If Christ is formed within, the hope of glory, you will put away all vanity and foolish speaking. You will be sanctified through the truth. You will so labor for God that you can have an approving conscience in your ministerial work, and you can say with the devoted Saint Paul that you are clean from the blood of all men. But you cannot say this unless you are constantly gaining wisdom and knowledge from God as the branch draws nourishment from the living vine, unless HIS HOLY SPIRIT is resting upon you and you are taking Jesus into your heart, thinking and talking of Jesus, and doing His work wherever you are. {1888 Materials, 70 1987 1888}
How is it that He is pleading, I know all the evils and temptations with which you are beset, and I sent MY SON JESUS CHRIST to your world to reveal to you My power, My mightiness; to reveal to you that I am God, and that I will give you help in order to lift you from the power of the enemy, and give you a chance that you might win back the moral image of God. GOD SENT HIS SON, WHO WAS AS HIMSELF, ONE WITH THE FATHER, and He bore insult and shame and mockery for us, and suffered at last the ignominious death upon Calvary. Satan met Him with opposition just as soon as He came into the world; but He met it all; He did not swerve a bit. Had it not been for the power that God gave Him, He could not have stood the assaults of the enemy; but He did, and although He had him to meet at every step, and was pressed step by step, yet here was the battle fought in this world with the powers of darkness. {1888 Materials, 122 1987 1888}
What does that say to us? This is MY BELOVED SON, in whom I am well pleased. It says to you, I, GOD, HAVE SENT MY SON into your world, and through Him is opened all heaven to fallen man. {1888 Materials, 124 1987 1888}
Now CHRIST IS in the heavenly sanctuary. And what is He doing? MAKING ATONEMENT FOR US, CLEANSING THE SANCTUARY FROM THE SINS OF THE PEOPLE. THEN WE MUST ENTER BY FAITH INTO THE SANCTUARY WITH HIM, we must commence the work in the sanctuary of our souls. We are to cleanse ourselves from all defilement. We must “cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” Satan will come and tempt you and you will give way to his temptations. What then? Why, come and humble your hearts in confession, and by faith grasp the arm of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary. Believe that Christ will take your confession and hold up His hands before the Father–hands that have been bruised and wounded in our behalf– and He will make an atonement for all who will come with confession. What if you cannot understand about this matter? He says, “He that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins” (2 Peter 1:19). {1888 127.3}
AN INTELLIGENT KNOWLEDGE OF HIS WORD HAS BEEN GIVEN to prepare men and women to contend zealously for THE LAW OF JEHOVAH; TO REESTABLISH THE HOLY LAW; make up the breech that has been made in THE LAW OF GOD and restore the tables of stone to their ancient, exalted, honorable position. […] There will be, even among us, hirelings and wolves in sheep’s clothing who will persuade some of the flock of God to sacrifice unto other gods before the Lord. We have reason to know how Paul would act in any emergency. The love of Christ constraineth us. (2 Cor. 5:13). Youth who are not established, rooted and grounded in the truth, will be corrupted and drawn away by the blind leaders of the blind; and the ungodly, the despisers that wonder and perish, who despise the sovereignty of the Ancient of Days and place on the throne a false god, a being of their own defining, a being altogether such an one as themselves, these will be agents in Satan’s hands to corrupt the faith of the unwary. {1888 Materials, 484, 485 1987} 1889
The Christmas season is the occasion of making gifts one to another, but the richest gifts Christ has given to the world in Himself, that the world through Him might not perish but have eternal life. GIFTS AND OFFERINGS SHOULD BE BROUGHT TO CHRIST. The most precious gift of all is that of giving Him your heart without any reserve. How acceptable to Christ would be such an offering! Give to Jesus your whole heart, for Him to write His image and superscription upon it, and to send His beams of righteousness into it to be sent to the world through the living agent. [1888 776.1]
By their words, their works, and their spirit, those who pursue such a course are making a record in the books of heaven which they will not care to meet; for God does not value them as they value themselves. They are abusing their probationary opportunities, and are grievously neglecting the high privileges conferred upon them. Though finding nothing in the WORD OF GOD to vindicate their actions, or countenance their opinions, yet they persist in their own way. In that day, when judgment is passed upon all, the sentence will be pronounced against them, “Thou art weighed in the balances of the heavenly sanctuary, and found wanting.” {1888 1600.3}
By our baptismal pledge we avouched and solemnly confessed THE LORD JEHOVAH AS OUR RULER. We virtually took a solemn oath, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, that henceforth our lives would be merged into the life of these three great Agencies, that the life we should live in the flesh would be lived in faithful obedience to GOD’S SACRED LAW. We declared ourselves dead, and our life hid with Christ in God, that henceforth we should walk with Him in newness of life, as men and women having experienced the new birth. We acknowledged God’s covenant with us, and pledged ourselves to seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. By our profession of faith we acknowledged the Lord as our God, and yielded ourselves to obey His commandments. By obedience to GOD’S WORD we testify before angels and men that we LIVE BY EVERY WORD THAT PROCEEDETH OUT OF THE MOUTH OF GOD. {1BC 1120.4}
The lower passions have their seat in the body and work through it. The words flesh or fleshly or carnal lusts embrace the lower, corrupt nature; the flesh of itself cannot act contrary to the will of God. We are commanded to crucify the flesh, with the affections and lusts. How shall we do it? Shall we inflict pain on the body? No; but put to death the temptation to sin. {1MCP 236.2 1977}
There is in man a disposition to esteem himself more highly than his brother, to work for self, to seek the highest place; and often this results in evil surmisings and bitterness of spirit. The ordinance [foot washing] preceding the Lord’s Supper is to clear away these misunderstandings, to bring man out of his selfishness, down from his stilts of self-exaltation, to the humility of heart that will lead him to serve his brother. {1MCP 277.1}
1930 – General Conference votes to publish a Church Manual. In 1883 the G.C. session had voted NO. They have also decided it was time for a new statement of fundamental beliefs. This is the third “wrong step” toward ecumenism. Attitudes have now changed and become more liberal. Theological wounds have “healed.” THE LAST OF THE PIONEERS HAS DIED AND THEIR VOICES ARE NO LONGER HEARD. Leadership wants to change the old SDA doctrines on (1) The final atonement in heaven, (2) The human nature of Christ, (3) The place of SCRIPTURE AND PROPHECY in the church, and (4) The doctrine of THE TRINITY as taught by evangelicals. Ellen White warns, “In no respect is God’s work to be circumscribed by man-made restrictions. Many of the ambitious plans and policies that have been made are not endorsed by Him.” (1MR 245)
The fourth commandment, so plain and explicit, has been ignored. The Sabbath memorial, declaring who the living God is, THE CREATOR of the heavens and the earth, has been torn down, and a spurious Sabbath has been given to the world in its place. Thus a breach has been made in THE LAW OF GOD. A false Sabbath could not be a true standard. IN THE FIRST ANGEL’S MESSAGE MEN ARE CALLED UPON TO WORSHIP GOD, OUR CREATOR, WHO MADE THE WORLD AND ALL THINGS THAT ARE THEREIN. THEY HAVE PAID HOMAGE TO AN INSTITUTION OF THE PAPACY, MAKING OF NO EFFECT THE LAW OF JEHOVAH, BUT THERE IS TO BE AN INCREASE OF KNOWLEDGE ON THIS SUBJECT. {1MR 44.1 1981}
REBELLION AND APOSTASY ARE IN THE VERY AIR WE BREATHE. We shall be affected by them unless we by faith hang our helpless souls upon Christ. If men are so easily misled now, how will they stand when Satan shall personate Christ, and work miracles? Who will be unmoved by his misrepresentations then–professing to be Christ when it is only Satan assuming the person of Christ, and apparently working the works of Christ? What will hold God’s people from giving their allegiance to false christs? “Go not after them.” {1NL 58.4 1945} (2SM 58 1958)
Kellogg prints the book in which he has placed his theories. Ellen White says they are “spiritualistic” and “akin to pantheism” (SpTB06 p. 41). She says these teachings are the “alpha of deadly heresies” (1SM 200), and that “the Omega would follow in a little while. I tremble for our people. In Living Temple the assertion is made that God is in the flower, in the leaf, in the sinner. But God does not live in the sinner. The WORD declares that He abides only in the hearts of those who love Him and do righteousness. God does not abide in the heart of the sinner; it is the enemy who abides there.” (Sermons and Talks, Vol. 1, p. 341,343) But Kellogg claims that his book is in harmony with Ellen White’s writings and can be sustained by statements from the testimonies. Ellen White tells him he has taken her statements away from their connection, and interpreted them according to his own mind. “I saw what was coming in, and I saw that our brethren were blind. They did not realize the danger.” (1SAT p. 344)
I saw that as Jesus looked upon the disappointed ones with the deepest compassion, he sent his angels to direct their minds that they might find him, and follow him where he was; that they might understand that the earth is not the Sanctuary; that he must needs enter the Most Holy place of the heavenly Sanctuary to cleanse it; to make a special atonement for Israel, and to receive the kingdom of his Father, and then return to earth and take them to dwell with him forever. The disappointment of the disciples well represents the disappointment of those who expected their Lord in 1844. I was carried back to the time when Christ triumphantly rode into Jerusalem. The joyful disciples believed that he was then to take the kingdom, and reign a temporal prince. They followed their King with high hopes. They cut down the beautiful palm branches, and took off their outer garments, and with enthusiastic zeal spread them in the way; and some went before, and others followed crying, Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest! The excitement disturbed the Pharisees, and they wished Jesus to rebuke his disciples. But he said unto them, If these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out. The prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, must be fulfilled, yet, I saw, the disciples were doomed to a bitter disappointment. In a few days they followed Jesus to Calvary, and beheld him bleeding and mangled upon the cruel cross. They witnessed his agonizing death, and laid him in the tomb. Their hearts sunk with grief. Their expectations were not realized in a single particular. Their hopes died with Jesus. But as he arose from the dead, and appeared to his sorrowing disciples, their hopes revived. They had lost their Saviour; but again they had found him. {1SG 149.2}
AS THE MINISTRATION OF JESUS CLOSED IN THE HOLY PLACE, AND HE PASSED INTO THE HOLIEST, AND STOOD BEFORE THE ARK CONTAINING THE LAW OF GOD, HE SENT ANOTHER MIGHTY ANGEL TO EARTH WITH THE THIRD MESSAGE. He placed a parchment in the angel’s hand, and as he descended to earth in majesty and power, he proclaimed a fearful warning, the most terrible threatening ever borne to man. This message was designed to put the children of God upon their guard, and show them the hour of temptation and anguish that was before them. Said the angel, They will be brought into close combat with the beast and his image. Their only hope of eternal life is to remain steadfast. Although their lives are at stake, yet they must hold fast the truth. The third angel closes his message with these words, Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. As he repeated these words he pointed to the heavenly Sanctuary. The minds of all who embrace this message are directed to the Most Holy place where Jesus stands before the ark, making his final intercession for all those for whom mercy still lingers, and for those who have ignorantly broken THE LAW OF GOD. This atonement is made for the righteous dead as well as for the righteous living. Jesus makes an atonement for those who died, not receiving the light upon God’s commandments, who sinned ignorantly. {1SG 162.1} Also {EW 254.1}
AFTER JESUS OPENED THE DOOR OF THE MOST HOLY THE LIGHT OF THE SABBATH WAS SEEN, and the people of God were to be tested and proved, as God proved the children of Israel anciently, to see if they would keep HIS LAW. I saw the third angel pointing upward, showing the disappointed ones the way to the Holiest of the heavenly Sanctuary. They followed Jesus by faith into the Most Holy. Again they have found Jesus, and joy and hope spring up anew. I saw them looking back reviewing the past, from the proclamation of the second advent of Jesus, down through their travels to the passing of the time in 1844. They see their disappointment explained, and joy and certainty again animate them. The third angel has lighted up the past, present and future, and they know that God has indeed led them by his mysterious providence. {1SG 163.1} Also {EW 254.2}
Many who embraced the third message had not an experience in the two former messages. Satan understood this, and his evil eye was upon them to overthrow them; but the third angel was pointing them to the Most Holy place, and those who had an experience in the past messages were pointing them the way to the heavenly Sanctuary. Many saw the perfect chain of truth in the angels’ messages, and gladly received it. They embraced them in their order, and followed Jesus by faith into the heavenly Sanctuary. These messages were represented to me as an anchor to hold the body. And as individuals receive and understand them, they are shielded against the many delusions of Satan. {1SG 165.2} Also {EW 256.2}
I was pointed back to the proclamation of the first advent of Christ. John was sent in the spirit and power of Elijah to prepare the way for Jesus’ coming. Those who rejected the testimony of John were not benefited by the teachings of Jesus. Their opposition to the proclamation of his first advent placed them where they could not readily receive the strongest evidence of his being the Messiah. Satan led on those who rejected the message of John to go still further, to reject Jesus and crucify him. In doing this, they placed themselves where they could not receive the blessing on the day of Pentecost, which would have taught them the way into the heavenly Sanctuary. THE RENDING OF THE VAIL OF THE TEMPLE SHOWED THAT THE JEWISH SACRIFICES AND ORDINANCES WOULD NO LONGER BE RECEIVED. The great Sacrifice had been offered, and had been accepted, and the Holy Spirit which descended on the day of Pentecost carried the minds of the disciples from the earthly Sanctuary to the heavenly, where Jesus had entered by his own blood, and shed upon his disciples the benefits of his atonement. The Jews were left in complete deception and total darkness. They lost all the light they might have had upon the plan of salvation, and still trusted in their useless sacrifices and offerings. They could not be benefited by the mediation of Christ in the Holy place. THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY HAD TAKEN THE PLACE OF THE EARTHLY, yet they had no knowledge of the way to the heavenly. {1SG 169.1} Also {EW 259.1} {7ABC 477.1} {FLB 201.5} {SR 386.2}
All heaven watched with the deepest interest the reception of the message. But many who profess to love Jesus, and who shed tears as they read the story of the cross, instead of receiving the message with gladness, are stirred, with anger, and deride the good news of Jesus’ coming, and declare it to be delusion. They would not fellowship those who loved his appearing, but hated them, and shut them out of the churches. Those who rejected the first message could not be benefited by the second, and were not benefited by the midnight cry, which was to prepare them to enter with Jesus by faith into the Most Holy place of the heavenly Sanctuary. And by rejecting the two former messages, they can see no light in the third angel’s message, which shows the way into the Most Holy place. I saw that the nominal churches, as the Jews crucified Jesus, had crucified these messages, and therefore they have no knowledge of the move made in heaven, or of the way into the Most Holy, and they cannot be benefited by the intercession of Jesus there. Like the Jews, who offered their useless sacrifices, they offer up their useless prayers to the apartment which Jesus has left, and Satan, pleased with the deception of the professed followers of Christ, fastens them in his snare, and assumes a religious character, and leads the minds of these professed christians to himself, and works with his power, his signs and lying wonders. Some he deceives in one way and some in another. He has different delusions prepared to affect different minds. Some look with horror upon one deception, while they readily receive another. SATAN DECEIVES SOME WITH SPIRITUALISM. HE ALSO COMES AS AN ANGEL OF LIGHT, AND SPREADS HIS INFLUENCE OVER THE LAND. I SAW FALSE REFORMATIONS EVERY WHERE. THE CHURCHES WERE ELATED, AND CONSIDERED THAT GOD WAS MARVELOUSLY WORKING FOR THEM, WHEN IT WAS ANOTHER SPIRIT. It will die away and leave the world and the church in a worse condition than before. {1SG 171.1} Also {SR 387.2}
I saw that since Jesus had left the Holy place of the heavenly Sanctuary, and had entered within the second vail, the churches were left as were the Jews; and they have been filling up with every unclean and hateful bird. I saw great iniquity and vileness in the churches; yet they profess to be christians. Their profession, their prayers and their exhortations, are an abomination in the sight of God. Said the angel, God will not smell in their assemblies. Selfishness, fraud and deceit are practiced by them without the reprovings of conscience. And over all these evil traits they throw the cloak of religion. I was shown the pride of the nominal churches. God was not in their thoughts; but their carnal minds dwell upon themselves. They decorate their poor mortal bodies, and then look upon themselves with satisfaction and pleasure. Jesus and the angels looked upon them in anger. Said the angel, Their sins and pride have reached unto heaven. Their portion is prepared. Justice and judgment have slumbered long, but will soon awake. Vengeance is mine, and I will repay, saith the Lord. The fearful threatenings of the third angel are to be realized, and they will drink the wrath of God. AN INNUMERABLE HOST OF EVIL ANGELS ARE SPREADING THEMSELVES OVER THE WHOLE LAND. THE CHURCHES AND RELIGIOUS BODIES ARE CROWDED WITH THEM. And they look upon the religious bodies with exultation; for the cloak of religion covers the greatest crimes and iniquity. {1SG 190.1} Also {EW 274.1}
As Jesus moved out of the Most Holy place, I heard the tinkling of the bells upon his garment, and as he left, a cloud of darkness covered the inhabitants of the earth. THERE WAS THEN NO MEDIATOR BETWEEN GUILTY MAN, AND AN OFFENDED GOD. WHILE JESUS HAD BEEN STANDING BETWEEN GOD AND GUILTY MAN, A RESTRAINT WAS UPON THE PEOPLE; BUT WHEN JESUS STEPPED OUT FROM BETWEEN MAN AND THE FATHER, THE RESTRAINT WAS REMOVED, AND SATAN HAD THE CONTROL OF MAN. It was impossible for the plagues to be poured out while Jesus officiated in the Sanctuary; but as his work there is finished, as his intercession closes, there is nothing to stay the wrath of God, and it breaks with fury upon the shelterless head of the guilty sinner, who has slighted salvation, and hated reproof. THE SAINTS IN THAT FEARFUL TIME, AFTER THE CLOSE OF JESUS’ MEDIATION, WERE LIVING IN THE SIGHT OF A HOLY GOD, WITHOUT AN INTERCESSOR. Every case was decided, every jewel numbered. Jesus tarried a moment in the outer apartment of the heavenly Sanctuary, and the sins which had been confessed while he was in the Most Holy place, he placed back upon the originator of sin, the Devil. He must suffer the punishment of these sins. {1SG 198.1} Also {EW 280.2}
Then Jesus and all the holy retinue of angels, and all the redeemed saints, left the City. The holy angels surrounded Jesus, and escorted him on his way, and the train of redeemed saints followed. Then Jesus in terrible, fearful majesty called forth the wicked dead; and as they came up with the same feeble, sickly bodies that went into the grave, what a spectacle! what a scene! At the first resurrection all came forth in immortal bloom; but at the second, the marks of the curse are visible on all. Kings and the noble men of earth come forth with the mean and the low, learned and unlearned together. All behold the Son of man; and those very men who despised and mocked Jesus, and smote him with the reed, and that put the crown of thorns upon his sacred brow behold him in all his kingly majesty. Those who spit upon him in the hour of his trial, now turn from his piercing gaze, and from the glory of his countenance. Those who drove the nails through his hands and his feet, now look upon the marks of his crucifixion. Those who thrust the spear into his side, behold the marks of their cruelty on his body. And they know that he is the very One whom they crucified, and derided in his expiring agony. And then there arises one long protracted wail of agony, as they flee to hide from the presence of the KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. {1SG 214.1 1858} {SR 418.1 1947}
All are seeking to hide in the rocks, and shield themselves from the terrible glory of him whom they once despised. As all are overwhelmed and pained with his majesty and his exceeding glory, they with one accord raise their voices, and with terrible distinctness exclaim, Blessed is he who cometh in the name of the Lord. {1SG 215.1 1858}
Then Jesus and the holy angels, accompanied by all the saints, again go to the City, and the bitter lamentations and wailings of the doomed wicked fill the air. Then I saw that Satan again commenced his work. He passed around among his subjects, and made the feeble and weak strong, and then he told them that he and his angels were powerful. He then pointed to the countless millions who had been raised. There were mighty warriors and kings who were well skilled in battle, and who had conquered kingdoms. And there were mighty giants, and men who were valiant, and had never lost a battle. There was the proud, ambitious Napoleon whose approach had caused kingdoms to tremble. There stood men of very high stature, and of dignified, lofty bearing, who had fallen in battle. They fell while thirsting to conquer. As they come forth from their graves, they resume the current of their thoughts where it ceased in death. They possess the same spirit to conquer which ruled when they fell. Satan consults with his angels, and then with those kings and conquerors and mighty men. Then he looks over the vast army and tells them that the company in the City is small and feeble, and that they can go up and take that City, and cast out its inhabitants, and possess its riches and glory themselves. {1SG 215.2 1858}
It was on my first journey east to relate my visions that the precious light in regard to the heavenly sanctuary was opened before me and I was shown the open and shut door. We believed that the Lord was soon to come in the clouds of heaven. I was shown that there was a great work to be done in the world for those who had not had the light and rejected it. Our brethren could not understand this with our faith in the immediate appearing of Christ. Some accused me of saying that my Lord delayeth His coming, especially the fanatical ones. I saw that in ’44 God had opened a door and no man could shut it, and shut a door and no man could open it. Those who rejected the light which was brought to the world by the message of the second angel went into darkness, and how great was that darkness. {1SM 74.3} Also {8MR 228.5}
There have been things written to me in regard to the movings of the SPIRIT OF GOD at the last conference [1893], and at the college, which clearly indicate that because these blessings were not lived up to, minds have been confused, and that which was light from heaven has been called excitement. I have been made sad to have this matter viewed in this light. We must be very careful not to grieve the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD, in pronouncing the ministration of HIS HOLY SPIRIT a species of fanaticism. How shall we understand the workings of the SPIRIT OF GOD if it was not revealed in clear and unmistakable lines, not only in Battle Creek but in many places? {1SM 130.1 1958}
I am not surprised that anyone should be confused at the after result. But in my experience of the past forty-nine years I have seen much of these things, and I have known that God has wrought in a marked manner; and let no one venture to say this is not the SPIRIT OF GOD. It is just that which we are authorized to believe and pray for, for God is more willing to give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him than parents are to give good gifts unto their children. But the Holy Spirit is not for the human agent to work; it is to work and use the human agent. That God did abundantly bless the students in the school and the church, I have not one doubt; but a period of great light and the outpouring of the Spirit is quite generally followed by a time of great darkness. Why? Because the enemy works with all his deceiving energies to make of none effect the deep movings of the SPIRIT OF GOD on the human subject. {1SM 130.2 1958}
We must be decided on this subject; for the points that he is trying to prove by SCRIPTURE, are not sound. They do not prove that the past experience of God’s people was a fallacy. We had the truth; we were directed by the angels of God. It was under the guidance of the Holy Spirit that the presentation of the sanctuary question was given. IT IS ELOQUENCE FOR EVERY ONE TO KEEP SILENT IN REGARD TO THE FEATURES OF OUR FAITH IN WHICH THEY ACTED NO PART. GOD NEVER CONTRADICTS HIMSELF. SCRIPTURE proofs are misapplied if forced to testify to that which is not true. Another and still another will arise and bring in supposedly great light, and make their assertions. But we stand by the old landmarks. [1 John 1:1-10 quoted.] {1SM 161.4 1958}
Our church members see that there are differences of opinion among the leading men, and they themselves enter into controversy regarding the subjects under dispute. Christ calls for unity. But He does not call for us to unify on wrong practices. THE GOD OF HEAVEN DRAWS A SHARP CONTRAST BETWEEN PURE, ELEVATING, ENNOBLING TRUTH AND FALSE, MISLEADING DOCTRINES. He calls sin and impenitence by the right name. He does not gloss over wrongdoing with a coat of untempered mortar. I urge our brethren to unify upon a true, scriptural basis. Ms 10, 1905. {1SM 175.1 1958}
The dangers coming upon us are continually increasing. It is high time that we put on the whole armor of God, and work earnestly to keep Satan from gaining any further advantage. Angels of God, that excel in strength, are waiting for us to call them to our aid, that our faith may not be eclipsed by the fierceness of the conflict. RENEWED ENERGY IS NOW NEEDED. VIGILANT ACTION IS CALLED FOR. INDIFFERENCE AND SLOTH WILL RESULT IN THE LOSS OF PERSONAL RELIGION AND OF HEAVEN. 1SM 195.3 1958
My message to you is: NO LONGER CONSENT TO LISTEN WITHOUT PROTEST TO THE PERVERSION OF TRUTH. Unmask the pretentious sophistries which, if received, will lead ministers and physicians and medical missionary workers to ignore the truth. Every one is now to stand on his guard. GOD CALLS UPON MEN AND WOMEN TO TAKE THEIR STAND under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel. I have been instructed to warn our people; for many are in danger of receiving theories and sophistries that undermine the foundation pillars of the faith. 1SM196.4 1958
Be not deceived; many will depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. We have now before us the alpha of this danger. THE OMEGA WILL BE OF A MOST STARTLING NATURE (1 Tim. 4:1; 1SM 197 1958).
When medical missionaries make their practice and example harmonize with the name they bear, when they feel their need of uniting firmly with the ministers of the gospel, then there can be harmonious action. BUT WE MUST FIRMLY REFUSE TO BE DRAWN AWAY FROM THE PLATFORM OF ETERNAL TRUTH, WHICH SINCE 1844 HAS STOOD THE TEST. 1SM 199.5 1958
In a vision, Ellen White sees “a platform, braced by solid timbers the truths of the WORD OF GOD. Someone high in responsibility in the medical work was directing this man and that man to loosen the timbers supporting this platform…” (1SM 204 1958)
That night I was up at one o’clock, writing as fast as my hand could pass over the paper. For the next few days I worked early and late, preparing for our people the instruction given me regarding the errors that were coming in among us. {1SM 206.2 1958} {SpTB02 56.2}
I have been hoping that there would be a thorough reformation, and that the principles for which we fought in the early days, and which were brought out in the power of the Holy Spirit, would be maintained. {1SM 206.3 1958}
Notice that in 1904, the foundation of faith has been firmly established. “Many of our people do not realize how firmly the foundation of our faith has been laid. My husband, Elder Joseph Bates, Father Pierce, Elder Hiram Edson, and others who were keen, noble, and true, were among those who, after the passing of the time in 1844, searched for the truth as for hidden treasure… WHEN THEY CAME TO THE POINT IN THEIR STUDY WHERE THEY SAID, ‘WE CAN DO NOTHING MORE,’ THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD WOULD COME UPON ME, I WOULD BE TAKEN OFF IN VISION, AND A CLEAR EXPLANATION OF THE PASSAGES WE HAD BEEN STUDYING WOULD BE GIVEN ME, with instruction as to how we were to labor and teach effectively. Thus light was given that helped us to understand the SCRIPTURES in regard to Christ, His mission, and His priesthood. A line of truth extending from that time to the time when we shall enter the city of God, was made plain to me, and I gave to others the instruction that the Lord had given me.” (1SM 206.4)
For two or three years my mind continued to be locked to an understanding of the SCRIPTURES. In the course of our labors, my husband and I visited Father Andrews, who was suffering intensely with inflammatory rheumatism. We prayed for him. I laid my hands on his head, and said, “Father Andrews, the Lord Jesus maketh thee whole.” He was healed instantly. He got up, and walked about the room, praising God, and saying, “I never saw it on this wise before. Angels of God are in this room.” The glory of the Lord was revealed. Light seemed to shine all through the house, and an angel’s hand was laid upon my head. From that time to this I have been able to understand the WORD OF GOD. {1SM 207.2 1958}
I must bear the messages of warning that God gives me to bear, and then leave with the Lord the results. I must now present the matter in all its bearings; for the people of God must not be despoiled. {1SM 208.1 1958}
The words that I speak unto you, they are SPIRIT, and they are life (John 6:57, 63). CHRIST IS NOT HERE REFERRING TO HIS DOCTRINE, BUT TO HIS PERSON, THE DIVINITY OF HIS CHARACTER. (1 Selected Messages, 249 1958)
Christ took human nature that men might be one with Him as He is one with the Father, that God may love man as He loves His only-begotten Son, that men may be partakers of the divine nature, and be complete in Him. THE HOLY SPIRIT, WHICH PROCEEDS FROM THE ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD, binds the human agent, body, soul, and spirit, to the perfect, divine-human nature of Christ. This union is represented by the union of the vine and the branches. Finite man is united to the manhood of Christ. Through faith human nature is assimilated with Christ’s nature. WE ARE MADE ONE WITH GOD IN CHRIST. (1SM 250 1958)
During this whole time I could not understand the reasoning of the brethren. My mind was locked, as it were, and I could not comprehend the meaning of the SCRIPTURES we were studying. This was one of the greatest sorrows of my life. I WAS IN THIS CONDITION OF MIND UNTIL ALL THE PRINCIPAL POINTS OF OUR FAITH WERE MADE CLEAR TO OUR MINDS, IN HARMONY WITH THE WORD OF GOD. The brethren knew that when not in vision, I could not understand these matters, and they accepted as light direct from heaven the revelations given. {1SM 207.1 1958}
The religious services, the prayers, the praise, the penitent confession of sin ascend from true believers as incense to the heavenly sanctuary, but passing through the corrupt channels of humanity, they are so defiled that unless purified by blood, they can never be of value with God. They ascend not in spotless purity, and unless the Intercessor, who is at God’s right hand, presents and purifies all by His righteousness, it is not acceptable to God. All incense from earthly tabernacles must be moist with the cleansing drops of the blood of Christ. He holds before the Father the censer of His own merits, in which there is no taint of earthly corruption. He gathers into this censer the prayers, the praise, and the confessions of His people, and with these He puts His own spotless righteousness. Then, perfumed with the merits of Christ’s propitiation, the incense comes up before God wholly and entirely acceptable. Then gracious answers are returned. {1SM 344.2}
THE GRACE OF CHRIST AND THE LAW OF GOD ARE INSEPARABLE. In Jesus mercy and truth are met together, righteousness and peace have kissed each other. In His life and character He not only reveals the character of God, but the possibility of man. He was the representative of God and the exemplar of humanity. He presented to the world what humanity might become when united by faith with divinity. The ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD TOOK UPON HIM THE NATURE OF MAN, AND ESTABLISHED HIS CROSS BETWEEN EARTH AND HEAVEN. THROUGH THE CROSS, MAN WAS DRAWN TO GOD, AND GOD TO MAN. Justice moved from its high and awful position, and the heavenly hosts, the armies of holiness, drew near to the cross, bowing with reverence; for at the cross justice was satisfied. Through the cross the sinner was drawn from the stronghold of sin, from the confederacy of evil, and at every approach to the cross his heart relents and in penitence he cries, “It was my sins that crucified the SON OF GOD.” At the cross he leaves his sins, and through the grace of Christ his character is transformed. THE REDEEMER raises the sinner from the dust, and places him under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. As the sinner looks upon THE REDEEMER, he finds hope, assurance, and joy. Faith takes hold of Christ in love. Faith works by love, and purifies the soul. {1SM 349.2 1958} Also {AG 74.5}
Satan in Heaven, before his rebellion, was a high and exalted angel, next in honor to God’s dear Son. His countenance, like those of the other angels, was mild and expressive of happiness. His forehead was high and broad, showing a powerful intellect. His form was perfect; his bearing noble and majestic. A special light beamed in his countenance, and shone around him brighter and more beautiful than around the other angels; yet JESUS, GOD’S DEAR SON, HAD THE PRE-EMINENCE OVER ALL THE ANGELIC HOST. HE WAS ONE WITH THE FATHER BEFORE THE ANGELS WERE CREATED. SATAN WAS ENVIOUS OF CHRIST, AND GRADUALLY ASSUMED COMMAND WHICH DEVOLVED ON CHRIST ALONE. {1SP 17.1 1870}
Satan was envious and jealous of Jesus Christ. Yet when all the angels bowed to Jesus to acknowledge his supremacy and high authority and rightful rule, Satan bowed with them; but his heart was filled with envy and hatred. Christ had been taken into the special counsel of God in regard to his plans, while Satan was unacquainted with them. He did not understand, neither was he permitted to know, the purposes of God. But Christ was acknowledged sovereign of Heaven, his power and authority to be the same as that of God himself. Satan thought that he was himself a favorite in Heaven among the angels. He had been highly exalted; but this did not call forth from him gratitude and praise to HIS CREATOR. He aspired to the height of God himself. He gloried in his loftiness. He knew that he was honored by the angels. He had a special mission to execute. He had been near THE GREAT CREATOR, and the ceaseless beams of glorious light enshrouding the eternal God, had shone especially upon him. Satan thought how angels had obeyed his command with pleasurable alacrity. Were not his garments light and beautiful? Why should Christ thus be honored before himself? {1SP 18.1 1870}
He left the immediate presence of the Father, dissatisfied, and filled with envy against Jesus Christ. Concealing his real purposes, he assembled the angelic host. He introduced his subject, which was himself. As one aggrieved, he related the preference GOD HAD GIVEN JESUS TO THE NEGLECT OF HIMSELF. He told them that henceforth all the sweet liberty the angels had enjoyed was at an end. For had not a ruler been appointed over them, to whom they from henceforth must yield servile honor? He stated to them that he had called them together to assure them that he no longer would submit to this invasion of his rights and theirs; that never would he again bow down to Christ; that he would take the honor upon himself which should have been conferred upon him, and would be the commander of all who would submit to follow him and obey his voice. There was contention among the angels. Satan and his sympathizers were striving to reform the government of God. They were discontented and unhappy because they could not look into his unsearchable wisdom and ascertain his purposes in exalting HIS SON JESUS, and endowing him with such unlimited power and command. They rebelled against the authority of the Son. {1SP 18.2 1870}
Angels that were loyal and true sought to reconcile this mighty, rebellious angel to the will of HIS CREATOR. They justified the act of God in conferring honor upon Jesus Christ, and with forcible reasoning sought to convince Satan that no less honor was his now than before the Father had proclaimed the honor which he had conferred upon HIS SON. They clearly set forth that JESUS WAS THE SON OF GOD, existing with him before the angels were created; and that he had ever stood at the right hand of God, and his mild, loving authority had not heretofore been questioned; and that he had given no commands but what it was joy for the heavenly host to execute. They urged that Christ’s receiving special honor from the Father, in the presence of the angels, did not detract from the honor that he had heretofore received. THE ANGELS WEPT. THEY ANXIOUSLY SOUGHT TO MOVE SATAN TO RENOUNCE HIS WICKED DESIGN AND YIELD SUBMISSION TO THEIR CREATOR; for all had heretofore been peace and harmony, and what could occasion this dissenting, rebellious voice? {1SP 19.1 1870}
Satan refused to listen. And then he turned from the loyal and true angels, denouncing them as slaves. These angels, true to God, stood in amazement as they saw that Satan was successful in his effort to excite rebellion. He promised them a new and better government than they then had, in which all would be freedom. Great numbers signified their purpose to accept Satan as their leader and chief commander. As he saw his advances were met with success, he flattered himself that he should yet have all the angels on his side, and that he would be equal with God himself, and HIS VOICE OF AUTHORITY would be heard in commanding the entire host of Heaven. Again the loyal angels warned Satan, and assured him what must be the consequence if he persisted; that He who could create the angels, could by his power overturn all their authority, and in some signal manner punish their audacity and terrible rebellion. TO THINK THAT AN ANGEL SHOULD RESIST THE LAW OF GOD WHICH WAS AS SACRED AS HIMSELF! They warned the rebellious to close their ears to Satan’s deceptive reasonings, and advised Satan, and all who had been affected by him, to go to God and confess their wrong for even admitting a thought of questioning his authority. {1SP 20.1 1870}
Many of Satan’s sympathizers were inclined to heed the counsel of the loyal angels, and repent of their dissatisfaction, and be again received to the confidence of the FATHER AND HIS DEAR SON. The mighty revolter then declared that he was acquainted with GOD’S LAW, and if he should submit to servile obedience, his honor would be taken from him. No more would he be intrusted with his exalted mission. He told them that himself and they also had now gone too far to go back, and he would brave the consequences; for to bow in servile worship to the SON OF GOD he never would; that God would not forgive, and now they must assert their liberty and gain by force the position and authority which was not willingly accorded to them. {1SP 20.2 1870}
The loyal angels hasten speedily to the SON OF GOD, and acquaint him with what is taking place among the angels. They find THE FATHER IN CONFERENCE WITH HIS BELOVED SON, to determine the means by which, for the best good of the loyal angels, the assumed authority of Satan could be forever put down. The great God could at once have hurled this arch deceiver from Heaven; but this was not his purpose. He would give the rebellious an equal chance to measure strength and might with his own Son and his loyal angels. In this battle every angel would choose his own side, and be manifested to all. It would not have been safe to suffer any who united with Satan in his rebellion to continue to occupy Heaven. They had learned the lesson of genuine rebellion against THE UNCHANGEABLE LAW OF GOD; and this is incurable. If God had exercised his power to punish this chief rebel, disaffected angels would not have been manifested; hence God took another course; for he would manifest distinctly to all the heavenly host his justice and his judgment. {1SP 21.1 1870}
God informed Satan that to HIS SON alone he would reveal his secret purposes, and he required all the family in Heaven, even Satan, to yield him implicit, unquestioned obedience; but that he (Satan) had proved himself unworthy a place in Heaven. {1SP 22 1870}
It was the highest crime to rebel against the government of God. All Heaven seemed in commotion. The angels were marshaled in companies, each division with a higher commanding angel at their head. Satan was warring against THE LAW OF GOD, because ambitious to exalt himself, and unwilling to submit to the authority of GODS’ SON, Heaven’s great commander. {1SP 22.1 1870}
All the heavenly host were summoned to appear before the Father, to have each case determined. SATAN unblushingly made known his dissatisfaction that Christ should be preferred before him. He stood up proudly and URGED THAT HE SHOULD BE EQUAL WITH GOD, and should be taken into conference with the Father and understand his purposes. GOD INFORMED SATAN THAT TO HIS SON ALONE HE WOULD REVEAL HIS SECRET PURPOSES, AND HE REQUIRED ALL THE FAMILY IN HEAVEN, EVEN SATAN, TO YIELD HIM IMPLICIT, UNQUESTIONED OBEDIENCE; BUT THAT HE (SATAN) HAD PROVED HIMSELF UNWORTHY A PLACE IN HEAVEN. Then Satan exultingly pointed to his sympathizers, comprising nearly one half of all the angels, and exclaimed, These are with me! Will you expel these also, and make such a void in Heaven? He then declared that he was prepared to resist the authority of Christ, and to defend his place in Heaven by force of might, strength against strength. {1SP 22.2 1870}
Good angels wept to hear the words of Satan, and his exulting boasts. God declared that the rebellious should remain in Heaven no longer. Their high and happy state had been held upon condition of OBEDIENCE TO THE LAW which God had given to govern the high order of intelligences. But no provision had been made to save those who should venture to transgress his law. Satan grew bold in his rebellion, and expressed his contempt of the CREATOR’S LAW. This Satan could not bear. He claimed that angels needed no law; but should be left free to follow their own will, which would ever guide them right; that law was a restriction of their liberty, and that to abolish law was one great object of his standing as he did. The condition of the angels he thought needed improvement. NOT SO THE MIND OF GOD, WHO HAD MADE LAWS AND EXALTED THEM EQUAL TO HIMSELF. The happiness of the angelic host consisted in their perfect obedience to law. Each had his special work assigned him; and until Satan rebelled, there had been perfect order and harmonious action in Heaven. THEN THERE WAS WAR IN HEAVEN. THE SON OF GOD, THE PRINCE OF HEAVEN, AND HIS LOYAL ANGELS, ENGAGED IN CONFLICT WITH THE ARCH REBEL AND THOSE WHO UNITED WITH HIM. THE SON OF GOD AND TRUE, LOYAL ANGELS PREVAILED; AND SATAN AND HIS SYMPATHIZERS WERE EXPELLED FROM HEAVEN. All the heavenly host acknowledged and adored the God of justice. Not a taint of rebellion was left in Heaven. All was again peaceful and harmonious as before. {1SP 22.3 1870}
Angels in Heaven mourned the fate of those who had been their companions in happiness and bliss. Their loss was felt in Heaven. THE FATHER CONSULTED JESUS IN REGARD TO AT ONCE CARRYING OUT THEIR PURPOSE TO MAKE MAN TO INHABIT THE EARTH. He would place man upon probation to test his loyalty, before he could be rendered eternally secure. If he endured the test wherewith God saw fit to prove him, he should eventually be equal with the angels. He was to have the favor of God, and he was to converse with angels, and they with him. He did not see fit to place them beyond the power of disobedience. {1SP 23.1 1870}
AFTER THE EARTH WAS CREATED, AND THE BEASTS UPON IT, THE FATHER AND SON CARRIED OUT THEIR PURPOSE, which was designed before the fall of Satan, to make man in their own image. They had wrought together in the creation of the earth and every living thing upon it. And now GOD SAYS TO HIS SON, LET US MAKE MAN IN OUR IMAGE.” As Adam came forth from the hand of HIS CREATOR he was of noble height and of beautiful symmetry. He was more than twice as tall as men now living upon the earth, and was well proportioned. His features were perfect and beautiful. . . . Eve was not quite as tall as Adam. Her head reached a little above his shoulders. She, too, was noble, perfect in symmetry, and very beautiful. {LHU 47.3 1988} {Also 1SP 24, 25 1870}
Adam and Eve were charmed with the beauties of their Eden home. They were delighted with the little songsters around them, wearing their bright yet graceful plumage, and warbling forth their happy, cheerful music. The holy pair united with them and raised their voices in harmonious songs of love, praise and adoration, to THE FATHER AND HIS DEAR SON, for the tokens of love which surrounded them. {1SP 26.3 1870}
Satan cast off his feelings of despair and weakness, and, as their leader, fortified himself to brave out the matter, and do all in his power to defy the authority of GOD AND HIS SON. He acquainted them with his plans. If he should come boldly upon Adam and Eve and make complaints of GOD’S OWN SON, they would not listen to him for a moment, but would be prepared for such an attack. {1SP 32 1870}
They told Adam and Eve that the most exalted angel, next in order to Christ, refused obedience to THE LAW OF GOD which he had ordained to govern heavenly beings; that this rebellion had caused war in Heaven which resulted in the rebellious being expelled therefrom, and every angel was driven out of Heaven who united with him in questioning the authority of the great Jehovah; and that this fallen foe was now an enemy to all that concerned the interest of GOD AND HIS DEAR SON. {1SP 33, 34 1870}
