, symbolizing the Sabbath rest.

The Bible says in 2 Peter 3:8, "But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day." This verse gives us the one day for a thousand years principal in Biblical prophecy.

Ellen G. White, who we believe received prophetic insight and instruction, often stated that this whole sin controversy has existed for nearly 6,000 years. She made these statements between 110 to 180 years ago, which means we are that many years closer to the Christ's second coming.

Many Bible scholars believe that the age of the earth is around 6,000 years old based on genealogy tracing. This includes 4,000 years from the creation of Adam to the beginning of Jesus' ministry in 27 A.D. following his baptism. If we add 2,000 years onto that time to get the 6,000 years, we get the year 2027 A.D.

This Cosmic Week theory is not meant to be an exact prediction but is an indicator of how short time is and an urgent reminder that we must get ready for our Lord's soon return!

The Vindication of God

The decision to close probation originates from God the Father, who has stood accused by Satan throughout history. The close of probation will indicate that the time for vindication has come, and it will finally be time to go home.

If you enjoyed this post, please watch the full length video at: Buzzwords of the Remnant: The Close of Probation.