The “Remnant”

“The dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” Verse 17. The remnant of the woman’s seed can only be the very last portion of the true church. For we all know the remnant is what remains at the very last, as a small portion of a web of cloth after the main part is gone, or a few survivors of an army after the greater portion are dead. We are distinctly informed, then, by the words of Inspiration, that the very last portion of the church are to have a peculiar experience, and are to be marked by certain striking characteristics, which will distinguish them from all others. The dragon, “that old serpent, called the devil, and Satan,” will be “wroth” with them. This can only imply that a vindictive spirit of hatred and persecution will be kindled against them. This must come because of certain great truths and reforms, which Satan hates, that will be accepted and promulgated by the “remnant” church. As he has always done in the past, he will oppress and harass the defenders of these truths in the last great conflict.ChSa 174.2