what it may be compared, 262 CHAPTER IV. THE ANGELS OF THE SEVEN CHURCHES. The mysterious symbols of the Apocalypse, 263 The seven stars seven angels, 264 These angels not angelic beings, and not corporate bodies, but individuals, 265 The name angel probably not taken from that of an officer of the synagogue, ib. The angel of the synagogue a congregational officer, 266 The angels of the Churches not diocesan bishops, 267 The stars, not attached to the candlesticks, but in the hand of Christ, 268 The angels of the Churches were their messengers sent to visit John in Patmos, ib. Why only seven angels named, 271 * * * * * PERIOD II. FROM THE DEATH OF THE APOSTLE JOHN TO THE CONVERSION OF CONSTANTINE.-- A.D. 100 TO AD. 312. * * * * * SECTION I. THE HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. CHAPTER I. THE GROWTH OF THE CHURCH. Prospects of the Church in the beginning of the second century, 275 Christianity recommended by its good fruits, 276 Diffusion of Scriptures and preparation of versions in other languages, 277 Doubtful character of the miracles attributed to this period, 278 Remarkable progress of the gospel, 280 Christianity propagated in Africa, France, Thrace, and Scotland, ib. Testimonies to its success, 281 Gains ground rapidly towards the close of the third century, 282 Its progress, how to be tested, 283 CHAPTER II. THE PERSECUTIONS OF THE CHURCH.