ADAM AND EVE ASSURED THE ANGELS THAT THEY SHOULD NEVER TRANSGRESS THE EXPRESS COMMAND OF GOD; for it was their highest pleasure to do his will. The angels united with Adam and Eve in holy strains of harmonious music; and as their songs pealed forth from blissful Eden, Satan heard the sound of their strains of joyful adoration to the Father and Son. {1SP 34, 35 1870}
IN THE BEGINNING, THE HEAD OF EACH FAMILY WAS CONSIDERED RULER AND PRIEST OF HIS OWN HOUSEHOLD. Afterward, as the race multiplied upon the earth, men of divine appointment performed this solemn worship of sacrifice for the people. The blood of beasts was to be associated in the minds of sinners with the blood of the SON OF GOD. The death of the victim was to evidence to all that the penalty of sin was death. By the act of sacrifice, the sinner acknowledged his guilt, and manifested his faith, looking forward to the great and perfect sacrifice of the SON OF GOD, which the offering of beasts prefigured. Without the atonement of the SON OF GOD there could be no communication of blessing, or salvation from God to man. GOD WAS JEALOUS FOR THE HONOR OF HIS LAW. The transgression of that LAW caused a fearful separation between God and man. To Adam in his innocency was granted communion, direct, free and happy, with his Maker. AFTER HIS TRANSGRESSION, GOD WOULD COMMUNICATE TO MAN THROUGH CHRIST AND ANGELS. {1SP 53.3} {SR 50.3 1947}
GOD’S PEOPLE WILL SEPARATE THEMSELVES FROM THE UNRIGHTEOUS PRACTICES OF THOSE AROUND THEM, AND WILL SEEK FOR PURITY OF THOUGHT, AND HOLY CONFORMITY TO HIS WILL, UNTIL HIS DIVINE IMAGE WILL BE REFLECTED IN THEM. LIKE ENOCH THEY WILL BE FITTING FOR TRANSLATION TO HEAVEN. While they endeavor to instruct and warn the world, they will not conform to the spirit and customs of unbelievers, but will condemn them by their holy conversation and godly example. Enoch’s translation to Heaven just before the destruction of the world by a flood, represents the translation of all the living righteous from the earth previous to its destruction by fire. The saints will be glorified in the presence of those who have hated them for their loyal obedience to God’s righteous commandments. {1SP 65.1 1870}
Enoch instructed his family in regard to the flood. Methuselah, the son of Enoch, listened to the preaching of his grandson, Noah, who faithfully warned the inhabitants of the old world that a flood of waters was coming upon the earth. Methuselah and his sons, and grandsons, lived in the time of the building of the ark. They, with some others, received instruction from Noah, and assisted him in building the ark. [1SP 65.2]
In the beginning, GOD GAVE TO ADAM ONE WIFE, THUS SHOWING HIS ORDER. HE NEVER DESIGNED THAT MAN SHOULD HAVE A PLURALITY OF WIVES. Lamech was the first who departed in this respect from God’s wise arrangement. He had two wives, which created discord in his family. The envy and jealousy of both made Lamech unhappy. When men began to multiply upon the face of the earth, and daughters were born unto them, they took them wives of all which they chose. This was one of the great sins of the inhabitants of the old world, which brought the wrath of God upon them. This custom was practiced after the flood, and became so common that even righteous men fell into the practice, and had a plurality of wives. Yet it was no less sin because they became corrupted, and departed in this thing from God’s order. [1SP 93.2]
After the building of the tabernacle was completed, Moses examined all the work, and compared it with the pattern, and directions he had received of God, and he saw that every part of it agreed with the pattern, and he blessed the people. God gave a pattern of the ark to Moses with special directions how to make it. The ark was made to contain the tables of stone, on which God engraved, with his own finger, the ten commandments. It was in form like a chest, and was overlaid and inlaid with pure gold. It was ornamented with crowns of gold round about the top. The cover of this sacred chest was the mercy-seat made of solid gold. On each end of the mercy-seat was fixed a cherub of pure solid gold. THEIR FACES WERE TURNED TOWARD EACH OTHER, AND WERE LOOKING REVERENTIALLY DOWNWARD TOWARD THE MERCY-SEAT, WHICH REPRESENTS ALL THE HEAVENLY ANGELS LOOKING WITH INTEREST AND REVERENCE TO THE LAW OF GOD DEPOSITED IN THE ARK IN THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. These cherubs had wings. One wing of each angel was stretched forth on high, while the other wing of each angel covered their forms. The ark of the earthly sanctuary was the pattern of the true ark in Heaven. There, beside the heavenly ark, stand living angels, at either end of the ark, with each, one wing overshadowing the mercy-seat, and stretching forth on high, while the other wings are folded over their forms in token of reverence and humility. {4aSG 7.2} Also {1SP 272.1} {1BC 1107.6} {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 12} {TA 100.3} {TA 250.2}
All the furniture of the tabernacle was made of solid gold, or plated with gold. The curtains of the tabernacle were of a variety of colors, most beautifully arranged, and in these curtains were wrought, with threads of gold and silver, cherubims, which were to represent the angelic host, who are connected with the work of the heavenly sanctuary, and who are ministering angels to the saints upon the earth. {4aSG 8.2} Also {1SP 273.2}
ISRAEL HAD BEEN PRESERVED BY A MIRACLE OF GOD’S MERCY DURING EVERY DAY OF THEIR TRAVELS IN THE WILDERNESS. THE MIGHTY ANGEL WHO WENT BEFORE THEM WAS THE SON OF GOD. {1SP 318 1870}
A most splendid sanctuary had been made, according to the pattern showed to Moses in the mount, and afterward presented by the Lord to David. The earthly sanctuary was made like the heavenly. In addition to the cherubim on the top of the ark, Solomon made two other angels of larger size, standing at each end of the ark, representing the heavenly angels always guarding THE LAW OF GOD. It is impossible to describe the beauty and splendor of this tabernacle. There, as in the tabernacle, the sacred ark was borne in solemn, reverential order, and set in its place beneath the wings of the two stately cherubim that stood upon the floor. {4aSG 113.3} Also {SR 194.1} {1SP 413.2} {2BC 1030.5}
The hour for joyful, happy songs of praise to GOD AND HIS DEAR SON had come. Satan had led the heavenly choir. He had raised the first note, then all the angelic host united with him, and glorious strains of music had resounded through Heaven in honor of GOD AND HIS DEAR SON. But now, instead of strains of sweetest music, discord and angry words fall upon the ear of the great rebel leader. {1SP 28 1870}
THE ONLY SAFETY NOW IS TO SEARCH FOR THE TRUTH AS REVEALED IN THE WORD OF GOD, AS FOR HID TREASURE. THE SUBJECTS OF THE SABBATH, THE NATURE OF MAN, AND THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS ARE THE GREAT AND IMPORTANT TRUTHS TO BE UNDERSTOOD; THESE WILL PROVE AS AN ANCHOR TO HOLD GOD’S PEOPLE IN THESE PERILOUS TIMES. But the mass of mankind despise the truths of God’s word and prefer fables. 2 Thessalonians 2:10, 11: “Because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie.” {1T 300 par. 1 1855-1868}
CHRIST IS LEADING OUT A PEOPLE, AND BRINGING THEM INTO THE UNITY OF THE FAITH, THAT THEY MAY BE ONE, AS HE IS ONE WITH THE FATHER. Differences of opinion must be yielded, that all may come into union with the body, that they may have one mind and one judgment. 1 Corinthians 1:10: “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” Romans 15:5, 6: “Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be like-minded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: that ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Philippians 2:2: “Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.” {1T 324.1 1855-1868}
THE CHRISTIAN LIFE IS CONSTANTLY AN ONWARD MARCH. Jesus sits as a refiner and purifier of His people; and when His image is perfectly reflected in them, they are perfect and holy, and prepared for translation. A great work is required of the Christian. We are exhorted to cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. Here we see where the great labor rests. THERE IS A CONSTANT WORK FOR THE CHRISTIAN. Every branch in the parent vine must derive life and strength from that vine, in order to yield fruit. {1T 340.4 1861}
I saw that angels of God were looking sorrowfully toward you. They had left your side and were turning mournfully away, while Satan and his angels were grinning in exultation over you. If you had yourself battled with your doubts and not encouraged the devil to tempt you, by talking out your unbelief and loving to dwell upon it, you would not have attracted the fallen angels about you in such numbers. But you chose to talk your darkness; you chose to dwell upon it; and the more you talk and dwell upon it, the darker and darker you grow. You are shutting out from you every ray of heaven’s light; and a great gulf is coming between you and the only ones who can help you. If you proceed in the way you have started, misery and woe are before you. God’s hand will arrest you in a manner that will not suit you. His wrath will not slumber. But now He invites you. Now, just now, He calls upon you to return unto Him without delay, and He will graciously pardon and heal all your backslidings. God is leading out a people who are peculiar. He will cleanse and purify them, and fit them for translation. Every carnal thing will be separated from God’s peculiar treasures until they shall be like gold seven times purified. {1T 430.2 1861}
I SAW THAT OUR HOLIDAYS SHOULD NOT BE SPENT IN PATTERNING AFTER THE WORLD, yet they should not be passed by unnoticed, for this will bring dissatisfaction to our children. On these days when there is danger that our children will be exposed to evil influences, and become corrupted by the pleasures and excitement of the world, let the parents study to get up something to take the place of more dangerous amusements. Give your children to understand that you have their good and happiness in view. [1T 514.2 1855-1868] [AH 472.1 1952]
I WAS SHOWN THAT THE WORK OF HEALTH REFORM HAS SCARCELY BEEN ENTERED UPON YET. While some feel deeply and act out their faith in the work, others remain indifferent and have scarcely taken the first step in reform. There seems to be in them a heart of unbelief, and, as this reform restricts the lustful appetite, many shrink back. They have other gods before the Lord. Their taste, their appetite, is their god; and when the ax is laid at the root of the tree and those who have indulged their depraved appetites at the expense of health are touched, their sin pointed out, their idols shown them, they do not wish to be convinced; and although God’s voice should speak directly to them to put away those health-destroying indulgences, some would still cling to the hurtful things which they love. They seem joined to their idols, and God will soon say to His angels: Let them alone. {1T 486.1 1861}
THE HEALTH REFORM, I WAS SHOWN, IS A PART OF THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE AND IS JUST AS CLOSELY CONNECTED WITH IT AS ARE THE ARM AND HAND WITH THE HUMAN BODY. I saw that we as a people must make an advance move in this great work. Ministers and people must act in concert. God’s people are not prepared for the loud cry of the third angel. They have a work to do for themselves which they should not leave for God to do for them. He has left this work for them to do. It is an individual work; one cannot do it for another. “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” GLUTTONY IS THE PREVAILING SIN OF THIS AGE. LUSTFUL APPETITE MAKES SLAVES OF MEN AND WOMEN, AND BECLOUDS THEIR INTELLECTS AND STUPEFIES THEIR MORAL SENSIBILITIES TO SUCH A DEGREE THAT THE SACRED, ELEVATED TRUTHS OF GOD’S WORD ARE NOT APPRECIATED. THE LOWER PROPENSITIES HAVE RULED MEN AND WOMEN. {1T 486.2 1861}
IN ORDER TO BE FITTED FOR TRANSLATION, THE PEOPLE OF GOD MUST KNOW THEMSELVES. They must understand in regard to their own physical frames that they may be able with the psalmist to exclaim: “I will praise Thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” They should ever have the appetite in subjection to the moral and intellectual organs. THE BODY SHOULD BE SERVANT TO THE MIND, AND NOT THE MIND TO THE BODY. {1T 486.3 1861}
I was shown that there is a much greater work before us than we as yet have any idea of, if we would ensure health by placing ourselves in the right relation to life. Dr. A has been doing a great and good work in the treatment of disease and in enlightening those who have all their lives been in ignorance in regard to the relation that eating, drinking, and working sustain to health. God in His mercy has given His people light through His humble instrument that in order to overcome disease they must deny a depraved appetite and practice temperance in all things. He has caused great light to shine upon their pathway. Shall those who are “looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great GOD AND OUR SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST; who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works,” be behind the religionists of the day who have no faith in the soon appearing of our Saviour? The peculiar people whom He is purifying unto Himself to be translated to heaven without seeing death, should not be behind others in good works. In their efforts to cleanse themselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God, they should be as far ahead of any other class of people on the earth as their profession is more exalted than that of others. {1T 487.1 1861}
Some have sneered at this work of reform and have said it was all unnecessary, that it was an excitement to divert minds from present truth. They have said that matters were being carried to extremes. Such do not know what they are talking about. While men and women professing godliness are diseased from the crown of their head to the soles of their feet, while their physical, mental, and moral energies are enfeebled through gratification of depraved appetite and excessive labor, how can they weigh the evidences of truth and comprehend the requirements of God? If their moral and intellectual faculties are beclouded, they cannot appreciate the value of the atonement or the exalted character of the work of God, nor delight in the study of His word. How can a nervous dyspeptic be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh him a reason of the hope that is in him, with meekness and fear? How soon would such a one become confused and agitated, and by his diseased imagination be led to view matters in altogether a wrong light, and by a lack of that meekness and calmness which characterized the life of Christ be caused to dishonor his profession while contending with unreasonable men? Viewing matters from a high religious standpoint, WE MUST BE THOROUGH REFORMERS IN ORDER TO BE CHRISTLIKE. {1T 487.2 1861}
There are but few as yet who are aroused sufficiently to understand how much their habits of diet have to do with their health, their characters, their usefulness in this world, and their eternal destiny. I saw that it is the duty of those who have received the light from heaven and have realized the benefit of walking in it, to manifest a greater interest for those who are still suffering for want of knowledge. Sabbathkeepers who are looking for the soon appearing of their Saviour should be the last to manifest a lack of interest in this great work of reform. Men and women must be instructed, and ministers and people should feel that the burden of the work rests upon them to agitate the subject and urge it home upon others. {1T 488.2 1861}
SYSTEMATIC BENEVOLENCE LOOKS TO YOU AS NEEDLESS; YOU OVERLOOK THE FACT THAT IT ORIGINATED WITH GOD, WHOSE WISDOM IS UNERRING. THIS PLAN HE ORDAINED TO SAVE CONFUSION, TO CORRECT COVETOUSNESS, AVARICE, SELFISHNESS, AND IDOLATRY. THIS SYSTEM WAS TO CAUSE THE BURDEN TO REST LIGHTLY, YET WITH DUE WEIGHT, UPON ALL. The salvation of man cost a dear price, even the life of the Lord of glory, which He freely gave to lift man from degradation and to exalt him to become heir of the world. God has so ordained that man shall aid his fellow man in the great work of redemption. He who excuses himself from this, who is unwilling to deny himself that others may become partakers with him of the heavenly benefit, proves himself unworthy of the life to come, unworthy of the heavenly treasure which cost so great a sacrifice. God wants no unwilling offering, no pressed sacrifice. THOSE WHO ARE THOROUGHLY CONVERTED AND WHO APPRECIATE THE WORK OF GOD WILL GIVE CHEERFULLY THE LITTLE REQUIRED OF THEM, considering it a privilege to bestow. [1T 545.3 (1855-1868)]
The heart should go out in fervent prayer while the hands are busy, and Satan will not find such ready access, and the soul, instead of being lifted up unto vanity, will be constantly refreshed, will be like a watered garden. Angels will delight to be near such workers, for their presence will be continually encouraged by them. A power will attend the truths published. Divine rays of light from the heavenly sanctuary will attend the precious truths sent forth, so that those who read will be refreshed and strengthened, and souls that are opposed to the truth will be convicted and compelled to say: These things are so; they cannot be gainsaid. {1T 592.1}
This expression is often used to represent the manners and words of persons who reprove those who are wrong or are supposed to be wrong. It is properly applied to those who have no duty to reprove their brethren, yet are ready to engage in this work in a rash and unsparing manner. It is improperly applied to those who have a special duty to do in reproving wrongs in the church. Such have the burden of the work and feel compelled, from a love of precious souls, to deal faithfully. {1T 612.3 1855-1868}
From time to time for the past twenty years {1845-1865; James Springer White died on 6 August 1881 aged 60 years} I have been shown that the Lord had qualified my husband for the work of faithfully dealing with the erring, and had laid the burden upon him, and that if he should fail to do his duty in this respect he would incur the displeasure of the Lord. I have never regarded his judgment infallible, nor his words inspired; but I have ever believed him BETTER QUALIFIED FOR THIS WORK THAN ANY OTHER ONE OF OUR PREACHERS, because of his long experience, and BECAUSE I HAVE SEEN THAT HE WAS ESPECIALLY CALLED AND ADAPTED TO THE WORK; and also because in many cases where persons have risen up against his reproofs, I HAVE BEEN SHOWN THAT HE WAS RIGHT IN HIS JUDGMENT OF MATTERS AND IN HIS MANNER OF REPROVING. {1T 612.4 1855-1868}
For the past twenty years those who have been reproved, and their sympathizers, have indulged an accusing spirit toward my husband, which has worn upon him more than any other one of the cruel burdens he has unjustly borne. And when he fell beneath his burdens, many of those who had been reproved rejoiced, and from a mistaken idea of my view of his case, December 25, 1865, were much comforted with the thought that the Lord at that time reproved him for “cutting and slashing.” This is all a mistake. I saw no such thing. That my brethren may know what I did see in the case of my husband, I give the following, which I wrote and handed to him the next day after I had the vision: {1T 613.1 1855-1868}
I was shown in vision, December 25, 1865, the case of the servant of the Lord, my husband, Elder James White. I was shown that God had accepted his humiliation, and the afflicting of his soul before Him, and his confessions of his lack of consecration to God, and his repentance for the errors and mistakes in his course which have caused him such sorrow and despondency of mind during his protracted illness. {1T 613.2 1855-1868}
I was shown that his greatest wrong in the past has been an unforgiving spirit toward those brethren who have injured his influence in the cause of God and brought upon him extreme suffering of mind by their wrong course. He was not as pitiful and compassionate as our heavenly Father has been toward His erring, sinning, repenting children. When those who have caused him the greatest suffering acknowledged their wrongs heartily and fully, he could and did forgive them, and fellowship them as brethren. But although the wrong was healed in the sight of God, yet he sometimes in his own mind probed that wound, and by referring to the past he suffered it to fester and make him unhappy. The fact that he had in his past course suffered so much which in his opinion might have been avoided, led him to indulge a murmuring spirit against his brethren and against the Lord. In this way he lived over the past and revived trials which should have passed into oblivion instead of embittering his life with unprofitable remembrances. He has not always realized the pity and love that should be exercised toward those who have been so unfortunate as to fall under the temptations of Satan. They were the real sufferers, the losers, not he, as long as he was steadfast, possessing the spirit of Christ. When these souls began to see their errors, they had a hard battle to work their way to the light by humble confessions. They had Satan to contend with, and their own proud spirit to overcome, and they needed help from those who were in the light to bring them from their blind, discouraging condition, where they could begin to hope and obtain strength to bruise Satan under their feet. {1T 613.3 1855-1868}
I saw that my husband had been too exacting toward those who were wrong and had injured him. He indulged dissatisfied feelings, which could be of no benefit to the erring and could but make his own heart very unhappy, unfitting it for the peace of God to dwell there, which would lead him in everything to give thanks. The Lord permitted his mind to be desponding in regard to his own errors and mistakes, and to nearly despair of forgiveness, not because his sins were of such magnitude, but that he might know by experience how painful and agonizing it would be to be without the forgiveness of God, and that he might understand the SCRIPTURE: “If ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” I saw that if God should be as exacting as we are, and should deal with us as we deal with one another, we might all be thrown into a state of hopeless despair. {1T 614.1 1855-1868}
I was shown that God had suffered this affliction to come upon us to teach us much that we could not otherwise have learned in so short a time. It was His will that we should go to , for our experience could not have been thorough without it. He would have us see, and more fully understand, that it is impossible for those who obey the truth and are keeping His commandments, to live up to their convictions of duty and unite with the leaders at ; so far as serving God is concerned, their principles can unite no better than oil and water. It is only those of the purest principles and the greatest independence of mind, who think and act for themselves, having the fear of God before them and trusting in Him, who can safely remain any length of time in . Those who are not thus qualified should not be advised to go to that institution, for their minds will become bewildered by the smooth words of its conductors and poisoned by their sophistry, which originates with Satan. {1T 614.2 1855-1868}
Their influence and teachings in regard to the service of God and a religious life are in direct opposition to the teachings of our Saviour and His disciples. By precept and example they lower the standard of piety and say that they need not sorrow for their sins or separate from the world in order to be followers of Christ, but can mingle with the world and participate in its pleasures. These leaders would not encourage their adherents to imitate the life of Christ in prayerfulness, sobriety, and dependence upon God. Persons of conscientious minds and firm trust in God cannot receive one half as much benefit at as those can who have confidence in the religious principles of the leaders of that institution. The former have to stand braced against much of their teachings, so far as religious principles are concerned, sifting everything they hear lest they should be deceived and Satan obtain advantage over them. {1T 615.1 1855-1868}
I saw that, as far as disease and its treatment is concerned, —– is the best health institution in the United States. Yet the leaders there are but men, and their judgment is not always correct. The leading physician there would have his patients believe that his judgment is perfect, even as the judgment of God. Yet he often fails. He exalts himself as God and fails to exalt the Lord as the only dependence. Those who have no trust or confidence in God, and who can see no beauty in holiness or in the cross-bearing life of the Christian, can receive more benefit at —– than at any other health institution in the United States. The great secret of the success at this place is in the control which the managers have over the minds of their patients. {1T 615.2 1855-1868}
I saw that my husband and myself could not receive as much benefit there as could those of different experience and faith. Said the angel: “God has not designed that the mind of His servant, whom He has chosen for a special purpose, to do a special work, should be controlled by any living man, for that is His prerogative alone.” Angels of God kept us while we were at —– . They were round about us, sustaining us every hour. But the time came when we could not benefit nor be benefited, and then the cloud of light, which had rested with us there, moved away, and we could find rest only in leaving there and going among the brethren in Rochester, where the cloud of light rested. {1T 616.1 1855-1868}
I saw that God would have us go to —– for several reasons. Our position while there, the earnest prayers we offered, our manifest trust in God, the cheerfulness, courage, hope, and faith with which He inspired us amidst our afflictions, had an influence and were a testimony to all that the Christian has a source of strength and happiness to which the lovers of pleasure are strangers. God gave us a place in the hearts of all of influence at —– , and in the future as the patients now there shall be scattered to their different homes, our labors will bring us again to their notice, and when we are assailed, some at least will be our defenders. Again, in going to —– , the Lord would have us benefited by an experience which we would not obtain while at Battle Creek, surrounded by sympathizing brethren and sisters. We must be separated from them, lest we lean upon them instead of leaning upon the Lord and trusting in Him alone. Separated almost entirely from God’s people, we were shaken from every earthly help and led to look to God alone. In so doing we obtained an experience which we could not have had if we had not gone to —– . {1T 616.2 1855-1868}
When my husband’s courage and hope began to waver, we could not benefit anyone at that place and could not be benefited by a further experience there. It was the will of God that my husband should not remain there shorn of his strength, but that in his state of weakness he should go among his brethren who could help him bear his afflictions. While separated from God’s people in our affliction, we had an opportunity to reflect, to carefully review our past life, and see our mistakes and wrongs, and to humble ourselves before God and seek His face by confession, humility, and frequent, earnest prayer. While engaged in active labor, bearing the burdens of others, and pressed with many cares, it was impossible for us to find time to reflect and carefully review the past, and learn the lessons which God saw that it was necessary for us to learn. I was then shown that God could not glorify His name by answering the supplications of His people and raising my husband to health in answer to their prayers, while we were at —– . It would be like uniting His power with the power of darkness. Had He been pleased to manifest His power in restoring my husband, the physicians there would have taken the glory which should be given to God. {1T 617.1 1855-1868}
Said the angel: “God will be glorified in the restoration of His servant to health. God has heard the prayers of His servants. His arms are beneath His afflicted servant. God has the case, and he must, although afflicted, dismiss his fears, his anxiety, his doubts and unbelief, and calmly trust in the great yet merciful God, who pities, loves, and cares for him. He will have conflicts with the enemy, but should ever be comforted with the remembrance that a stronger than the enemy has charge of him, and he need not fear. By faith rely on the evidences which God has been pleased to give, and he will gloriously triumph in God.” {1T 617.2 1855-1868}
I saw that the Lord was giving us an experience which would be of the highest value to us in the future in connection with His work. We are living in a solemn time amid the closing scenes of this earth’s history, and God’s people are not awake. They must arouse and make greater progress in reforming their habits of living, in eating, in dressing, in laboring and resting. In all these they should glorify God and be prepared to give battle to our great foe and to enjoy the precious victories which God has in reserve for those who are exercising temperance in all things while striving for an incorruptible crown. {1T 618.1 1855-1868}
I saw that God was fitting up my husband to engage in the solemn, sacred work of reform which He designs shall progress among His people. It is important that instructions should be given by ministers in regard to living temperately. They should show the relation which eating, working, resting, and dressing sustain to health. All who believe the truth for these last days have something to do in this matter. It concerns them, and God requires them to arouse and interest themselves in this reform. He will not be pleased with their course if they regard this question with indifference. {1T 618.2 1855-1868}
THE ABUSES OF THE STOMACH BY THE GRATIFICATION OF APPETITE ARE THE FRUITFUL SOURCE OF MOST CHURCH TRIALS. THOSE WHO EAT AND WORK INTEMPERATELY AND IRRATIONALLY, TALK AND ACT IRRATIONALLY. An intemperate man cannot be a patient man. It is not necessary to drink alcoholic liquors in order to be intemperate. The sin of intemperate eating, eating too frequently, too much, and of rich, unwholesome food, destroys the healthy action of the digestive organs, affects the brain, and perverts the judgment, preventing rational, calm, healthy thinking and acting. And this is a fruitful source of church trials. Therefore in order for the people of God to be in an acceptable state with Him, where they can glorify Him in their bodies and spirits which are His, they must with interest and zeal deny the gratification of their appetites, and exercise temperance in all things. Then may they comprehend the truth in its beauty and clearness, and carry it out in their lives, and by a judicious, wise, straightforward course give the enemies of our faith no occasion to reproach the cause of truth. God requires all who believe the truth to make special, persevering efforts to place themselves in the best possible condition of bodily health, for a solemn and important work is before us. Health of body and mind is required for this work; it is as essential to a healthy religious experience, to advancement in the Christian life and progress in holiness, as is the hand or foot to the human body. God requires His people to cleanse themselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord. All those who are indifferent and excuse themselves from this work, waiting for the Lord to do for them that which He requires them to do for themselves, will be found wanting when the meek of the earth, who have wrought His judgments, are hid in the day of the Lord’s anger. {1T 618.3 1855-1868}
I was shown that in some respects my husband’s case is similar to that of those waiting for the refreshing. If he should wait for the power of God to come upon his body, to feel that he was made whole before he made efforts in accordance with his faith, saying, When the Lord heals me I will believe and do this or that, he might continue to wait and would realize no change, for the fulfillment of God’s promise is only realized by those who believe and then work in accordance with their faith. I saw that he must believe God’s word, that His promises are for him to claim, and they will never, no, never, fail. He should walk out by faith, relying upon the evidences that God has been pleased to give, and work, as much as possible, to the point of becoming a well man. Said the angel: “God will sustain him. His faith must be made perfect by works, for faith alone is dead. It must be sustained by works. A living faith is always manifested by works.” {1T 619.2 1855-1868}
I saw that my husband would be inclined to shrink from making efforts in accordance with his faith. Fear and anxiety in regard to his own case have made him timid. He looks at appearances, at disagreeable feelings of the body. Said the angel: “Feeling is not faith. Faith is simply to take God at His word.” I saw that in the name and strength of God my husband must resist disease and, by the power of his will, rise above his poor feelings. He must assert his liberty, in the name and strength of Israel’s God. He must cease thinking and talking about himself as much as possible. He should be cheerful and happy. {1T 620.1 1855-1868}
I did see, December 25, 1865, as I have many times before seen, that Elder F had often erred and had done much harm by a rash, unfeeling course toward those whom he supposed to be in fault. I had often seen that his work was in new fields, and that when he should bring out a company upon the present truth he should leave the work of disciplining them to others, as his style of dealing, arising from his rash spirit, his lack of patience and of judgment, disqualified him for this work. I will here give the testimony which I had for Brother F, written December 26, 1865, to show what I did see in his case and because of the general application of much of the testimony and also because he has made no response whatever, only in stating to others that the Lord in that view reproved my husband for cutting and slashing. I would here state that another object in giving the following testimony is that our brethren may more fully understand that Brother F’s work is in new fields, and that they may not place temptations in his way to leave his work, by urging him to labor here and there among the churches, or to settle here or there. {1T 620.2 1855-1868}
THE LORD DESIGNATED A SPECIAL FAMILY OF THE TRIBE OF LEVI TO BEAR THE ARK; and others of the Levites were specially appointed of God to bear the tabernacle and all its furniture, and to perform the work of setting up and taking down the tabernacle. And if any man from curiosity or from lack of order got out of his place and touched any part of the sanctuary or furniture, or even came near any of the workmen, he was to be put to death. God did not leave His holy tabernacle to be borne, erected, and taken down, indiscriminately, by any tribe who might choose the office; but persons were chosen who could appreciate the sacredness of the work in which they were engaged. These men appointed of God were directed to impress upon the people the special sacredness of the ark and all that appertained thereunto, lest they should look upon these things without realizing their holiness and should be cut off from Israel. All things pertaining to the most holy place were to be looked upon with reverence. {1T 652.1}
These things do not belong alone to Battle Creek. I am grieved at the selfishness among professed Sabbathkeepers everywhere. Christ has gone to prepare eternal mansions for us, and shall we refuse Him a home for only a few days, in the person of His saints who are cast out? He left His home in glory, His majesty and high command, to save lost man. He became poor that we through His poverty might become rich. He submitted to insult, that man might be exalted, and provided a home that would be matchless for loveliness, and enduring as the throne of God. Those who finally overcome and sit down with Christ upon His throne will follow the example of Jesus, and from a willing, happy choice will sacrifice for Him in the person of His saints. Those who cannot do this from choice will go away into everlasting punishment. {1T 680.1 1855-1868}
PROPER REGULATION OF THEIR DIET, ABSTINENCE FROM TEA, COFFEE, AND ALL SPICES AND FLESH MEATS, GAINING AN INTELLIGENT KNOWLEDGE OF TEMPERANCE, WOULD BE MEDICINE ABOVE ALL DRUGS. {20MR 373.2 1993}
There is something to come out from. YOU CANNOT MIX OR MINGLE WITH THE WORLD AND AT THE SAME TIME BE UNITED WITH JESUS CHRIST. “Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4. “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated Me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord.” John 15:18-20. [21MR 222.2 1993]
Here every specification is given us to show us that we must come out from the world, and how we must come out and be separate from the world, brethren and sisters, and let our influence be wholly on the Lord’s side. I feel that this is of eternal importance. Satan besets the pathway of every one of us. If he can get you to love yourselves, to indulge inclination, to compromise your faith, then you are his servants. You cannot afford this. You do not want your names enrolled as those enlisted in his army. [21MR 222.3 1993]
Thanksgiving Day will be respected, but how is it used? This day’s privileges are turned out of their proper course and it is made a day of feasting and gluttony. Is it a day to set your tables with luxuries and load them down with sweetmeats and condiments for you and yours? Christ said, “When thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.” Luke 14:13, 14. Now, you may not be at a loss to number how many Thanksgivings are kept according to this rule. [21MR 222.4 1993]
If you should bring an offering to God upon that day, do you not believe that God would be as well pleased as any one of your earthly friends would be with a present from you? Stop and think of this, and see if you cannot discern your duty and say, I will bring to God a thanksgiving gift for all the blessings He is bestowing upon me, for the rain in its season, for the sun that makes the seed to vegetate, for the laden boughs, and for the fruits of the harvest. [21MR 222.5 1993]
This may be the last Thanksgiving you may ever have in which to make a thank offering to God. Instead of gorging yourselves with the good things of this life, let us come to God and give Him, upon that day, a gift in gratitude for His loving-kindness, and so have a genuine thanksgiving day for God. Let there be no murmurings, no unpleasant feelings, no unholy thoughts, but turn your attention to God. [21MR 223.1 1993]
And Christmas will soon be here. It is supposed that Christ was born on the 25th day of December, and for that reason it is celebrated as His birthday. But it is impossible for us to know upon what day He was born. You can know no more about that than the children of Israel could know where Moses was buried. The reason God has not revealed that fact is because you would have worshiped that day, as they would have worshiped the grave of Moses had they found it, and this is just what they have done with the day they supposed was the one on which Christ was born. [21MR 223.2 1993]
Everybody is trying to find out how they can bring suitable gifts to one another. In the family the study is to know what next they can give. They have given something every year. Now what shall I give this year to the children, or to father and mother? But where are the Saviour’s poor? They are right before your doors. [21MR 223.3 1993]
And He will say unto them on His left hand, “I was an hungred, and ye gave Me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave Me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took Me not in: naked, and ye clothed Me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited Me not. Then shall they also answer Him, saying, Lord, when saw we Thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto Thee? Then shall He answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to Me.” Matthew 25:42-45. [21MR 223.4 1993]
Now, why is this so? It is because there is so much selfishness. Jesus Christ identified Himself with His suffering poor, and when we do the works of benevolence we are doing it unto Christ. I want to know how many of us are doing this kind of work. How many will keep Christmas aright? The wealthy bring gifts to their friends but they are rich still. Then how can this be a sacrifice to them? Then what shall we do to please God? I will tell you. If you would keep this day as you should, you would call upon the needy poor, and if they are in want of anything, supply that want. [21MR 223.5 1993]
And when this is done, come and render an offering unto the Lord. It says to your own soul, Christ for my sake became poor that through His poverty I might be made rich. Jesus, by the offering of Himself, has brought this infinite Gift within our reach. You may bring a gift to Jesus that through your offerings others may go out in the vineyard and work to bring to God those for whom Jesus died. [21MR 223.6 1993]
This responsibility rests upon each of us, that we regard Christ as first and last and best in everything. The best offering we can make to God after we give ourselves is our property. Jesus gave Himself without reserve for us. I am so grateful that we have such a precious example in the BIBLE. [21MR 224.1 1993]
When Jesus was born, and Joseph and Mary came to the temple to do after the usual custom, they were poor and they could not bring a great offering to God. They brought two turtledoves, according to THE LAW. The Lord had provided by LAW for the poor that they might bring an offering of two turtledoves, and they brought their simple offering for the child Jesus, who was THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD. [21MR 224.2 1993]
When we bring an offering to God, what does He require? Is it a great gift? I will tell you what He requires; it is a gift according to what a man has, be it ever so simple. God will accept it according to that which you have. We can open our hearts to God whether we be rich or poor. [21MR 224.3 1993]
I am so thankful that when Mary came she came with turtledoves. I am so thankful that such an offering to God should be accepted in return for His great gift to us. [21MR 224.4 1993]
Just a little offering–two turtledoves! How simple the offering! Yet it is precious in the sight of God. [21MR 224.5 1993]
BUT NOW SATAN HAS MANAGED TO TURN OUR OFFERINGS FROM GOD TO ONE ANOTHER, AND THUS HAS EXALTED SELF IN HIS STEAD. He has interposed self in between the creature and THE CREATOR, in order to shut out the large offerings as well as the little rivulets of personal offerings from flowing into the treasury of the Lord to carry forward His work of mercy and love to the world. He has turned in into a channel of selfishness, to purchase toys and trifles that will do your children no good, and to make larger gifts to one another. This is the work of Satan, that the great work of salvation might be hindered and God’s name might not receive the glory due to Him. [21MR 224.6 1993]
We do not want the cause of God to go crippling along for want of means that are needed upon the right hand and upon the left. We want the little rivulets to be turned into the treasury. LET EVERY ONE BRING IN AN OFFERING TO GOD. DON’T YOU THINK THAT THIS IS THE WAY TO OBSERVE CHRISTMAS? Don’t you think it is the best way, rather than that means should go into the treasuries of the ungodly? [21MR 224.7 1993]
We do not have the gratitude we ought to have for the gift of GOD’S SON. When Joseph and Mary were at the temple, while the smoke was ascending from off the altar, their prayers were going up with thanksgiving to God that He had provided them with an offering to bring to Him. But how is it with us when the children come to their birthdays? Do we make an offering to God for His goodness and care over the child for another year? Is this the way we do? Or do we go out and buy a present for the child and by so doing cultivate in the child a spirit of selfishness? [21MR 224.8 1993]
HOW MUCH BETTER IT WOULD BE TO TEACH THE CHILDREN, UPON THEIR BIRTHDAY, THAT THEY SHOULD GO TO GOD WITH AN OFFERING UPON THAT DAY. Teach them that they ought to lay up something to bring to God on their birthday, as a thank offering for His mercies over them through the year, and so keep God in their memory. [21MR 225.1 1993]
ANCIENTLY THE PARENTS WERE REQUIRED TO TEACH THE CHILDREN THE STATUTES AND COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, when they should rise up and when they should sit down and when they should walk by the way. You may teach them what God has done for them, how God preserved them from death while other children were falling with disease, and that God will expect to be remembered by them and will accept an offering from their hands. This is the way we should instruct our children and set the example ourselves. [21MR 225.2 1993]
SATAN IS CONSTANTLY AT WORK TO DIVERT OUR MINDS FROM GOD, TO BRING US WHERE WE WILL GLORIFY AND HONOR SELF. Brethren and sisters, we want to have a change in this matter. It is serious business, this robbing God. There must be a change in this order of things. One of the greatest reasons for this state of things is this pride of dress, in the styles and fashions of the world. You want the first, the best, and last of everything to be given to Jesus Christ, and forsake this foolish spirit of fashion. [21MR 225.3 1993]
This is the great day of humiliation before God. Your eternal welfare depends upon your course of action. You should weave this through the minds of your children, and impress them with the things of God. You have let your work occupy your whole attention. [21MR 225.4 1993]
You have been more concerned with your work and drive in your household affairs than with teaching your children, beautifying and adorning their hearts, and giving them a beautiful character. [21MR 225.5 1993]
Now there is a new year coming, and as the light is streaming from the open door, every one of us should thirst for more and more of its illuminating power because the earth is growing darker and darker every day. Many have not experienced the fullness of this light upon their heart. Fathers and mothers, it is your duty before your families to let the love of God into your hearts, that they may see that you are bound up with their eternal interests, that when they do anything that grieves you it grieves Jesus. Unless you are persevering in your efforts, unless you are working all the time, Satan will overcome you at last, for he never ceases his vigilance. [21MR 225.6 1993]
I COULD SAY MUCH REGARDING THE SANCTUARY, THE ARK CONTAINING THE LAW OF GOD, THE COVER OF THE ARK, WHICH IS THE MERCY SEAT, THE ANGELS AT EITHER END OF THE ARK, AND OTHER THINGS CONNECTED WITH THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY AND WITH THE GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT. I COULD SAY MUCH REGARDING THE MYSTERIES OF HEAVEN, BUT MY LIPS ARE CLOSED. I have no inclination to try to describe them. {2MR 320.2}
The brethren here are being tried by the gospel straightener. Some here who had to work hard to get a living have been complaining of their lot, and when asked to help in the cause of Christ, have thought very strange. O why should we murmur when we feel the curse, we who have a hope of being freed from it. The promise is, if we suffer with Christ we shall also reign with him. The sufferings of the human race while under the curse, will not raise them to fellow-heirship with Jesus on his throne. This is the lot of mortals in this world. The heir of God, then, is required to suffer still more. Yes, his whole body is to be a living sacrifice unto God. He is to sacrifice his ease, his pleasure, his comfort, his convenience, his will, and his own selfish wishes, for Christ’s cause, or never reign with him on his throne.” {2SG 95.2 1860}
