Herbert W Armstrong

The biblical concept of a prophet is more functional rather than institutional, referring fundamentally to one who claims to speak on God's behalf. This observation carries into Jesus' warnings concerning false prophets.  Jesus says that " many false prophets will arise " (Matt. 24:11, 24). He does not describe a formally appointed class of prophets, but rather individuals who come onto the affairs of the world and claim spiritual authority, influence others, and lead them astray. The motives of such individuals may vary considerably. Some appear to have been sincere but mistaken. William Miller, for example, is generally regarded as an honest man whose predictions failed and who later expressed regret for the consequences. Herbert Armstrong published prophetic interpretations for fifty years and when those expectations failed to materialize, he did not respond in a manner like William Miller. Instead, he justified their  postponement and then at a later time the argu...

  What message comes to us from the Millerite movement in the USA in the mid 1800’s onwards? In this commentary I show how we learn important lessons from the Millerite movement.  I propose to explain the experience of notable actors of that time, and draw conclusions. I discuss the behaviors of Miller; those who followed such as E G White and other Adventists who adopted and amended his theories, Nelson Barbour who was an Adventist having an influence on C T Russell who founded the Watchtower.  I include Herbert W Armstrong because - although he came later than these others - there was a connection and he deserves mention for reason of the fact he surpassed the others in the making of a never ending stream of false prophecies during his fifty plus years of preaching things religious. The message , as I will show - given their teachings and behavior - are the dangers a believer faces when allowing such forecasters/prophets/interpreters of prophecy to have an influence in ...