Summary
Highlights
A young boy sells newspapers announcing Christ's return. William Miller, troubled by his experience in the War of 1812, seeks answers in the Bible after surviving a battle. He struggles with the concept of a benevolent God amidst suffering. Abner and Lucy discuss his skepticism of divine intervention and suggest a biblical answer. Miller begins studying the Bible intensively, eventually concluding that Christ's second coming would occur around 1843, based on his interpretation of Daniel's 2,300-day prophecy.
Lucy encourages William to share his findings, despite his reluctance. He makes a covenant with God to speak if asked. An unexpected invitation to preach comes from his nephew Irving, as his church pastor is away. Miller delivers his sermon, confidently proclaiming that Jesus will return in four short years, around 1843. Joshua Himes, a prominent abolitionist and temperance advocate, invites Miller to preach in Boston, recognizing the power of his message. Himes pledges his resources to spread the Advent message globally.
As Miller's message gains traction, he faces opposition and accusations of delusion. A minister preaches against Miller's predictions, warning of infidelity if the date passes. Ellen, a young girl, is deeply distressed by these sermons, doubting her salvation. Brother Stockman reassures her, emphasizing God's love and healing. The movement plans a conference in Boston, but Miller falls ill with typhoid. Himes encourages others to attend, with Joseph Bates and Hiram Edson joining the cause.
After 1843 passes, many Millerites are disheartened. Samuel Snow presents a new interpretation, suggesting the cleansing of the sanctuary refers to the Day of Atonement, pointing to October 22, 1844. This leads to renewed excitement. Miller, cautious from past mistakes, does not explicitly endorse the date but encourages study. Many followers, including Joseph Bates, sell their possessions in anticipation. The date of October 22, 1844, arrives, but Jesus does not return, leading to the 'Great Disappointment'.
The Millerites face ridicule and despair after the Great Disappointment. Hiram Edson and his companions pray for guidance. Edson experiences a vision that clarifies the prophecy: the sanctuary to be cleansed was not Earth, but the heavenly sanctuary, where Christ had begun a new phase of His ministry. Meanwhile, Ellen Harmon, suffering from an illness that caused her to have visions, recounts a vision of the Advent believers walking on a path, with Jesus leading them to the heavenly city.
Mrs. Preston, inspired by the Bible, begins observing the Saturday Sabbath, facing skepticism from others. Joseph Bates, after extensive Bible study with Elder Wheeler, also adopts the Sabbath. Ellen Harmon marries James White, and together they spread the message. Bates writes about the Sabbath, connecting it to the Commandments and End Times prophecies. Ellen experiences another vision, which convinces even skeptics like Bates of its divine origin. The early Adventists, despite financial struggles and being disowned by former churches, continue to publish their beliefs.
The Whites contemplate starting a periodical to spread their message. Despite financial difficulties, they embark on this venture, believing God will provide. The movement grows, but disagreements arise regarding organization and the interpretation of scripture. Ellen receives a vision emphasizing health reform, advocating for a diet of grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables, and avoiding meat, alcohol, and tobacco. James White suffers a stroke, further highlighting the importance of health principles. The establishment of the Western Health Reform Institute (later Battle Creek Sanitarium) and a call for a more organized approach lead to the official incorporation of the church as 'Seventh-day Adventists'.
The church continues to grow, emphasizing education and outreach. Ellen receives a vision that expands their understanding of their mission: "Your house is the world." This inspires the church to send missionaries, including Brother Andrews, to Europe and beyond, to spread the message of Christ's soon return to all nations. The Seventh-day Adventist Church, born from the Millerite movement and shaped by revelations and dedication, sets its sights on a global mission.