The design of the message to the Laodiceans was to rid the church of . . . fanatical influences; but the effort of Satan has been to corrupt the message, and destroy its influence. He would be better pleased to have fanatical persons embrace the testimony, and use it in his cause, than to have them remain in a lukewarm state. I have seen that it was not the design of the message to lead brother to sit in judgment over his brother, to tell him what to do, and just how far to go, but for each individual to search his own heart, and attend to his own individual work (2SG 223) [7BC 962.4]
There is order in heaven, and God is well pleased with the efforts of His people in trying to move with system and order in His work on earth. I saw that there should be order in the church of God, and that system is needed in carrying forward successfully the last great message of mercy to the world. GOD IS LEADING HIS PEOPLE IN THE PLAN OF SYSTEMATIC BENEVOLENCE, AND THIS IS ONE OF THE VERY POINTS TO WHICH GOD IS BRINGING UP HIS PEOPLE WHICH WILL CUT THE CLOSEST WITH SOME. With them this cuts off the right arm, and plucks out the right eye, while to others it is a great relief. To noble, generous souls the demands upon them seem very small, and they cannot be content to do so little. Some have large possessions, and if they lay by them in store for charitable purposes as God has prospered them, the offering seems to them like a large sum. The selfish heart clings as closely to a small offering as to a larger one, and makes a small sum look very large. I was pointed back to the commencement of this last work. Then some who loved the truth could consistently talk of sacrificing. They devoted much to the cause of God to send the truth to others. They have sent their treasure beforehand to heaven. Brethren, you who have received the truth at a later period, and have large possessions, God has called you into the field, not merely that you may enjoy the truth, but that you may aid with your substance in carrying forward this great work. And if you have an interest in this work, you will venture out, and invest something in it, that others may be saved by your efforts, and you reap with them the final reward. Great sacrifices have been made, and privations endured to place the truth in a clear light before you. Now God calls upon you, in your turn, to make great efforts, and to sacrifice in order to place the truth before those who are in darkness. God requires this. You profess to believe the truth; let your works testify to the fact. Unless your faith works, it is dead. Nothing but a living faith will save you in the fearful scenes which are just before you. {2SG 231.1 1860} {1T 191 1855-1868}
EVERY PHASE OF FANATICISM AND ERRONEOUS THEORIES, CLAIMING TO BE THE TRUTH, WILL BE BROUGHT IN AMONG THE REMNANT PEOPLE OF GOD. These will fill minds with erroneous sentiments which have no part in the truth for this time. Any man who supposes that in the strength of his own devised resolutions, in his intellectual might united with science or supposed knowledge, he can start a work which will conquer the world, will find himself lying among the ruins of his own speculations, and will plainly understand why he is there. . . . {2SM 14.2 1958}
From the light given me of the Lord, men will arise speaking perverse things. Yea, already they have been working and speaking things which God has never revealed, bringing sacred truth upon a level with common things. Issues have been and will continue to be made of men’s conceited fallacies, not of truth. The devisings of men’s minds will invent tests that are no tests at all, that when the true test shall be made prominent, it shall be considered on a par with the man-made tests that have been of no value. WE MAY EXPECT THAT EVERYTHING WILL BE BROUGHT IN AND MINGLED WITH SOUND DOCTRINE, BUT BY CLEAR, SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT, BY THE HEAVENLY ANOINTING, WE MUST DISTINGUISH THE SACRED FROM THE COMMON which is being brought in to confuse faith and sound judgment, and demerit the great, grand, testing truth for this time. {2SM 14.3 1958}
NEVER, NEVER WAS THERE A TIME WHEN THE TRUTH SUFFERED MORE FROM BEING MISREPRESENTED, BELITTLED, DEMERITED THROUGH THE PERVERSE DISPUTINGS OF MEN THAN IN THESE LAST DAYS. Men have brought themselves in with their heterogeneous mass of heresies which they represent as oracles for the people. The people are charmed with some strange new thing, and are not wise in experience to discern the character of ideas that men may frame up as something. But to call it something of great consequence and tie it to the oracles of God, does not make it truth. Oh, how this rebukes the low standard of piety in the churches. {2SM 15.1 1958}
THE VERY LAST DECEPTION OF SATAN WILL BE TO MAKE OF NONE EFFECT THE TESTIMONY OF THE SPIRIT OF GOD. Where there is no vision, the people perish (Proverbs 29:18). Satan will work ingeniously, in different ways and through different agencies, TO UNSETTLE THE CONFIDENCE OF GOD’S REMNANT PEOPLE IN THE TRUE TESTIMONY. HE WILL bring in spurious visions to mislead, and will MINGLE THE FALSE WITH THE TRUE, and so disgust people that they will regard everything that bears the name of visions as a species of fanaticism; but honest souls, by contrasting false and true, will be enabled to distinguish between them… {2SM 78.2 1958}
IN ALL YOUR CONFLICTS, IN ALL THE TRIALS AND PERPLEXITIES OF LIFE, SEEK COUNSEL FROM GOD. The path of obedience to God is as a shining light that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. Follow step after step in the path of duty. STEEP PLACES MAY HAVE TO BE CLIMBED, BUT GO FORWARD IN THE PATH OF HUMILITY, OF FAITH AND SELF-DENIAL, LEAVING THE CLOUDS OF DOUBT BEHIND YOU. Sorrow not in a hopeless way, for the living need your care and love. You have enlisted in the Lord’s army; be brave soldiers of Jesus Christ. Let words of penitence and grateful praise come up before God as sweet incense in His heavenly sanctuary. {2SM 272.3}
OUR WORK IS TO WATCH, AND WAIT, AND PRAY. SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES. Christ has given you warning not to mingle with the world. We are to come out from among them and be separate, “and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:17, 18). Whatever the opinions you may entertain in regard to casting your vote in political questions, you are not to proclaim it by pen or voice. Our people need to be silent upon questions which have no relation to the third angel’s message. IF EVER A PEOPLE NEEDED TO DRAW NIGH TO GOD, IT IS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS. There have been wonderful devices and plans made. A burning desire has taken hold of men or women to proclaim something, or bind up with something; they do not know what. But the silence of Christ upon many subjects was true eloquence. . . . {2SM 336.1} 1958
NATURAL MEANS, USED IN ACCORDANCE WITH GOD’S WILL, BRING ABOUT SUPERNATURAL RESULTS. WE ASK FOR A MIRACLE, AND THE LORD DIRECTS THE MIND TO SOME SIMPLE REMEDY. We ask to be kept from the pestilence that walketh in darkness, that is stalking with such power through the world; we are then to cooperate with God, OBSERVING THE LAWS OF HEALTH AND LIFE. HAVING DONE ALL THAT WE POSSIBLY CAN, WE ARE TO KEEP ASKING IN FAITH FOR HEALTH AND STRENGTH. WE ARE TO EAT THAT FOOD WHICH WILL PRESERVE THE HEALTH OF THE BODY. God gives us no encouragement that He will do for us what we can do for ourselves. NATURAL LAWS ARE TO BE OBEYED. We are not to fail of doing our part. God says to us, “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:12, 13). {2SM 346.4 1958}
WE CANNOT DISREGARD THE LAWS OF NATURE WITHOUT DISREGARDING THE LAWS OF GOD. WE CANNOT EXPECT THE LORD TO WORK A MIRACLE FOR US WHILE WE NEGLECT THE SIMPLE REMEDIES HE HAS PROVIDED FOR OUR USE, which, aptly and opportunely applied, will bring about a miraculous result. {2SM 346.5 1958}
Some men have insight into matters, having ability to counsel. It is a gift of God. In moments when the cause of God is in need of words, sound and solemn and solid, they can speak words which will lead minds perplexed and in darkness, to see as a quick flash of sunlight the course for them to pursue, which [question] has filled them with perplexity and baffled their minds in study for weeks and months. There is an unraveling, a clearing up of the path before them, and the Lord has let His sunlight in, and they see their prayers are answered, their way is made clear. But some rash advice may be given–only get out of Battle Creek, notwithstanding there is nothing clearly defined as to what improvement they will make in spiritual advancement for themselves or others in doing this. {CL 25.5 1946} Also {2SM 361.4}
THE SON OF GOD WAS NEXT IN AUTHORITY TO THE GREAT LAWGIVER. He knew that his life alone could be sufficient to ransom fallen man. He was of as much more value than man as his noble, spotless character, and exalted office as commander of all the heavenly host, were above the work of man. HE WAS IN THE EXPRESS IMAGE OF HIS FATHER, NOT IN FEATURES ALONE, BUT IN PERFECTION OF CHARACTER. {2SP 9.1 1877} {RH, December 17, 1872 par. 1}
The high priest was designed in an especial manner to represent Christ, who was to become a high priest forever after the order of Melchisedec. This order of priesthood was not to pass to another, or be superseded by another. [2SP 14] [Redemption: The First Advent of Christ, page 14] [SDA 7BC 930 par. 12]
JESUS HAD UNITED WITH THE FATHER IN MAKING THE WORLD. Amid the agonizing sufferings of the SON OF GOD, blind and deluded men alone remain unfeeling. The chief priests and elders revile GOD’S DEAR SON while in His expiring agonies. Yet inanimate nature groans in sympathy with her bleeding, dying Author. The earth trembles. The sun refuses to behold the scene. The heavens gather blackness. Angels have witnessed the scene of suffering until they can look no longer, and hide their faces from the horrid sight. Christ is dying! He is in despair! His Father’s approving smile is removed, and angels are not permitted to lighten the gloom of the terrible hour. They can only behold in amazement their loved Commander, the Majesty of heaven, suffering the penalty of man’s transgression of THE FATHER’S LAW. {2T 209.2 1869}
YOUR BUSINESS IS OF A CHARACTER THAT IS NOT FRIENDLY TO AN ADVANCE IN THE DIVINE LIFE, BUT IS ONE THAT WILL HINDER THE GROWTH OF GRACE AND THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE TRUTH. It has a tendency to lower, to debase the man, to make him more animal in his propensities. The higher powers of the mind are overpowered by the lower. The brutish part of your nature governs the spiritual. Those who profess to be fitting for translation should not become butchers. {2T 60.3 1868-1871}
Your family have partaken largely of flesh meats, and the animal propensities have been strengthened, while the intellectual have been weakened. WE ARE COMPOSED OF WHAT WE EAT, and if we subsist largely upon the flesh of dead animals we shall partake of their nature. You have encouraged the grosser part of your organism, while the more refined has been weakened. You have repeatedly said in defense of your indulgence of meat eating: “However injurious it may be to others, it does not injure me, for I have used it all my life.” But you know not how well you might have been if you had abstained from the use of flesh meats. As a family, you are far from being free from disease. You have used the fat of animals, which God in His word expressly forbids: “It shall be a perpetual statute for your generations throughout all your dwellings, that ye eat neither fat nor blood.” “Moreover ye shall eat no manner of blood, whether it be of fowl or of beast, in any of your dwellings. Whatsoever soul it be that eateth any manner of blood, even that soul shall be cut off from his people.” {2T 60.4 1868-1871}
YOU HAVE FLESH, BUT IT IS NOT GOOD MATERIAL. You are worse off for this amount of flesh. If you should each come down to a more spare diet, which would take from you twenty-five or thirty pounds of your gross flesh, you would be much less liable to disease. The eating of flesh meats has made a poor quality of blood and flesh. Your systems are in a state of inflammation, prepared to take on disease. You are liable to acute attacks of disease and to sudden death because you do not possess the strength of constitution to rally and resist disease. THERE WILL COME A TIME WHEN THE STRENGTH AND HEALTH YOU HAVE FLATTERED YOURSELF YOU POSSESSED WILL PROVE TO BE WEAKNESS. It is not the chief end of man to glorify his stomach. You have animal wants to be supplied; but because of this necessity shall man become all animal?{2T 61.1 1868-1871}
You have set for your children a table of unwholesome food, cooked in an unhealthful manner. You have placed flesh meats before them, and what is the result? Are they refined, intellectual, obedient, conscientious, and religiously inclined? You know this is not the case, but entirely the contrary. Your manner of living has strengthened the animal of your nature and weakened the spiritual. You have transmitted to your children a miserable legacy, a depraved nature rendered still more depraved by your gross habits of eating and drinking. Your table has completed the work of making them what they are. The sin lies at your door. You know that they are not religiously inclined, that they will not submit to restraint, but are inclined to disobedience and to disrespect your authority. Your eldest son especially is corrupt, partaking to a great degree of the animal. Scarcely a trace of the divine can be seen in his organism. You have brought up your children to indulge their appetite when they please and as they please. Your example has taught them that they live to eat, that the gratification of appetite is about all that is worth living for. There is a work for you to do, Brother H. You have been like a man asleep or paralyzed. It is time that you make a mighty effort to save the younger members of your family. The influence of your eldest son is only evil over them. Correct your table. A DEPRAVED, STIMULATING DIET IS STRENGTHENING THE ANIMAL PASSIONS OF YOUR CHILDREN. Of all the families I am acquainted with, yours most needs to dispense with flesh meats and grease, and learn to cook hygienically. {2T 61.2 1868-1871}
You, my dear brother and sister, can have a much better condition of health than you now enjoy, and can avoid very many ill turns, if you will simply exercise temperance in all things–temperance in labor, temperance in eating and drinking. HOT DRINKS ARE DEBILITATING TO THE STOMACH. CHEESE SHOULD NEVER BE INTRODUCED INTO THE STOMACH. Fine-flour bread cannot impart to the system the nourishment that you will find in the unbolted wheat bread. The common use of bolted wheat bread cannot keep the system in a healthy condition. You both have inactive livers. The use of fine flour aggravates the difficulties under which you are laboring. {2T 68.1 1868-1871}
THE GLORIOUS PLAN OF MAN’S SALVATION WAS BROUGHT ABOUT THROUGH THE INFINITE LOVE OF GOD AND FATHER. In this divine plan is seen the most marvelous manifestation of the love of God to the fallen race. Such love as is manifested in the gift of GOD’S BELOVED SON amazed the holy angels. God so loved the world, that He gave HIS ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. This Saviour was the brightness of His Father’s glory and the express image of His person. He possessed divine majesty, perfection, and excellence. HE WAS EQUAL WITH GOD. It pleased the Father that in Him should all fullness dwell. [Philippians 2:6-8 quoted] {2T 200 1869-1871}
I come again to Christians. If all who profess to obey THE LAW OF GOD were free from iniquity, my soul would be relieved; but they are not. Even some who profess to keep all the commandments of God are guilty of the sin of adultery. What can I say to arouse their benumbed sensibilities? Moral principle, strictly carried out, becomes the only safeguard of the soul. If ever there was a time when the diet should be of the most simple kind, it is now. MEAT SHOULD NOT BE PLACED BEFORE OUR CHILDREN. ITS INFLUENCE IS TO EXCITE AND STRENGTHEN THE LOWER PASSIONS, AND HAS A TENDENCY TO DEADEN THE MORAL POWERS. GRAINS AND FRUITS PREPARED FREE FROM GREASE, AND IN AS NATURAL A CONDITION AS POSSIBLE, SHOULD BE THE FOOD FOR THE TABLES OF ALL WHO CLAIM TO BE PREPARING FOR TRANSLATION TO HEAVEN. The less feverish the diet, the more easily can the passions be controlled. Gratification of taste should not be consulted irrespective of physical, intellectual, or moral health. {2T 352.1 1868-1871}
We have no doubt, neither have we had a doubt for years, that the doctrines we hold today are present truth, and that we are nearing the judgment. {2T 355 1869-1871}
If the ministers of Christ will imitate this pattern, they will be imbued with His spirit, and angels will minister unto them. {2T 509 1869-1871}
The struggle that David went through, every other follower of Christ must go through. Satan has come down with great power, knowing that his time is short. The controversy is being waged in full view of the heavenly universe, and angels stand ready to lift up for God’s hard pressed soldiers a standard against the enemy, and to put into their lips songs of victory and rejoicing (Ms 38, 1905) [3BC 1143.1]
David was a representative man. His history is of interest to every soul who is striving for eternal victories. In his life two powers struggled for the mastery. Unbelief marshalled its forces, and tried to eclipse the light shining upon him from the throne of God. Day by day the battle went on in his heart, Satan disputing every step of advance made by the forces of righteousness. David understood what it meant to fight against principalities and powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world. At times it seemed that the enemy must gain the victory. But in the end, faith conquered, and David rejoiced in the saving power of Jehovah. [3BC 1142.9]
The Father chose Moses and Elijah to be his messengers to Christ, and glorify him with the light of Heaven, and commune with him concerning his coming agony, because they had lived upon earth as men; they had experienced human sorrow and suffering, and could sympathize with the trial of Jesus, in his earthly life. Elijah, in his position as a prophet to Israel, had represented Christ, and his work had been, in a degree, similar to that of the Saviour. And MOSES, AS THE LEADER OF ISRAEL, HAD STOOD IN THE PLACE OF CHRIST, communing with him and following his directions; therefore, these two, of all the hosts that gathered around the throne of God, were fittest to minister to the SON OF GOD. {3Red 118.1 1877}
BEFORE THE FALL OF SATAN, THE FATHER CONSULTED HIS SON IN REGARD TO THE FORMATION OF MAN. They purposed to make this world, and create beasts and living things upon it, and TO MAKE MAN IN THE IMAGE OF GOD, to reign as a ruling monarch over every living thing which God should create. {3SG 36 1864}
Satan was warring against the government of God, because ambitious to exalt himself and unwilling to submit to the authority of GOD’S SON, Heaven’s great commander. {3SG 37 1864}
The Father decides the case of Satan, and declares that he must be turned out of heaven for his daring rebellion, and that all those who united with him in his rebellion should be turned out with him. Then there was war in heaven. Christ and His angels fought against Satan and his angels, for they were determined to remain in heaven with all their rebellion. But they prevailed not. Christ and loyal angels triumphed, and drove Satan and his rebel sympathizers from heaven. (3SG 38) [7BC 973.7]
Noah and his family were not alone in fearing and obeying God. But Noah was the most pious and holy of any upon the earth, and was the one whose life God preserved to carry out his will in building the ark and warning the world of their coming doom. Methuselah, the grandfather of Noah, lived until the very year of the flood, and there were others who believed the preaching of Noah, and aided him in building the ark, who died before the flood of waters came upon the earth. Noah, by his preaching and example in building the ark, condemned the world. God gave all an opportunity who chose to repent and turn to him. But they believed not the preaching of Noah. They mocked at his warnings, and ridiculed the building of that immense boat on dry land. Noah’s efforts to reform his fellow men did not succeed. But for more than one hundred years he persevered in his efforts to turn men to repentance and to God. Every blow struck upon the ark was preaching to the people. NOAH DIRECTED, HE PREACHED, HE WORKED, WHILE THE PEOPLE LOOKED ON IN AMAZEMENT, AND REGARDED HIM AS A FANATIC. [3SG 65.1]
At the first resurrection all come forth in immortal bloom, but at the second, the marks of the curse are visible upon all. All come up as they went down into their graves. THOSE WHO LIVED BEFORE THE FLOOD, COME FORTH WITH THEIR GIANT-LIKE STATURE, MORE THAN TWICE AS TALL AS MEN NOW LIVING UPON THE EARTH, AND WELL PROPORTIONED. The generations after the Flood were less in stature (3SG 84, 85) [7BC 986.4]
THOSE MAJESTIC TREES WHICH GOD HAD CAUSED TO GROW UPON THE EARTH, for the benefit of the inhabitants of the old world, and which they had used to form into idols, and to corrupt themselves with, GOD HAS RESERVED IN THE EARTH, IN THE SHAPE OF COAL AND OIL TO USE AS AGENCIES IN THEIR FINAL DESTRUCTION. As He called forth the waters in the earth at the time of the Flood, as weapons from His arsenal to accomplish the destruction of the antediluvian race, so AT THE END OF THE ONE THOUSAND YEARS HE WILL CALL FORTH THE FIRES IN THE EARTH AS HIS WEAPONS WHICH HE HAS RESERVED FOR THE FINAL DESTRUCTION, not only of successive generations since the Flood, but the antediluvian race who perished by the Flood (3SG 87) [1BC 1090.8]
When the flood of waters was at its height upon the earth, it had the appearance of a boundless lake of water. WHEN GOD FINALLY PURIFIES THE EARTH, IT WILL APPEAR LIKE A BOUNDLESS LAKE OF FIRE. As God preserved the ark amid the commotions of the Flood, because it contained eight righteous persons, HE WILL PRESERVE THE NEW JERUSALEM, CONTAINING THE FAITHFUL OF ALL AGES, FROM RIGHTEOUS ABEL DOWN TO THE LAST SAINT WHICH LIVED. ALTHOUGH THE WHOLE EARTH, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THAT PORTION WHERE THE CITY RESTS, WILL BE WRAPPED IN A SEA OF LIQUID FIRE, YET THE CITY IS PRESERVED AS WAS THE ARK, BY A MIRACLE OF ALMIGHTY POWER. It stands unharmed amid the devouring elements (3SG 87) [7BC 986.5]
THE LAW OF GOD EXISTED BEFORE MAN WAS CREATED. The angels were governed by it. Satan fell because he transgressed the principles of God’s government. After Adam and Eve were created, God made known to them HIS LAW. It was not then written, but was rehearsed to them by Jehovah. {3SG 295.1 1864}
Let the many ministers of Christ sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly, and seek God while He is to be found. Call upon Him while you are now lying at the foot of the cross of Calvary. Divest yourselves of all pride and as representative guardians of the churches, weep between the porch and the altar, and cry “Spare Thy people, Lord, and give not Thine heritage to reproach. Take from us what Thou wilt, but withhold not Thy Holy Spirit from us, Thy people.” Pray, oh, pray for the outpouring of the SPIRIT OF GOD! Ms 27, 1889. {3SM 189.4 1980}
Who now, I ask, will make a determined effort to obtain the higher education. Those who will, make it manifest by rising to your feet. [The congregation rose.] Here is the whole congregation. May God help you to keep your pledge. Let us pray. {3SM 269.3}
Jesus is our Saviour today. He is pleading for us in the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary, and he will forgive our sins. It makes all the difference in the world with us spiritually whether we rely upon God without doubt, as upon a sure foundation, or whether we are seeking to find some righteousness in ourselves before we come to him. LOOK AWAY FROM SELF TO THE LAMB OF GOD, that taketh away the sin of the world. It is a sin to doubt. The least unbelief, if cherished, involves the soul in guilt, and brings great darkness and discouragement. It is saying that the Lord is false, that he will not do as he has promised; and he is greatly dishonored. {GW92 426.3} Also {3SM 149.5}
In the controversy between Christ and Satan, the character of God was now fully vindicated in his act of banishing from Heaven the fallen angel, who had once been exalted next to Christ. All Heaven, and the worlds that had not fallen through sin, had been witnesses to the controversy between Christ and Satan. With what intense interest had they followed the closing scenes of the conflict! They had beheld the Saviour enter the garden of Gethsemane, his soul bowed down by a horror of darkness that he had never before experienced. An overmastering agony had wrenched from his lips the bitter cry for that cup, if possible, to pass from him. A terrible amazement, as he felt his Father’s presence withdrawn from him, had filled his divine spirit with a shuddering dread. He was sorrowful, with a bitterness of sorrow exceeding that of the last great struggle with death; the sweat of blood was forced from his pores, and fell in drops upon the ground. Thrice the same prayer for deliverance had been wrung from his lips. HEAVEN HAD BEEN UNABLE TO LONGER ENDURE THE SIGHT, AND HAD SENT A MESSENGER OF CONSOLATION TO THE PROSTRATE SON OF GOD, FAINTING AND DYING UNDER THE ACCUMULATED GUILT OF THE WORLD. {3SP 184.1 1878} Also see {PrT, February 18, 1886 par. 3}
The angelic commander laid hold of the great stone which had required many strong men to place it in position, rolled it away, and took his seat upon it, while his companion entered the sepulcher and unwound the wrappings from the face and head of Jesus. Then the mighty angel, with a voice that caused the earth to quake, was heard: JESUS, THOU SON OF GOD, THY FATHER CALLS THEE! Then he who had earned the power to conquer death and the grave came forth, with the tread of a conqueror, from the sepulcher, amid the reeling of the earth, the flashing of lightning, and the roaring of thunder. An earthquake marked the hour when Christ laid down his life; and another earthquake signaled the moment when he took it up again in triumph. {3SP 192.1 1878}
Jesus was the first-fruits of them that slept. WHEN HE CAME FORTH FROM THE TOMB HE CALLED A MULTITUDE FROM THE DEAD, THUS SETTLING FOREVER THE LONG-DISPUTED QUESTION OF THE RESURRECTION. IN RAISING THIS MULTITUDE OF CAPTIVES FROM THE DEAD, HE GIVES EVIDENCE THAT THERE WILL BE A FINAL RESURRECTION OF THOSE WHO SLEEP IN JESUS. The believers in Christ thus receive the very light they want in regard to the future life of the pious dead. {3SP 192.2 1878}
The casting down of Satan as an accuser of the brethren in heaven was accomplished by the great work of Christ in giving up His life. Notwithstanding Satan’s persistent opposition, the plan of redemption was being carried out. Man was esteemed of sufficient value for Christ to sacrifice His life for him. SATAN, KNOWING THAT THE EMPIRE HE HAD USURPED WOULD IN THE END BE WRESTED FROM HIM, DETERMINED TO SPARE NO PAINS TO DESTROY AS MANY AS POSSIBLE OF THE CREATURES WHOM GOD HAD CREATED IN HIS IMAGE. He hated man because Christ had manifested for him such forgiving love and pity, and he now prepared to practice upon him every species of deception by which he might be lost; he pursued his course with more energy because of his own hopeless condition (3SP 194, 195) [7BC 973.10]
God’s answer to this appeal goes forth in the proclamation: “Let all the angels of God worship him.” Every angelic commander obeys the royal mandate, and Worthy, worthy is THE LAMB that was slain; and that lives again a triumphant conqueror! echoes and re-echoes through all heaven. The innumerable company of angels prostrate themselves before THE REDEEMER. The request of Christ is granted; the church is justified through Him, its representative and head. Here THE FATHER RATIFIES THE CONTRACT WITH HIS SON, that He will be reconciled to repentant and obedient men, and take them into divine favor through the merits of Christ. Christ guarantees that He will make a man “more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir.” All power in heaven and on earth is now given to the Prince of life; yet He does not for a moment forget His poor disciples in a sinful world, but prepares to return to them, that He may impart to them His power and glory. Thus did THE REDEEMER of mankind, by the sacrifice of Himself, connect earth with heaven, and finite man with the infinite God (3SP 202, 203 1878). {5BC 1150.5 1956}
The waiting angels at the gates of the city inquire in rapturous strains, Who is this King of Glory? The escorting angels joyously reply in songs of triumph, The Lord, strong and mighty! The Lord, mighty in battle! Lift up your heads, O ye gates, even lift them up, ye everlasting doors, and the King of Glory shall come in! Again the waiting angels ask, Who is this King of Glory? and the escorting angels respond in melodious strains, THE LORD OF HOSTS! HE IS THE KING OF GLORY! Then the portals of the city of God are widely opened, and the heavenly train pass in amid a burst of angelic music. ALL THE HEAVENLY HOST SURROUND THEIR MAJESTIC COMMANDER AS HE TAKES HIS POSITION UPON THE THRONE OF THE FATHER. {3SP 252.2 1878}
WITH THE DEEPEST ADORATION AND JOY, THE HOSTS OF ANGELS BOW BEFORE HIM, WHILE THE GLAD SHOUT RINGS THROUGH THE COURTS OF HEAVEN: WORTHY IS THE LAMB THAT WAS SLAIN to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing! Songs of triumph mingle with music from angelic harps, till Heaven seems to overflow with delightful harmony, and inconceivable joy and praise. The SON OF GOD has triumphed over the prince of darkness, and conquered death and the grave. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming: Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto THE LAMB forever and ever! {3SP 253.1 1878}
HE IS SEATED BY THE SIDE OF HIS FATHER ON HIS THRONE. The Saviour presents the captives he has rescued from the bonds of death, at the price of his own life. His hands place immortal crowns upon their brows; for they are the representatives, and samples, of those who shall be redeemed, by the blood of Christ, from all nations, tongues, and people, and come forth from the dead, when he shall call the just from their graves at his second coming. THEN SHALL THEY SEE THE MARKS OF CALVARY IN THE GLORIFIED BODY OF THE SON OF GOD. THEIR GREATEST JOY WILL BE FOUND IN THE PRESENCE OF HIM WHO SITTETH ON THE THRONE; and the enraptured saints will exclaim, MY BELOVED IS MINE, AND I AM HIS! He is the chief among ten thousand, and altogether lovely! {3SP 253.2 1878} {BEcho, August 1, 1887 par. 7} {ST, November 2, 1904 par. 7}
These opponents of Christ and of the doctrines of the apostles, could but believe, although they refused to acknowledge, that Jesus had risen from the dead and remained on the earth for forty days afterward; the evidence was too convincing for them to doubt it. Yet, nevertheless, their hearts did not soften, nor their consciences smite them for the terrible deed they had committed in putting him to death. When the power from Heaven came upon the apostles in so remarkable a manner, fear held them from violence, but their bitterness and malice were unchanged. Five thousand had already embraced the new doctrine taught by the apostles, and both Pharisees and Sadducees decided among themselves that if those teachers were suffered to go unchecked, their own influence would be in greater danger than when Jesus was upon earth. If one or two discourses from the disciples could accomplish such marvelous results, the world would soon believe on Christ if they were left free, and the influence of priests and potentates would be lost. [3SP 278.2 1878]
Peter preached Jesus to that company of attentive hearers; his life, ministry, miracles, betrayal, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension, and his work in Heaven, as man’s Representative and Advocate, to plead in the sinner’s behalf. As the apostle spoke, his heart glowed with the SPIRIT OF GOD’S truth which he was presenting to the people. His hearers were charmed by the doctrine they heard, for their hearts had been prepared to receive the truth. The apostle was interrupted by the descent of the Holy Ghost, as was manifested on the day of Pentecost. “And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.” {3SP 331.2 1878}
With deep interest, and grateful wondering joy, the disciples listened to the words of Paul. By faith they grasped the atoning sacrifice of Christ, and acknowledged him as THEIR REDEEMER. THEY WERE THEN BAPTIZED “IN THE NAME OF JESUS;” and as Paul laid his hands upon them, they received also the baptism of the Holy Spirit, by which they were enabled to speak the languages of other nations and to prophesy. Thus these men were qualified to act as missionaries in the important field of Ephesus and its vicinity, and also from this center to spread the gospel of Christ in Asia Minor. {3SP 417.1 1878}
The juices of the vine, ascending from the root, are diffused to the branches sustaining growth, and producing blossoms and fruit. So the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit, proceeding from Christ, and imparted to every disciple, pervades the soul, renews the motives and affections, and even the most secret thoughts, and brings forth the precious fruit of holy deeds. The life attests the union with the true and living Vine. {3SP 418 1878}
THERE IS STILL ANOTHER LESSON FOR US IN THE EXPERIENCE OF THOSE JEWISH CONVERTS. WHEN THEY RECEIVED BAPTISM AT THE HAND OF JOHN, THEY WERE HOLDING SERIOUS ERRORS. But with clearer light they gladly accepted CHRIST AS THEIR REDEEMER; and with this advance step came a change in their obligations. AS THEY RECEIVED A PURER FAITH, THERE WAS A CORRESPONDING CHANGE IN THEIR LIFE AND CHARACTER. IN TOKEN OF THIS CHANGE, AND AS AN ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF THEIR FAITH IN CHRIST, THEY WERE REBAPTIZED, IN THE NAME OF JESUS. {3SP 419.1 1878}
GOD HAS COMMITTED TO EACH OF US SACRED TRUSTS, FOR WHICH HE HOLDS US ACCOUNTABLE. He desires us so to educate the mind that we may be able to accomplish the greatest good, and reflect the glory to the Giver. We are indebted to God for all the powers of the mind. These powers can be cultivated, and so discreetly directed and controlled as to accomplish the purpose for which they were given. It is duty so to educate the mind as to bring out the energies of the soul, and develop every faculty. WHEN ALL THE FACULTIES ARE IN EXERCISE, THE INTELLECT WILL BE STRENGTHENED, AND THE PURPOSE FOR WHICH THEY WERE GIVEN WILL BE ACCOMPLISHED. {GW92 176.1} {3T 32.1 1972-1875}
THERE IS GREAT NECESSITY FOR A REFORMATION AMONG THE PEOPLE OF GOD. THE PRESENT STATE OF THE CHURCH LEADS TO THE INQUIRY, IS THIS A CORRECT REPRESENTATION OF HIM WHO GAVE HIS LIFE FOR US? {3T 474 1872-1875} {ChS 43.1}
A way is opened before every one in the Office to engage from the heart directly in the work of Christ and the salvation of souls. CHRIST LEFT HEAVEN AND THE BOSOM OF HIS FATHER, to come to a friendless, lost world to save those who would be saved. He exiled himself from his Father, and he exchanged the pure companionship of angels for that of fallen humanity, all polluted with sin. With grief and amazement, Christ witnesses the coldness, the indifference and neglect with which his professed followers in the Office treat the light, and the messages of warning and of love he has given them. Christ has provided the bread and water of life for all who hunger and thirst. {PH123 20.1 1872} {3T 190.2 1872-1875}
Those who desire to doubt will have plenty of room. God does not propose to remove all occasion for unbelief. He gives evidence, which must be carefully investigated with a humble mind and a teachable spirit, and all should decide from the weight of evidence. (3T 255 1872-1875)
Satan had sympathizers in heaven, and took large numbers of the angels with him. GOD AND CHRIST AND HEAVENLY ANGELS WERE ON ONE SIDE, and Satan on the other. Notwithstanding the infinite power and majesty of GOD AND CHRIST, angels became disaffected. The insinuations of Satan took effect, and they really came to believe that the FATHER AND THE SON were their enemies and that Satan was their benefactor. {3T 328 1872-1875}
IF THE PLAN OF SYSTEMATIC BENEVOLENCE WERE ADOPTED BY EVERY INDIVIDUAL AND FULLY CARRIED OUT, THERE WOULD BE A CONSTANT SUPPLY IN THE TREASURY. The income would flow in like a steady stream constantly supplied by overflowing springs of benevolence. Almsgiving is a part of gospel religion. Does not the consideration of the infinite price paid for our redemption leave upon us solemn obligations pecuniarily, as well as lay claim upon all our powers to be devoted to the work of the Master? {3T 389.4}
The blessings of the Christian Age were responded to by the first disciples in works of charity and benevolence. The outpouring of the SPIRIT OF GOD, after Christ left His disciples and ascended to heaven, led to self-denial and self-sacrifice for the salvation of others. When the poor saints at Jerusalem were in distress, Paul wrote to the Gentile Christians in regard to works of benevolence, and said: “Therefore, as ye abound in everything, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.” Here benevolence is placed by the side of faith, love, and Christian diligence. Those who think that they can be good Christians and close their ears and hearts to the calls of God for their liberalities, are in a fearful deception. There are those who abound in professions of great love for the truth, and, so far as words are concerned, have an interest to see the truth advance, but who do nothing for its advancement. The faith of such is dead, not being made perfect by works. The Lord never made such a mistake as to convert a soul and leave it under the power of covetousness. {3T 392.3 1872-1875}
WHENEVER GOD’S PEOPLE, IN ANY PERIOD OF THE WORLD, HAVE CHEERFULLY AND WILLINGLY CARRIED OUT HIS PLAN IN SYSTEMATIC BENEVOLENCE AND IN GIFTS AND OFFERINGS, THEY HAVE REALIZED THE STANDING PROMISE THAT PROSPERITY SHOULD ATTEND ALL THEIR LABORS JUST IN PROPORTION AS THEY OBEYED HIS REQUIREMENTS. When they acknowledged the claims of God and complied with His requirements, honoring Him with their substance, their barns were filled with plenty. But when they robbed God in tithes and in offerings they were made to realize that they were not only robbing Him but themselves, for He limited His blessings to them just in proportion as they limited their offerings to Him. {3T 395.4}
Should all whom God has prospered with earth’s riches carry out His plan by faithfully giving a tenth of all their increase, and should they not withhold their trespass offerings and their thank offerings, the treasury would be constantly replenished. The simplicity of the plan of systematic benevolence does not detract from its merits, but extols the wisdom of God in its arrangement. Everything bearing the divine stamp unites simplicity with utility. IF SYSTEMATIC BENEVOLENCE WERE UNIVERSALLY ADOPTED ACCORDING TO GOD’S PLAN, AND THE TITHING SYSTEM CARRIED OUT AS FAITHFULLY BY THE WEALTHY AS IT IS BY THE POORER CLASSES, THERE WOULD BE NO NEED OF REPEATED AND URGENT CALLS FOR MEANS AT OUR LARGE RELIGIOUS GATHERINGS. THERE HAS BEEN A NEGLECT IN THE CHURCHES OF KEEPING UP THE PLAN OF SYSTEMATIC BENEVOLENCE, AND THE RESULT HAS BEEN AN IMPOVERISHED TREASURY AND A BACKSLIDDEN CHURCH. {3T 408.4}
GOD HAS DEVISED A PLAN BY WHICH ALL MAY GIVE AS HE HAS PROSPERED THEM, AND WHICH WILL MAKE GIVING A HABIT WITHOUT WAITING FOR SPECIAL CALLS. Those who can do this, but will not because of their selfishness, are robbing THEIR CREATOR, who has bestowed upon them means to invest in His cause to advance its interests. UNTIL ALL SHALL CARRY OUT THE PLAN OF SYSTEMATIC BENEVOLENCE, THERE WILL BE A FAILURE IN COMING UP TO THE APOSTOLIC RULE. Those who minister in word and doctrine should be men of discrimination. They should, while they make general appeals, become acquainted with the ability of those who respond to their appeals, and should not allow the poor to pay large pledges. After a man has once consecrated a certain sum to the Lord, he feels that it is sacred, consecrated to a holy use. This is true, and therefore our preaching brethren should be well informed of whom they accept pledges. {3T 411.2}
THE OFFERINGS OF LITTLE CHILDREN MAY BE ACCEPTABLE AND PLEASING TO GOD. In accordance with the spirit that prompts the gifts will be the value of the offering. The poor, by following the rule of the apostle and laying by a small sum every week, help to swell the treasury, and their gifts are wholly acceptable to God; for they make just as great, and even greater, sacrifices than their more wealthy brethren. THE PLAN OF SYSTEMATIC BENEVOLENCE WILL PROVE A SAFEGUARD TO EVERY FAMILY AGAINST TEMPTATIONS TO SPEND MEANS FOR NEEDLESS THINGS, AND ESPECIALLY WILL IT PROVE A BLESSING TO THE RICH BY GUARDING THEM FROM INDULGING IN EXTRAVAGANCES. [3T 412.1]
Ananias was obedient to the direction of the angel. He laid his hands upon the man who so recently was exercised with a spirit of the deepest hatred, breathing out threatenings against all who believed on the name of Christ. Ananias said to Saul: “Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.” {3T 431.1 1872-1875}
GOD IS LEADING A PEOPLE OUT FROM THE WORLD UPON THE EXALTED PLATFORM OF ETERNAL TRUTH, THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD AND THE FAITH OF JESUS. He will discipline and fit up His people. They will not be at variance, one believing one thing, and another having faith and views entirely opposite, each moving independently of the body. Through the diversity of the gifts and governments that He has placed in the church, they will all come to the unity of the faith. If one man takes his views of BIBLE truth without regard to the opinions of his brethren, and justifies his course, alleging that he has a right to his own peculiar views, and then presses them upon others, how can he be fulfilling the prayer of Christ? And if another and still another arises, each asserting his right to believe and talk what he pleases without reference to the faith of the body, where will be that harmony which existed between CHRIST AND HIS FATHER, and which Christ prayed might exist among His brethren? {3T 446.3 1872-1875}
I HAVE BEEN SHOWN THAT NO MAN’S JUDGMENT SHOULD BE SURRENDERED TO THE JUDGMENT OF ANY ONE MAN. BUT WHEN THE JUDGMENT OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE, WHICH IS THE HIGHEST AUTHORITY THAT GOD HAS UPON THE EARTH, IS EXERCISED, PRIVATE INDEPENDENCE AND PRIVATE JUDGMENT MUST NOT BE MAINTAINED, BUT SURRENDERED. {3T 492 1872-1875} {PC 422.2 1985}
He (James White) received a commendation that few others have attained. God has permitted the precious light of truth to shine upon His word and illuminate the mind of my husband. He may reflect the rays of light from the presence of Jesus upon others by his preaching and writing.{3T 502 1872-1875}
THE SYSTEM OF BENEVOLENCE WAS ARRANGED TO PREVENT THAT GREAT EVIL, COVETOUSNESS. Christ saw that in the prosecution of business the love of riches would be the greatest cause of rooting true godliness out of the heart. He saw that the love of money would freeze deep and hard into men’s souls, stopping the flow of generous impulses and closing their senses to the wants of the suffering and the afflicted. “Take heed,” was His oft-repeated warning, “and beware of covetousness.” “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” The oft-repeated and striking warnings of OUR REDEEMER are in marked contrast with the actions of His professed followers who evidence in their lives so great eagerness to be rich and who show that the words of Christ are lost upon them. Covetousness is one of the most common and popular sins of the last days, and has a paralyzing influence upon the soul. [3T 547.2 (1872-1875)]
CONSTANT, SELF-DENYING BENEVOLENCE IS GOD’S REMEDY FOR THE CANKERING SINS OF SELFISHNESS AND COVETOUSNESS. GOD HAS ARRANGED SYSTEMATIC BENEVOLENCE TO SUSTAIN HIS CAUSE AND RELIEVE THE NECESSITIES OF THE SUFFERING AND NEEDY. He has ordained that giving should become a habit, that it may counteract the dangerous and deceitful sin of covetousness. Continual giving starves covetousness to death. SYSTEMATIC BENEVOLENCE IS DESIGNED IN THE ORDER OF GOD TO TEAR AWAY TREASURES FROM THE COVETOUS AS FAST AS THEY ARE GAINED AND TO CONSECRATE THEM TO THE LORD, TO WHOM THEY BELONG. [3T 548.1]
This system is so arranged that men may give something from their wages every day and lay by for their Lord a portion of the profits of every investment. THE CONSTANT PRACTICE OF GOD’S PLAN OF SYSTEMATIC BENEVOLENCE WEAKENS COVETOUSNESS AND STRENGTHENS BENEVOLENCE. If riches increase, men, even those professing godliness, set their hearts upon them; and the more they have, the less they give to the treasury of the Lord. Thus riches make men selfish, and hoarding feeds covetousness; and these evils strengthen by active exercise. God knows our danger and has hedged us about with means to prevent our own ruin. He requires the constant exercise of benevolence, that the force of habit in good works may break the force of habit in an opposite direction. [3T 548.2]
THE TABERNACLE WAS MADE ACCORDING TO THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD. The Lord raised up men, and qualified them with more than natural abilities to perform the most ingenious work. Neither those workmen nor Moses were left to plan the form, and workmanship of the building. GOD HIMSELF DEVISED THE PLAN, AND GAVE IT TO MOSES, with particular directions as to its size and form, and the materials to be used, and specified every article of furniture which was to be in it. He presented before Moses a miniature model of the heavenly sanctuary, and commanded him to make all things according to the pattern showed him in the mount. Moses wrote all the directions in a book, and read them to the most influential of the people. {4aSG 5.1 1864} Also {SR 151.1} {1SP 269.1}
Within the second vail was placed the ark of the testimony, and the beautiful and rich curtain was drawn before the sacred ark. This curtain did not reach to the top of the building. The glory of God, which was above the mercy-seat, could be seen from both apartments, but in a much less degree from the first apartment. Directly before the ark, but separated by the curtain, was the golden altar of incense. THE FIRE UPON THIS ALTAR WAS KINDLED BY THE LORD HIMSELF, and was sacredly cherished by feeding it with holy incense, which filled the sanctuary with its fragrant cloud, day and night. Its fragrance extended for miles around the tabernacle. When the priest offered the incense before the Lord, he looked to the mercy-seat. Although he could not see it, he knew it was there, and as the incense arose like a cloud, the glory of the Lord descended upon the mercy-seat, and filled the most holy place, and was visible in the holy place, and the glory often so filled both apartments that the priest was unable to officiate, and was obliged to stand at the door of the tabernacle. THE PRIEST IN THE HOLY PLACE, DIRECTING HIS PRAYER BY FAITH TO THE MERCY-SEAT, WHICH HE COULD NOT SEE, REPRESENTS THE PEOPLE OF GOD DIRECTING THEIR PRAYERS TO CHRIST BEFORE THE MERCY-SEAT IN THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. They cannot behold their Mediator with the natural eye, but with the eye of faith they see Christ before the mercy-seat, and direct their prayers to him, and with assurance claim the benefits of his mediation. {4aSG 8.3} Also {1SP 273.3}
There is a grand rebellion in the earthly universe. Is there not a great leader of that rebellion? Is not Satan the life and soul of every species of rebellion which he himself has instigated? Is he not the first great apostate from God? A rebellion exists. Lucifer revolted from his allegiance and makes war on the divine government. Christ is appointed to put down the rebellion. He makes this world His battlefield. He stands at the head of the human family. He clothes His divinity with humanity and He passes over the ground where Adam fell and endures all the assaults of Satan’s temptations, but He does not yield in a single instance. [4BC 1163.4]
