FROM YOUR PASTOR’S DESK:
OSTROGOTHS: THE THIRD AND LAST ARIAN ‘HORN PLUCKED UP BY ITS ROOTS’
We now come to the last of the “three horns” that were “plucked up by their roots” paving the way for the “little horn” power of Daniel 7.:20, 21 “to wax exceeding great…” Dan. 8: 9-12. (Be sure to read these verses for yourself):
Theodoric, king of the Ostrogothic nation of Italy, maintained COMPLETE RELIGIOUS LIBERTY for all classes and creeds. He wrote to Justin, Emperor of the East [of the Roman Empire]:
‘To pretend over the conscience, is to usurp the prerogative of God; by the nature of things the power of sovereigns is confined to political government; they have no right of punishment but over those who disturb the public peace; the most dangerous heresy is that of a sovereign who separates himself from part of his subjects, because they believe not according to his beliefs.’ – ‘History of Latin Christianity,’ H. H. Mailman, Vol. I, Book III, chap. 3, p. 439. NY: 1860.
“The wars of the migrating barbarians on one side, and the persecutions of the heathen, Jews, and Arians by the CATHOLIC CHURCH on the other, had kept Italy in constant turmoil. Agricultural pursuits were neglected, people crowded into the cities, and want and starvation faced the population. But Theodoric’s wise and firm rule, and the strict RELIGIOUS LIBERTY he established in Italy, brought PEACE, PROSPERITY, AND HAPPINESS to all others [the secret of true peace and prosperity of any nation for “righteousness exalteth a nation.”]. J. G. Sheppard, D.D., says:
‘Theodoric deserves the highest praise; for, during the thirty-eight years he reigned in Italy [not only 4 years!], he brought the country to such a state of greatness [sounds familiar somehow’] that her previous sufferings were no longer recognizable……What prevailed this man, with so great a genius for government, and so splendid an opportunity from its exercise, from organizing a Germanic Empire, equal in extent and power to that which obeyed the scepter of the old Roman Caesars? Of why did he fail, when Charlemagne, with a greater complication of interests to deal with, for a time at least, succeeded? ‘“- ‘Fall of Rome,’ John G. Shephard, D.D., pp. 301, 302. London: 1861.” – Facts of Faith, C. Edwardson, pp. 44, 45.
Why did Theodoric not succeed? Because prophecy revealed it so. That’s how much we can trust unconditionally on God’s infallible Word! Bless all as we continue to learn, be enlightened and better prepares for the final crisis and test of mankind! NMF