But what are the facts in the case? Can anything be learned from the Bible relative to the time of the second advent? This is a grave inquiry; and, from the very nature of the subject, is worthy of close investigation, and a candid answer. It is a matter of painful regret that many, under the influence of popular prejudice, have decided that the period of the second advent is a secret, hidden with the Lord. While these can scarcely be reached with this subject, as long as they remain under the influence of those who denounce all investigation of it as prying into the secrets of the Almighty, there is still, we believe, a larger class who wait for evidence before deciding. [Illustration] Christ Weeping Over Jerusalem We accept the Bible as a revelation from heaven. What God has revealed in that book, let no man call a mystery, or a secret of the Almighty. “The secret things belong unto the Lord our God; but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children forever.” Deut. 29:29. If the sacred Scriptures, in a most clear and harmonious manner, point out the signs of the approach of that great event, and if there is evidence that “it is near, even at the doors,” the subject at once assumes great importance. When the disciples inquired, “What shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?” Jesus did not reprove them for inquiring into this matter, nor tell them that it was purposely hidden from all men; but he answered their question in the most definite manner. The simple fact that the Lord mentions signs of his second advent, is the best proof possible that his people were not to remain ignorant of the relative nearness of the event. Add to this his injunctions to watchfulness, and the blessings which he pronounces upon those who are awake and watching at his coming, and it becomes a certainty that he would not leave his people ignorant of the proximity of that event. Paul also says that “unto _them that look for him_ shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.” Heb. 9:28. And that a crown of righteousness will be given “unto all them also that love his appearing.” 2 Tim. 4:8. With these assurances we may look for plain and emphatic tokens of the Saviour’s second coming. CHRIST’S PROPHECY. [Illustration] Jesus on the Mount of Olives Probably no other chapter of the Bible speaks more fully, and more definitely, upon the subject of the second advent, than Matthew 24, in Christ’s own words. We invite the attention of the candid reader to a brief explanation of the entire chapter. VERSE 1: “And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple; and his disciples came to him for to show him the buildings of the temple.”