The salvation of a world is at stake. He resisted the archdeceiver. In behalf of man He must conquer as a man, and in the very same manner man must conquer by “It is written.” His own words under the guise of humanity would be misjudged, misinterpreted, falsified. His own words spoken as the DIVINE SON OF GOD could not be falsified. [4BC 1163.5]
It will be in the last great day when every case receives as his works have been; it will be the final and eternal condemnation of the devil and all his sympathizers and all who have served under his jurisdiction and have identified themselves with him. Will he have a reason to assign for his rebellion? When the Judge of all the world demands, Why have ye done thus? what reason can he assign, what cause can he plead? Bear in mind every tongue is silent, every mouth that has been so ready to speak evil, so ready to accuse, so ready to utter words of recrimination and falsehood is stopped, and the whole world of rebellion stands speechless before God; their tongues cleave to the roof of their mouth. The place where sin entered can be specified. [4BC 1163.6]
Thou wast perfect in thy ways . . . till iniquity was found in thee. Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness. All this was the gift of God. God was not chargeable with this–making the covering cherub beautiful, noble and good. By the multitude of thy merchandise they have filled the midst of thee with violence, and thou hast sinned: . . . thou has defiled thy sanctuaries by the multitude of thine iniquities, by the iniquity of thy traffick. In this place traffick is the emblem of corrupt administration. It denotes the bringing of self-seeking into spiritual offices. Nothing in spiritual service is acceptable to God except the purposes and works that are for the good of the universe. To do good to others will redound to the glory of God. [4BC 1163.7]
GOD LEADS HIS PEOPLE ON STEP BY STEP. HE BRINGS THEM UP TO DIFFERENT POINTS WHICH ARE CALCULATED TO MANIFEST WHAT IS IN THE HEART. SOME ENDURE AT ONE POINT, BUT FALL OFF AT THE NEXT. AT EVERY ADVANCED POINT THE HEART IS TESTED, AND TRIED A LITTLE CLOSER. If the professed people of God find their hearts opposed to the straight work of God, it should convince them that they have a work to do to overcome, or be spued out of the mouth of the Lord. Said the angel, “God will bring his work closer and closer to test them, and prove every one of his people.” Some are willing to receive one point, but when God brings them to another testing point, they shrink from it and stand back, because they find it strikes directly at some cherished idol. Here they have opportunity to see what is in their hearts that shuts out Jesus. They prize something higher than the truth, and their hearts are not prepared to receive Jesus. Individuals are tested and proved a length of time to see if they will sacrifice their idols, and heed the counsel of the true Witness. If they will not be purified through obeying the truth, and overcome their selfishness, their pride, and evil passions, the angels of God have their charge,–“They are joined to their idols, let them alone,”–and they pass on to their work, leaving them with their evil traits unsubdued, to the control of evil angels. Those who come up to every point, and stand every test, and overcome, be the price what it may, have heeded the counsel of the true Witness, and they will be fitted for translation by the latter rain. {4bSG 34.1 1864} and they will receive the latter rain, and thus be fitted for translation. {LHU 375.2 1988} & {Mar 43.3 1976}
THE PROPHET OF GOD DECLARES THAT IN THE LAST DAYS KNOWLEDGE SHALL BE INCREASED. There are new truths to be revealed to the humble seeker. THE TEACHINGS OF GOD’S WORD ARE TO BE FREED FROM THE ERRORS AND SUPERSTITION WITH WHICH THEY HAVE BEEN ENCUMBERED. DOCTRINES THAT ARE NOT SANCTIONED BY THE SCRIPTURES HAVE BEEN WIDELY TAUGHT, AND MANY HAVE HONESTLY ACCEPTED THEM; BUT WHEN THE TRUTH IS REVEALED, IT BECOMES THE DUTY OF EVERY ONE TO ACCEPT IT. Those who allow worldly interests, desire for popularity, or pride of opinion, to separate them from the truth, must render an account to God for their neglect. {4SP 186.3 1884}
IT WAS TO SEPARATE THE CHURCH OF CHRIST FROM THE CORRUPTING INFLUENCE OF THE WORLD THAT THE FIRST ANGEL’S MESSAGE WAS GIVEN. But with the multitude, even of professed Christians, the ties which bound them to earth were stronger than the attractions heavenward. They chose to listen to the voice of worldly wisdom, and turned away from the heart-searching message of truth. {4SP 231.1 1884}
Since the rejection of the first message, a sad change has taken place in the churches. As truth is spurned, error is received and cherished. Love for God, and faith in his word, have grown cold. THE CHURCHES HAVE GRIEVED THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD, AND IT HAS BEEN IN A GREAT MEASURE WITHDRAWN. The words of the prophet Ezekiel are fearfully applicable: “Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their heart, and put the stumbling-block of their iniquity before their face. Should I be inquired of at all by them?” “I the Lord will answer him that cometh according to the multitude of his idols.” [Ezekiel 14:3, 4.] Men may not bow down to idols of wood and stone, but all who love the things of the world and take pleasure in unrighteousness have set up idols in their hearts. THE MAJORITY OF PROFESSED CHRISTIANS ARE SERVING OTHER GODS BESIDES THE LORD. PRIDE AND LUXURY ARE CHERISHED, IDOLS ARE SET UP IN THE SANCTUARY, AND HER HOLY PLACES ARE POLLUTED. {4SP 237.3 1884}
In their investigation they learned, that the earthly sanctuary, built by Moses at the command of God, according to the pattern shown him in the mount, was “a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices;” that its two holy places were “patterns of things in the heavens;” that Christ, our great High Priest, is “a minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man;” that “Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true, but into Heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us.” [Hebrews 9:9, 23; 8:2; 9:24.] {4SP 260.1} Also {SR 376.2}
AT THE TERMINATION OF THE 2300 DAYS, IN 1844, NO SANCTUARY HAD EXISTED ON EARTH FOR MANY CENTURIES; THEREFORE THE SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN MUST BE THE ONE BROUGHT TO VIEW IN THE DECLARATION, “Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.” But how could a sanctuary in Heaven need cleansing? Turning again to the SCRIPTURES, the students of prophecy learned that the cleansing was not a removal of physical impurities, for it was to be accomplished with blood, and therefore must be a cleansing from sin. Thus says the apostle: “It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the Heavens should be purified with these [the blood of animals]; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these [even the precious blood of Christ].” [Hebrews 9:23.] To obtain a further knowledge of the cleansing to which the prophecy points, it was necessary to understand the ministration of the heavenly sanctuary. This could be learned only from the ministration of the earthly sanctuary; for Paul declares that the priests who officiated there served “unto the example and shadow of heavenly things.” [Hebrews 8:5.] {4SP 262.1}
As the sins of the people were anciently transferred, in figure, to the earthly sanctuary by the blood of the sin-offering, so our sins are, in fact, transferred to the heavenly sanctuary by the blood of Christ. And AS THE TYPICAL CLEANSING OF THE EARTHLY WAS ACCOMPLISHED BY THE REMOVAL OF THE SINS BY WHICH IT HAD BEEN POLLUTED, SO THE ACTUAL CLEANSING OF THE HEAVENLY IS TO BE ACCOMPLISHED BY THE REMOVAL, OR BLOTTING OUT, OF THE SINS WHICH ARE THERE RECORDED. This necessitates an examination of the books of record to determine who, through repentance of sin and faith in Christ, are entitled to the benefits of his atonement. The cleansing of the sanctuary therefore involves a work of investigative Judgment. This work must be performed prior to the coming of Christ to redeem his people; for when he comes, his reward is with him to give to every man according to his works. [Revelation 22:12.] {4SP 266.1} Also {SR 378.2} {FLB 206.6}
But clearer light came with the investigation of the sanctuary question. Now was seen the application of those words of Christ in the Revelation, addressed to the church at this very time: “These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth and no man shutteth, and shutteth and no man openeth; I know thy works; behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” [Revelation 3:7, 8.] Here an open as well as a shut door is brought to view. At the termination of the 2300 prophetic days in 1844, Christ changed his ministration from the holy to the most holy place. When, in the ministration of the earthly sanctuary, the high priest on the day of atonement entered the most holy place, the door of the holy place was closed, and the door of the most holy was opened. So, when Christ passed from the holy to the most holy of the heavenly sanctuary, the door, or ministration, of the former apartment was closed, and the door, or ministration, of the latter was opened. Christ had ended one part of his work as our intercessor, to enter upon another portion of the work; and he still presented his blood before the Father in behalf of sinners. “Behold,” he declares, “I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” {4SP 268.3} Also {GC88 429.2} {GC 429.2}
Those who by faith follow Jesus in the great work of the atonement, receive the benefits of his mediation in their behalf; but those who reject the light that brings to view this work of ministration, are not benefited thereby. The Jews who rejected the light given at Christ’s first advent, and refused to believe in him as the Saviour of the world, could not receive pardon through him. When Jesus at his ascension entered by his own blood into the heavenly sanctuary to shed upon his disciples the blessings of his mediation, the Jews were left in total darkness, to continue their useless sacrifices and offerings. The ministration of types and shadows had ceased. That door by which men had formerly found access to God, was no longer open. The Jews had refused to seek him in the only way whereby he could then be found, through the ministration in the sanctuary in Heaven. Therefore they found no communion with God. To them the door was shut. They had no knowledge of Christ as the true sacrifice and the only mediator before God; hence they could not receive the benefits of his mediation. {4SP 269.1}
When Christ entered the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary to perform the closing work of the atonement, he committed to his servants the last message of mercy to be given to the world. Such is the warning of the third angel of Revelation 14. Immediately following its proclamation, the Son of man is seen by the prophet coming in glory to reap the harvest of the earth. {4SP 273.1} Also {SR 379.1}
Here is a striking figure of the rise and growth of our own nation. And the lamblike horns, emblems of innocence and gentleness, well represent the character of our government, as expressed in its two fundamental principles, republicanism and Protestantism (4SP 277) [7BC 975.3]
Those who were seeking for the truth found indisputable proof of the existence of a sanctuary in Heaven. Moses made the earthly sanctuary after a pattern which was shown him. Paul declares that that pattern was the true sanctuary which is in Heaven. John testifies that he saw it in Heaven. {4SP 261.2} Also {SR 377.2}
The converts are not renewed in heart or changed in character. They do not renounce their pride and love of the world. They are no more willing to deny self, to take up the cross, and follow the meek and lowly Jesus, than before their conversion. In a genuine revival, when the SPIRIT OF GOD convicts the conscience, the earnest, anxious inquiry will be heard, “What must I do to be saved?” And this not merely for a day. With every truly converted soul the relation to God and to eternal things will be the great topic of life. But where, in the popular churches of today, is the deep conviction of sin? where is the spirit of consecration to God? The spirit that controls the world rules in the church. Religion has become the sport of infidels and skeptics because so many who bear its name are ignorant of its principles. The power of godliness has well-nigh departed from the churches. HEART UNION WITH CHRIST IS A RARE THING NOW. The majority of church-members know no tie but that which joins them to an organized body of professed Christians. Love of pleasure and thirst for excitement are everywhere prevalent. Picnics, church theatricals, church fairs, fine houses, personal display, have banished thoughts of God. Lands and goods and worldly occupations engross the mind, and things of eternal interest receive hardly a passing notice. {4SP 294.2 1884}
Says the great deceiver: “We must watch those who are calling the attention of the people to the Sabbath of Jehovah; they will lead many to see the claims of THE LAW OF GOD; and the same light which reveals the true Sabbath, reveals also the ministration of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary, and shows that the last work for man’s salvation is now going forward. Hold the minds of the people in darkness till that work is ended, and we shall secure the world and the church also. {4SP 337.2} Also {CS 154.2} {TM 472.2}
THE TRUTHS MOST PLAINLY REVEALED IN THE BIBLE HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN DOUBT AND DARKNESS BY LEARNED MEN, WHO, WITH A PRETENSE OF GREAT WISDOM, TEACH THAT THE SCRIPTURES HAVE A MYSTICAL, A SECRET, SPIRITUAL MEANING NOT APPARENT IN THE LANGUAGE EMPLOYED. THESE MEN ARE FALSE TEACHERS. It was to such a class that Jesus declared, “Ye know not the SCRIPTURES, neither the power of God.” [Mark 12:24.] THE LANGUAGE OF THE BIBLE SHOULD BE EXPLAINED ACCORDING TO ITS OBVIOUS MEANING UNLESS A SYMBOL OR FIGURE IS EMPLOYED. Christ has given the promise, “If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine.” [John 7:17.] IF MEN WOULD BUT TAKE THE BIBLE AS IT READS, IF THERE WERE NO FALSE TEACHERS TO MISLEAD AND CONFUSE THEIR MINDS, A WORK WOULD BE ACCOMPLISHED THAT WOULD MAKE ANGELS GLAD, AND THAT WOULD BRING INTO THE FOLD OF CHRIST THOUSANDS UPON THOUSANDS WHO ARE NOW WANDERING IN ERROR. {4SP 416.3 1884}
Fearful is the issue to which the world is to be brought. The powers of earth, uniting to war against the commandments of God, will decree that no man may buy or sell, save he that has the mark of the beast, and, finally, that whoever refuses to receive the mark shall be put to death. [Revelation 13:15, 17.] The WORD OF GOD declares: “If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation.” [Revelation 14:9, 10.] But not one is made to feel the wrath of God until the truth has been brought in contact with his mind and conscience, and has been rejected. There are many in the churches of our country who have never, even in this land of light and knowledge, had an opportunity to hear the special truths for this time. The obligation of the fourth commandment has never been set before them in its true light. Jesus reads every heart, and tries every motive. The decree is not to be urged upon the people blindly. Every one is to have sufficient light to make his decision intelligently. THE SABBATH WILL BE THE GREAT TEST OF LOYALTY; FOR IT IS THE POINT OF TRUTH ESPECIALLY CONTROVERTED. {4SP 422.2 1884}
THE VOICE OF GOD IS HEARD FROM HEAVEN DECLARING THE DAY AND HOUR OF JESUS’ COMING, and delivering the everlasting covenant to his people. Like peals of loudest thunder, his words roll through the earth. The Israel of God stand listening, with their eyes fixed upward. Their countenances are lighted up with his glory, and shine as did the face of Moses when he came down from Sinai. The wicked cannot look upon them. And when the blessing is pronounced on those who have honored God by keeping his Sabbath holy, there is a mighty shout of victory. {4SP 458.1 1884}
SOON THERE APPEARS IN THE EAST A SMALL BLACK CLOUD, ABOUT HALF THE SIZE OF A MAN’S HAND. IT IS THE CLOUD WHICH SURROUNDS THE SAVIOUR, AND WHICH SEEMS IN THE DISTANCE TO BE SHROUDED IN DARKNESS. The people of God know this to be the sign of the Son of man. In solemn silence they gaze upon it as it draws nearer the earth, becoming lighter and more glorious, until it is a great white cloud, its base a glory like consuming fire, and above it the rainbow of the covenant. Jesus rides forth as a mighty conqueror, and the armies of Heaven follow him. With songs of triumph, a vast retinue of holy angels escort him on his way. The firmament seems filled with shining forms, ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands. No pen can picture, no human mind conceive, the glory of the scene. As the living cloud comes still nearer, Jesus can be clearly seen. He does not wear a crown of thorns, but a crown of glory rests upon his holy brow. His countenance shines as the noonday sun. Upon his vesture and thigh is a name written, “King of kings, and Lord of lords.” {4SP 458.2 1884}
All come forth from their graves the same in stature as when they entered the tomb. Adam, who stands among the risen throng, is of lofty height and majestic form, in stature but little below the SON OF GOD. He presents a marked contrast to the people of later generations; in this one respect is shown the great degeneracy of the race. But all arise from their last deep slumber with the freshness and vigor of eternal youth. In the beginning, man was created in the likeness of God, not only in character, but in form and feature. Sin defaced and almost obliterated the divine image; but Christ came to restore that which had been lost. He will change our vile bodies, and fashion them like unto his glorious body. The mortal, corruptible form, devoid of comeliness, once polluted with sin, becomes perfect, beautiful, and immortal. All blemishes and deformities are left in the grave. The redeemed bear the image of their Lord. Oh, wonderful redemption! long talked of, long hoped for, contemplated with eager anticipation, but never fully understood. {4SP 463.2} (GC88 644-645)
THE CROSS OF CHRIST WILL BE THE SCIENCE AND THE SONG OF THE REDEEMED THROUGH ALL ETERNITY. In Christ glorified they will behold Christ crucified. Never will it be forgotten that He who could command all the powers of nature, who by a word could summon mighty angels to do his will and execute vengeance upon his enemies,–THE BELOVED OF GOD, THE MAJESTY OF HEAVEN,–submitted to insult, torture, and death, that sinners might be redeemed. That the Maker of all worlds, the Arbiter of all destinies, should lay aside his glory, and humiliate himself from love to man, will ever excite the wonder and admiration of the universe. As the nations of the saved look upon THEIR REDEEMER, and behold the eternal glory of the Father shining in his countenance; as they behold his throne, which is from everlasting to everlasting, and know that his kingdom is to have no end, they break forth in rapturous song, “Worthy, worthy is THE LAMB that was slain, and hath redeemed us to God by his own most precious blood!” {4SP 468.2} {OFC 342.5 1991}
The wicked receive their recompense in the earth. They “shall be stubble; and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts.” Some are destroyed as in a moment, while others suffer many days. All are punished according to their deeds. The sins of the righteous have been transferred to Satan, the originator of evil, who must bear their penalty. Thus he is made to suffer not only for his own rebellion, but for all the sins which he has caused God’s people to commit. His punishment is to be far greater than that of those whom he has deceived. After all have perished who fell by his deceptions, he is still to live and suffer on. In the cleansing flames the wicked are at last destroyed, root and branch,– Satan the root, his followers the branches. The justice of God is satisfied, and the saints and all the angelic host say with a loud voice, Amen. {4SP 488.1} {CTr 372.2 1999}
In the city of God “there shall be no night.” None will need or desire repose. THERE WILL BE NO WEARINESS IN DOING THE WILL OF GOD AND OFFERING PRAISE TO HIS NAME. We shall ever feel the freshness of the morning, and shall ever be far from its close. “And they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light.” [Revelation 22:5.] The light of the sun will be superseded by a radiance which is not painfully dazzling, yet which immeasurably surpasses the brightness of our noontide. THE GLORY OF GOD AND THE LAMB FLOODS THE HOLY CITY WITH UNFADING LIGHT. The redeemed walk in the sunless glory of perpetual day. {4SP 491.1} {CTr 372.6 1999}
BETWEEN THE LAWS OF MEN AND THE PRECEPTS OF JEHOVAH WILL COME THE LAST GREAT CONFLICT OF THE CONTROVERSY BETWEEN TRUTH AND ERROR. UPON THIS BATTLE WE ARE NOW ENTERING,–a battle not between rival churches contending for the supremacy, but between the religion of the BIBLE and the religion of fable and tradition. The agencies which will unite against truth and righteousness in this contest are now actively at work. {4SP 398.2} {PK 625.2 1917}
GOD’S HOLY WORD, WHICH HAS BEEN HANDED DOWN TO US AT SUCH A COST OF SUFFERING AND BLOOD, IS BUT LITTLE VALUED. The BIBLE is within the reach of all, but there are few who really accept it as the guide of life. Infidelity prevails to an alarming extent, not in the world merely, but in the church. MANY HAVE COME TO DENY DOCTRINES WHICH ARE THE VERY PILLARS OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH. The great facts of creation as presented by the inspired writers, the fall of man, the atonement, and the perpetuity of THE LAW OF GOD, are practically rejected by a large share of the professedly Christian world. Thousands who pride themselves upon their wisdom and independence regard it an evidence of weakness to place implicit confidence in the BIBLE, and a proof of superior talent and learning to cavil at the SCRIPTURES, and to spiritualize and explain away their most important truths. Many ministers are teaching their people, and many professors and teachers are instructing their students, that THE LAW OF GOD has been changed or abrogated; and they ridicule those who are so simple-minded as to acknowledge all its claims. {4SP 398.3} {PK 625.3 1917}
God has given us His commandments, not only to be believed in, but to be obeyed. The great Jehovah, when He had laid the foundations of the earth, had dressed the whole world in the garb of beauty, and had filled it with things useful to man,–when He had created all the wonders of the land and the sea,–instituted the Sabbath day and made it holy. God blessed and sanctified the seventh day, because He rested upon it from all His wondrous work of creation. THE SABBATH WAS MADE FOR MAN, and God would have him put by his labor on that day, as He Himself rested after His six days’ work of creation. {4T 247.2 1876-1881}
In consideration of the shortness of time we as a people should watch and pray, and in no case allow ourselves to be diverted from the solemn work of preparation for the great event before us. BECAUSE THE TIME IS APPARENTLY EXTENDED, MANY HAVE BECOME CARELESS AND INDIFFERENT IN REGARD TO THEIR WORDS AND ACTIONS. THEY DO NOT REALIZE THEIR DANGER AND DO NOT SEE AND UNDERSTAND THE MERCY OF OUR GOD IN LENGTHENING THEIR PROBATION, THAT THEY MAY HAVE TIME TO FORM CHARACTERS FOR THE FUTURE, IMMORTAL LIFE. Every moment is of the highest value. Time is granted them, not to be employed in studying their own ease and becoming dwellers on the earth, but to be used in the work of overcoming every defect in their own characters and in helping others, by example and personal effort, to see the beauty of holiness. God has a people upon the earth who in faith and holy hope are tracing down the roll of fast-fulfilling prophecy and are seeking to purify their souls by obeying the truth, that they may not be found without the wedding garment when Christ shall appear. {4T 306.3 1876-1881}
Many who have called themselves Adventists have been time setters. Time after time has been set for Christ to come, but repeated failures have been the result. The definite time of our Lord’s coming is declared to be beyond the ken of mortals. Even the angels who minister unto those who shall be heirs of salvation know not the day nor the hour. “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but My Father only.” Because the times repeatedly set have passed, the world is in a more decided state of unbelief than before in regard to the near advent of Christ. They look upon the failures of the time setters with disgust; and because men have been so deceived, they turn from the truth substantiated by the WORD OF GOD that the end of all things is at hand. {4T 307.1 1876-1881}
Those who so presumptuously preach definite time, in so doing gratify the adversary of souls; for they are advancing infidelity rather than Christianity. They produce SCRIPTURE and by false interpretation show a chain of argument which apparently proves their position. But their failures show that they are false prophets, that they do not rightly interpret the language of inspiration. The WORD OF GOD is truth and verity, but men have perverted its meaning. These errors have brought the truth of God for these last days into disrepute. Adventists are derided by ministers of all denominations, yet God’s servants must not hold their peace. The signs foretold in prophecy are fast fulfilling around us. This should arouse every true follower of Christ to zealous action. {4T 307.2 1876-1881}
Those who think they must preach definite time in order to make an impression upon the people do not work from the right standpoint. The feelings of the people may be stirred and their fears aroused, but they do not move from principle. An excitement is created; but when the time passes, as it has done repeatedly, those who moved out upon time fall back into coldness, darkness, and sin, and it is almost impossible to arouse their consciences without some great excitement. {4T 308.1 1876-1881}
Noah preached to the people of his time that God would give them one hundred and twenty years in which to repent of their sins and find refuge in the ark, but they refused the gracious invitation. Abundant time was given them to turn from their sins, overcome their bad habits, and develop righteous characters. But inclination to sin, though weak at first with many, strengthened through repeated indulgence and hurried them on to irretrievable ruin. The merciful warning of God was rejected with sneers, with mockery and derision; and they were left in darkness to follow the course that their sinful hearts had chosen. But their unbelief did not hinder the predicted event. It came, and great was the wrath of God which was seen in the general ruin. {4T 308.3 1876-1881}
These words of Christ should sink into the hearts of all who believe present truth: “And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.” Our danger is presented before us by Christ Himself. He knew the perils we should meet in these last days, and would have us prepare for them. “As it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man.” They were eating and drinking, planting and building, marrying and giving in marriage, and knew not until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and the Flood came and swept them all away. The day of God will find men absorbed in like manner in the business and pleasures of the world, in feasting and gluttony, and in indulging perverted appetite in the defiling use of liquor and the narcotic tobacco. This is already the condition of our world, and these indulgences are found even among God’s professed people, some of whom are following the customs and partaking of the sins of the world. Lawyers, mechanics, farmers, traders, and even ministers from the pulpit are crying, “Peace and safety,” when destruction is fast coming upon them. {4T 309.1 1876-1881}
I have been shown that here is where many will fail to bear the test. They develop their true character in the management of temporal concerns. They manifest unfaithfulness, scheming, dishonesty, in dealing with their fellow men. They do not consider that their hold upon the future, immortal life depends upon how they conduct themselves in the concerns of this life, and that the strictest integrity is indispensable to the formation of a righteous character. Dishonesty is practiced all through our ranks, and this is the cause of lukewarmness on the part of many who profess to believe the truth. They are not connected with Christ and are deceiving their own souls. I am pained to make the statement that there is an alarming lack of honesty even among Sabbathkeepers. {4T 309.3 1876-1881}
A formal religion is to be dreaded, for in it is no Saviour. Plain, close, searching, practical discourses were given by Christ. His ambassadors should follow His example in every discourse. CHRIST AND HIS FATHER WERE ONE; IN ALL THE FATHER’S REQUIREMENTS CHRIST CHEERFULLY ACQUIESCED. HE HAD THE MIND OF GOD. THE REDEEMER WAS THE PERFECT PATTERN. JEHOVAH WAS MANIFESTED IN HIM. HEAVEN WAS ENSHRINED IN HUMANITY, AND HUMANITY ENCLOSED IN THE BOSOM OF INFINITE LOVE. If ministers will in meekness sit at the feet of Jesus, they will soon obtain right views of God’s character and will be able to teach others also. Some enter the ministry without deep love to God or to their fellow men. Selfishness and self-indulgence will be manifested in the lives of such; and while these unconsecrated, unfaithful watchmen are serving themselves instead of feeding the flock and attending to their pastoral duties, the people perish for want of proper instruction. {4T 396.1 1876.1881} {GW92 14.2 1892}
We must gather about the cross. Christ and Him crucified must be the theme of contemplation, of conversation, and of our most joyful emotion. We should have these special appointments for the purpose of keeping fresh in our thoughts everything which we receive from God, and of expressing our gratitude for His great love, and our willingness to trust everything to the hand that was nailed to the cross for us. We should learn here to talk the language of Canaan, to sing the songs of Zion. By the mystery and glory of the cross we can estimate the value of man, and then we shall see and feel the importance of working for our fellow men, that they may be exalted to the throne of God. {4T 462.1 1876-1881}
And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put for his pillows, and set it up for a pillar, and poured oil upon the top of it. And here he made his solemn vow to God. … Long years intervened before Jacob dared to return to his own country, but when he did he faithfully discharged his debt to his Master. He had become a wealthy man, and a very large amount of property passed from his possessions to the treasury of the Lord. (4T p466).
In this scene of the resurrection of the SON OF GOD is given a lively image of the glory that will be revealed at the general resurrection of the just at the second appearing of Christ in the clouds of heaven. Then the dead that are in their graves shall hear His voice and come forth to life; and not only the earth, but the heavens themselves, shall be shaken. A few graves were opened at the resurrection of Christ; but at His second coming all the precious dead, from righteous Abel to the last saint that dies, shall awake to glorious, immortal life. [5BC 1110.3]
Christ left His position in the heavenly courts, and came to this earth to live the life of human beings. This sacrifice He made in order to show that Satan’s charge against God is false–that it is possible for man to obey THE LAWS OF GOD’S KINGDOM. EQUAL WITH THE FATHER, HONORED AND ADORED BY THE ANGELS, IN OUR BEHALF CHRIST HUMBLED HIMSELF, AND CAME TO THIS EARTH TO LIVE A LIFE OF LOWLINESS AND POVERTY TO BE A MAN OF SORROWS AND ACQUAINTED WITH GRIEF. YET THE STAMP OF DIVINITY WAS UPON HIS HUMANITY. 5BC 1129.6
There is no one who can explain the mystery of the incarnation of Christ. Yet we know that He came to this earth and lived as a man among men. THE MAN CHRIST JESUS WAS NOT THE LORD GOD ALMIGHTY, YET CHRIST AND THE FATHER ARE ONE. The Deity did not sink under the agonizing torture of Calvary, yet it is nonetheless true that “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” {5BC 1129.7}
Humility is an active principle growing out of a thorough consciousness of God’s great love, and will always show itself by the way in which it works. BY TAKING PART IN THE ORDINANCE OF FEET WASHING WE SHOW THAT WE ARE WILLING TO PERFORM THIS ACT OF HUMILITY. We are doing the very thing Christ did, but this is not to be talked of as an act of humiliation. IT IS AN ACT WHICH SYMBOLIZES THE CONDITION OF THE MIND AND HEART. {5BC 1139.2}
JESUS REFUSED TO RECEIVE THE HOMAGE OF HIS PEOPLE UNTIL HE KNEW THAT HIS SACRIFICE HAD BEEN ACCEPTED BY THE FATHER, AND UNTIL HE HAD RECEIVED THE ASSURANCE FROM GOD HIMSELF THAT HIS ATONEMENT FOR THE SINS OF HIS PEOPLE HAD BEEN FULL AND AMPLE, THAT THROUGH HIS BLOOD THEY MIGHT GAIN ETERNAL LIFE. Jesus immediately ascended to heaven and presented Himself before the throne of God, showing the marks of shame and cruelty upon His brow, His hands and feet. But he refused to receive the coronet of glory, and the royal robe, and He also refused the adoration of the angels as He had refused the homage of Mary, until the Father signified that His offering was accepted. {6Red 20.2 1877} {5BC 1150.3 1956}
He also had a request to prefer concerning His chosen ones upon earth. He wished to have the relation clearly defined that His redeemed should hereafter sustain to heaven, and to HIS FATHER. His church must be justified and accepted before He could accept heavenly honor. He declared it to be His will that where He was, there His church should be; if He was to have glory, His people must share it with Him. They who suffer with Him on earth must finally reign with Him in His kingdom. In the most explicit manner Christ pleaded for His church, identifying His interest with theirs, and advocating, with love and constancy stronger than death, their rights and titles gained through Him. {5BC 1150.4 1956}
1977 – Pope Paul VI rewards Bert B. Beach for his book with a private audience in the Vatican. Beach presents the pope with a book and a gold medallion confirming friendship of the SDA Church with the Vatican. “The medallion is an engraved witness to the validity of the Ten Commandments. While the other commandments are represented simply as Roman numerals, the words of the fourth—‘Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy’—are written out.” (W.D Eva, Adventist Review, “Book, Medallion Presented to Pope”, August 11, 1977, (849) p.23) However, the Seventh day was removed from the text, and quoted in the same way as it is quoted in any Roman Catholic catechism. Beach represents the worldwide Seventh-day Adventist Church in an interview over Vatican radio referring to the pope as “Holy Father,” when Ellen White has clearly warned, “The pope is not regarded by God as anything more than a man who is acting out in our world the character of the man of sin, representing in his claims that power and authority which Satan claimed in the heavenly courts.” (5MR 102)
The design of the truth is to elevate the receiver, to purify him from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit. I was shown that we are looked upon as a degraded people. WE ARE A SECT EVERYWHERE SPOKEN AGAINST, and unless we do take an elevated position, we are miserable representatives of the truth and we stand in the way of those who would believe the truth. Our lives, our acts, must be so circumspect and faultless as to commend the truth to unbelievers, especially to those who have any disposition to receive it. The truth is to elevate, to cleanse, to purify, to sanctify, to fit us for translation, prepare us for the company of holy angels, sinless beings in the kingdom of God. {5MR 291.2 1990}
Unbelievers are disgusted with anything in Sabbathkeepers which looks like slackness and uncleanness. Every act, every deed must be studied. All our course must be so that it cannot be censured justly. We must take every appearance [of] evil away from those who are watching us. {5MR 292.1 1990}
GOD IS LEADING OUT A PEOPLE AND PREPARING THEM FOR TRANSLATION. Are we, who are acting a part in this work, standing as sentinels for God? Are we seeking to work unitedly? Are we willing to become servants of all? Are we following our great EXEMPLAR? {5T 30.1 1882-1889}
Now is the time when we should closely connect with Jesus, that we may be hid under His wings when the fierceness of God’s wrath is poured upon the world. WE HAVE WANDERED AWAY FROM THE OLD BIBLICAL LANDMARKS. LET US RETURN. If the Lord be God, serve Him; if Baal, serve him. Which side will you be on? (5T p 137 1882-1889)
NOT ONE OF US WILL EVER RECEIVE THE SEAL OF GOD WHILE OUR CHARACTERS HAVE ONE SPOT OR STAIN UPON THEM. IT IS LEFT WITH US TO REMEDY THE DEFECTS IN OUR CHARACTERS, TO CLEANSE THE SOUL TEMPLE OF EVERY DEFILEMENT. Then the latter rain will fall upon us as the early rain fell upon the disciples on the Day of Pentecost. {5T 214.2 1882-1889}. Also {CET 189.2} 1922,{Mar 240.5} 1976 and {CCh 334.1} 1991
In this life we must meet fiery trials and make costly sacrifices, but the peace of Christ is the reward. There has been so little self-denial, so little suffering for Christ’s sake, that the cross is almost entirely forgotten. WE MUST BE PARTAKERS WITH CHRIST OF HIS SUFFERINGS IF WE WOULD SIT DOWN IN TRIUMPH WITH HIM ON HIS THRONE. SO LONG AS WE CHOOSE THE EASY PATH OF SELF-INDULGENCE AND ARE FRIGHTENED AT SELF-DENIAL, OUR FAITH WILL NEVER BECOME FIRM, AND WE CANNOT KNOW THE PEACE OF JESUS NOR THE JOY THAT COMES THROUGH CONSCIOUS VICTORY. The most exalted of the redeemed host that stand before THE THRONE OF GOD AND THE LAMB, clad in white, know the conflict of overcoming, for they have come up through great tribulation. Those who have yielded to circumstances rather than engage in this conflict will not know how to stand in that day when anguish will be upon every soul, when, though Noah, Job, and Daniel were in the land, they could save neither son nor daughter, for everyone must deliver his soul by his own righteousness. {5T 215.1 1882-1889} {CET 189.4 1922}
Had some men of limited ideas been on the ground they would have opened their eyes in horror. Like Judas they would have asked: “To what purpose is this waste?” “Why not make everything in the cheapest manner?” But THE SANCTUARY WAS NOT DESIGNED TO HONOR MAN, BUT THE GOD OF HEAVEN. He had given specific directions how everything was to be done. The people were to be taught that He was a being of greatness and majesty, and that He was to be worshiped with reverence and awe. {5T 268.2}
THE HOUSE WHERE GOD IS WORSHIPED SHOULD BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH HIS CHARACTER AND MAJESTY. There are small churches that ever will be small because they place their own interests above the interests of God’s cause. While they have large, convenient houses for themselves, and are constantly improving their premises, they are content to have a most unsuitable place for the worship of God, where His holy presence is to dwell. They wonder that Joseph and Mary were obliged to find shelter in a stable, and that there the Saviour was born; but they are willing to expend upon themselves a large part of their means, while the house of worship is shamefully neglected. How often they say: “The time is not come, the time that the Lord’s house should be built.” But the word of the Lord to them is: “Is it time for you, O ye, to dwell in your ceiled houses, and this house lie waste?” {5T 268.3}
THE HOUSE WHERE JESUS IS TO MEET WITH HIS PEOPLE SHOULD BE NEAT AND ATTRACTIVE. If there are but few believers in a place, put up a neat but humble house, and by dedicating it to God invite Jesus to come as your guest. How does He look upon His people when they have every convenience that heart could wish, but are willing to meet for His worship in a barn, some miserable, out-of-the-way building, or some cheap, forsaken apartment? You work for your friends, you expend means to make everything around them as attractive as possible; but Jesus, the One who gave everything for you, even His precious life,–He who is the Majesty of heaven, the King of kings and Lord of lords,–is favored with a place on earth but little better than the stable which was His first home. Shall we not look at these things as God looks at them? Shall we not test our motives and see what kind of faith we possess? {5T 269.1}
OUR PEOPLE NEED TO UNDERSTAND THE ORACLES OF GOD; they need to have a systematic knowledge of the principles of revealed truth, which will fit them for what is coming upon the earth and prevent them from being carried about by every wind of doctrine. 5T 273 (1882-1889). {LDE 66.5 1992}
We may rejoice in hope. Our Advocate is in the heavenly sanctuary, pleading in our behalf. Through His merits we have pardon and peace. He died that He might wash away our sins, clothe us with His righteousness, and fit us for the society of heaven, where we may dwell in light forever. Dear brother, dear sister, when Satan would fill your mind with despondency, gloom, and doubt, resist his suggestions. Tell him of the blood of Jesus, that cleanses from all sin. You cannot save yourself from the tempter’s power, but he trembles and flees when the merits of that precious blood are urged. Then will you not gratefully accept the blessings Jesus bestows? Will you not take the cup of salvation that He presents, and call on the name of the Lord? Do not show distrust of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. Do not for a moment pain the heart of the pitying Saviour by your unbelief. He watches with the most intense interest your progress in the heavenly way; He sees your earnest efforts; He notes your declensions and your recoveries, your hopes and your fears, your conflicts and your victories. {5T 316.2} Also {BEcho, January 1, 1888 par. 8}
THE THIRD ANGEL, FLYING IN THE MIDST OF HEAVEN AND HERALDING THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD AND THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS, REPRESENTS OUR WORK. The message loses none of its force in the angel’s onward flight, for John sees it increasing in strength and power until the whole earth is lightened with its glory. The course of God’s commandment-keeping people is onward, ever onward. The message of truth that we bear must go to nations, tongues, and peoples. Soon it will go with a loud voice, and the earth will be lightened with its glory. Are we preparing for this great outpouring of the SPIRIT OF GOD? {5T 383.2 1882-1889}
Human agencies are to be employed in this work. Zeal and energy must be intensified; talents that are rusting from inaction must be pressed into service. The voice that would say, “Wait; do not allow yourself to have burdens imposed upon you,” is the voice of the cowardly spies. WE WANT CALEBS NOW who will press to the front chieftains in Israel who with courageous words will make a strong report in favor of immediate action. When the selfish, ease-loving, panic-stricken people, fearing tall giants and inaccessible walls, clamor for retreat, LET THE VOICE OF THE CALEBS BE HEARD, even though the cowardly ones stand with stones in their hands, ready to beat them down for their faithful testimony. {5T 383.3 1882-1889}
In the minds of many there are no more sacred thoughts connected with the house of God than with the most common place. Some will enter the place of worship with their hats on, in soiled, dirty clothes. Such do not realize that they are to meet with God and holy angels. There should be a radical change in this matter all through our churches. Ministers themselves need to elevate their ideas, to have finer susceptibilities in regard to it. It is a feature of the work that has been sadly neglected. Because of the irreverence in attitude, dress, and deportment, and lack of a worshipful frame of mind, God has often turned His face away from those assembled for His worship. {5T 498.3}
There are many ways of practicing the healing art, but there is only one way that Heaven approves. God’s remedies are the simple agencies of nature that will not tax or debilitate the system through their powerful properties. Pure air and water, cleanliness, a proper diet, purity of life, and a firm trust in God are remedies for the want of which thousands are dying; yet these remedies are going out of date because their skillful use requires work that the people do not appreciate. Fresh air, exercise, pure water, and clean, sweet premises are within the reach of all with but little expense, but drugs are expensive, both in the outlay of means and in the effect produced upon the system. {5T 443.1 1882-1889}
TO THE HUMBLE, BELIEVING SOUL, THE HOUSE OF GOD ON EARTH IS THE GATE OF HEAVEN. The song of praise, the prayer, the words spoken by Christ’s representatives, are God’s appointed agencies to prepare a people for the church above, for that loftier worship into which there can enter nothing that defileth. {5T 491.1}
THE HOUSE IS THE SANCTUARY FOR THE FAMILY, AND THE CLOSET OR THE GROVE THE MOST RETIRED PLACE FOR INDIVIDUAL WORSHIP; BUT THE CHURCH IS THE SANCTUARY FOR THE CONGREGATION. There should be rules in regard to the time, the place, and the manner of worshiping. Nothing that is sacred, nothing that pertains to the worship of God, should be treated with carelessness or indifference. In order that men may do their best work in showing forth the praises of God, their associations must be such as will keep the sacred distinct from the common, in their minds. Those who have broad ideas, noble thoughts and aspirations, are those who have associations that strengthen all thoughts of divine things. Happy are those who have a sanctuary, be it high or low, in the city or among the rugged mountain caves, in the lowly cabin or in the wilderness. If it is the best they can secure for the Master, He will hallow the place with His presence, and it will be holy unto the Lord of hosts. {5T 491.3}
WHEN THE WORSHIPERS ENTER THE PLACE OF MEETING, THEY SHOULD DO SO WITH DECORUM, PASSING QUIETLY TO THEIR SEATS. If there is a stove in the room, it is not proper to crowd about it in an indolent, careless attitude. COMMON TALKING, WHISPERING, AND LAUGHING SHOULD NOT BE PERMITTED IN THE HOUSE OF WORSHIP, EITHER BEFORE OR AFTER THE SERVICE. Ardent, active piety should characterize the worshipers. {5T 492.1}
IF SOME HAVE TO WAIT A FEW MINUTES BEFORE THE MEETING BEGINS, LET THEM MAINTAIN A TRUE SPIRIT OF DEVOTION BY SILENT MEDITATION, KEEPING THE HEART UPLIFTED TO GOD IN PRAYER THAT THE SERVICE MAY BE OF SPECIAL BENEFIT TO THEIR OWN HEARTS AND LEAD TO THE CONVICTION AND CONVERSION OF OTHER SOULS. They should remember that heavenly messengers are in the house. We all lose much sweet communion with God by our restlessness, by not encouraging moments of reflection and prayer. The spiritual condition needs to be often reviewed and the mind and heart drawn toward the SUN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS. If when the people come into the house of worship, they have genuine reverence for the Lord and bear in mind that they are in His presence, there will be a sweet eloquence in silence. THE WHISPERING AND LAUGHING AND TALKING which might be without sin in a common business place SHOULD FIND NO SANCTION IN THE HOUSE WHERE GOD IS WORSHIPED. The mind should be prepared to hear the WORD OF GOD, that it may have due weight and suitably impress the heart. {5T 492.2}
WHEN THE MINISTER ENTERS, IT SHOULD BE WITH DIGNIFIED, SOLEMN MIEN. HE SHOULD BOW DOWN IN SILENT PRAYER AS SOON AS HE STEPS INTO THE PULPIT, AND EARNESTLY ASK HELP OF GOD. What an impression this will make! There will be solemnity and awe upon the people. Their minister is communing with God; he is committing himself to God before he dares to stand before the people. Solemnity rests upon all, and angels of God are brought very near. Every one of the congregation, also, who fears God should with bowed head unite in silent prayer with him that God may grace the meeting with His presence and give power to His truth proclaimed from human lips. WHEN THE MEETING IS OPENED BY PRAYER, EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW IN THE PRESENCE OF THE HOLY ONE, and every heart should ascend to God in silent devotion. The prayers of faithful worshipers will be heard, and the ministry of the word will prove effectual. The lifeless attitude of the worshipers in the house of God is one great reason why the ministry is not more productive of good. The melody of song, poured forth from many hearts in clear, distinct utterance, is one of God’s instrumentalities in the work of saving souls. All the service should be conducted with solemnity and awe, as if in the visible presence of the Master of assemblies. {5T 492.3}
WHEN THE WORD IS SPOKEN, YOU SHOULD REMEMBER, BRETHREN, THAT YOU ARE LISTENING TO THE VOICE OF GOD through His delegated servant. Listen attentively. Sleep not for one instant, because by this slumber you may lose the very words that you need most–the very words which, if heeded, would save your feet from straying into wrong paths. Satan and his angels are busy creating a paralyzed condition of the senses so that cautions, warnings, and reproofs shall not be heard; or if heard, that they shall not take effect upon the heart and reform the life. Sometimes a little child may so attract the attention of the hearers that the precious seed does not fall into good ground and bring forth fruit. Sometimes young men and women have so little reverence for the house and worship of God that they keep up a continual communication with each other during the sermon. Could these see the angels of God looking upon them and marking their doings, they would be filled with shame, with abhorrence of themselves. GOD WANTS ATTENTIVE HEARERS. It was while men slept that Satan sowed his tares. {5T 493.1}
WHEN THE BENEDICTION IS PRONOUNCED, ALL SHOULD STILL BE QUIET, AS IF FEARFUL OF LOSING THE PEACE OF CHRIST. LET ALL PASS OUT WITHOUT JOSTLING OR LOUD TALKING, FEELING THAT THEY ARE IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD, THAT HIS EYE IS RESTING UPON THEM, AND THAT THEY MUST ACT AS IN HIS VISIBLE PRESENCE. LET THERE BE NO STOPPING IN THE AISLES TO VISIT OR GOSSIP, thus blocking them up so that others cannot pass out. The precincts of the church should be invested with a sacred reverence. It should not be made a place to meet old friends and visit and introduce common thoughts and worldly business transactions. These should be left outside the church. God and angels have been dishonored by the careless, noisy laughing and shuffling of feet heard in some places. {5T 493.2}
PARENTS, ELEVATE THE STANDARD OF CHRISTIANITY IN THE MINDS OF YOUR CHILDREN; help them to weave Jesus into their experience; TEACH THEM TO HAVE THE HIGHEST REVERENCE FOR THE HOUSE OF GOD and to understand that when they enter the Lord’s house it should be with hearts that are softened and subdued by such thoughts as these: “God is here; this is His house. I must have pure thoughts and the holiest motives. I must have no pride, envy, jealousy, evil surmising, hatred, or deception in my heart, for I am coming into the presence of the holy God. This is the place where God meets with and blesses His people. The high and holy One who inhabiteth eternity looks upon me, searches my heart, and reads the most secret thoughts and acts of my life.” {5T 494.1}
Brethren, will you not devote a little thought to this subject and notice how you conduct yourselves in the house of God and what efforts you are making by precept and example to cultivate reverence in your children? You roll vast responsibilities upon the preacher and hold him accountable for the souls of your children; but you do not sense your own responsibility as parents and as instructors and, like Abraham, command your household after you, that they may keep the statutes of the Lord. Your sons and daughters are corrupted by your own example and lax precepts; and, notwithstanding this lack of domestic training, you expect the minister to counteract your daily work and accomplish the wonderful achievement of training their hearts and lives to virtue and piety. After the minister has done all he can do for the church by faithful, affectionate admonition, patient discipline, and fervent prayer to reclaim and save the soul, yet is not successful, the fathers and mothers often blame him because their children are not converted, when it may be because of their own neglect. The burden rests with the parents; and will they take up the work that God has entrusted to them, and with fidelity perform it? Will they move onward and upward, working in a humble, patient, persevering way to reach the exalted standard themselves and to bring their children up with them? No wonder our churches are feeble and do not have that deep, earnest piety in their borders that they should have. OUR PRESENT HABITS AND CUSTOMS, WHICH DISHONOR GOD AND BRING THE SACRED AND HEAVENLY DOWN TO THE LEVEL OF THE COMMON, ARE AGAINST US. We have a sacred, testing, sanctifying truth; and if our habits and practices are not in accordance with the truth, we are sinners against great light, and are proportionately guilty. It will be far more tolerable for the heathen in the day of God’s retributive justice than for us. {5T 494.2}
A much greater work might be done than we are now doing in reflecting the light of truth. GOD EXPECTS US TO BEAR MUCH FRUIT. He expects greater zeal and faithfulness, more affectionate and earnest efforts, by the individual members of the church for their neighbors and for those who are out of Christ. Parents must begin their work on a high plane of action. All who name the name of Christ must put on the whole armor and entreat, warn, and seek to win souls from sin. Lead all you can to listen to the truth in the house of God. We must do much more than we are doing to snatch souls from the burning. {5T 495.1}
IT IS TOO TRUE THAT REVERENCE FOR THE HOUSE OF GOD HAS BECOME ALMOST EXTINCT. Sacred things and places are not discerned; the holy and exalted are not appreciated. Is there not a cause for the want of fervent piety in our families? Is it not because the high standard of religion is left to trail in the dust? GOD GAVE RULES OF ORDER, PERFECT AND EXACT, TO HIS ANCIENT PEOPLE. HAS HIS CHARACTER CHANGED? Is He not the great and mighty God who rules in the heaven of heavens? Would it not be well for us often to read the directions given by God Himself to the Hebrews, that we who have the light of the glorious truth shining upon us may imitate their reverence for the house of God? We have abundant reason to maintain a fervent, devoted spirit in the worship of God. We have reason even to be more thoughtful and reverential in our worship than had the Jews. But an enemy has been at work to destroy our faith in the sacredness of Christian worship. {5T 495.2}
THE PLACE DEDICATED TO GOD SHOULD NOT BE A ROOM WHERE WORLDLY BUSINESS IS TRANSACTED. IF THE CHILDREN ASSEMBLE TO WORSHIP GOD IN A ROOM THAT IS USED DURING THE WEEK FOR A SCHOOL OR A STOREROOM, THEY WILL BE MORE THAN HUMAN IF, MINGLED WITH THEIR DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS, THEY DO NOT ALSO HAVE THOUGHTS OF THEIR STUDIES OR OF THINGS THAT HAVE HAPPENED DURING THE WEEK. The education and training of the youth should be of a character that would exalt sacred things and encourage pure devotion for God in His house. Many who profess to be children of the heavenly King have no true appreciation of the sacredness of eternal things. Nearly all need to be taught how to conduct themselves in the house of God. Parents should not only teach, but command, their children to enter the sanctuary with sobriety and reverence. {5T 496.1}
THE MORAL TASTE OF THE WORSHIPERS IN GOD’S HOLY SANCTUARY MUST BE ELEVATED, REFINED, SANCTIFIED. This matter has been sadly neglected. Its importance has been overlooked, and as the result, disorder and irreverence have become prevalent, and God has been dishonored. When the leaders in the church, ministers and people, father and mothers, have not had elevated views of this matter, what could be expected of the inexperienced children? They are too often found in groups, away from the parents, who should have charge of them. Notwithstanding they are in the presence of God, and His eye is looking upon them, they are light and trifling, they whisper and laugh, are careless, irreverent, and inattentive. They are seldom instructed that the minister is God’s ambassador, that the message he brings is one of God’s appointed agencies in the salvation of souls, and that to all who have the privilege brought within their reach it will be a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. {5T 496.2}
Parents, be careful what example and what ideas you give your children. Their minds are plastic, and impressions are easily made. In regard to the service of the sanctuary, if the speaker has a blemish, be afraid to mention it. Talk only of the good work he is doing, of the good ideas he presented, which you should heed as coming through God’s agent. It may be readily seen why children are so little impressed with the ministry of the word and why they have so little reverence for the house of God. Their education has been defective in this respect. Their parents need daily communion with God. Their own ideas need to be refined and ennobled; their lips need to be touched with a live coal from off the altar; then their habits, their practices at home, will make a good impression on the minds and characters of their children. The standard of religion will be greatly elevated. Such parents will do a great work for God. They will have less earthliness, less sensuality, and more refinement and fidelity at home. Life will be invested with a solemnity of which they have scarcely conceived. Nothing will be made common that pertains to the service and worship of God. {5T 498.1}
I am often pained as I enter the house where God is worshiped, to see the untidy dress of both men and women. If the heart and character were indicated by the outward apparel, then certainly nothing could be heavenly about them. They have no true idea of the order, the neatness, and the refined deportment that God requires of all who come into His presence to worship Him. What impressions do these things give to unbelievers and to the youth, who are keen to discern and to draw their conclusions? {5T 498.2}
ALL SHOULD BE TAUGHT TO BE NEAT, CLEAN, AND ORDERLY IN THEIR DRESS, BUT NOT TO INDULGE IN THAT EXTERNAL ADORNING WHICH IS WHOLLY INAPPROPRIATE FOR THE SANCTUARY. There should be no display of the apparel; for this encourages irreverence. The attention of the people is often called to this or that fine article of dress, and thus thoughts are intruded that should have no place in the hearts of the worshipers. God is to be the subject of thought, the object of worship; and anything that attracts the mind from the solemn, sacred service is an offense to Him. The parading of bows and ribbons, ruffles and feathers, and gold and silver ornaments is a species of idolatry and is wholly inappropriate for the sacred service of God, where the eye of every worshiper should be single to His glory. ALL MATTERS OF DRESS SHOULD BE STRICTLY GUARDED, FOLLOWING CLOSELY THE BIBLE RULE. Fashion has been the goddess who has ruled the outside world, and she often insinuates herself into the church. The church should make the WORD OF GOD her standard, and parents should think intelligently upon this subject. When they see their children inclined to follow worldly fashions, they should, like Abraham, resolutely command their households after them. Instead of uniting them with the world, connect them with God. Let none dishonor God’s sanctuary by their showy apparel. God and angels are there. The Holy One of Israel has spoken through His apostle: “Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.” {5T 499.1}
When a church has been raised up and left uninstructed on these points, the minister has neglected his duty and will have to give an account to God for the impressions he allowed to prevail. UNLESS CORRECT IDEAS OF TRUE WORSHIP AND TRUE REVERENCE ARE IMPRESSED UPON THE PEOPLE, THERE WILL BE A GROWING TENDENCY TO PLACE THE SACRED AND ETERNAL ON A LEVEL WITH COMMON THINGS, and those professing the truth will be an offense to God and a disgrace to religion. They can never, with their uncultivated ideas, appreciate a pure and holy heaven, and be prepared to join with the worshipers in the heavenly courts above, where all is purity and perfection, where every being has perfect reverence for God and His holiness. {5T 500.1}
Paul describes the work of God’s ambassadors as that by which every man shall be presented perfect in Christ Jesus. Those who embrace the truth of heavenly origin should be refined, ennobled, sanctified through it. It will require much painstaking effort to reach God’s standard of true manhood. The irregular stones hewed from the quarry must be chiseled, their rough sides must be polished. This is an age famous for surface work, for easy methods, for boasted holiness aside from the standard of character that God has erected. All short routes, all cutoff tracks, all teaching which fails to exalt THE LAW OF GOD as the standard of religious character, is spurious. PERFECTION OF CHARACTER IS A LIFELONG WORK, UNATTAINABLE BY THOSE WHO ARE NOT WILLING TO STRIVE FOR IT IN GOD’S APPOINTED WAY, BY SLOW AND TOILSOME STEPS. We cannot afford to make any mistake in this matter, but we want day by day to be growing up into Christ, our living Head. {5T 500.2}
We are in the great day of atonement, and the sacred work of Christ for the people of God that is going on at the present time in the heavenly sanctuary should be our constant study. WE SHOULD TEACH OUR CHILDREN WHAT THE TYPICAL DAY OF ATONEMENT SIGNIFIED AND THAT IT WAS A SPECIAL SEASON OF GREAT HUMILIATION AND CONFESSION OF SINS BEFORE GOD. THE ANTITYPICAL DAY OF ATONEMENT IS TO BE OF THE SAME CHARACTER. Everyone who teaches the truth by precept and example will give the trumpet a certain sound. You need ever to cultivate spirituality, because it is not natural for you to be heavenly-minded. The great work is before us of leading the people away from worldly customs and practices, up higher and higher, to spirituality, piety, and earnest work for God. It is your work to proclaim the message of the third angel, to sound the last note of warning to the world. May the Lord bless you with spiritual eyesight. I write this in love, seeing your danger. Please consider these things carefully and prayerfully. {5T 520.1}
It is not alone those who openly reject the Testimonies, or who cherish doubt concerning them, that are on dangerous ground. TO DISREGARD LIGHT IS TO REJECT IT. {5T 680.2 1882-1889}
If these persons do not humble their hearts before God, if they harbor the suggestions of Satan, doubt and infidelity will take possession of the soul, and they will see everything in a false light. Let the seeds of doubt once be sown in their hearts and they will have an abundant harvest to reap. They will come to mistrust and disbelieve truths which are plain and full of beauty to others who have not educated themselves in unbelief. Those who train the mind to seize upon everything which they can use as a peg to hang a doubt upon, and suggest these thoughts to other minds, will always find occasion to doubt. They will question and criticize everything that arises in the unfolding of truth, criticize the work and position of others, criticize every branch of the work in which they have not themselves a part. They will feed upon the errors and mistakes and faults of others, “until,” said the angel, the Lord Jesus shall rise up from His mediatorial work in the heavenly sanctuary and shall clothe Himself with the garments of vengeance and surprise them at their unholy feast, and they will find themselves unprepared for the marriage supper of THE LAMB.” Their taste has been so perverted that they would be inclined to criticize even the table of the Lord in His kingdom. {5T 689.2}
Agitate, agitate, agitate. The subjects which we present to the world must be to us a living reality. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT IN DEFENDING THE DOCTRINES WHICH WE CONSIDER FUNDAMENTAL ARTICLES OF FAITH WE SHOULD NEVER ALLOW OURSELVES TO EMPLOY ARGUMENTS THAT ARE NOT WHOLLY SOUND. These may avail to silence an opposer, but they do not honor the truth. We should present sound arguments, that will not only silence our opponents, but will bear the closest and most searching scrutiny. With those who have educated themselves as debaters there is great danger that they will not handle the WORD OF GOD with fairness. IN MEETING AN OPPONENT IT SHOULD BE OUR EARNEST EFFORT TO PRESENT SUBJECTS IN SUCH A MANNER AS TO AWAKEN CONVICTION IN HIS MIND, instead of seeking merely to give confidence to the believer. {5T 708.1 1882-1889}
CHRIST DETERMINED THAT WHEN HE ASCENDED FROM THIS EARTH, HE WOULD BESTOW A GIFT ON THOSE WHO HAD BELIEVED ON HIM, AND THOSE WHO SHOULD BELIEVE ON HIM. WHAT GIFT COULD HE BESTOW RICH ENOUGH TO SIGNALIZE AND GRACE HIS ASCENSION TO THE MEDIATORIAL THRONE? IT MUST BE WORTHY OF HIS GREATNESS AND HIS ROYALTY. HE DETERMINED TO GIVE HIS REPRESENTATIVE, THE THIRD PERSON OF THE GODHEAD. THIS GIFT COULD NOT BE EXCELLED. HE WOULD GIVE ALL GIFTS IN ONE, AND THEREFORE THE DIVINE SPIRIT, THAT CONVERTING, ENLIGHTENING, AND SANCTIFYING POWER, WOULD BE HIS DONATION. {6BC 1052}
The whole world stands condemned before the great moral standard of righteousness. In the great day of judgment every soul that has lived on the earth will receive sentence in accordance as to whether his deeds have been good or evil in the light of THE LAW OF GOD. Every mouth will be stopped as the cross with its dying Victim shall be presented, and its real bearing shall be seen by every mind that has been sin blinded and corrupted. Sinners will stand condemned before the cross, with its mysterious Victim bowing beneath the infinite burden of human transgression. How quickly will be swept away every subterfuge, every lying excuse! Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. They will then understand that they have chosen Barabbas instead of CHRIST, THE PRINCE OF PEACE. [6BC 1069.3]
The mystery of the incarnation and the crucifixion will be plainly discerned; for it will be presented before the mind’s eye, and every condemned soul will read what has been the character of his rejection of truth. All will understand that they have erred from the truth by receiving the misinterpretations and bewitching lies of Satan instead of “every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” They read the announcement, “Thou, O man, hast chosen to stand under the banner of the great rebel, Satan, and in so doing thou hast destroyed thyself.” Whatever may have been the endowment of talent, whatever may have been the supposed wisdom, the rejecter of truth has then no ability to turn unto God. The door is shut, as was the door of the ark in Noah’s day. [6BC 1069.4]
Then those who pierced Christ will remember how they slighted His love and abused His compassion; how they chose in His stead Barabbas, a robber and murderer; how they crowned the Saviour with thorns, and caused Him to be scourged and crucified; how, in the agony of His death on the cross, they taunted Him, saying, “Let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him.” “He saved others; himself he cannot save.” They will seem to hear again His voice of entreaty. Every tone of solicitude will vibrate as distinctly in their ears as when the Saviour spoke to them. EVERY ACT OF INSULT AND MOCKERY DONE TO CHRIST WILL BE AS FRESH IN THEIR MEMORY AS WHEN THE SATANIC DEEDS WERE DONE. [6BC 1070.2]
Let no one take the limited, narrow position that any of the works of man can help in the least possible way to liquidate the debt of his transgression. This is a fatal deception. If you would understand it, you must cease haggling over your pet ideas, and with humble hearts survey the atonement. [6BC 1071.4]
This matter is so dimly comprehended that thousands upon thousands claiming to be sons of God are children of the wicked one, because they will depend on their own works. GOD ALWAYS DEMANDED GOOD WORKS, THE LAW DEMANDS IT, but because man placed himself in sin where his good works were valueless, Jesus’ righteousness alone can avail. Christ is able to save to the uttermost because He ever liveth to make intercession for us. [6BC 1071.5]
Here the truth is laid out in plain lines. This mercy and goodness is wholly undeserved. The grace of Christ is freely to justify the sinner without merit or claim on his part. Justification is a full, complete pardon of sin. THE MOMENT A SINNER ACCEPTS CHRIST BY FAITH, THAT MOMENT HE IS PARDONED. THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF CHRIST IS IMPUTED TO HIM, AND HE IS NO MORE TO DOUBT GOD’S FORGIVING GRACE. [6BC 1071.8]
There is nothing in faith that makes it our saviour. Faith cannot remove our guilt. CHRIST IS THE POWER OF GOD UNTO SALVATION TO ALL THEM THAT BELIEVE. THE JUSTIFICATION COMES THROUGH THE MERITS OF JESUS CHRIST. He has paid the price for the sinner’s redemption. Yet it is only through faith in His blood that Jesus can justify the believer. [6BC 1071.9]
It is the mingling of judgment and mercy that makes salvation full and complete. It is the blending of the two that leads us, as we view THE WORLD’S REDEEMER and the LAW OF JEHOVAH, to exclaim, “Thy gentleness hath made me great.” We know that the gospel is a perfect and complete system, revealing the immutability of the LAW OF GOD. It inspires the heart with hope, and with love for God. Mercy invites us to enter through the gates into the city of God, and justice is sacrificed to accord to every obedient soul full privileges as a member of the royal family, a child of the heavenly King. [6BC 1072.1]
If we were defective in character, we could not pass the gates that mercy has opened to the obedient; for justice stands at the entrance, and demands holiness, purity, in all who would see God. Were justice extinct, and were it possible for divine mercy to open the gates to the whole race, irrespective of character, there would be a worse condition of disaffection and rebellion in heaven than before Satan was expelled. The peace, happiness, and harmony of heaven would be broken up. The change from earth to heaven will not change men’s characters; the happiness of the redeemed in heaven results from the characters formed in this life, after the image of Christ. THE SAINTS IN HEAVEN WILL FIRST HAVE BEEN SAINTS ON EARTH. [6BC 1072.2]
In baptism we are given to the Lord as a vessel to be used. Baptism is a most solemn renunciation of the world. SELF IS BY PROFESSION DEAD TO A LIFE OF SIN. The waters cover the candidate, and in the presence of the whole heavenly universe the mutual pledge is made. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, man is laid in his watery grave, buried with Christ in baptism, and raised from the water to live the new life of loyalty to God. THE THREE GREAT POWERS IN HEAVEN ARE WITNESSES; THEY ARE INVISIBLE BUT PRESENT. {6BC 1074.8}
In the first chapter of Second Peter is presented the progressive work in the Christian life. The whole chapter is a lesson of deep importance. If man, in acquiring the Christian graces, works on the plan of addition, God has pledged Himself to work in his behalf upon the plan of multiplication. “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord.” The work is laid out before every soul that has acknowledged his faith in Jesus Christ by baptism, and has become a receiver of the pledge from the three persons the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (Ms 57, 1900). {6BC 1074.9 1956}
Christ made baptism the entrance to His spiritual kingdom. He made this a positive condition with which all must comply who wish to be acknowledged as under the authority of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Those who receive the ordinance of baptism thereby make a public declaration that they have renounced the world, and have become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. {6BC 1075.1} {OHC 157.3}
Those who do this are to make all worldly considerations secondary to their new relations. Publicly they have declared that they will no longer live in pride and self-indulgence. Christ enjoins those who receive this ordinance to remember that they are bound by a solemn covenant to live to the Lord. THEY ARE TO USE FOR HIM ALL THEIR ENTRUSTED CAPABILITIES, NEVER LOSING THE REALIZATION THAT THEY BEAR GOD’S SIGN OF OBEDIENCE TO THE SABBATH OF THE FOURTH COMMANDMENT, THAT THEY ARE SUBJECTS OF CHRIST’S KINGDOM, PARTAKERS OF THE DIVINE NATURE. They are to surrender all they have and are to God, employing all their gifts to His name’s glory. {6BC 1075.2}
Those who are baptized in the threefold name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, at the very entrance of their Christian life declare publicly that they have accepted the invitation, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.” {6BC 1075.3}
Let those who received the imprint of God by baptism heed these words, remembering that upon them the Lord has placed His signature, declaring them to be His sons and daughters. {6BC 1075.4}
Let men remember that they have a Ruler in the heavens, a God who will not be trifled with. He who puts his reason to the stretch in an effort to exalt himself and to delineate God, will find that he might far better have stood as a humble suppliant before God, confessing himself to be only an erring human being. [6BC 1079.10]
God cannot be understood by men. His ways and works are past finding out. In regard to the revelations that He has made of HIMSELF IN HIS WORD, we may talk, but other than this, let us say of Him, Thou art God, and Thy ways are past finding out. [6BC 1079.11]
There is a knowledge of God and of Christ which all who are saved must have. “This is life eternal,” Christ said, “that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” [6BC 1079.12]
It is the duty and privilege of all to use reason as far as man’s finite faculties can go; but there is a boundary where man’s resources must cease. There are many things that can never be reasoned out by the strongest intellect or discerned by the most penetrating mind. Philosophy cannot determine the ways and works of God; the human mind cannot measure infinity. [6BC 1079.7]
Human talent and human conjecture have tried by searching to find out God. But guesswork has proved itself to be guesswork. Man cannot by searching find out God. This problem has not been given to human beings. ALL THAT MAN NEEDS TO KNOW AND CAN KNOW OF GOD HAS BEEN REVEALED IN HIS WORD AND IN THE LIFE OF HIS SON, THE GREAT TEACHER. [6BC 1079.9]
WHEN THE STUDENTS OF PROPHECY SHALL SET THEIR HEARTS TO KNOW THE TRUTHS OF REVELATION, THEY WILL REALIZE WHAT AN IMPORTANCE IS ATTACHED TO THIS SEARCH. CHRIST JESUS IS THE ALPHA AND THE OMEGA, THE GENESIS OF THE OLD TESTAMENT, AND THE REVELATION OF THE NEW. Both meet together in Christ. Adam and God are reconciled by the obedience of the second Adam, who accomplished the work of overcoming the temptations of Satan and redeeming Adam’s disgraceful failure and fall. [6BC 1092.8]
We have a living, risen Saviour. He burst the fetters of the tomb after He had lain there three days, and in triumph. He proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, “I am the resurrection and the life.” And He is coming. Are we getting ready for Him? Are we ready so that if we shall fall asleep, we can do so with hope in Jesus Christ? Are you laboring for the salvation of your brothers and sisters? The Life-giver is soon to come. The Life-giver is coming to break the fetters of the tomb. He is to bring forth the captives and proclaim, “I am the resurrection and the life.” There stands the risen host. The last thought was of death and its pangs. The last thoughts they had were of the grave and the tomb, but now they proclaim, “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?” The pangs of death were the last things they felt. “O death, where is thy sting?” The last thing they acknowledged was the pangs of death. When they awake the pain is all gone. . . . [6BC 1093.4]
HERE THEY STAND, AND THE FINISHING TOUCH OF IMMORTALITY IS PUT UPON THEM, AND THEY GO UP TO MEET THEIR LORD IN THE AIR. The gates of the city of God swing back upon their hinges, and the nations that have kept the truth enter in. There are the columns of angels on either side, and the ransomed of God walk in through the cherubims and seraphims. Christ bids them welcome and puts upon them His benediction. “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: . . . enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” What is that joy? He sees of the travail of His soul, and is satisfied. [6BC 1093.5]
That is what we labor for. Here is one, who in the night season we pleaded with God on his behalf. There is one that we talked with on his dying bed, and he hung his helpless soul upon Jesus. Here is one who was a poor drunkard. We tried to get his eyes fixed upon Him who is mighty to save and we told him that Christ could give him the victory. There are the crowns of immortal glory upon their heads, and then the redeemed cast their glittering crowns at the feet of Jesus; and then the angelic choir strikes the note of victory, and the angels in the two columns take up the song, and the redeemed host join as though they had been singing the song on the earth, and they have been. [6BC 1093.6]
By the rending of the veil of the temple, God said, I can no longer reveal My presence in the most holy place. A new and living Way, before which there hangs no veil, is offered to all. No longer need sinful, sorrowing humanity await the coming of the high priest. {5BC 1109.4}
Genuine faith always works by love. When you look to Calvary it is not to quiet your soul in the non-performance of duty, not to compose yourself to sleep, but to create faith in Jesus, faith that will work, purifying the soul from the slime of selfishness. When we lay hold of Christ by faith, our work has just begun. Every man has corrupt and sinful habits that must be overcome by vigorous warfare. Every soul is required to fight the fight of faith. If one is a follower of Christ, he cannot be sharp in deal, he cannot be hardhearted, devoid of sympathy. He cannot be coarse in his speech. He cannot be full of pomposity and self-esteem. He cannot be overbearing, nor can he use harsh words, and censure and condemn. [6BC 1111.4]
The labor of love springs from the work of faith. BIBLE RELIGION MEANS CONSTANT WORK. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God that worketh in you, both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” We are to be zealous of good works; be careful to maintain good works. And the true Witness says, “I know thy works.” [6BC 1111.5]
THE MIGHTY POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT WORKS AN ENTIRE TRANSFORMATION IN THE CHARACTER OF THE HUMAN AGENT, MAKING HIM A NEW CREATURE IN CHRIST JESUS. When a man is filled with the Spirit, the more severely he is tested and tried, the more clearly he proves that he is a representative of Christ. The peace that dwells in the soul is seen on the countenance. The words and actions express the love of the Saviour. There is no striving for the highest place. Self is renounced. The name of Jesus is written on all that is said and done. [6BC 1117.17]
THE SPIRIT OF GOD KEEPS EVIL UNDER THE CONTROL OF CONSCIENCE. When man exalts himself above the influence of the Spirit, he reaps a harvest of iniquity. Over such a man the Spirit has less and less influence to restrain him from sowing seeds of disobedience. Warnings have less and less power over him. He gradually loses his fear of God. He sows to the flesh; he will reap corruption. The harvest of the seed that he himself has sown, is ripening. He has a contempt for God’s holy commandments. His heart of flesh becomes a heart of stone. Resistance to truth confirms him in iniquity. It is because men sowed seeds of evil, that lawlessness, crime, and violence prevailed in the antediluvian world. [6BC 1112.4]
Christ “loved the church, and gave himself for it.” It is the purchase of His blood. The DIVINE SON OF GOD is seen walking amid the seven golden candlesticks. Jesus Himself supplies the oil to these burning lamps. He it is that kindles the flame. “In him was life; and the life was the light of men.” [6BC 1118.7]
I want you to consider what kind of a position we should be left in if we had not the ministry of holy angels. . . . “We wrestle not against flesh and blood.” We meet the opposition of men, but there is someone behind that opposition. It is the prince of the powers of darkness with his evil angels that are constantly at work, and we want to consider, all of us, that our warfare is “against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world.” [6BC 1119.10]
Could human beings know the number of the evil angels, could they know their devices and their activity, there would be far less pride and frivolity. Satan is the prince of demons. The evil angels over whom he rules do his bidding. Through them he multiplies his agencies throughout the world. He instigates all the evil that exists in our world. [6BC 1119.5]
But though the principalities and powers of darkness are both many in number and unceasing in activity, yet the Christian should never feel hopeless or discouraged. He may not hope to escape temptation through any lack of satanic efficiency. He who sent a legion to torture one human being cannot be repulsed by human wisdom or power alone. [6BC 1119.6]
Speaking of Satan, the Lord declares that he abode not in the truth. Once he was beautiful, radiant in light. But GOD’S WORD declares of him, “Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty.” [6BC 1119.7]
Satan instigated others to rebel, and after they were cast out of heaven he bound them together in a confederacy to do all the evil possible to man, as the only means of striking God. Excluded from heaven, he resolved to be avenged by injuring the workmanship of God. Around the standard of rebellion that he planted, evil workers of all generations have rallied. Evil angels have united with evil men in a warfare against Christ’s kingdom. [6BC 1119.8]
SATAN’s aim had been to reproduce his own character in human beings. No sooner was man created than Satan resolved to efface in him the image of God, and to place his stamp where God’s should be. And he has succeeded in instilling into the heart of man the spirit of envy, of hatred, of ambition. In this world he has set up a kingdom of darkness, of which he, the leader in guilt, is prince. He desired to usurp the throne of God. Failing in this, he has worked in darkness, in crookedness, in deception, to usurp his place in the hearts of men. He HAS SET UP HIS THRONE BETWEEN GOD AND MAN, TO APPROPRIATE THE ADORATION THAT BELONGS TO GOD ALONE (Ms 33, 1911). {6BC 1119.9 1956}
Who is it that is ruling the world today, and who is it that have chosen to stand under the banner of the prince of darkness? Why, it is nearly the whole world at large. All the world that have not accepted Jesus Christ have chosen for their leader the prince of darkness; and just as soon as they stand under his banner, they have connection with evil angels. Either the evil angels or the angels of God are controlling the minds of men. Our minds are given to the control of God, or to the control of the powers of darkness; and it will be well for us to inquire where we are standing today–whether under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel, or under the black banner of the powers of darkness. [6BC 1120.1]
The spices with which the body of Jesus was to be anointed had been prepared on the day preceding the Sabbath. Early in the morning of the first day of the week, the Marys, with certain other women, went to the sepulcher to proceed with the work of embalming the body of the Saviour. As they neared the garden, they were surprised to see the heavens beautifully lighted up, and the earth trembling beneath their feet. They hastened to the sepulcher, and were astonished to find that the stone was rolled away from the door, and that the Roman guard were not there. They noticed a light shining about the tomb, and, looking in, saw that it was empty. {6Red 17.1 1877}
Mary then hastened with all speed to the disciples, and informed them that Jesus was not in the sepulcher where they had laid him. While she was upon this errand, the other women, who waited for her at the sepulcher, made a more thorough examination of the interior, to satisfy themselves that their Lord was indeed gone. Suddenly they beheld a beautiful young man, clothed in shining garments, sitting by the sepulcher. It was the angel who had rolled away the stone, and who now assumed a character that would not terrify the women who had been the friends of Christ, and assisted him in his public ministry. But notwithstanding the veiling of the brightness of the angel, the women were greatly amazed and terrified at the glory of the Lord which encircled him. They turned to flee from the sepulcher, but the heavenly messenger addressed them with soothing and comforting words: “Fear not ye; for I know that ye seek Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here, for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him; lo, I have told you.” {6Red 17.2 1877}
As the women responded to the invitation of the angel, and looked again into the sepulcher, they saw another angel of shining brightness, who addressed them with the inquiry: “Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen; remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.” These angels were well acquainted with the words of Jesus to his disciples, for they had been with him in the capacity of guardian angels, through all the scenes of his life, and had witnessed his trial and crucifixion. {6Red 18.1 1877}
With combined wisdom and tenderness, the angels reminded the women of the words of Jesus, warning them beforehand of his crucifixion and resurrection. The women now fully comprehended the words of their Master, which at the time were veiled in mystery to them. They gathered fresh hope and courage. Jesus had declared that he would rise from the dead, and had rested his claims as the SON OF GOD, THE REDEEMER OF THE WORLD, upon his future resurrection from the dead. {6Red 18.2 1877}
Mary, who had first discovered that the tomb was empty, hurried to Peter and John, and announced that the Lord had been taken out of the sepulcher, and she knew not where they had laid him. At these words the disciples both hastened to the sepulcher, and found it as Mary had said. The body of their Master was not there, and the linen clothes lay by themselves. Peter was perplexed; but John believed that Jesus had risen from the dead, as he had told them he should do. They did not understand THE SCRIPTURE OF THE OLD TESTAMENT, which taught that Christ should rise from the dead; but the belief of John was based upon the words of Jesus himself while he was yet with them. {6Red 18.3 1877}
The disciples left the sepulcher, and returned to their homes; but Mary could not bear to leave while all was uncertainty as to what had become of the body of her Lord. As she stood weeping, she stooped down to once more look into the sepulcher; and lo, there were two angels, clothed in garments of white. They were disguised by an appearance of humanity, and Mary did not recognize them as celestial beings. One sat where the head of Jesus had rested, and the other where his feet had been. They addressed Mary with the words: “Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him.” In view of the open sepulcher, and the disappearance of her Master’s body, Mary was not easily comforted. {6Red 19.1 1877}
In her abandonment of grief she did not notice the heavenly appearance of those who addressed her. As she turned aside to weep, another voice inquired, “Woman, why weepest thou? Whom seekest thou?” Her eyes were so blinded by tears that she did not observe the person who spoke to her, but she immediately grasped the idea of obtaining from her interrogator some information concerning the whereabouts of her Master’s body. She thought that the speaker might be the one who had charge of the garden, and she addressed him pleadingly: “Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.” {6Red 19.2 1877}
She felt that if she could only gain possession of the precious crucified body of her Saviour, it would be a great consolation to her grief. She thought that if this rich man’s tomb was considered too honorable a place for her Lord, she would herself provide a place for him. Her great anxiety was to find him, that she might give him honorable burial. But now THE VOICE OF JESUS HIMSELF fell upon her astonished ears. He said to her, “Mary.” Instantly her tears were brushed away; and he whom she supposed was the gardener stood revealed before her it was Jesus! For a moment she forgot in her joy that he had been crucified; she stretched forth her hands to him, saying, “Rabboni!” Jesus then said, “Touch me not, for I am not yet ascended to my Father; but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.” {6Red 20.1 1877}
Jesus said to Mary, “Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father.” When he closed his eyes in death upon the cross, the soul of Christ did not go at once to Heaven, as many believe, or how could his words be true “I am not yet ascended to my Father”? THE SPIRIT OF JESUS SLEPT IN THE TOMB WITH HIS BODY, AND DID NOT WING ITS WAY TO HEAVEN, THERE TO MAINTAIN A SEPARATE EXISTENCE, AND TO LOOK DOWN UPON THE MOURNING DISCIPLES EMBALMING THE BODY FROM WHICH IT HAD TAKEN FLIGHT. ALL THAT COMPRISED THE LIFE AND INTELLIGENCE OF JESUS REMAINED WITH HIS BODY IN THE SEPULCHER; AND WHEN HE CAME FORTH IT WAS AS A WHOLE BEING; HE DID NOT HAVE TO SUMMON HIS SPIRIT FROM HEAVEN. He had power to lay down his life and to take it up again. {6Red 22.1 1877}
The brightest morning that ever dawned upon a fallen world, was that in which the Saviour rose from the dead; but it was of no greater importance to man than the day upon which his trial and crucifixion took place. It was no marvel to the heavenly host that He who controlled the power of death, and had life in himself, should awaken from the sleep of the grave. But it was a marvel to them that their loved Commander should die for rebellious men. {6Red 22.2 1877}
CHRIST RESTED IN THE TOMB ON THE SABBATH DAY, and when holy beings of both Heaven and earth were astir on the morning of the first day of the week, he rose from the grave to renew his work of teaching his disciples. But this fact does not consecrate the first day of the week, and make it a Sabbath. Jesus, prior to his death, established a memorial of the breaking of his body and the spilling of his blood for the sins of the world, in the ordinance of the Lord’s supper, saying, “For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord’s death till he come.” And the repentant believer, who takes the steps required in conversion, commemorates in his baptism the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. He goes down into the water in the likeness of Christ’s death and burial, and he is raised out of the water in the likeness of his resurrection not to take up the old life of sin, but to live a new life in Christ Jesus. {6Red 22.3 1877}
The other women who had seen and been addressed by the angels, left the sepulcher with mingled feelings of fear and great joy. They hastened to the disciples, as the angels had directed, and related to them the things which they had seen and heard. Peter was expressly mentioned by the angel as one to whom the women were to communicate their news. This disciple had been the most despondent of all the little company of Christ’s followers, because of his shameful denial of the Lord. Peter’s remorse for his crime was well understood by the holy angels, and their tender compassion for the wayward and sorrowing is revealed in the solicitude they manifested for the unhappy disciple, and which evidenced to him that his repentance was accepted, and his sin forgiven. {6Red 23.1 1877}
When the disciples heard the account which the women brought, they were astonished. They began to recall the words of their Lord which foretold his resurrection. Still, this event, which should have filled their hearts with joy, was a great perplexity to them. After their great disappointment in the death of Christ, their faith was not strong enough to accept the fact of the resurrection. Their hopes had been so blighted that they could not believe the statement of the women, but thought that they were the subjects of an illusion. Even when Mary Magdalene testified that she had seen and spoken with her Lord, they still refused to believe that he had risen. {6Red 23.2 1877}
They were terribly depressed by the events that had crowded upon them. On the sixth day they had seen their Master die; upon the first day of the succeeding week they found themselves deprived of his body, and the stigma resting upon them of having stolen it away for the purpose of practicing a deception upon the people. They despaired of ever correcting the false impressions that had gained ground against them; and now they were newly perplexed by the reports of the believing women. In their trouble their hearts yearned for their beloved Master, who had always been ready to explain the mysteries that perplexed them and to smooth their difficulties. {6Red 24.1 1877}
The hours so often spent in amusement that refreshes neither body nor soul should be spent in visiting the poor, the sick, and the suffering, or in seeking to help someone who is in need. 6T 276. [WM 76.4 1952]
CHRIST HAS MADE BAPTISM THE SIGN OF ENTRANCE TO HIS SPIRITUAL KINGDOM. HE HAS MADE THIS A POSITIVE CONDITION WITH WHICH ALL MUST COMPLY WHO WISH TO BE ACKNOWLEDGED AS UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE FATHER, THE SON, AND THE HOLY SPIRIT. Before man can find a home in the church, before passing the threshold of God’s spiritual kingdom, he is to receive the impress of the divine name, “The Lord our Righteousness.” Jeremiah 23:6. {6T 91.2 1901}
Baptism is a most solemn renunciation of the world. THOSE WHO ARE BAPTIZED IN THE THREEFOLD NAME OF THE FATHER, THE SON, AND THE HOLY SPIRIT, AT THE VERY ENTRANCE OF THEIR CHRISTIAN LIFE DECLARE PUBLICLY THAT THEY HAVE FORSAKEN THE SERVICE OF SATAN AND HAVE BECOME MEMBERS OF THE ROYAL FAMILY, CHILDREN OF THE HEAVENLY KING. They have obeyed the command: “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, . . . and touch not the unclean thing.” And to them is fulfilled the promise: “I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18. {6T 91.3 1901}
Parents whose children desire to be baptized have a work to do, both in self-examination and in giving faithful instruction to their children. BAPTISM IS A MOST SACRED AND IMPORTANT ORDINANCE, AND THERE SHOULD BE A THOROUGH UNDERSTANDING AS TO ITS MEANING. IT MEANS REPENTANCE FOR SIN, AND THE ENTRANCE UPON A NEW LIFE IN CHRIST JESUS. There should be no undue haste to receive the ordinance. Let both parents and children count the cost. In consenting to the baptism of their children, parents sacredly pledge themselves to be faithful stewards over these children, to guide them in their character building. They pledge themselves to guard with special interest these lambs of the flock, that they may not dishonor the faith they profess. {6T 93.3}
RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION SHOULD BE GIVEN TO CHILDREN FROM THEIR EARLIEST YEARS. It should be given, not in a condemnatory spirit, but in a cheerful, happy spirit. Mothers need to be on the watch constantly, lest temptation shall come to the children in such a form as not to be recognized by them. The parents are to guard their children with wise, pleasant instruction. As the very best friends of these inexperienced ones, they should help them in the work of overcoming, for it means everything to them to be victorious. They should consider that their own dear children who are seeking to do right are younger members of the Lord’s family, and they should feel an intense interest in helping them to make straight paths in the King’s highway of obedience. With loving interest they should teach them day by day what it means to be children of God and to yield the will in obedience to Him. TEACH THEM THAT OBEDIENCE TO GOD INVOLVES OBEDIENCE TO THEIR PARENTS. This must be a daily, hourly work. Parents, watch, watch and pray, and make your children your companions. {6T 93.4}
THE VOWS WHICH WE TAKE UPON OURSELVES IN BAPTISM EMBRACE MUCH. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit we are buried in the likeness of Christ’s death and raised in the likeness of His resurrection, and we are to live a new life. Our life is to be bound up with the life of Christ. Henceforth the believer is to bear in mind that he is dedicated to God, to Christ, and to the Holy Spirit. He is to make all worldly considerations secondary to this new relation. Publicly he has declared that he will no longer live in pride and self-indulgence. He is no longer to live a careless, indifferent life. HE HAS MADE A COVENANT WITH GOD. He has died to the world. He is to live to the Lord, to use for Him all his entrusted capabilities, never losing the realization that he bears God’s signature, that he is a subject of Christ’s kingdom, a partaker of the divine nature. He is to surrender to God all that he is and all that he has, employing all his gifts to His name’s glory. {6T 98.3}
The obligations in the spiritual agreement entered into at baptism are mutual. As human beings act their part with wholehearted obedience, they have a right to pray: “Let it be known, Lord, that Thou art God in Israel.” THE FACT THAT YOU HAVE BEEN BAPTIZED IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER, THE SON, AND THE HOLY SPIRIT IS AN ASSURANCE THAT, IF YOU WILL CLAIM THEIR HELP, THESE POWERS WILL HELP YOU IN EVERY EMERGENCY. The Lord will hear and answer the prayers of His sincere followers who wear Christ’s yoke and learn in His school His meekness and lowliness. {6T 99.1}
If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:1-3. {6T 99.2}
THE LORD HAS A WORK FOR WOMEN AS WELL AS MEN TO DO. They may accomplish a good work for God if they will first learn in the SCHOOL OF CHRIST the precious, all-important lesson of meekness. They must not only bear the name of Christ, but possess HIS SPIRIT. They must walk even as He walked, purifying their souls from everything that defiles. Then they will be able to benefit others by presenting the all-sufficiency of Jesus. {6T 117.3 1901}
WOMEN may take their places in the work at this crisis, and the Lord will work through them. If they are imbued with a sense of their duty, and labor under the influence of the SPIRIT OF GOD, they will have just the self-possession required for this time. The Saviour will reflect upon these self-sacrificing women the light of His countenance, and this will give them A POWER WHICH WILL EXCEED THAT OF MEN. They can do in families a work that men cannot do, a work that reaches the inner life. They can come close to the hearts of those WHOM MEN CANNOT REACH. Their labor is needed. {6T 117.4 1901}
A direct necessity is being met by the work of women who have given themselves to the Lord and are reaching out to help a needy, sin-stricken people. Personal evangelistic work is to be done. The women who take up this work carry the gospel to the homes of the people in the highways and the byways. They read and explain the word to families, praying with them, caring for the sick, relieving their temporal necessities. They present before families and individuals the purifying, transforming influence of the truth. They show that the way to find peace and joy is to follow Jesus. {6T 118.1 1901}
ALL WHO WORK FOR GOD SHOULD HAVE THE MARTHA AND THE MARY ATTRIBUTES BLENDED A WILLINGNESS TO MINISTER AND A SINCERE LOVE OF THE TRUTH. Self and selfishness must be put out of sight. God calls for earnest women workers, workers who are prudent, warmhearted, tender, and true to principle. He calls for persevering women who will take their minds from self and their personal convenience, and will center them on Christ, speaking words of truth, praying with the persons to whom they can obtain access, laboring for the conversion of souls. {6T 118.2 1901}
Oh, what is our excuse, my sisters, that we do not devote all the time possible to searching the SCRIPTURES, making the mind a storehouse of precious things, that we may present them to those who are not interested in the truth? Will our sisters arise to the emergency? Will they work for the Master? {6T 118.3 1901}
Pointing to the BIBLE he said: “The SCRIPTURES OF THE OLD AND NEW TESTAMENTS are to be combined in the work of fitting a people to stand in the day of the Lord. Earnestly improve your present opportunities. Make the word of the living God your lessonbook. If this had always been done, students lost to the cause of God would now be missionaries. JEHOVAH IS THE ONLY TRUE GOD, AND HE IS TO BE REVERENCED AND WORSHIPED. Those who respect the words of infidel authors and lead students to look upon these books as essential in their education lessen their faith in God. The tone, the spirit, the influence of these books is deleterious to those who depend on them for knowledge. Influences have been brought to bear upon the students that have led them to look away from Christ, the Light of the world, and evil angels rejoice that those who profess to know God deny Him as He has been thus denied in our schools. The SUN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS has been shining upon the church to dispel the darkness and to call the attention of God’s people to the preparation essential for those who would shine as lights in the world. Those who receive this light will comprehend it; those who do not receive it will walk in darkness, knowing not at what they stumble. The soul is never safe unless it is under the divine guidance. Then it will be led into all truth. The word of Christ will fall with living power upon obedient hearts; and through the application of divine truth the perfect image of God will be reproduced, and in heaven it will be said: ‘Ye are complete in Him.'” Colossians 2:10. {6T 166 1901}
Hearts cannot fail to be touched by the story of the atonement. AS YOU LEARN THE MEEKNESS AND LOWLINESS OF CHRIST, YOU WILL KNOW WHAT YOU SHOULD SAY TO THE PEOPLE; FOR THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL TELL YOU WHAT WORDS TO SPEAK. Those who realize the necessity of keeping the heart under the control of the Holy Spirit will be enabled to sow seed that will spring up unto eternal life. This is the work of the evangelistic canvasser. 6T 325 1901 {CM 107.3}
Let young and old consecrate themselves to God, take up the work, and go forward, laboring in humility under the control of the Holy Spirit. 6T 331 1901 {CM 106.5}
As God blesses the minister and the evangelist in their earnest efforts to place the truth before the people, so He will bless the faithful canvasser. 6T 340 1901 Also {CM 106.4}
THE CHURCH OF GOD BELOW IS ONE WITH THE CHURCH OF GOD ABOVE. Believers on the earth and the beings in heaven who have never fallen constitute one church. Every heavenly intelligence is interested in the assemblies of the saints who on earth meet to worship God. In the inner court of heaven they listen to the testimony of the witnesses for Christ in the outer court on earth, and the praise and thanksgiving from the worshipers below is taken up in the heavenly anthem, and praise and rejoicing sound through the heavenly courts because Christ has not died in vain for the fallen sons of Adam. While angels drink from the fountainhead, the saints on earth drink of the pure streams flowing from the throne, the streams that make glad the city of our God. Oh, that we could all realize the nearness of heaven to earth! When the earthborn children know it not, they have angels of light as their companions. A silent witness guards every soul that lives, seeking to draw that soul to Christ. As long as there is hope, until men resist the Holy Spirit to their eternal ruin, they are guarded by heavenly intelligences. Let us all bear in mind that in every assembly of the saints below are angels of God, listening to the testimonies, songs, and prayers. Let us remember that our praises are supplemented by the choirs of the angelic host above. {6T 366.1 1901}
THERE ARE THREE LIVING PERSONS OF THE HEAVENLY TRIO; IN THE NAME OF THESE THREE GREAT POWERS–THE FATHER, THE SON, AND THE HOLY SPIRIT–THOSE WHO RECEIVE CHRIST BY LIVING FAITH ARE BAPTIZED, AND THESE POWERS WILL CO-OPERATE WITH THE OBEDIENT SUBJECTS OF HEAVEN IN THEIR EFFORTS TO LIVE THE NEW LIFE IN CHRIST. Evangelism, 615. {7ABC 441.9}
THE INFLUENCE OF MIND ON MIND, SO STRONG A POWER FOR GOOD WHEN SANCTIFIED, IS EQUALLY STRONG FOR EVIL IN THE HANDS OF THOSE OPPOSED TO GOD. This power Satan used in his work of instilling evil into the minds of the angels, and he made it appear that he was seeking the good of the universe. As the anointed cherub, Lucifer had been highly exalted; he was greatly loved by the heavenly beings, and his influence over them was strong. Many of them listened to his suggestions and believed his words. “And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, and prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven.” [7BC 973.4]
GOD IS GOING TO BRING AROUND A CONDITION OF THINGS WHERE THE GOOD MEN AND THE MEN IN AUTHORITY WILL HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO KNOW WHAT IS TRUTH INDEED. And because a people will not bow the knee to the image, and receive the mark of the beast in the hand or the forehead, but will stand to the truth because it is truth, there will be oppression, and an attempt to compel the conscience; but those who have known the truth will be afraid to yield to the powers of darkness. God has a people who will not receive the mark of the beast in their right hand or in their forehead. . . . [7BC 976.10]
There are living upon our earth men who have passed the age of fourscore and ten. The natural results of old age are seen in their feebleness. But they believe God, and God loves them. The seal of God is upon them, and they will be among the number of whom the Lord has said, “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.” With Paul they can say, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished by course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also which love his appearing.” There are many whose grey hairs God honors because they have fought a good fight and kept the faith (Lt207, 1899) [7BC 982.1]
None need be deceived. THE LAW OF GOD IS AS SACRED AS HIS THRONE, AND BY IT EVERY MAN WHO COMETH INTO THE WORLD IS TO BE JUDGED. There is no other standard by which to test character. “If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Now, shall the case be decided according to the WORD OF GOD, or shall man’s pretensions be credited? [7BC 911.4]
Angels of God looked with amazement upon Christ, who took upon Himself the form of man and humbly UNITED HIS DIVINITY WITH HUMANITY in order that He might minister to fallen man. It is a marvel among the heavenly angels. God has told us that He did do it, and we are to accept the WORD OF GOD just as it reads. And although we may try to reason in regard to OUR CREATOR, how long He has had existence, where evil first entered into our world, and all these things, we may reason about them until we fall down faint and exhausted with the research when there is yet an infinity beyond. {7BC 919.4 1902 1888}
ANGELIC AGENCIES are standing firm, determined that he shall not obtain the victory. They would recover every soul in our world who is under Satan’s banner if these poor souls would not so eagerly seek to keep out of and away from their merciful ministrations and rescuing power. Their DEEP AND EARNEST LOVE FOR THE SOULS FOR WHOM CHRIST HAS DIED IS BEYOND MEASUREMENT. They would make these deceived souls intelligent in regard to how they might arm themselves and break the spell which Satan has cast upon them. [7BC 922.10]
If they would only look unto Jesus, and for one moment discern truly, sincerely, what love has been expressed in the sacrifice which has been made for them! If only they could see the determined efforts of Satan to eclipse by his hellish shadow every ray of light that would come into the mind and heart of persons now dead in trespasses and sins! O that they would awake from their torpor as the whole world will soon awake by the trumpet of God, which will announce His appearing! . . . [7BC 922.11]
As invisible agencies, angels are working through human beings to proclaim the commandments of God. ANGELS HAVE FAR MORE TO DO WITH THE HUMAN FAMILY THAN MANY SUPPOSE. Speaking of the angels, “Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?” [7BC 922.7]
Holy, ministering agencies of heaven are cooperating with human agencies to lead into safe paths all who love truth and righteousness. IT IS THE GREATEST JOY OF THE ANGELS OF HEAVEN TO SPREAD THE SHIELD OF THEIR TENDER LOVE OVER SOULS WHO TURN TO GOD; and Satan fights determinedly to retain every soul that has had light and evidence. His fierce, unabated desire is to destroy every soul possible. Will you choose to stand under his banner? [7BC 922.9]
THE WORK OF THESE HEAVENLY BEINGS IS TO PREPARE THE INHABITANTS OF THIS WORLD TO BECOME CHILDREN OF GOD, PURE, HOLY, UNDEFILED. But men, though professing to be followers of Christ, do not place themselves in a position where they can understand this ministry, and thus the work of the heavenly messengers is made hard. The angels, who do always behold the face of the Father in heaven, would prefer to remain close by the side of God, in the pure and holy atmosphere of heaven; but a work must be done in bringing this heavenly atmosphere to the souls who are tempted and tried, that Satan may not disqualify them for the place the Lord would have them fill in the heavenly courts. [7BC 923.2]
PRINCIPALITIES AND POWERS IN HEAVENLY PLACES COMBINE WITH THESE ANGELS IN THEIR MINISTRATION FOR THOSE WHO SHALL BE HEIRS OF SALVATION. But how sad it is that this work is hindered by the coarseness, the roughness, the worldly-mindedness of men and women who are so desirous of securing their own ends, of gratifying their own wishes, that they lose sight of the WORD OF GOD, which should be their instructor and their guide. [7BC 923.3]
THE LORD GIVES TO EVERY ANGEL HIS WORK FOR THIS FALLEN WORLD. DIVINE HELP IS PROVIDED FOR MEN AND WOMEN. They have the opportunity of cooperating with the heavenly intelligences, of being laborers together with God. There is placed before them the possibility of gaining a fitness for the presence of God, of being enabled to see His face. Heavenly angels are working to bring the human family into a close brotherhood, a oneness described by Christ as like that existing between the FATHER AND THE SON. How can men so highly favored by God fail to appreciate their opportunities and privileges? How can they refuse to accept the divine help proffered? How much it is possible for human beings to gain if they will keep eternity in view! [7BC 923.4]
The Lord Jesus has a special work appointed for each of the angelic family. Human agencies have also an appointed work to do in behalf of their own souls and the souls of others saved through their influence. The angels of God will make effectual the work of men. . . . [7BC 923.7]
They have an intense desire that human agencies shall come where they will find a refuge. The angels had a constant guardianship over Christ from His birth until His reception into the heavenly courts. . . . Angels are working through human agents who will be worked, to bring sinners to God. . . . [7BC 923.8]
Those who claim that it was not possible for Christ to sin, cannot believe that He really took upon Himself human nature. But was not Christ actually tempted, not only by Satan in the wilderness, but all through His life, from childhood to manhood? In all points He was tempted as we are, and because He successfully resisted temptation under every form, He gave man the perfect example, and through the ample provision Christ has made, we may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption which is in the world through lust. [7BC 929.2]
Jesus says, “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.” Here is the beginning of our confidence which we must hold steadfast unto the end. If Jesus resisted Satan’s temptations, He will help us to resist. He came to bring divine power to combine with human effort. [7BC 929.3]
Christ’s overcoming and obedience is that of a true human being. In our conclusions, we make many mistakes because of our erroneous views of the human nature of our Lord. When we give to His human nature a power that it is not possible for man to have in his conflicts with Satan, we destroy the completeness of His humanity. HIS IMPUTED GRACE AND POWER HE GIVES TO ALL WHO RECEIVE HIM BY FAITH. [7BC 929.5]
THE OBEDIENCE OF CHRIST TO HIS FATHER WAS THE SAME OBEDIENCE THAT IS REQUIRED OF MAN. Man cannot overcome Satan’s temptations without divine power to combine with his instrumentality. So with Jesus Christ; He could lay hold of divine power. He came not to our world to give the obedience of a lesser God to a greater, but as a man to obey GOD’S HOLY LAW, and in this way He is our example. The Lord Jesus came to our world, not to reveal what a God could do, but what a man could do, through faith in God’s power to help in every emergency. Man is, through faith, to be a partaker in the divine nature, and to overcome every temptation wherewith he is beset. [7BC 929.6]
Satan thought that by his temptations he could delude THE WORLD’S REDEEMER to make one bold move in manifesting His divine power. . . . [7BC 929.8]
IT WAS A DIFFICULT TASK FOR THE PRINCE OF LIFE TO CARRY OUT THE PLAN WHICH HE HAD UNDERTAKEN FOR THE SALVATION OF MAN, in clothing His divinity with humanity. He had received honor in the heavenly courts, and was familiar with absolute power. It was as difficult for Him to keep the level of humanity as for men to rise above the low level of their depraved natures, and be partakers of the divine nature. [7BC 930.1]
CHRIST WAS THE LAMB slain from the foundation of the world. To many it has been a mystery why so many sacrificial offerings were required in the old dispensation, why so many bleeding victims were led to the altar. But the great truth that was to be kept before men, and imprinted upon mind and heart, was this, “Without shedding of blood is no remission.” In every bleeding sacrifice was typified “the LAMB OF GOD, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [7BC 932.8]
Thank God that He who spilled His blood for us, lives to plead it, lives to make intercession for every soul who receives Him. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” The blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all sin. It speaketh better things than the blood of Abel, for Christ ever liveth to make intercession for us. We need to keep ever before us the efficacy of the blood of Jesus. That life-cleansing, life-sustaining blood, appropriated by living faith, is our hope. WE NEED TO GROW IN APPRECIATION OF ITS INESTIMABLE VALUE, FOR IT SPEAKS FOR US ONLY AS WE BY FAITH CLAIM ITS VIRTUE, KEEPING THE CONSCIENCE CLEAN AND AT PEACE WITH GOD. [7BC 947.11]
SATAN IS DIVERTING MINDS WITH UNIMPORTANT QUESTIONS, in order that they shall not with clear and distinct vision see matters of vast importance. THE ENEMY IS PLANNING TO ENSNARE THE WORLD. [7BC 949.10]
The determination of Antichrist to carry out the rebellion he began in heaven will continue to work in the children of disobedience. Their envy and hatred against those who OBEY THE FOURTH COMMANDMENT will wax more and more bitter. But the people of God are not to hide their banner. They are not to ignore the commandments of God, and in order to have an easy time, go with the multitude to do evil. . . . [7BC 949.12]
All society is ranging into two great classes, the obedient and the disobedient. Among which class shall we be found? [7BC 949.8]
THOSE WHO KEEP GOD’S COMMANDMENTS, THOSE WHO LIVE NOT BY BREAD ALONE, BUT BY EVERY WORD THAT PROCEEDETH OUT OF THE MOUTH OF GOD, COMPOSE THE CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD. Those who choose to follow antichrist are subjects of the great apostate. Ranged under the banner of Satan, they break GOD’S LAW and lead others to break it. They endeavor so to frame the laws of nations that men shall show their loyalty to earthly governments by trampling upon THE LAWS OF GOD’S KINGDOM. [7BC 949.9]
Many exalt human reason, idolize human wisdom, and set the opinions of men above the revealed wisdom of God. This affords opportunity for the working of Satan, and the spirit of Antichrist is far more widespread than any of us imagine. . . . [7BC 950.2]
The maxims of the world, that know not God, have been worked into the theories of the church. In the eyes of men, vain philosophy and science, falsely so-called, are of more value than the WORD OF GOD. The sentiment prevails to a large extent that the divine Mediator is not essential to the salvation of man. A variety of theories advanced by the so-called worldly-wise men for man’s elevation, are believed and trusted in more than is the truth of God, as taught by Christ and His apostles. [7BC 950.3]
The lying spirit that enticed Eve in Eden, finds acceptance with the majority of earth’s inhabitants today. EVEN THE CHRISTIAN WORLD REFUSES TO BE CONVERTED BY THE SPIRIT OF GOD, but listens to the prince of darkness, as he comes to them in the garb of an angel of light. The spirit of Antichrist is prevailing in the world to a far greater extent than it has ever prevailed before. [7BC 950.4]
THE WHOLE BIBLE IS A REVELATION; for all revelation to men comes through Christ, and all centers in Him. GOD HAS SPOKEN UNTO US BY HIS SON, whose we are by creation and by redemption. Christ came to John exiled on the Isle of Patmos to give him the truth for these last days, to show him that which must shortly come to pass. Jesus Christ is the great trustee of divine revelation. It is through Him that we have a knowledge of what we are to look for in the closing scenes of this earth’s history. God gave this revelation to Christ, and Christ communicated the same to John. [7BC 953.7]
JOHN, THE BELOVED DISCIPLE, was the one chosen to receive this revelation. He WAS THE LAST SURVIVOR OF THE FIRST CHOSEN DISCIPLES. Under the NEW TESTAMENT dispensation he was honored as the prophet Daniel was honored under the OLD TESTAMENT dispensation. [7BC 953.8]
Many have entertained the idea that the book of Revelation is a sealed book, and they will not devote time and study to its mysteries. They say that they are to keep looking to the glories of salvation, and that the mysteries revealed to John on the Isle of Patmos are worthy of less consideration than these. But God does not so regard this book. . . . [7BC 954.1]
THE BOOK OF REVELATION OPENS TO THE WORLD WHAT HAS BEEN, WHAT IS, AND WHAT IS TO COME; it is for our instruction upon whom the ends of the world are come. IT SHOULD BE STUDIED WITH REVERENTIAL AWE. We are privileged in knowing what is for our learning. . . . [7BC 954.2]
John was sent to the Isle of Patmos, where, separated from his companions in the faith, his enemies supposed he would die from hardship and neglect. But John made friends and converts even there. They thought that they had at last placed the faithful witness where he could no longer trouble Israel or the wicked rulers of the world. [7BC 954.5]
Often the very best men, those whom God uses to His name’s glory, are unrecognized by human wisdom, but not for one moment are they forgotten by God. When John was exiled to the Isle of Patmos, there were many who thought him to be past service, an old and broken reed ready to fall at any time. But the Lord saw fit to use him in that lonely island home where His servant was imprisoned. The world and the bigoted priests and rulers rejoiced that they were at last rid of his ever fresh testimony. [1 John 1:1-3 quoted.] [7BC 954.7]
This whole chapter is full of brave courage, of hope and faith and assurance. It was because of this testimony, so amazing to those who wished to forget Christ, who hated THE CRUCIFIED REDEEMER, whom they had rejected, that they wished to get that voice beyond their hearing, that his testimony might no more be a witness against their wicked deeds in crucifying the Lord of glory. But they could not put him in any place where his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ could not find him. [7BC 954.8]
The hand of persecution falls heavily on the apostle. He is banished to the Isle of Patmos “for the WORD OF GOD, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.” He writes, “I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day.” He was filled with unspeakable joy; for heaven seemed open before him. In clear, distinct tones a voice spoke to him, saying, “I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last.” Turning, he beheld his Master, with whom he had walked and talked in Judea, on whose breast he had leaned. [7BC 955.3]
But Oh, how changed is His appearance! John had seen Him clothed in an old purple robe and crowned with thorns. Now He is clothed with a garment of heavenly brightness, and girt about with a golden girdle. Writing of His appearance, John says, “His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; and his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters.” . . . [7BC 955.4]
God’s plan for future ages was revealed to John. The glories of heaven were opened before his enraptured vision. He saw the throne of God, and heard the anthems of joy resounding through the heavenly courts. As we read his description of what he saw in his vision, we long to stand with the redeemed in the presence of God. [7BC 955.5]
Half a century had passed since Jesus ascended to present His church before God, and to prepare mansions for His faithful ones. He still loved His people; for He came to His aged servant to reveal to Him God’s plans for the future. [7BC 955.6]
In this SCRIPTURE are outlined the conditions of acceptance with God. The first experience of the Ephesus church led to good works. God took delight in the fact that His church reflected the light of heaven by revealing the SPIRIT OF CHRIST in tenderness and compassion. The love that dwelt in the heart of Christ; the love that caused Him to give Himself a sacrifice for humanity, and to suffer with forbearance the reproach of men, even to the extent of being called a devil; the love that prompted Him to perform mighty works of healing during His ministry–this was the love that was to be revealed in the lives of His disciples. [7BC 956.4]
Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Thine is a decay, a declension in holy zeal–not forsaken is the object of it, but lost is the fervor. The first affection of the convert to Christ is deep, full, and ardent. It is not necessary that this love should become less as knowledge increases, as the more and increased light shines upon him. That love should become more fervent as he becomes better acquainted with his Lord. [7BC 956.8]
GOD WILL ACCEPT NOTHING LESS THAN THE WHOLE HEART. Happy are they who from the commencement of their religious life have been true to their first love, growing in grace and the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. The sure result of their intercourse and fellowship with their beloved Lord will be to increase their piety, their purity, their fervor. They are receiving a divine education, and this is illustrated in a life of fervor, of diligence and zeal. . . . [7BC 956.9]
In view of the many virtues enumerated, how striking is the charge brought against the church at Ephesus: “Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.” This church had been highly favored. It was planted by the apostle Paul. In the same city was the temple of Diana, which, in point of grandeur, was one of the marvels of the world. The Ephesian church met with great opposition, and some of the early Christians suffered persecution; and yet some of these very ones turned from the truths that had united them with Christ’s followers, and adopted, in their stead, the specious errors devised by Satan. [7BC 957.2]
Must we wait until we are translated before we eat of the leaves of the tree of life? He who receives into his heart the words of Christ knows what it means to eat the leaves of the tree of life. [John 6:33-63 quoted.] [7BC 957.7]
When the believer, in the fellowship of the Spirit, can lay his hand upon truth itself, and appropriate it, he eats the bread that comes down from heaven. He enters into the life of Christ, and appreciates the great sacrifice made in behalf of the sinful race. [7BC 957.8]
THE KNOWLEDGE THAT COMES FROM GOD IS THE BREAD OF LIFE. IT IS THE LEAVES OF THE TREE OF LIFE WHICH ARE FOR THE HEALING OF THE NATIONS. The current of spiritual life thrills the soul as the words of Christ are believed and practiced. Thus it is that we are made one with Christ. The experience that was weak and feeble becomes strong. It is eternal life to us if we hold the beginning of our confidence firm unto the end. [7BC 957.9]
God calls upon this church to make a change. They had a name to live, but their works were destitute of the love of Jesus. OH, HOW MANY HAVE FALLEN BECAUSE THEY TRUSTED IN THEIR PROFESSION FOR SALVATION! How many are lost by their effort to keep up a name! If one has the reputation of being a successful evangelist, a gifted preacher, a man of prayer, a man of faith, a man of special devotion, there is positive danger that he will make shipwreck of faith when tried by the little tests that God suffers to come. Often his great effort will be to maintain his reputation. [7BC 958.3]
A warning is given of a time when errors would come in as a thief to steal away the faith of God’s people, when they must watch diligently and be constantly guarded against the delusions of the enemy. [7BC 958.5]
In Sardis many had been converted through the preaching of the apostles. The truth had been received as a bright and shining light. But some had forgotten the wonderful manner in which they had received the truth, and Jesus found it necessary to send reproof. [7BC 958.6]
One after another of the old standardbearers had fallen, and some had become wearied of the oft-repeated truths. They desired a new phase of doctrine, more pleasing to many minds. They thought they needed a wonderful change, and in their spiritual blindness did not discern that their sophistries would uproot all the experiences of the past. [7BC 958.7]
Among the people to whom this message was sent, there were those who had heard and been convinced by the preaching of John the Baptist, but who had lost the faith in which they once rejoiced. There were others who had received the truth from Christ’s teaching, and who were once ardent believers, but who had lost their first love, and were without spiritual strength. They had not held the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end. They had a name to live, but as far as exerting a saving influence is concerned, they were dead. They had a form of godliness without the power. They quibbled about matters of no special importance, not given by the Lord as tests, till these matters became as mountains, separating them from Christ and from one another. . . . [7BC 958.9]
I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. WITH GOD OUTWARD SHOW WEIGHS NOTHING. The outward forms of religion, without the love of God in the soul, are utterly worthless. [7BC 958.10]
Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent, Those who have been born again remember with what joy and gladness they received the light of heaven, and how eager they were to tell everybody of their happiness. . . . [7BC 959.6]
Hold fast. This does not mean, Hold fast to your sins; but, Hold fast to the comfort, the faith, the hope, that God has given you in HIS WORD. Never be discouraged. A discouraged man can do nothing. Satan is seeking to discourage you, telling you it is of no use to serve God, that it does not pay, and that it is just as well to have pleasure and enjoyment in this world. But what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? You may have worldly pleasure at the expense of the future world; but can you afford to pay such a price? [7BC 959.7]
WE ARE TO “HOLD FAST” AND LIVE UP TO ALL THE LIGHT WE RECEIVE FROM HEAVEN. Why? Because God wants us to grasp the eternal truth, and act as His helping hand by communicating the light to those who are not acquainted with His love for them. WHEN YOU GAVE YOURSELF TO CHRIST, YOU MADE A PLEDGE IN THE PRESENCE OF THE FATHER, THE SON, AND THE HOLY SPIRIT–THE THREE GREAT PERSONAL DIGNITARIES OF HEAVEN. “HOLD FAST” TO THIS PLEDGE. [7BC 959.8]
And repent. THE LIFE WE LIVE IS TO BE ONE OF CONTINUAL REPENTANCE AND HUMILITY. We need to repent constantly, that we may be constantly victorious. When we have true humility, we have victory. The enemy never can take out of the hand of Christ the one who is simply trusting in His promises. If the soul is trusting and working obediently, the mind is susceptible to divine impressions, and the light of God shines in, enlightening the understanding. What privileges we have in Christ Jesus! [7BC 959.9]
A TRUE SENSE OF REPENTANCE BEFORE GOD does not hold us in bondage, causing us to feel like persons in a funeral procession. We are to be cheerful, not sorrowful. But all the time we are to be sorry that after Christ had given His precious life for us, we gave so many years of our life to the powers of darkness. We are to feel sorrow of heart as we remember that after Christ had given His all for our redemption, we used in the service of the enemy some of the time and capabilities which the Lord entrusted to us as talents to use to His name’s glory. We are to repent because we have not endeavored in every way possible to become acquainted with the precious truth, which enables us to exercise that faith which works by love and purifies the soul. [7BC 960.1]
The message to the Laodicean church is highly applicable to us as a people. It has been placed before us for a long time, but has not been heeded as it should have been. When the work of repentance is earnest and deep, the individual members of the church will buy the rich goods of heaven. [Revelation 3:18 quoted.] Oh, how many behold things in a perverted light, in the light in which Satan would have them see. [7BC 961.7]
SELF-EXALTATION IS A DANGEROUS ELEMENT. It tarnishes everything it touches. It is the offspring of pride, and it works so ingeniously that, unless guarded against, it will take possession of the thoughts and control the actions. [7BC 962.7]
THERE ARE A LARGE NUMBER OF PROFESSING CHRISTIANS WHO DO NOT REALLY FOLLOW JESUS. They do not bear the cross by proper self-denial and self-sacrifice. Although making a great profession of being earnest Christians, they weave into the fabric of their character so many of the threads of their own imperfections that the beautiful pattern is spoiled. Of them Christ says: “You boast of being rich and increased with supposed spiritual attainments. In reality you are neither cold nor hot, but are filled with vain conceit. Unless converted, you cannot be saved; for you would mar heaven with your unsanctified wisdom. I cannot endorse your spirit and your work. You do not act according to the divine Example. You are following a pattern merely of your own invention. Because you are lukewarm, I must spew you out of My mouth.” [7BC 963.1]
Let us thank the Lord that while this class is so numerous, THERE IS STILL TIME FOR REPENTANCE. JESUS SAYS, “I, YOUR REDEEMER, know your works. I am familiar with the motives that prompt you to declare boastingly in regard to your spiritual condition, ‘I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing.’ Thou ‘knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.’” [7BC 963.2]
Those who are in this condition are willfully ignorant. They do not discern the real character of sin. By their wrongdoing they constantly misrepresent the character of Christ and put Him to open shame. Professing to have a knowledge of the truth, they act in spirit as novices. They do not seem to understand the TRUTH THAT MUST BE EXPRESSED IN WORD AND DEED to show a decided difference between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not. They are false claimants of every Christian blessing and privilege, when, as Christ’s representatives, they are not rich in spiritual grace or in good works. They are wretched, poor, blind, maimed. What a position to be in! They stand in their own light. [7BC 963.3]
The condition of many of those who claim to be the children of God is exactly represented by the message to the Laodicean church. There is opened before those who serve God, truths of inestimable value, which, brought into the practical life, show the difference between those who serve God and those who serve Him not. [7BC 963.9]
The earth itself is not more richly interlaced with veins of golden ore than is the field of revelation with veins of precious truth. THE BIBLE IS THE STOREHOUSE OF THE UNSEARCHABLE RICHES OF GOD. But those who have a knowledge of the truth do not understand it as fully as they might. They do not bring the love of Christ into the heart and life. [7BC 964.1]
This is the testimony borne concerning the church at Laodicea. This church had been faithfully instructed. In his letter to the Colossians, Paul wrote: “Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis.” [7BC 964.4]
THE EYE IS THE SENSITIVE CONSCIENCE, THE INNER LIGHT, OF THE MIND. Upon its correct view of things the spiritual healthfulness of the whole soul and being depends. THE “EYESALVE,” THE WORD OF GOD, MAKES THE CONSCIENCE SMART UNDER ITS APPLICATION; FOR IT CONVICTS OF SIN. But the smarting is necessary that the healing may follow, and the eye be single to the glory of God. The sinner, beholding himself in God’s great moral looking glass, sees himself as God views him, and exercises repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. [7BC 965.5]
The true Witness presents encouragements to all who are seeking to WALK IN THE PATH OF HUMBLE OBEDIENCE, THROUGH FAITH IN HIS NAME. He declares, “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.” [7BC 966.1]
These are the words of our SUBSTITUTE AND SURETY. He who is the divine Head of the church, the mightiest of conquerors, would point His followers to His life, His toils, His self-denials, His struggles and sufferings, through contempt, through rejection ridicule, scorn, insult, mockery, falsehood, up the path of Calvary to the scene of the crucifixion, that they might be encouraged to press on toward the mark for the prize and reward of the overcomer. VICTORY IS ASSURED THROUGH FAITH AND OBEDIENCE. [7BC 966.2]
Yet the case of those who are rebuked is not a hopeless one; it is not beyond the power of the great Mediator. He says: “I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.” Though the professed followers of Christ are in a deplorable condition, they are not yet in so desperate a strait as were the foolish virgins whose lamps were going out, and there was no time in which to replenish their vessels with oil. When the bridegroom came, those that were ready went in with him to the wedding; but when the foolish virgins came, the door was shut, and they were too late to obtain an entrance. [7BC 966.6]
ANGELS are belting the world, refusing Satan his claims to supremacy, made because of the vast multitude of his adherents. We hear not the voices, we see not with the natural sight the work of these angels, but their HANDS ARE LINKED ABOUT THE WORLD, AND WITH SLEEPLESS VIGILANCE THEY ARE KEEPING THE ARMIES OF SATAN AT BAY TILL THE SEALING OF GOD’S PEOPLE SHALL BE ACCOMPLISHED. [7BC 967.9]
Oh, that all could behold our precious Saviour as He is, a Saviour. Let His hand draw aside the veil which conceals His glory from our eyes. It shows Him in His high and holy place. What do we see? Our Saviour, not in a position of silence and inactivity. He is surrounded with heavenly intelligences, cherubim, and seraphim, ten thousand times ten thousand of angels. [7BC 967.11]
All these heavenly beings have one object above all others, in which they are intensely interested–His church in a world of corruption. All these armies are in the service of the Prince of heaven, exalting the LAMB OF GOD, who taketh away the sins of the world. THEY ARE WORKING FOR CHRIST UNDER HIS COMMISSION, TO SAVE TO THE UTTERMOST ALL WHO LOOK TO HIM AND BELIEVE IN HIM. These heavenly intelligences are speeding on their mission, doing for Christ that which Herod and Pilate did against Him. They confederate together to uphold the honor and glory of God. They are united in a holy alliance, in a grand and sublime unity of purpose, to show forth the power and compassion and love and glory of the crucified and risen Saviour. [7BC 968.1]
IN THEIR SERVICE, THESE ARMIES OF HEAVEN ILLUSTRATE WHAT THE CHURCH OF GOD SHOULD BE. Christ is working in their behalf in the heavenly courts, sending out His messengers to all parts of the globe, to the assistance of every suffering one who looks to Him for relief, for spiritual life and knowledge. [7BC 968.2]
EVERY SOUL IN OUR WORLD IS THE LORD’S PROPERTY, BY CREATION AND BY REDEMPTION. EACH INDIVIDUAL SOUL IS ON TRIAL FOR HIS LIFE. Has he given to God that which belongs to Him? Has he surrendered to God all that is His as His purchased possession? All who cherish the Lord as their portion in this life will be under His control, and will receive the sign, the mark of God, which shows them to be God’s special possession. Christ’s righteousness will go before them, and the glory of the Lord will be their rereward. The Lord protects every human being who bears His sign. [Exodus 31:12-17 quoted.] [7BC 969.1]
How few bear in mind that the tempter was once a covering cherub, a being whom God created for His own name’s glory. Satan fell from his high position through self-exaltation; he misused the high capabilities with which God had so richly endowed him. He fell for the same reason that thousands are falling today, because of an ambition to be first, an unwillingness to be under restraint. THE LORD WOULD TEACH MAN THE LESSON THAT, THOUGH UNITED IN CHURCH CAPACITY, HE IS NOT SAVED UNTIL THE SEAL OF GOD IS PLACED UPON HIM. . . . [7BC 969.3]
Missionary agencies are greatly needed in every branch of God’s work. Our institutions need converted, devoted men, who will make the Lord their dependence. God will reveal through such workers the power of His grace. His servants are to be distinguished from the world by the seal of the living God; their words and their works are to reveal that they are laborers together with God. [7BC 969.5]
GOD CAN USE THE HUMAN AGENT JUST TO THE EXTENT THAT HE WILL BE WORKED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT. To men who accept positions of responsibility as presidents, ministers, physicians, or workers in any line, I am bidden to say: God will test every man who enters His service. He does not ask, Do they possess learning and eloquence? Have they ability to command and control and manage? He asks, Will they represent My character? Will they walk in humility, that I may teach them My way? THE SOUL TEMPLE MUST NOT BE DEFILED BY ANY LOOSE OR UNCLEAN PRACTICE. THOSE WHOM I WILL ACKNOWLEDGE IN THE COURTS OF HEAVEN MUST BE WITHOUT SPOT AND WRINKLE. [7BC 969.6]
Those whom THE LAMB shall lead by the fountains of living waters, and from whose eyes He shall wipe away all tears, will be those now receiving the knowledge and understanding revealed in THE BIBLE, THE WORD OF GOD. [7BC 970.8]
We are to copy no human being. There is no human being wise enough to be our criterion. WE ARE TO LOOK TO THE MAN CHRIST JESUS, WHO IS COMPLETE IN THE PERFECTION OF RIGHTEOUSNESS AND HOLINESS. HE IS THE AUTHOR AND FINISHER OF OUR FAITH. He is the pattern man. His experience is the measure of the experience that we are to gain. His character is our model. Let us, then, take our minds off the perplexities and the difficulties of this life, and fix them on Him, that by beholding we may be changed into His likeness. We may behold Christ to good purpose. We may safely look to Him; for He is all-wise. As we look to Him and think of Him, He will be formed within, the hope of glory. [7BC 970.9]
Let the families, the individual Christians, and the churches bear in mind that they are closely allied to heaven. THE LORD HAS A SPECIAL INTEREST IN HIS CHURCH MILITANT HERE BELOW. The angels who offer the smoke of the fragrant incense are for the praying saints. Then let the evening prayers in every family rise steadily to heaven in the cool sunset hour, speaking before God in our behalf of the merits of the blood of a crucified and risen Saviour. [7BC 971.1]
The mighty angel who instructed John was no less a personage than Jesus Christ. Setting His right foot on the sea, and His left upon the dry land, shows the part which He is acting in the closing scenes of the great controversy with Satan. This position denotes His supreme power and authority over the whole earth. The controversy had waxed stronger and more determined from age to age, and will continue to do so, to the concluding scenes when the masterly working of the powers of darkness shall reach their height. Satan, united with evil men, will deceive the whole world and the churches who receive not the love of the truth. But the mighty angel demands attention. He cries with a loud voice. He is to show the power and authority of His voice to those who have united with Satan to oppose the truth. [7BC 971.3]
AFTER THESE SEVEN THUNDERS UTTERED THEIR VOICES, THE INJUNCTION COMES TO JOHN AS TO DANIEL IN REGARD TO THE LITTLE BOOK: “SEAL UP THOSE THINGS WHICH THE SEVEN THUNDERS UTTERED.” THESE RELATE TO FUTURE EVENTS WHICH WILL BE DISCLOSED IN THEIR ORDER. Daniel shall stand in his lot at the end of the days. John sees the little book unsealed. Then Daniel’s prophecies have their proper place in the first, second, and third angels’ messages to be given to the world. The unsealing of the little book was the message in relation to time. [7BC 971.4]
THE BOOKS OF DANIEL AND THE REVELATION ARE ONE. ONE IS A PROPHECY, THE OTHER A REVELATION; ONE A BOOK SEALED, THE OTHER A BOOK OPENED. JOHN HEARD THE MYSTERIES WHICH THE THUNDERS UTTERED, BUT HE WAS COMMANDED NOT TO WRITE THEM. [7BC 971.5]
THE SPECIAL LIGHT GIVEN TO JOHN WHICH WAS EXPRESSED IN THE SEVEN THUNDERS WAS A DELINEATION OF EVENTS WHICH WOULD TRANSPIRE UNDER THE FIRST AND SECOND ANGELS’ MESSAGES. It was not best for the people to know these things, for their faith must necessarily be tested. In the order of God most wonderful and advanced truths would be proclaimed. The first and second angels’ messages were to be proclaimed, but no further light was to be revealed before these messages had done their specific work. This is represented by the angel standing with one foot on the sea, proclaiming with a most solemn oath that time should be no longer. [7BC 971.6]
This time, which the angel declares with a solemn oath, is not the end of this world’s history, neither of probationary time, but of prophetic time, which should precede the advent of our Lord. That is, THE PEOPLE WILL NOT HAVE ANOTHER MESSAGE UPON DEFINITE TIME. AFTER THIS PERIOD OF TIME, REACHING FROM 1842 TO 1844, THERE CAN BE NO DEFINITE TRACING OF THE PROPHETIC TIME. THE LONGEST RECKONING REACHES TO THE AUTUMN OF 1844. [7BC 971.7]
THE GRAND JUDGMENT IS TAKING PLACE, AND HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR SOME TIME. Now the Lord says, Measure the temple and the worshipers thereof. Remember when you are walking the streets about your business, God is measuring you; when you are attending your household duties, when you engage in conversation, God is measuring you. REMEMBER THAT YOUR WORDS AND ACTIONS ARE BEING DAGUERREOTYPED [PHOTOGRAPHED] IN THE BOOKS OF HEAVEN, as the face is reproduced by the artist on the polished plate. . . . [7BC 972.1]
OPPOSITION TO THE LAW OF GOD HAD ITS BEGINNING IN THE COURTS OF HEAVEN, WITH LUCIFER, THE COVERING CHERUB. Satan determined to be first in the councils of heaven, and equal with God. He began his work of rebellion with the angels under his command, seeking to diffuse among them the spirit of discontent. And he worked in so deceptive a way that many of the angels were won to his allegiance before his purposes were fully known. Even the loyal angels could not fully discern his character, nor see to what his work was leading. When Satan had succeeded in winning many angels to his side, he took his cause to God, representing that it was the desire of the angels that he occupy the position that Christ held. [7BC 972.6]
The evil continued to work until the spirit of disaffection ripened into active revolt. Then there was war in heaven, and Satan, with all who sympathized with him, was cast out. Satan had warred for the mastery in heaven, and had lost the battle. God could no longer trust him with honor and supremacy, and these, with the part he had taken in the government of heaven, were taken from him. [7BC 973.1]
In so deceptive a way did he [Lucifer] work that the sentiments that he inculcated could not be dealt with until they had developed in the minds of those who received them. [7BC 973.3]
He [Satan] declares he cannot submit to be under Christ’s command, that God’s commands alone will he obey. Good angels weep to hear the words of Satan, and to see how he despises to follow the direction of Christ, their exalted and loving Commander. [7BC 973.6]
Those who love and keep the commandments of God are most obnoxious to the synagogue of Satan, and the powers of evil will manifest their hatred toward them to the fullest extent possible. John foresaw the conflict between the remnant church and the power of evil, and said, “The dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” [7BC 974.6]
Satanic agencies have made the earth a stage for horrors, which no language can describe. War and bloodshed are carried on by nations claiming to be Christian. A disregard for THE LAW OF GOD has brought its sure result. [7BC 974.9]
PROPHECY REPRESENTS PROTESTANTISM AS HAVING LAMBLIKE HORNS, BUT SPEAKING LIKE A DRAGON. ALREADY WE ARE BEGINNING TO HEAR THE VOICE OF THE DRAGON. There is a satanic force propelling the Sunday movement, but it is concealed. Even the men who are engaged in the work, are themselves blinded to the results which will follow their movement. [7BC 975.5]
Religious powers, allied to heaven by profession and claiming to have the characteristics of a lamb, will show by their acts that they have the heart of a dragon, and that they are instigated and controlled by Satan. THE TIME IS COMING WHEN GOD’S PEOPLE WILL FEEL THE HAND OF PERSECUTION BECAUSE THEY KEEP HOLY THE SEVENTH DAY. Satan has caused the change of the Sabbath in the hope of carrying out his purpose for the defeat of God’s plans. He seeks to make the commands of God of less force in the world than human laws. [7BC 975.7]
THE WORD OF GOD PLAINLY DECLARES THAT HIS LAW IS TO BE SCORNED, TRAMPLED UPON, by the world; there will be an extraordinary prevalence of iniquity. The professed Protestant world will form a confederacy with the man of sin, and the church and the world will be in corrupt harmony. [7BC 975.9]
The Lord has shown me clearly that THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST WILL BE FORMED BEFORE PROBATION CLOSES; FOR IT IS TO BE THE GREAT TEST FOR THE PEOPLE OF GOD, BY WHICH THEIR ETERNAL DESTINY WILL BE DECIDED. . . . [Revelation 13:11-17 quoted.] . . . [7BC 976.2]
History will be repeated. False religion will be exalted. The first day of the week, a common working day, possessing no sanctity whatever, will be set up AS WAS THE IMAGE AT BABYLON. ALL NATIONS AND TONGUES AND PEOPLES WILL BE COMMANDED TO WORSHIP THIS SPURIOUS SABBATH. This is Satan’s plan to make of no account the day instituted by God, and given to the world as a memorial of creation. [7BC 976.7]
THE DECREE ENFORCING THE WORSHIP OF THIS DAY IS TO GO FORTH TO ALL THE WORLD. In a limited degree, it has already gone forth. In several places the civil power is speaking with the voice of a dragon, just as the heathen king spoke to the Hebrew captives. [7BC 976.8]
AS CHRIST WAS HATED WITHOUT CAUSE, SO WILL HIS PEOPLE BE HATED BECAUSE THEY ARE OBEDIENT TO THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD. If He who was pure, holy, and undefiled, who did good and only good in our world, was treated as a base criminal and condemned to death, His disciples must expect but similar treatment, however faultless may be their life and blameless their character. [7BC 977.4]
CHRIST SAYS THAT THERE WILL BE THOSE IN THE CHURCH WHO WILL PRESENT FABLES AND SUPPOSITIONS, when God has given grand, elevating, ennobling truths, which should ever be kept in the treasure house of the mind. When men pick up this theory and that theory, when they are curious to know something it is not necessary for them to know, God is not leading them. It is not His plan that His people shall present something which they have to suppose, which is not taught in the WORD. It is not His will that they shall get into controversy over questions which will not help them spiritually, such as, Who is to compose the hundred and forty-four thousand. This those who are the elect of God will in a short time know without question. [7BC 978.4]
THE LORD HAS A PEOPLE ON THE EARTH, WHO FOLLOW THE LAMB WHITHERSOEVER HE GOETH. HE HAS HIS THOUSANDS WHO HAVE NOT BOWED THE KNEE TO BAAL. SUCH WILL STAND WITH HIM ON MOUNT ZION. BUT THEY MUST STAND ON THIS EARTH, GIRDED WITH THE WHOLE ARMOR, READY TO ENGAGE IN THE WORK OF SAVING THOSE WHO ARE READY TO PERISH. Heavenly angels conduct this search, and spiritual activity is demanded of all who believe present truth, that they may join the angels in their work. [7BC 978.6]
We need not wait till we are translated to follow Christ. God’s people may do this here below. We shall follow the LAMB OF GOD in the courts above only if we follow Him here. FOLLOWING HIM IN HEAVEN DEPENDS ON OUR KEEPING HIS COMMANDMENTS NOW. We are not to follow Christ fitfully or capriciously, only when it is for our advantage. [7BC 978.7]
The churches have become as described in the eighteenth chapter of Revelation. Why are the messages of Revelation fourteen given? Because the principles of the churches have become corrupted. . . . [Revelation 14:6-10 quoted.] [7BC 979.1]
God made the world in six days and rested on the seventh, sanctifying this day, and setting it apart from all others as holy to Himself, to be observed by His people throughout their generations. [7BC 979.6]
But the man of sin, exalting himself above God, sitting in the temple of God, and showing himself to be God, THOUGHT TO CHANGE TIMES AND LAWS. This power, thinking to prove that it was not only equal to God, but above God, changed the rest day, placing the first day of the week where the seventh should be. And the Protestant world has taken this child of the papacy to be regarded as sacred. IN THE WORD OF GOD THIS IS CALLED HER FORNICATION. [7BC 979.7]
It is for the interest of all to understand what the mark of the beast is, and how they may escape the dread threatenings of God. Why are men not interested to know what constitutes the mark of the beast and his image? It is in direct contrast with the mark of God. [Exodus 31:12-17 quoted.] [7BC 979.9]
The third angel’s message has been sent forth to the world, warning men against receiving the mark of the beast or of his image in their foreheads or in their hands. To receive this mark means to come to the same decision as the beast has done, and to advocate the same ideas, in direct opposition to the WORD OF GOD. Of all who receive this mark, God says, “The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of THE LAMB.” . . . [7BC 979.12]
If the light of truth has been presented to you, revealing the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, and showing that there is no foundation in the WORD OF GOD for Sunday observance, and yet you still cling to the false sabbath, refusing to keep holy the Sabbath which God calls “My holy day,” you receive the mark of the beast. When does this take place? When you obey the decree that commands you to cease from labor on Sunday and worship God, while you know that there is not a word in the BIBLE showing Sunday to be other than a common working day, you consent to receive the mark of the beast, and refuse the seal of God. [7BC 980.1] {Mar 211.6}
We are nearing the close of this earth’s history. Satan is making desperate efforts to make himself god, to speak and act like God, to appear as one who has a right to control the consciences of men. He strives with all his power to place a human institution in the position of God’s holy rest day. Under the jurisdiction of the man of sin, men have exalted a false standard in complete opposition to God’s enactment. Each Sabbath institution bears the name of its author, an ineffaceable mark showing the authority of each. The first day of the week has not one particle of sanctity. It is the production of the man of sin, who strives in this way to counterwork God’s purposes. [7BC 980.11]
THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE INCREASES IN IMPORTANCE AS WE NEAR THE CLOSE OF THIS EARTH’S HISTORY. . . . [7BC 980.5]
GOD HAS PRESENTED TO ME THE DANGERS THAT ARE THREATENING THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN GIVEN THE SACRED WORK OF PROCLAIMING THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE. They are to remember that this message is of the utmost consequence to the whole world. They need to search the SCRIPTURES diligently, that they may learn how to guard against the mystery of iniquity, which plays so large a part in the closing scenes of this earth’s history. [7BC 980.6]
The work of the Holy Spirit is to convince the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment. The world can only be warned by seeing those who believe the truth sanctified through the truth, acting upon high and holy principles, showing in a high, elevated sense, the line of demarcation between those who keep the commandments of God and whose who trample them under their feet. The sanctification of the Spirit signalizes the difference between those who have the seal of God and those who keep a spurious rest day. [7BC 980.8]
God has declared that it means much to discard the WORD OF THE LIVING GOD, and accept the assertions of THOSE WHO SEEK TO CHANGE TIMES AND LAWS. [Exodus 31:12-17 quoted.] [7BC 981.7]
Let no one yield to temptation and become less fervent in his attachment to GOD’S LAW because of the contempt placed upon it; for that is the very thing that should make us pray with all our heart and soul and voice, “It is time for thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void THY LAW.” Therefore, because of the universal contempt, I will not turn traitor when God will be most glorified and most honored by my loyalty. [7BC 981.10]
What! shall Seventh-day Adventists relax their devotedness when all their capabilities and powers should be placed on the Lord’s side; when an unflinching testimony, noble and uplifting, should come from their lips? “Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.” [7BC 981.11]
There are only two parties in our world, those who are loyal to God, and those who stand under the banner of the prince of darkness. Satan and his angels will come down with power and signs and lying wonders to deceive those who dwell on the earth, and if possible the very elect. The crisis is right upon us. Is this to paralyze the energies of those who have a knowledge of the truth? Is the influence of the powers of deception so far reaching that the influence of the truth will be overpowered? [7BC 982.4]
EVERY FORM OF EVIL IS TO SPRING INTO INTENSE ACTIVITY. EVIL ANGELS UNITE THEIR POWERS WITH EVIL MEN, and as they have been in constant conflict and attained an experience in the best modes of deception and battle, and have been strengthening for centuries, they will not yield the last great final contest without a desperate struggle. All the world will be on one side or the other of the question. The battle of Armageddon will be fought, and that day must find none of us sleeping. Wide awake we must be, as wise virgins having oil in our vessels with our lamps. . . . [7BC 982.6]
In the seventeenth of Revelation is foretold the destruction of all the churches who corrupt themselves by idolatrous devotion to the service of the papacy, those who have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. [Revelation 17:1-4 quoted.] [7BC 983.3]
Thus is represented the papal power, which with all deceivableness of unrighteousness, by outside attraction and gorgeous display, deceives all nations; promising them, as did Satan our first parents, all good to those who receive its mark, and all harm to those who oppose its fallacies. The power which has the deepest inward corruption will make the greatest display, and will clothe itself with the most elaborate signs of power. The BIBLE plainly declares that this covers a corrupt and deceiving wickedness. “Upon her forehead was a name written, Mystery, Babylon the Great, The Mother of Harlots and Abominations of the Earth.” [7BC 983.4]
These have one mind. There will be a universal bond of union, one great harmony, a confederacy of Satan’s forces. And shall give their power and strength unto the beast. Thus is manifested the same arbitrary, oppressive power against religious liberty, freedom to worship God according to the dictates of conscience, as was manifested by the papacy, when in the past it persecuted those who dared to refuse to conform with the religious rites and ceremonies of Romanism. [7BC 983.6]
The prophecies in the eighteenth of Revelation will soon be fulfilled. DURING THE PROCLAMATION OF THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE, “ANOTHER ANGEL” IS TO “COME DOWN FROM HEAVEN, HAVING GREAT POWER,” AND THE EARTH IS TO BE “LIGHTENED WITH HIS GLORY.” The SPIRIT OF THE LORD will so graciously bless consecrated human instrumentalities that men, women, and children will open their lips in praise and thanksgiving, filling the earth with the knowledge of God, and with His unsurpassed glory, as the waters cover the sea. [7BC 983.9]
Amid the confusing cries, “Lo, here is Christ! Lo, there is Christ!” will be borne a special testimony, a special message of truth appropriate for this time, which message is to be received, believed, and acted upon. It is the truth, not fanciful ideas, that is efficacious. THE ETERNAL TRUTH OF THE WORD WILL STAND FORTH FREE from all seductive errors and spiritualistic interpretations, free from all fancifully drawn, alluring pictures. Falsehoods will be urged upon the attention of God’s people, but the truth is to stand clothed in its beautiful, pure garments. The WORD, precious in its holy, uplifting influence, is not to be degraded to a level with common, ordinary matters. It is always to remain uncontaminated by the fallacies by which Satan seeks to deceive, if possible, the very elect. [7BC 984.2]
AS GOD CALLED THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL OUT OF EGYPT, THAT THEY MIGHT KEEP HIS SABBATH, SO HE CALLS HIS PEOPLE OUT OF BABYLON, THAT THEY MAY NOT WORSHIP THE BEAST OR HIS IMAGE. The man of sin, who THOUGHT TO CHANGE TIMES AND LAWS, has exalted himself above God, by presenting a spurious sabbath to the world; the Christian world has accepted the child of the papacy, and cradled and nourished it, thus defying God by removing His memorial, and setting up a rival sabbath. [7BC 984.8]
This is the same message that was given by the second angel. Babylon is fallen, “because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.” What is that wine?–her false doctrines. She has given to the world a false sabbath instead of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, and has repeated the falsehood that Satan first told to Eve in Eden–the natural immortality of the soul. Many kindred errors she has spread far and wide, “teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” [7BC 985.4]
All who are partakers of this great salvation wrought out by Jesus Christ are under obligation to work as laborers together with God. In the heavenly courts the roll is called, on which every name is registered, and the heavenly agencies respond to the call. The service given by every human being upon earth is there recorded. If any are negligent, it is recorded; if diligent, the same is reported; if idlers, the fact stands against their names. In all the great mass of humanity, not one is lost sight of. Then let every one be ready to answer the call, saying, “Here, Lord, ready for action.” [7BC 987.3]
Moses manifested his great love for Israel in his entreaty to the Lord to forgive their sin, or blot his name out of the book which He had written. His intercessions here illustrate Christ’s love and mediation for the sinful race. But the Lord refused to let Moses suffer for the sins of His backsliding people. He declared to him that those who had sinned against Him He would blot out of His book which He had written; for the righteous should not suffer for the guilt of the sinner. [7BC 987.7]
Now the church is militant, now we are confronted with a world in midnight darkness, almost wholly given over to idolatry. But the day is coming in which the battle will have been fought, the victory won. The will of God is to be done on earth, as it is done in heaven. THEN THE NATIONS WILL OWN NO OTHER LAW THAN THE LAW OF HEAVEN. All will be a happy, united family, clothed with the garments of praise and thanksgiving–the robe of Christ’s righteousness. [7BC 988.2]
The fruit of the tree of life in the Garden of Eden possessed supernatural virtue. To eat of it was to live forever. Its fruit was the antidote of death. Its leaves were for the sustaining of life and immortality. But through man’s disobedience, death entered the world. Adam ate of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, the fruit of which he had been forbidden to touch. His transgression opened the floodgates of woe upon our race. [7BC 988.10]
After the entrance of sin, the heavenly Husbandman transplanted the tree of life to the Paradise above; but its branches hang over the wall to the lower world. Through the redemption purchased by the blood of Christ, we may still eat of its life-giving fruit. [7BC 989.1]
Of Christ it is written, “In him was life; and the life was the light of men.” He is the fountain of life. Obedience to Him is the life-giving power that gladdens the soul. [7BC 989.2]
God has not revealed to us the time when this message will close, or when probation will have an end. Those things that are revealed we shall accept for ourselves and for our children; but let us not seek to know that which has been kept secret in the councils of the Almighty. . . . [7BC 989.14]
Letters have come to me asking me if I have any special light as to the time when probation will close; and I answer that I have only this message to bear, that it is now time to work while the day lasts, for the night cometh in which no man can work. Now, just now, it is time for us to be watching, working, and waiting. [7BC 989.15]
Peter traced back the lineage of Christ in a direct line to the honorable house of David. He did not use any of the teachings of Jesus to prove his true position, because he knew their prejudices were so great that it would be of no effect. But he referred them to David, whom the Jews regarded as a venerable patriarch of their nation. {7Red 8.2 1877}
On that memorable occasion, large numbers who had heretofore ridiculed the idea of so unpretending a person as JESUS BEING THE SON OF GOD, became thoroughly convinced of the truth, and acknowledged him as their Saviour. Three thousand souls were added to the church. THE APOSTLES SPOKE BY THE POWER OF THE HOLY GHOST; AND THEIR WORDS COULD NOT BE CONTROVERTED, FOR THEY WERE CONFIRMED BY MIGHTY MIRACLES, WROUGHT BY THEM THROUGH THE OUTPOURING OF THE SPIRIT OF GOD. The disciples were themselves astonished at the results of this visitation, and the quick and abundant harvest of souls. All the people were filled with amazement. Those who did not yield their prejudice and bigotry were so over-awed that they dared not by voice or violence attempt to stay the mighty work, and, for the time being, their opposition ceased. {7Red 8.3 1877}
This testimony in regard to the establishment of the Christian church is given us, not only as an important portion of sacred history, but also as a lesson. All who profess the name of Christ should be waiting, watching, and praying with one heart. All differences should be put away, and unity and tender love one for another pervade the whole. Then our prayers may go up together to our Heavenly Father with strong, earnest faith. Then we may wait with patience and hope the fulfillment of the promise. {7Red 9.1 1877}
Christ, in His mediatorial capacity, gives to His servants the presence of the Holy Spirit. It is the efficiency of the Spirit that enables human agencies to be representatives of THE REDEEMER in the work of soul saving. That we may unite with Christ in this work we should place ourselves under the molding influence of His Spirit. Through the power thus imparted we may co-operate with the Lord in the bonds of unity as laborers together with Him in the salvation of souls. To everyone who offers himself to the Lord for service, withholding nothing, is given power for the attainment of measureless results. {7T 30.2} {OFC 207.4 1991}
LIGHT HAS BEEN GIVEN ME THAT THE CITIES WILL BE FILLED WITH CONFUSION, VIOLENCE, AND CRIME, AND THAT THESE THINGS WILL INCREASE TILL THE END OF THIS EARTH’S HISTORY. 7T 84 (1902) [LDE 110.3 1992]
ALL THE WORKERS IN THE PUBLISHING HOUSE WHO PROFESS THE NAME OF CHRIST SHOULD BE WORKERS IN THE CHURCH. It is essential to their own spiritual life that they improve every means of grace. They will obtain strength, not by standing as spectators, but by becoming workers. Everyone should be enlisted in some line of regular, systematic labor in connection with the church. ALL SHOULD REALIZE THAT AS CHRISTIANS THIS IS THEIR DUTY. BY THEIR BAPTISMAL VOW THEY STAND PLEDGED TO DO ALL IN THEIR POWER TO BUILD UP THE CHURCH OF CHRIST. Show them that love and loyalty to THEIR REDEEMER, loyalty to the standard of true manhood and womanhood, loyalty to the institution with which they are connected, demands this. THEY CANNOT BE FAITHFUL SERVANTS OF CHRIST, they cannot be men and women of real integrity, they cannot be acceptable workers in God’s institution, WHILE NEGLECTING THESE DUTIES. {7T 187.4 1902}
As the divine endowment the POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT was given to the disciples, so it will today be given to all who seek aright. This POWER alone is able to make us wise unto salvation and to fit us for the courts above. Christ wants to give us a blessing that will make us holy. “These things have I spoken unto you,” He says, “that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” John 15:11. Joy in the Holy Spirit is health-giving, life-giving joy. IN GIVING US HIS SPIRIT, GOD GIVES US HIMSELF, making Himself a fountain of divine influences, to give health and life to the world. {7T 273.1 1902}
PAUL MET THE WORST OPPOSITION FROM THE JEWS. They hindered his labor in every way possible, blaspheming the Spirit and power which everywhere attended him, and attributing to Satanic agency the miracles he wrought in the NAME OF CHRIST. The conversion and baptism of Crispus had the effect to exasperate instead of to convince these stubborn opposers. Their opposition increased as the converts to Christianity increased in numbers. Similar results attend the labors of those who seek to win souls to the present truth. Many professed Christians are the most bitter and unreasonable opposers, in defiance of the most convincing evidence. {8Red 63.1}
THE OUTPOURING OF THE SPIRIT IN THE DAYS OF THE APOSTLES WAS THE “FORMER RAIN,” and glorious was the result. BUT THE LATTER RAIN WILL BE MORE ABUNDANT. What is the promise to those living in these days? “Turn you to the stronghold, ye prisoners of hope; even today do I declare that I will render double unto thee.” “Ask ye of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain; so the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field.” {8T 21 1904} {ChS 251.1 1925}
THE TIME HAS COME FOR A THOROUGH REFORMATION TO TAKE PLACE. WHEN THIS REFORMATION BEGINS, THE SPIRIT OF PRAYER WILL ACTUATE EVERY BELIEVER, AND WILL BANISH FROM THE CHURCH THE SPIRIT OF DISCORD AND STRIFE. {8T 251 1904} {ChS 42.1}
THE SCRIPTURES CLEARLY INDICATE THE RELATION BETWEEN GOD AND CHRIST, and they bring to view as clearly the personality and individuality of each. [Hebrews 1:1-5 quoted]. GOD IS THE FATHER OF CHRIST; CHRIST IS THE SON OF GOD. TO CHRIST HAS BEEN GIVEN AN EXALTED POSITION. HE HAS BEEN MADE EQUAL WITH THE FATHER. ALL THE COUNSELS OF GOD ARE OPENED TO HIS SON. {8T 268 1904}
The relation between the FATHER AND THE SON, AND THE PERSONALITY OF BOTH, are made plain in this SCRIPTURE also: ‘Thus speaketh Jehovah of hosts, saying, Behold, the man whose name is the Branch: And He shall grow up out of His place; And He shall build the temple of Jehovah… And He shall bear the glory, And shall sit and rule upon His throne; And He shall be a priest upon His throne; And the counsel of peace shall be between Them both.’ 8T 269 1904; RH March 3, 1904.
No man hath seen God at any time; THE ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, WHICH IS IN THE BOSOM OF THE FATHER, He hath declared Him. John 1:18. {8T 286.2 1904}
THE CAUSE NEEDS THE HELP OF THE OLD HANDS, THE AGED WORKERS, WHO HAVE HAD YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN THE CAUSE OF GOD; who have watched the development and the progress of the message in its various lines; who have seen many go into fanaticism, cherishing the delusion of false theories, resisting all the efforts made to let the light of truth reveal the superstitions that were coming in to confuse minds and to make of none effect THE MESSAGE WHICH IN THESE LAST DAYS MUST BE GIVEN IN ITS PURITY TO GOD’S REMNANT PEOPLE. {7T 286.3 1902}
OUR CONDITION THROUGH SIN HAS BECOME PRETERNATURAL, AND THE POWER THAT RESTORES US MUST BE SUPERNATURAL, ELSE IT HAS NO VALUE. There is but one power that can break the hold of evil from the hearts of men, and that is the power of God in Jesus Christ. ONLY THROUGH THE BLOOD OF THE CRUCIFIED ONE IS THERE CLEANSING FROM SIN. His grace alone can enable us to resist and subdue the tendencies of our fallen nature. This power the spiritualistic theories concerning God make of no effect. If God is an essence pervading all nature, then He dwells in all men; and in order to attain holiness, man has only to develop the power that is within him. {8T 291 1904} {Ev 601.3}
LET NONE SEEK TO TEAR AWAY THE FOUNDATIONS OF OUR FAITH, THE FOUNDATIONS THAT WERE LAID AT THE BEGINNING OF OUR WORK, BY PRAYERFUL STUDY OF THE WORD AND BY REVELATION. Upon these foundations we have been building for more than fifty years. Men may suppose that they have found a new way, that they can lay a stronger foundation than that which has been laid; but this is a great deception. “Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid.” [1 Corinthians 3:11.] In the past, many have undertaken to build a new faith, to establish new principles; but how long did their building stand? It soon fell; for it was not founded upon the Rock. {GW 307.1} {8T 297.1 1904}
IN A SPECIAL SENSE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS HAVE BEEN SET IN THE WORLD AS WATCHMEN AND LIGHT BEARERS. TO THEM HAS BEEN ENTRUSTED THE LAST WARNING FOR A PERISHING WORLD. ON THEM IS SHINING WONDERFUL LIGHT FROM THE WORD OF GOD. THEY HAVE BEEN GIVEN A WORK OF THE MOST SOLEMN IMPORT THE PROCLAMATION OF THE FIRST, SECOND, AND THIRD ANGELS’ MESSAGES. THERE IS NO OTHER WORK OF SO GREAT IMPORTANCE. THEY ARE TO ALLOW NOTHING ELSE TO ABSORB THEIR ATTENTION. {9T 19.1 1909}
THE MOST SOLEMN TRUTHS EVER ENTRUSTED TO MORTALS HAVE BEEN GIVEN US TO PROCLAIM TO THE WORLD. THE PROCLAMATION OF THESE TRUTHS IS TO BE OUR WORK. THE WORLD IS TO BE WARNED, AND GOD’S PEOPLE ARE TO BE TRUE TO THE TRUST COMMITTED TO THEM. THEY ARE NOT TO ENGAGE IN SPECULATION, NEITHER ARE THEY TO ENTER INTO BUSINESS ENTERPRISES WITH UNBELIEVERS; FOR THIS WOULD HINDER THEM IN THEIR GOD-GIVEN WORK. {9T 19.2 1909}
When the reproach of indolence and slothfulness shall have been wiped away from the church, the SPIRIT OF THE LORD will be graciously manifested. Divine power will be revealed. The church will see the providential working of the Lord of hosts. 9T 46 (1909). {PH120 16.3 1919} {LDE 193.4 1992}
If in this opportune time the members of the churches will come humbly before God, putting out of their hearts all that is wrong and consulting Him at every step, He will manifest Himself to them and will give them courage in Him. And as the church members do their part faithfully, the Lord will lead and guide His chosen ministers, and strengthen them for their important work. In much prayer let us all unite in holding up their hands and in drawing bright beams from the heavenly sanctuary. {9T 134.3}
THEY HAVE ONE GOD AND ONE SAVIOUR; AND ONE SPIRIT–THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST–IS TO BRING UNITY INTO THEIR RANKS. (9T 189 1909)
Our German and Danish and Swedish brethren have no good reason for not being able to act in harmony in the publishing work. Those who believe the truth should remember that they are God’s little children, that they are under His training. Let them be thankful to God for His manifold mercies and be kind to one another. They have ONE GOD AND ONE SAVIOUR; AND ONE SPIRIT THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST is to bring unity into their ranks. (9T 189.3 1909)
The Lord encourages all who seek Him with the whole heart. HE [JESUS] GIVES THEM HIS HOLY SPIRIT, THE MANIFESTATION OF HIS PRESENCE AND FAVOR. But those who forsake God in order to save their lives will be forsaken by Him. In seeking to save their lives by yielding the truth, they will lose eternal life. {9T 230.3 1909}
Revelation 5, which focuses upon THE LAMB and the sealed scroll, ‘needs to be closely studied. It is of great importance to those who shall act a part in the work of God for the last days’ 9T267.
All of us, as beings blessed of God with reasoning powers, with intellect and judgment, should acknowledge our accountability to God. The life He has given us is a sacred responsibility, and no moment of it is to be trifled with; for we shall have to meet it again in the record of the judgment. In the books of heaven our lives are as accurately traced as in the picture on the plate of the photographer. Not only are we held accountable for what we have done, but for what we have left undone. We are held to account for our undeveloped characters, our unimproved opportunities (RH, Sept. 22, 1891) [7BC 987.1]
The disciples were to carry their work forward in CHRIST’S NAME. Their every word and act was to fasten attention on HIS NAME, as possessing that vital power by which sinners may be saved. Their faith was to center IN HIM who is the source of mercy and power. In HIS NAME they were to present their petitions to the Father, and they would receive answer. They were to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. CHRIST’S NAME was to be their watchword, their badge of distinction, their bond of union, the authority for their course of action, and the source of their success. Nothing was to be recognized in HIS KINGDOM that did not bear HIS NAME and superscription. {AA 28.2 1911}
CHRIST’S VISIBLE PRESENCE WAS ABOUT TO BE WITHDRAWN FROM THE DISCIPLES, BUT A NEW ENDOWMENT OF POWER was to be theirs. THE HOLY SPIRIT WAS TO BE GIVEN THEM IN ITS FULLNESS, SEALING THEM FOR THEIR WORK. “Behold,” the Saviour said, “I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” Luke 24:49. “For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.” “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” Acts 1:5, 8. {AA 30.2 1911}
The promise of the Holy Spirit is not limited to any age or to any race. CHRIST DECLARED THAT THE DIVINE INFLUENCE OF HIS SPIRIT WAS TO BE WITH HIS FOLLOWERS UNTO THE END. FROM THE DAY OF PENTECOST TO THE PRESENT TIME, THE COMFORTER HAS BEEN SENT TO ALL WHO HAVE YIELDED THEMSELVES FULLY TO THE LORD AND TO HIS SERVICE. {AA 40 1911} {ChS 250.2}
Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulcher is with us unto this day. He … spake of the resurrection of Christ, that His soul was not left in hell, neither His flesh did see corruption. This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. {AA 42.1 1911}
Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and BE BAPTIZED EVERY ONE OF YOU IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST FOR THE REMISSION OF SINS, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. Acts 2:38. {AA 43.2 1911} {FLB 53.1 1958}
THE NATURE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IS A MYSTERY. Men cannot explain it, BECAUSE THE LORD HAS NOT REVEALED IT to them. Men having fanciful views may bring together passages of SCRIPTURE and put a human construction on them, but the acceptance of these views will not strengthen the church. REGARDING SUCH MYSTERIES, WHICH ARE TOO DEEP FOR HUMAN UNDERSTANDING, SILENCE IS GOLDEN. {AA 52.1 1911}
It is true that in the time of the end, when God’s work in the earth is closing, the earnest efforts put forth by consecrated believers under the guidance of the Holy Spirit are to be accompanied by special tokens of divine favor. Under the figure of the early and the latter rain, that falls in Eastern lands at seedtime and harvest, the Hebrew prophets foretold the bestowal of spiritual grace in extraordinary measure upon God’s church. The outpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostles was the beginning of the early, or former, rain, and glorious was the result. To the end of time the presence of the Spirit is to abide with the true church. {AA 54.2 1911}
But NEAR THE CLOSE OF EARTH’S HARVEST, A SPECIAL BESTOWAL OF SPIRITUAL GRACE IS PROMISED TO PREPARE THE CHURCH FOR THE COMING OF THE SON OF MAN. This outpouring of the Spirit is likened to the falling of the latter rain; and it is for this added power that Christians are to send their petitions to the Lord of the harvest “in the time of the latter rain.” In response, “the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain.” “He will cause to come down . . . the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain,” Zechariah 10:1; Joel 2:23. {AA 55.1 1911}
But UNLESS THE MEMBERS OF GOD’S CHURCH TODAY HAVE A LIVING CONNECTION WITH THE SOURCE OF ALL SPIRITUAL GROWTH, THEY WILL NOT BE READY FOR THE TIME OF REAPING. Unless they keep their lamps trimmed and burning, they will fail of receiving added grace in times of special need. {AA 55.2 1911}
THOSE ONLY WHO ARE CONSTANTLY RECEIVING FRESH SUPPLIES OF GRACE, WILL HAVE POWER PROPORTIONATE TO THEIR DAILY NEED AND THEIR ABILITY TO USE THAT POWER. Instead of looking forward to some future time when, through a special endowment of spiritual power, they will receive a miraculous fitting up for soul winning, they are yielding themselves daily to God, that He may make them vessels meet for His use. Daily they are improving the opportunities for service that lie within their reach. Daily they are witnessing for the Master wherever they may be, whether in some humble sphere of labor in the home, or in a public field of usefulness. {AA 55.3 1911}
The apostles spoke plainly of the great sin of the Jews in rejecting and putting to death the Prince of life; but they were careful not to drive their hearers to despair. “Ye denied the Holy One and the Just,” Peter said, “and desired a murderer to be granted unto you; and killed the Prince of life, WHOM GOD HATH RAISED FROM THE DEAD; whereof we are witnesses.” “{AA 59.2 1911}
Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. Unto you first God, having raised up His Son Jesus, sent Him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities. {AA 60.1 1911}
After the Saviour’s ascension, the sense of the divine presence, full of love and light, was still with them. It was a personal presence. Jesus, the Saviour, who had walked and talked and prayed with them, who had spoken hope and comfort to their hearts, had, while the message of peace was upon His lips, been taken from them into heaven. As the chariot of angels received Him, His words had come to them, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end.” Matthew 28:20. He had ascended to heaven in the form of humanity. They knew that He was before the throne of God, their Friend and Saviour still; that His sympathies were unchanged; that He would forever be identified with suffering humanity. They knew that He was presenting before God the merit of His blood, showing His wounded hands and feet as a remembrance of the price He had paid for His redeemed ones; and this thought strengthened them to endure reproach for His sake. Their union with Him was stronger now than when He was with them in person. The light and love and power of an indwelling Christ shone out through them, so that men, beholding, marveled. {AA 65.1 1911}
The solemn charge that had been given Paul on the occasion of his interview with Ananias, rested with increasing weight upon his heart. When, in response to the word, “Brother Saul, receive thy sight,” Paul had for the first time looked upon the face of this devout man, Ananias under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit said to him: “The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know His will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear THE VOICE OF HIS MOUTH. For thou shalt be His witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. And now why tarriest thou? arise, and BE BAPTIZED, AND WASH AWAY THY SINS, CALLING ON THE NAME OF THE LORD.” Acts 22:13-16. {AA 126.2 1911}
As with holy boldness Paul proclaimed the gospel in the synagogue at Thessalonica, a flood of light was thrown upon the true meaning of the rites and ceremonies connected with the tabernacle service. He carried the minds of his hearers beyond the earthly service and the ministry of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary, to the time when, having completed His mediatorial work, Christ would come again in power and great glory, and establish His kingdom on the earth. Paul was a believer in the second coming of Christ; so clearly and forcibly did he present the truths concerning this event, that upon the minds of many who heard there was made an impression which never wore away. {AA 228.3}
THOSE WHO TODAY TEACH UNPOPULAR TRUTHS NEED NOT BE DISCOURAGED if at times they meet with no more favorable reception, even from those who claim to be Christians, than did Paul and his fellow workers from the people among whom they labored. The messengers of the cross must arm themselves with watchfulness and prayer, and move forward with faith and courage, working always in the name of Jesus. They must exalt Christ as man’s mediator in the heavenly sanctuary, the One in whom all the sacrifices of the OLD TESTAMENT dispensation centered, and through whose atoning sacrifice the transgressors of GOD’S LAW may find peace and pardon. {AA 230.2}
Behold the apostle preaching in the synagogue at Corinth, reasoning from the writings of Moses and the prophets, and bringing his hearers down to the advent of the promised Messiah. Listen as he makes plain the work of THE REDEEMER as the great high priest of mankind–the One who through the sacrifice of His own life was to make atonement for sin once for all, and was then to take up His ministry in the heavenly sanctuary. Paul’s hearers were made to understand that the Messiah for whose advent they had been longing, had already come; that His death was the antitype of all the sacrificial offerings, and that His ministry in the sanctuary in heaven was the great object that cast its shadow backward and made clear the ministry of the Jewish priesthood. {AA 246.2}
At last Paul was on his way to Rome. “When it was determined,” Luke writes, “that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a centurion of Augustus’ band. And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us.” {AA 439.1}
In the first century of the Christian Era traveling by sea was attended with peculiar hardship and peril. Mariners directed their course largely by the position of the sun and stars; and when these did not appear, and there were indications of storm, the owners of vessels were fearful of venturing into the open sea. During a portion of the year, safe navigation was almost impossible. {AA 439.2} {LP 261.3}
The apostle Paul was now called upon to endure the trying experiences that would fall to his lot as a prisoner in chains during the long and tedious voyage to Italy. One circumstance greatly lightened the hardship of his lot–he was permitted the companionship of Luke and Aristarchus. In his letter to the Colossians he afterward referred to the latter as his “fellow prisoner” (Colossians 4:10); but it was from choice that Aristarchus shared Paul’s bondage, that he might minister to him in his afflictions. {AA 439.3}
The voyage began prosperously, and the day after they started, they cast anchor in the harbor of Sidon. Here Julius, the centurion who had listened to the apostle’s address before Agrippa, and had thus been favorably disposed toward him, “courteously entreated Paul,” and being informed that there were Christians in the place, he “gave him liberty to go unto his friends to refresh himself.” The favor was highly appreciated by the apostle, who was in feeble health, and but scantily provided with comforts for the long journey. His brief stay in Sidon was like an oasis in his barren and dreary path, and proved a comfort and encouragement to him during the anxious, storm-tossed weeks upon the sea. {AA 440.1} {LP 263.1}
Upon leaving Sidon, the ship encountered contrary winds; and being driven from a direct course, its progress was slow. At Myra, in the province of Lycia, the centurion found a large Alexandrian ship, bound for the coast of Italy, and to this he immediately transferred his prisoners. But the winds were still contrary, and the ship’s progress was difficult. Luke writes, “When we had sailed slowly many days, and scarce were come over against Cnidus, the wind not suffering us, we sailed under Crete, over against Salmone; and, hardly passing it, came unto a place which is called the Fair Havens.” {AA 440.2} {LP 263.2}
At Fair Havens they were compelled to remain for some time, waiting for favoring winds. Winter was approaching rapidly; “sailing was now dangerous;” and those in charge of the vessel had to give up hope of reaching their destination before the season for travel by sea should be closed for the year. The only question now to be decided was, whether to remain at Fair Havens, or attempt to reach a more favorable place in which to winter. {AA 440.3} {LP 263.3}
This question was earnestly discussed, and was finally referred by the centurion to Paul, who had won the respect of both sailors and soldiers. The apostle unhesitatingly advised remaining where they were. “I perceive,” he said, “that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.” But “the master and the owner of the ship,” and the majority of passengers and crew, were unwilling to accept this counsel. Because the haven in which they had anchored “was not commodious to winter in, the more part advised to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to Phenice, and there to winter; which is an haven of Crete, and lieth toward the southwest and northwest.” {AA 441.1}
The centurion decided to follow the judgment of the majority. Accordingly, “when the south wind blew softly,” they set sail from Fair Havens, with the flattering prospect that a few hours would bring them to the desired harbor. All were now rejoicing that they had not followed the advice of Paul: but their hopes were destined to be speedily disappointed. They had not proceeded far, when a tempestuous wind, such as in that latitude often succeeds the blowing of the south wind, burst upon them with merciless fury. From the first moment that the wind struck the vessel, its condition was hopeless. So sudden was the blow, that the sailors had not a moment in which to prepare, and they could only leave the ship to the mercy of the tempest. {AA 441.2} {LP 264.2}
Driven by the tempest, the vessel neared the small island of Clauda, and while under its shelter the sailors made ready for the worst. The lifeboat, their only means of escape in case the ship should founder, was in tow and liable to be dashed in pieces any moment. Their first work was to hoist this boat on board. All possible precautions were then taken to strengthen the ship and prepare it to withstand the tempest. The scant protection afforded by the little island did not avail them long, and soon they were again exposed to the full violence of the storm. {AA 441.3}
All night the tempest raged, and the ship leaked. The next day, all on board–soldiers, sailors, passengers, and prisoners–united in throwing overboard everything that could be spared. Night came again, but the wind did not abate. The storm-beaten ship, with its shattered mast and rent sails, was tossed hither and thither by the fury of the gale. Every moment it seemed that the groaning timbers must give way as the vessel reeled and quivered under the tempest’s shock. The leak rapidly increased, and passengers and crew worked constantly at the pumps. There was not a moment’s rest for one on board. “The third day,” says Luke, “we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship; and when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away.” A gloomy apathy settled upon those three hundred souls, as for fourteen days they drifted, helpless and hopeless, under a sunless and starless heaven. They had no means of cooking; no fire could be lighted, the utensils had been washed overboard, and most of the provisions were water-soaked and spoiled. In fact while their good ship was wrestling with the tempest, and the waves talked with death, no one desired food. {AA 442.1} {LP 265.2}
For fourteen days they drifted under a sunless and starless heaven. The apostle, though himself suffering physically, had words of hope for the darkest hour, a helping hand in every emergency. He grasped by faith the arm of Infinite Power, and his heart was stayed upon God. He had no fears for himself; he knew that God would preserve him to witness at Rome for the truth of Christ. But his heart yearned with pity for the poor souls around him, sinful, degraded, and unprepared to die. As he earnestly pleaded with God to spare their lives, it was revealed to him that his prayer was granted. {AA 442.2}
Taking advantage of a lull in the tempest, Paul stood forth on the deck and, lifting up his voice, said: “Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss. And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man’s life among you, but of the ship. For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me. Howbeit we must be cast upon a certain island.” {AA 443.1}
At these words, hope revived. Passengers and crew roused from their apathy. There was much yet to be done, and every effort within their power must be put forth to avert destruction; for God helps those only who help themselves. {AA 443.2} {LP 267.1}
It was on the fourteenth night of tossing on the black, heaving billows, that “about midnight” the sailors, hearing the sound of breakers, “deemed that they drew near to some country; and sounded, and found it twenty fathoms: and when they had gone a little further, they sounded again, and found it fifteen fathoms. Then fearing,” Luke writes, “lest we should have fallen upon rocks, they cast four anchors out of the stern, and wished for the day.” {AA 443.3}
At break of day the outlines of the stormy coast were dimly visible, but no familiar landmarks could be seen. So gloomy was the outlook that the heathen sailors, losing all courage, “were about to flee out of the ship,” and feigning to make preparations for casting “anchors out of the foreship,” they had already let down the lifeboat, when Paul, perceiving their base design, said to the centurion and the soldiers, “Except these abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved.” The soldiers immediately “cut off the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off” into the sea. {AA 443.4}
The most critical hour was still before them. Again the apostle spoke words of encouragement, and entreated all, both sailors and passengers, to take some food, saying, “This day is the fourteenth day that ye have tarried and continued fasting, having taken nothing. Wherefore I pray you to take some meat: for this is for your health: for there shall not a hair fall from the head of any of you.” {AA 444.1} {LP 268.2}
When he had thus spoken, he took bread, and gave thanks to God in presence of them all: and when he had broken it, he began to eat. Then that worn and discouraged company of two hundred and seventy-five souls, who but for Paul would have become desperate, joined with the apostle in partaking of food. And when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship, and cast out the wheat into the sea. {AA 444.2}
Daylight had now fully come, but they could see nothing by which to determine their whereabouts. However, “they discovered a certain creek with a shore, into the which they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship. And when they had taken up the anchors, they committed themselves unto the sea, and loosed the rudder bands, and hoisted up the mainsail to the wind, and made toward shore. And falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the fore part stuck fast, and remained unmovable, but the hinder part was broken with the violence of the waves.” {AA 444.3} {LP 269.1}
Paul and the other prisoners were now threatened by a fate more terrible than shipwreck. The soldiers saw that while endeavoring to reach land it would be impossible for them to keep their prisoners in charge. Every man would have all he could do to save himself. Yet if any of the prisoners were missing, the lives of those who were responsible for them would be forfeited. Hence the soldiers desired to put all the prisoners to death. The Roman law sanctioned this cruel policy, and the plan would have been executed at once, but for him to whom all alike were under deep obligation. Julius the centurion knew that Paul had been instrumental in saving the lives of all on board, and, moreover, convinced that the Lord was with him, he feared to do him harm. He therefore “commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land: and the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land.” When the roll was called, not one was missing. {AA 445.1} {LP 269.2}
The shipwrecked crew were kindly received by the barbarous people of Melita. “They kindled a fire,” Luke writes, “and received us everyone, because of the present rain, and because of the cold.” Paul was among those who were active in ministering to the comfort of others. Having gathered “a bundle of sticks,” he “laid them on the fire,” when a viper came forth “out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.” The bystanders were horror-stricken; and seeing by his chain that Paul was a prisoner, they said to one another, “No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.” But Paul shook off the creature into the fire and felt no harm. Knowing its venomous nature, the people looked for him to fall down at any moment in terrible agony. “But after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.” {AA 445.2} {LP 270.2}
During the three months that the ship’s company remained at Melita, Paul and his fellow laborers improved many opportunities to preach the gospel. In a remarkable manner the Lord wrought through them. For Paul’s sake the entire shipwrecked company were treated with great kindness; all their wants were supplied, and upon leaving Melita they were liberally provided with everything needful for their voyage. The chief incidents of their stay are thus briefly related by Luke: {AA 446.1}
In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island, whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days courteously. And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him. So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island, came, and were healed: who also honored us with many honors; and when we departed, they laded us with such things as were necessary. {AA 446.2} {LP 271.2}
With the opening of navigation, the centurion and his prisoners set out on their journey to Rome. An Alexandrian ship, the “Castor and Pollux,” had wintered at Melita on her way westward, and in this the travelers embarked. Though somewhat delayed by contrary winds, the voyage was safely accomplished, and the ship cast anchor in the beautiful harbor of Puteoli, on the coast of Italy. {AA 447.1} {LP 272.1}
In this place there were a few Christians, and they entreated the apostle to remain with them for seven days, a privilege kindly granted by the centurion. Since receiving Paul’s epistle to the Romans, the Christians of Italy had eagerly looked forward to a visit from the apostle. They had not thought to see him come as a prisoner, but his sufferings only endeared him to them the more. The distance from Puteoli to Rome being but a hundred and forty miles, and the seaport being in constant communication with the metropolis, the Roman Christians were informed of Paul’s approach, and some of them started to meet and welcome him. {AA 447.2}
The altar and the plow are the experiences for all who seek eternal life. [Advocate, August 1, 1900 par. 15]
I have been shown that study in agricultural lines should be the A, B, and C of the educational work of our school. . . . The youth are to learn how to work interestedly and intelligently, that wherever they are, they may be respected because they have a knowledge of those arts which are so essential for practical life. In place of being day laborers under an overseer; they are to strive to be masters of their trades, to place themselves where they can command wages as good carpenters, printers, or as educators in agricultural work. [Advocate, August 1, 1900 par. 16]
WE ARE NOW LIVING IN THE GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT. . . . ALL WHO WOULD HAVE THEIR NAMES RETAINED IN THE BOOK OF LIFE SHOULD NOW, IN THE FEW REMAINING DAYS OF THEIR PROBATION, AFFLICT THEIR SOULS BEFORE GOD BY SORROW FOR SIN AND TRUE REPENTANCE. THERE MUST BE DEEP, FAITHFUL SEARCHING OF HEART. {AG 69.5 1973}
Though this covenant was made with Adam and renewed to Abraham, IT COULD NOT BE RATIFIED UNTIL THE DEATH OF CHRIST. It had existed by the promise of God since the first intimation of redemption had been given; it had been accepted by faith; yet when ratified by Christ, it is called a new covenant. THE LAW OF GOD WAS THE BASIS OF THIS COVENANT, which was simply an arrangement for bringing men again into harmony with the divine will, placing them where they could obey GOD’S LAW. [AG 133.4]
THE GOSPEL OF THE NEW TESTAMENT IS NOT THE OLD TESTAMENT STANDARD LOWERED TO MEET THE SINNER AND SAVE HIM IN HIS SINS. GOD REQUIRES OF ALL HIS SUBJECTS OBEDIENCE, ENTIRE OBEDIENCE TO ALL HIS COMMANDMENTS. {AG 144.3}
In this last act of Christ in partaking with His disciples of the bread and wine, He pledged Himself to them as THEIR REDEEMER by a new covenant, in which it was written and sealed that upon all who will receive Christ by faith will be bestowed all the blessings that heaven can supply, both in this life and in the future immortal life. This covenant deed was to be ratified by Christ’s own blood, which it had been the office of the old sacrificial offerings to keep before the minds of His chosen people. Christ designed that this supper should be often commemorated in order to bring to our remembrance His sacrifice in giving His life for the remission of the sins of all who will believe on Him and receive Him. [AG 152.3]
In the Saviour’s death the powers of darkness seemed to prevail, and they exulted in their victory. But from the rent sepulcher of Joseph, Jesus came forth a conqueror. [AG 152.4]
WE MUST HAVE THE SPIRIT OF GOD, or we can never have harmony in the home. The wife, if she has the SPIRIT OF CHRIST, will be careful of her words; she will control her spirit, she will be submissive, and yet will not feel that she is a bondslave, but a companion to her husband. If the husband is a servant of God, he will not lord it over his wife; he will not be arbitrary and exacting. We cannot cherish home affection with too much care; FOR THE HOME, IF THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD DWELLS THERE, IS A TYPE OF HEAVEN. . . . If one errs, the other will exercise Christlike forbearance and not draw coldly away. {AH 118.1 1952}
NEITHER THE HUSBAND NOR THE WIFE SHOULD ATTEMPT TO EXERCISE OVER THE OTHER AN ARBITRARY CONTROL. Do not try to compel each other to yield to your wishes. You cannot do this and retain each other’s love. Be kind, patient, and forbearing, considerate, and courteous. BY THE GRACE OF GOD YOU CAN SUCCEED IN MAKING EACH OTHER HAPPY, AS IN YOUR MARRIAGE VOW YOU PROMISED TO DO. {AH 118.2 1952}
Through the observance of holidays the people both of the world and of the churches have been educated to believe that these lazy days are essential to health and happiness, but the results reveal that they are full of evil. [AH 472.2 1952]
We have tried earnestly to make the holidays as interesting as possible to the youth and children, while changing this order of things. Our object has been to keep them away from scenes of amusement among unbelievers. [AH 472.3 1952]
After a day of pleasure seeking is ended, where is the satisfaction to the pleasure seeker? As Christian workers, whom have they helped to a better, higher, and purer life? What would they see if they should look over the record the angel wrote? A day lost! TO THEIR OWN SOULS A DAY LOST, A DAY LOST IN THE SERVICE OF CHRIST, BECAUSE NO GOOD WAS ACCOMPLISHED. They may have other days but never that day which was idled away in cheap, foolish talk, of girls with boys, and boys with girls. [AH 472.4 1952]
Never will these same opportunities offer themselves again. They had better been doing the hardest kind of labor on that holiday. They did not make the right use of their holiday, and it passed into eternity to confront them in the judgment as a day misspent. [AH 473.1 1952]
Teach them to review the past year of their life, to consider whether they would be glad to meet its record just as it stands in the books of heaven. Encourage in them serious thoughts, whether their deportment, their words, their works, are of a character pleasing to God. Have they been making their lives more like Jesus, beautiful and lovely in the sight of God? TEACH THEM THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE LORD, HIS WAYS, HIS PRECEPTS. [AH 473.4 1952]
Our Thanksgiving is approaching. Will it be, as it has been in many instances, a thanksgiving to ourselves? Or will it be a thanksgiving to God? Our Thanksgivings may be made seasons of great profit to our own souls as well as to others if we improve this opportunity to remember the poor among us. . . . [AH 474.2 1952]
There are a hundred ways that can be devised to help the poor in so delicate a manner as to make them feel that they are doing us a favor by receiving our gifts and sympathy. We are to remember that it is more blessed to give than to receive. The attentions of our brethren are most liberal to those whom they wish to honor, and whose respect they desire, but who do not need their help at all. Custom and fashion say, Give to those who will give to you; but this is not the BIBLE rule of giving. The WORD OF GOD declares against this way of gratifying self in thus bestowing our gifts, and says, “He that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want.” [AH 474.3 1952]
Now a season is coming when we shall have our principles tested. Let us begin to think what we can do for God’s needy ones. We can make them through ourselves the recipients of God’s blessings. Think what widow, what orphan, what poor family you can relieve, not in a way to make a great parade about the matter, but be as a channel through which the Lord’s substance shall flow as a blessing to His poor. . . . [AH 474.4 1952]
But this does not embrace all your duty. Make an offering to your best Friend; acknowledge His bounties; show your gratitude for His favors; bring a thank offering to God. . . . Brethren and sisters, eat a plain dinner on Thanksgiving Day, and with the money you would spend in extras with which to indulge the appetite, make a thank offering to God. [AH 475.1 1952]
Let not any more Thanksgiving days be observed to please and gratify the appetite and glorify self. We have reason for coming into the courts of the Lord with offerings of gratitude that He has preserved our lives another year. . . . If a feast is to be made, let it be for those who are in need. [AH 475.2 1952]
I think we have something to be thankful for. We ought to be glad and rejoice in God, for He has given us many mercies. . . . We want this Thanksgiving to be all that it implies. Do not let it be perverted, mingled with dross; but let it be what its name implies–giving thanks. Let our voices ascend in praise. [AH 475.3 1952]
WOULD IT NOT BE WELL FOR US TO OBSERVE HOLIDAYS UNTO GOD, when we could revive in our minds the memory of His dealing with us? Would it not be well to consider His past blessings, to remember the impressive warnings that have come home to our souls so that we shall not forget God? [AH 475.4 1952]
The world has many holidays, and men become engrossed with games, with horse races, with gambling, smoking, and drunkenness. . . . [AH 475.5 1952]
Shall not the people of God more frequently have holy convocations in which to thank God for His rich blessings? [AH 476.1 1952]
We want men in the church who have ability to develop in the line of organizing and giving practical work to young men and women in the line of relieving the wants of humanity and working for the salvation of the souls of men, women, youth, and children. It will not be possible for all to give their whole time to the work because of the labor they must do to earn their daily living. Yet these have their holidays and times that they can devote to Christian work and do good in this way if they cannot give much of their means. [AH 476.2 1952]
IN HIS WISDOM THE LORD CONCEALED THE PLACE WHERE HE BURIED MOSES. GOD BURIED HIM, AND GOD RESURRECTED HIM AND TOOK HIM TO HEAVEN. THIS SECRECY WAS TO PREVENT IDOLATRY. He against whom they rebelled while he was in active service, whom they provoked almost beyond human endurance, was almost worshiped as God after his separation from them by death. For the very same purpose He has concealed the precise day of Christ’s birth, that the day should not receive the honor that should be given to CHRIST AS THE REDEEMER of the world–one to be received, to be trusted, to be relied on as He who could save to the uttermost all who come unto Him. The soul’s adoration should be given to Jesus as the Son of the infinite God. [AH 477.3 1952]
The holiday season is fast approaching with its interchange of gifts, and old and young are intently studying what they can bestow upon their friends as a token of affectionate remembrance. It is pleasant to receive a gift, however small, from those we love. It is an assurance that we are not forgotten, and seems to bind us to them a little closer. . . . [AH 478.4 1952]
It is right to bestow upon one another tokens of love and remembrance if we do not in this forget God, our best friend. We should make our gifts such as will prove a real benefit to the receiver. I would recommend such books as will be an aid in understanding the WORD OF GOD or that will increase our love for its precepts. Provide something to be read during these long winter evenings. [AH 479.1 1952]
Let the presents you shall make be of that order which will shed beams of light upon the pathway to heaven. [AH 479.3 1952]
Brethren and sisters, while you are devising gifts for one another, I would remind you of our heavenly Friend, lest you should be unmindful of His claims. Will He not be pleased if we show that we have not forgotten Him? Jesus, the Prince of life, gave all to bring salvation within our reach. . . . He suffered even unto death, that He might give us eternal life. [AH 480.1]
It is through Christ that we receive every blessing. . . . Shall not our heavenly Benefactor share in the tokens of our gratitude and love? Come, brethren and sisters, come with your children, even the babes in your arms, and bring your offerings to God according to your ability. Make melody to Him in your hearts, and let His praise be upon your lips. [AH 480.2 1952]
Let not the parents take the position that an evergreen placed in the church for the amusement of the Sabbath school scholars is a sin, for it may be made a great blessing. Keep before their minds benevolent objects. In no case should mere amusement be the object of these gatherings. While there may be some who will turn these occasions into seasons of careless levity, and whose minds will not receive the divine impress, to other minds and characters these seasons will be highly beneficial. I am fully satisfied that innocent substitutes can be devised for many gatherings that demoralize. [AH 482.4 1952]
Will you not arise, my Christian brethren and sisters, and gird yourselves for duty in the fear of God, so arranging this matter that it shall not be dry and uninteresting, but full of innocent enjoyment that shall bear the signet of Heaven? I know the poorer class will respond to these suggestions. The most wealthy should also show an interest and bestow their gifts and offerings proportionate to the means with which God has entrusted them. Let there be recorded in the heavenly books such a Christmas as has never yet been seen because of the donations which shall be given for the sustaining of the work of God and the upbuilding of His kingdom. [AH 483.1 1952]
I have said to my family and my friends, I DESIRE THAT NO ONE SHALL MAKE ME A BIRTHDAY OR CHRISTMAS GIFT, unless it be with permission to pass it on into the Lord’s treasury, to be appropriated in the establishment of missions. [AU Gleaner, December 19, 1906 par. 9]
I will greatly praise the name of the Lord if his people, at this time, by the exercise of benevolence, will increase the facilities for successful work in many needy fields. I LONG TO SEE AMONG SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS AN INCREASE OF FAITH AND COURAGE, AND MORE PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING TO GOD, so that where in the past there has been a withholding of means, there shall from henceforth be seen the evidences of a grateful heart,–the faithful bestowal of gifts and offerings, to supply the needs of many destitute fields. [AU Gleaner, December 19, 1906 par. 10]
As Peter spoke these things, the Holy Spirit fell upon the assembly, and they were baptised in the name of the Lord. Thus in Caesarea a company of Christian believers was established to hold up the light of truth. {AUCR, January 1, 1900 par. 7} {BLJ 264.6 2004}
It is our privilege to be preparing for translation. Why do we not so prepare our hearts that we will receive the promise? My brethren and sisters, yield your whole body and soul to the Lord. Rest in the arms of your compassionate Saviour. Let no one hear from your lips words of complaining or of judging. The Lord has not placed you on the judgment-seat. You have a battle to fight, and you can make it much more severe by turning away from Christ. Seducers, with a scientific problem, are to be guarded against more carefully than any other peril that we may meet. The effort of seducers has been to undermine confidence in the truth of God. Unless we are on our guard, the enemy, disguised as an angel of light, will lead us astray. It is when Satan appears as an angel of light that he takes souls in his snare. MANY SCRIPTURES WILL BE MISAPPLIED BY THESE TEACHERS SO THAT THEY WILL BE USED AS A ROBE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS TO COVER DANGEROUS THEORIES. As the people of Ephesus lost their first love, they increased in a knowledge of scientific theories originated by the father of lies. The Saviour warns us all to repentance so that we may stand right with God. {AUCR, October 1, 1906 par. 1}
Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. . . . And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him. Verses 12-17. {6T 99.3} {AUCR, October 7, 1907 par. 11}
It is the duty of every believer to fulfil faithfully his baptismal vows. If earnest perseverance and diligence are needed in order to attain success in temporal matters, how much more important that we make earnest efforts to obtain the heavenly treasure! {AUCR, October 7, 1907 par. 14}
Those who have by baptism given to God a pledge of their faith in Christ, and their death to the old life of sin, have entered into covenant relation with God. THE THREE POWERS OF THE GODHEAD, THE FATHER, SON, AND HOLY SPIRIT, ARE PLEDGED TO BE THEIR STRENGTH AND THEIR EFFICIENCY IN THEIR NEW LIFE IN CHRIST JESUS. {AUCR, October 7, 1907 par. 9}
Study the whole of this chapter of Colossians [3] carefully and prayerfully. Bear in mind that they are addressed who have been buried by baptism in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Ghost. If you will ever remember that you are dead to worldly interests and attractions, and have risen to seek those things which are above, these heavenly powers are pledged to give you power to walk with Him in newness of life. {AUCR, October 7, 1907 par. 12}
In the eighth and ninth verses are presented the fruits that must not appear in the lives of those who have entered into this covenant relation with God. These are the fruits of the unregenerate heart; and they must not appear; for “ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” The fruits of righteousness appear when the soul lives to fulfil his solemn vow to God. {AUCR, October 7, 1907 par. 13}
There is far too little of self-denial and self-sacrifice among those who claim church fellowship; far too little confession of sin. Church members need to be reconverted, and sanctified in soul, body, and spirit, if they would increase in faith, and grow in grace. But an unsanctified course of action has so long been followed that the church should now be alarmed. THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, so much needed on the human heart, is not felt. Many who profess to receive and believe the WORD OF GOD are deceived; they are not practising the truth. They are not following on to know the Lord, that they may know that His going forth is prepared as the morning. {AUCR, October 7, 1907 par. 15}
It is only through Christ that his people can resist temptation, and become men and women of high and holy purpose, of noble integrity, who will not be swayed from truth, right, and justice. THE CHRISTIAN MUST BE MUCH IN PRAYER. PRAYER TAKES HOLD UPON OMNIPOTENCE, AND GAINS US THE VICTORY. It was thus that Enoch walked with God. And those who thus make Christ their daily companion and familiar friend will feel that the powers of an unseen world are all around them, and by looking unto Jesus they will become assimilated to his image. {BEcho, October 1, 1889 par. 10}
We must have the buyers and the sellers cleared out of the soul temple, that Jesus may take up His abode within us. Now He stands at the door of the heart as a heavenly merchantman; He says, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” “Open unto me; buy of me the heavenly wares; buy of me the gold tried in the fire.” Buy faith and love, the precious, beautiful attributes of OUR REDEEMER, which will enable us to find our way into the hearts of those who do not know Him, who are cold and alienated from Him through unbelief and sin. He invites us to buy the white raiment, which is His glorious righteousness; and the eyesalve, that we may discern spiritual things. Oh, shall we not open the heart’s door to this heavenly visitor (Becho Jan. 15, 1892) [7BC 964.7]
WHEN OUR WEAKNESS BECOMES STRENGTH IN CHRIST, WE SHALL NOT BE CRAVING FOR AMUSEMENT. THEN HOLIDAYS, that are considered so indispensable, WILL NOT BE USED SIMPLY FOR THE GRATIFICATION OF SELF; but they will be turned into occasions in which you can bless and enlighten souls. When weary, Jesus sought for a place of rest in the desert; but the people had had a taste of the heavenly manna, and they came out to him in large companies. In all their human woe and suffering and distress, they sought his retreat, and there was no rest for the SON OF GOD. His heart was moved with compassion; for they were as sheep without a shepherd, and his great heart of love was touched with the feeling of their infirmities, and he taught them concerning the kingdom of heaven. Jesus was never cold and unapproachable. [BEcho, June 15, 1892 par. 5]
WE SHOULD BRING GIFTS TO JESUS, AS DID THE WISE MEN WHEN THEY FOUND THE LORD OF GLORY. They had been studying the prophecies, and they knew that the time was fulfilled, and that Jesus had come to be the Saviour of men. Guided by a star, they journeyed to Jerusalem, and all along the way they were inquiring, “Where is He that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship Him.” “And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped Him; and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.” [BEcho, December 15, 1892 par. 9]
THE WISE MEN HAVE LEFT US AN EXAMPLE OF WHAT WE SHOULD DO. JESUS SHOULD BE THE OBJECT OF OUR ADORATION, THE RECIPIENT OF OUR GIFTS. It is not man, but OUR REDEEMER, that should be honored. To Him we should offer our praise and gifts and treasures; but instead of this, the world sets its treasures flowing in the channel of self-gratification, and to the honor of men. Christmas gifts are bestowed on our children, on our friends and relatives, and few think of what they can do to show their love and gratitude to God for his great love and compassion upon them. [BEcho, December 15, 1892 par. 10]
In celebrating Christmas, fathers, mothers, children, and friends are diverted from the great object to which the custom is attributed. They give their whole attention to the bestowal of gifts upon one another, and their minds are turned away from the contemplation of the Source of all their blessings both spiritual and temporal. In their attention to gifts and honors bestowed upon themselves or their friends, JESUS IS UNHONORED AND FORGOTTEN. PARENTS SHOULD SEEK TO TEACH THEIR CHILDREN TO HONOR JESUS. They should be instructed how He came to the world to bring light, to shine amid the moral darkness of the world. They should be impressed with the fact that “God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [BEcho, December 15, 1892 par. 11]
We are dependent upon Christ for both spiritual and temporal blessings, we should especially remember THE WORLD’S REDEEMER, on those days in which others forget Him in pleasing one another, in festivity and careless mirth. We should show special honor to Him in whom our hope of eternal life is centred. THROUGH ALL THE YEAR PARENTS SHOULD BE EDUCATING THEIR CHILDREN AS TO HOW THEY MAY HONOR JESUS IN THEIR GIFTS. They should instruct them that Christ came to the world to save perishing sinners, and that instead of spending money for needless ornaments, for candies and knick-knacks to gratify the taste, they should deny themselves for Christ’s sake, that they may offer to Him an expression of their love. The theme of Christ’s amazing love can be so presented to your children that the little ones will be lost in wonder and love, and their hearts will be melted at the story of Calvary. TELL THE CHILDREN AND YOUTH THAT JESUS DIED TO SAVE THEM, THAT HE WANTS THEM TO GIVE TO HIM THEIR YOUNG LIVES THAT THEY MAY BE HIS OBEDIENT CHILDREN, AND BE SAVED FROM RUIN. [BEcho, December 15, 1892 par. 12]
Christ will be pleased to see that the children and the youth, whom He loves, also love Him, and He will accept their gifts and offerings to be used in his cause. From the denial of self in children and youth, many little streams may flow into the treasury of the Lord, and missionaries may be sent out through their gifts to bring light to the heathen, who bow down to gods of wood and stone. Home missionaries also may be assisted, and there are poor who are suffering and needy, who may be blessed with the gifts of the children. Christ identifies his interest with that of his children. He says, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto Me.” [BEcho, December 15, 1892 par. 13]
Brethren and sisters, what are you going to bring to Jesus as an offering of love? What will you render unto the Lord for all his benefits? Will you show forth the praises of Him who has called you out of darkness into his marvellous light, or will you devote your time and money to self and to pleasure seeking, as though self were the great object of attraction? O, may the coming Christmas be the best one you have ever enjoyed, because you have brought gifts to Jesus, and given yourselves and your all without reservation to Him who has given all for you. [BEcho, December 15, 1892 par. 14]
BY THE SPIRIT THE FATHER AND THE SON WILL COME AND MAKE THEIR ABODE WITH YOU. {BEcho January 15, 1893 par. 8}
CHRIST WAS THE REPRESENTATIVE OF HUMANITY. HE HAD LAID ASIDE HIS GLORY, STEPPED DOWN FROM HIS THRONE, clothed his divinity with humanity, that with his human arm He might encircle the race, and with his divine arm reach the throne of the Infinite. He took upon Him the nature of man, and was tempted in all points like as we are. As a man He supplicated at the throne of God, beseeching his Father to accept his prayer in behalf of humanity; and to his earnest petition the heavens were opened. Never before had angels listened to such a prayer, and the glory of the Majesty of heaven shone upon Him, and words of love and approval assured Him of the acceptance of his petition as man’s representative. God accepted the fallen race through the merits of Christ. {Messenger, December 15, 1892 par. 2} {BEcho, February 1, 1893 par. 2}
COMMUNICATION BETWEEN HEAVEN AND EARTH, BETWEEN GOD AND MAN, HAD BEEN BROKEN BY THE FALL OF ADAM; BUT THROUGH CHRIST MAN COULD AGAIN COMMUNE WITH GOD. He who knew no sin became sin for the race, that his righteousness might be imputed to man. Through the perfection of Christ’s character, humanity was elevated in the scale of moral value with God; finite man was linked with the infinite God. Thus the gulf which sin had made was bridged by THE WORLD’S REDEEMER. {BEcho, February 1, 1893 par. 3}
When the plan of salvation was revealed to the angels, joy, inexpressible joy, filled heaven. The glory and blessedness of a world redeemed, out-measured even the anguish of the Prince of life. Through the celestial courts echoed the first strain of that song that angels sang above the hills of Bethlehem: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” And the lost pair in the garden of Eden, standing as criminals before the righteous Judge, waiting the sentence their transgression merited, heard the first notes of the divine promise. Before the life of toil and sorrow which sin had brought upon them was depicted before them, before the decree that the wages of sin is death was pronounced, they heard the promise of redemption. Though they must suffer from the power of their mighty foe, still through the merits of Christ they could look forward to victory. The mystery of the gospel was spoken in Eden when God said to the serpent: “I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.” If Satan could have touched the Head with his specious temptations, the human family would be lost; but the Lord had made known the purpose and plan of the mystery of grace, declaring that Christ should bruise the serpent under his feet. [Becho, July 15, 1893 par. 1]
THROUGH THE PLAN OF SALVATION THE JUSTICE AND MERCY OF GOD ARE FULLY VINDICATED, AND TO ALL ETERNITY REBELLION WILL NEVER AGAIN ARISE, AFFLICTION NEVER AGAIN TOUCH THE UNIVERSE OF GOD. [Becho, July 15, 1893 par. 5]
Satan has woven his spell even over the professed CHURCH OF CHRIST, and many who claim to believe in Christ seem to be in the stupor of death. But the Lord has not left them to slumber on; He has sent them a message to arouse them from their carnal security. A part of these professors arouse and repent, and do their first works; but those who take comfort in their legal religion, in their form of godliness that is devoid of the power, feel that they have been personally rebuked and injured by the repentance of those who have aroused and returned unto the Lord. Instead of humbling their hearts and confessing their backsliding, they resist and oppose the message the Lord has sent. They oppose their finite wisdom against the wisdom of the Infinite. They allow their prejudices and passions to hold sway; they work on Satan’s side of the question. Thus the advocates of truth are brought into an unexpected conflict, and they are forced to bear witness to the truth, and to resist the hostility and hatred of those who would make the truth of God of none effect. Thus dissension comes in like a sword to divide believers and unbelievers. {BEcho, March 26, 1894 par. 7}
1973 – Bert B. Beach, secretary of the Northern Europe-West Africa Division, and company begin Social Engineering of acceptance of being one with the world in joining the World Council of Churches. He co-authors a book with Lucas Visher, secretary of the WCC, titled “So Much in Common between the World Council of Churches and the Seventh-Day Adventist Church”, published by the WCC, Geneva, Switzerland, 1973, saying, “The member churches of the World Council of Churches and Seventh-Day Adventists are in agreement on the fundamental articles of the Christian faith as set forth in the three ancient symbols [creeds] (Apostolicum, Nicaeno-Constantinopolitum, Athanasium). This agreement finds expression in unqualified acceptance of the doctrines of the Trinity and the Two Natures.” (So Much in Common, p. 40) Ellen White had warned that “it is a grave mistake on the part of those who are children of God to seek to bridge the gulf that separate them from the children of darkness by yielding principle, by compromising the truth.” (BEcho, April 9, 1894, par. 6)
THERE IS DANGER THAT GOD’S PEOPLE NOW WILL BE FOUND, AS WERE THE JEWS, WEIGHED IN THE BALANCES OF THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY AND FOUND WANTING. Christ rebuked the Jews because, while in small matters they were so exact, paying tithes of mint and anise and cummin, they neglected the weightier matters of THE LAW,–mercy, justice, and the love of God. {BEcho, July 26, 1897 par. 2} {YI, October 14, 1897 par. 4}
Christ said to His disciples, “It is expedient for you that I go away; for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come to you, but if I depart, I will send Him unto you.” This was the gift of gifts. THE HOLY SPIRIT WAS SENT AS THE MOST PRICELESS TREASURE MAN COULD RECEIVE. {BEcho, May 22, 1899 par. 8} {ST, August 16, 1899 par. 10}
IN THE DEPTHS OF OMNIPOTENT WISDOM AND MERCY THE FATHER TOOK THE WORK OF SALVATION INTO HIS OWN HAND. HE SENT HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON INTO THE WORLD TO LIVE THE LAW OF JEHOVAH. THE LAW, REVEALED IN THE CHARACTER OF CHRIST, WAS A PERFECT MANIFESTATION OF THE FATHER. {BEcho November 20, 1899 par. 2}
The Father can not be described by the things of earth. THE FATHER IS ALL THE FULLNESS OF THE GODHEAD BODILY, AND IS INVISIBLE TO MORTAL SIGHT. THE SON IS ALL THE FULLNESS OF THE GODHEAD MANIFESTED. The WORD OF GOD declares Him to be the express image of His person. God so loved the world that HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. HERE IS SHOWN THE PERSONALITY OF THE FATHER. {BTS, March 1, 1906 par. 1}
THE COMFORTER THAT CHRIST PROMISED TO SEND after He ascended to heaven, IS THE SPIRIT IN ALL THE FULLNESS OF THE GODHEAD, making manifest the power of divine grace to all who receive and believe in Christ as a personal Saviour. THERE ARE THREE LIVING PERSONS OF THE HEAVENLY TRIO. IN THE NAME OF THESE THREE POWERS,–THE FATHER, THE SON, AND THE HOLY GHOST, THOSE WHO RECEIVE CHRIST BY LIVING FAITH ARE BAPTIZED, AND THESE POWERS WILL COOPERATE WITH THE OBEDIENT SUBJECTS OF HEAVEN IN THEIR EFFORTS TO LIVE THE NEW LIFE IN CHRIST. {BTS, March 1, 1906 par. 2} {SpTB07 62, 63 1905} {Ev 615.1}
The religion of Christ means much more than the forgiveness of sin. It means taking away our sins, and filling the vacuum with the Holy Spirit. It means divine illumination, rejoicing in God. It means a heart emptied of self, and blessed with the abiding presence of Christ. (Bible Training School, 1st October 1908, ‘True Worship, see also RH 10th June 1902, ‘The promise of the Spirit and RH, 12th November 1914, Preparing for Christ’s return)
JESUS IS MINISTERING IN THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, BUT HE IS WITH HIS WORKERS ALSO; for He declares, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” HE IS SPIRITUAL DIRECTOR OF HIS CHURCH ON EARTH, and He longs to see the members filled with a determination to labor harmoniously for the advancement of His kingdom. He has raised up a succession of workers who derive their authority from HIM, THE GREAT TEACHER. He has chosen for His work men of varied talents and varied capabilities. Some of these might not be the men you would choose, but you will pass through an experience that will lead you to see that God exalts men whom you would regard as inferior to yourselves. When the judgment shall sit, and the books are opened, many will be surprised by God’s estimate of character. They will realize that God sees not as man sees, that He judges not as human beings judge. He reads the heart. He knows the motives that prompt the action, and He recognizes and commends every faithful effort put forth for Him. The Lord uses various gifts in His work. Let no worker think that his gifts are superior to those of another worker. LET GOD BE THE JUDGE. HE TESTS AND APPROVES HIS WORKERS, AND HE PLACES A JUST ESTIMATE ON THEIR QUALIFICATIONS. He has placed in the church a variety of gifts, to meet the varied wants of the many minds with which His workers are brought in contact. {BTS, November 1, 1909 par. 2}
Let those who try to serve God and mammon remember the warning given by Christ, “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” The experiment has been tried and pronounced impossible. Those who trust in God and serve God are not attracted by the world. Those who substitute riches, property, earthly treasure of any kind, for the Lord, will reap the sure result,–separation from God and heaven. They lay their souls upon the altar of mammon, placing gain where godliness should be. {BTS, June 1, 1910 par. 4}
So it may be now. Let Christians put away all dissension and give themselves to God for the saving of the lost. Let them ask in faith for the promised blessing, and it will come. The outpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostles was “the former rain,” and glorious was the result. But the latter rain will be more abundant. What is the promise to those living in these last days? “Turn you to the stronghold, ye prisoners of hope: even today do I declare that I will render double unto thee.” “Ask ye of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain; so the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field.” Zechariah 9:12; 10:1. 128 {CCh 98.6 1991}
COOKING IS NO MEAN SCIENCE, AND IT IS ONE OF THE MOST ESSENTIAL IN PRACTICAL LIFE. It is a science that all women should learn, and it should be taught in a way to benefit the poorer classes. {CCh 222.5 1957}
LET US MAKE INTELLIGENT ADVANCEMENT IN SIMPLIFYING OUR DIET. In the providence of God, every country produces articles of food containing the nourishment necessary for the upbuilding of the system. These may be made into healthful, appetizing dishes. {CCh 222.6 1957}
FRUITS, GRAINS, AND VEGETABLES, PREPARED IN A SIMPLE WAY, FREE FROM SPICE AND GREASE OF ALL KINDS, MAKE, WITH MILK OR CREAM, THE MOST HEALTHFUL DIET. {CCh 222.8 1957}
At the very beginning of the fourth commandment the Lord said: “Remember.” HE KNEW THAT AMID THE MULTITUDE OF CARES AND PERPLEXITIES MAN WOULD BE TEMPTED TO EXCUSE HIMSELF FROM MEETING THE FULL REQUIREMENT OF THE LAW, OR WOULD FORGET ITS SACRED IMPORTANCE. Therefore He said: “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” Exodus 20:8. {CCh 262.2 1991}
THERE IS NEED OF A MORE THOROUGH PREPARATION ON THE PART OF CANDIDATES FOR BAPTISM. THEY ARE IN NEED OF MORE FAITHFUL INSTRUCTION THAN HAS USUALLY BEEN GIVEN THEM. The principles of the Christian life should be made plain to those who have newly come to the truth. None can depend upon their profession of faith as proof that they have a saving connection with Christ. We are not only to say, “I believe,” but to practice the truth. It is by conformity to the will of God in our words, our deportment, our character, that we prove our connection with Him. WHENEVER ONE RENOUNCES SIN, WHICH IS THE TRANSGRESSION OF THE LAW, HIS LIFE WILL BE BROUGHT INTO CONFORMITY TO THE LAW, INTO PERFECT OBEDIENCE. THIS IS THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. THE LIGHT OF THE WORD CAREFULLY STUDIED, THE VOICE OF CONSCIENCE, THE STRIVINGS OF THE SPIRIT, PRODUCE IN THE HEART GENUINE LOVE FOR CHRIST, WHO GAVE HIMSELF A WHOLE SACRIFICE TO REDEEM THE WHOLE PERSON, BODY, SOUL, AND SPIRIT. AND LOVE IS MANIFESTED IN OBEDIENCE. The line of demarcation will be plain and distinct between those who love God and keep His commandments, and those who love Him not and disregard His precepts. {CCh 295.5}
When the disciples entered the supper room, their hearts were full of resentful feelings. Judas pressed next to Christ on the left side; John was on the right. If there was a highest place, Judas was determined to have it, and that place was thought to be next to Christ. And Judas was a traitor. {CCh 299.1}
Another cause of dissension had arisen. At a feast it was customary for a servant to wash the feet of the guests, and on this occasion preparation had been made for the service. The pitcher, the basin, and the towel were there, in readiness for the feet washing; but no servant was present, and it was the disciples’ part to perform it. But each of the disciples, yielding to wounded pride, determined not to act the part of a servant. All manifested a stoical unconcern, seeming unconscious that there was anything for them to do. By their silence they refused to humble themselves. {CCh 299.2} Also {DA 644.2}
The disciples made no move toward serving one another. Jesus waited for a time to see what they would do. Then He, the divine Teacher, rose from the table. Laying aside the outer garment that would have impeded His movements, He took a towel, and girded Himself. With surprised interest the disciples looked on, and in silence waited to see what was to follow. “After that He poureth water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith He was girded.” This action opened the eyes of the disciples. Bitter shame and humiliation filled their hearts. They understood the unspoken rebuke, and saw themselves in altogether a new light. {CCh 299.3}
THE CORRECT UNDERSTANDING OF THE MINISTRATION IN THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY IS THE FOUNDATION OF OUR FAITH. 619 {CCh 347.1}
I was shown that if God’s people make no efforts on their part, but wait for the refreshing to come upon them and remove their wrongs and correct their errors; if they depend upon that to cleanse them from filthiness of the flesh and spirit, and fit them to engage in the loud cry of the third angel, they will be found wanting. The refreshing or power of God comes only on those who have prepared themselves for it by doing the work which God bids them, namely, cleansing themselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. {CD 33.3 1938}
THE FAILURE TO FOLLOW SOUND PRINCIPLES HAS MARRED THE HISTORY OF GOD’S PEOPLE. THERE HAS BEEN A CONTINUAL BACKSLIDING IN HEALTH REFORM, AND AS A RESULT GOD IS DISHONORED BY A GREAT LACK OF SPIRITUALITY. Barriers have been erected which would never have been seen had God’s people walked in the light. {CD 33.4 1938}
Shall we who have had such great opportunities allow the people of the world to go in advance of us in health reform? Shall we cheapen our minds and abuse our talents by wrong eating? Shall we transgress GOD’S HOLY LAW by following selfish practices? Shall our inconsistency become a byword? Shall we live such unchristianlike lives that the Saviour will be ashamed to call us brethren? {CD 33.5 1938}
Shall we not rather do that medical missionary work which is the gospel in practice, living in such a way that the peace of God can rule in our hearts? Shall we not remove every stumbling block from the feet of unbelievers, ever remembering what is due to a profession of Christianity? Far better give up the name of Christian than make a profession and at the same time indulge appetites which strengthen unholy passions. {CD 34.1 1938}
GOD CALLS UPON EVERY CHURCH MEMBER TO DEDICATE HIS LIFE UNRESERVEDLY TO THE LORD’S SERVICE. HE CALLS FOR DECIDED REFORMATION. ALL CREATION IS GROANING UNDER THE CURSE. GOD’S PEOPLE SHOULD PLACE THEMSELVES WHERE THEY WILL GROW IN GRACE, BEING SANCTIFIED, BODY, SOUL, AND SPIRIT, BY THE TRUTH. WHEN THEY BREAK AWAY FROM ALL HEALTH-DESTROYING INDULGENCES, THEY WILL HAVE A CLEARER PERCEPTION OF WHAT CONSTITUTES TRUE GODLINESS. A wonderful change will be seen in the religious experience. {CD 34.2}
IT IS OF GREAT IMPORTANCE THAT INDIVIDUALLY WE ACT WELL OUR PART, AND HAVE AN INTELLIGENT UNDERSTANDING OF WHAT WE SHOULD EAT AND DRINK, AND HOW WE SHOULD LIVE TO PRESERVE HEALTH. ALL ARE BEING PROVED TO SEE WHETHER THEY WILL ACCEPT THE PRINCIPLES OF HEALTH REFORM OR FOLLOW A COURSE OF SELF-INDULGENCE. {CD 34.3 1938}
Let no one think that he can do as he pleases in the matter of diet. But before all who sit at the table with you, let it appear that you follow principle in the matter of eating, as in all other matters, that the glory of God may be revealed. You cannot afford to do otherwise; for you have a character to form for the future immortal life. Great responsibilities rest upon every human soul. Let us comprehend these responsibilities, and bear them nobly in the name of the Lord. {CD 34.4 1938}
To every one who is tempted to indulge appetite I would say, Yield not to temptation, but confine yourself to the use of wholesome foods. You can train yourself to enjoy a healthful diet. The Lord helps those who seek to help themselves; but when men will not take special pains to follow out the mind and will of God, how can He work with them? Let us act our part, working out our salvation with fear and trembling,–with fear and trembling lest we make mistakes in the treatment of our bodies, which, before God, we are under obligation to keep in the most healthy condition possible. {CD 35.1 1938}
THE GOSPEL OF HEALTH HAS ABLE ADVOCATES, BUT THEIR WORK HAS BEEN MADE VERY HARD BECAUSE SO MANY MINISTERS, PRESIDENTS OF CONFERENCES, AND OTHERS IN POSITIONS OF INFLUENCE, HAVE FAILED TO GIVE THE QUESTION OF HEALTH REFORM ITS PROPER ATTENTION. They have not recognized it in its relation to the work of the message as the right arm of the body. While very little respect has been shown to this department by many of the people, and by some of the ministers, the Lord has shown His regard for it by giving it abundant prosperity. {CD 73.1 1938}
WHEN PROPERLY CONDUCTED, THE HEALTH WORK IS AN ENTERING WEDGE, making a way for other truths to reach the heart. WHEN THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE IS RECEIVED IN ITS FULLNESS, HEALTH REFORM WILL BE GIVEN ITS PLACE in the councils of the conference, in the work of the church, in the home, at the table, and in all the household arrangements. Then the right arm will serve and protect the body. {CD 73.2 1938}
BUT WHILE THE HEALTH WORK HAS ITS PLACE IN THE PROMULGATION OF THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE, ITS ADVOCATES MUST NOT IN ANY WAY STRIVE TO MAKE IT TAKE THE PLACE OF THE MESSAGE. {CD 73.3 1938}
469. Nicely prepared vegetables and fruits in their season will be beneficial, if they are of the best quality, not showing the slightest sign of decay, but are sound and unaffected by any disease or decay. More die by eating decayed fruit and decayed vegetables which ferment in the stomach and result in blood poisoning, than we have any idea of. {CD 309.6 1938}
470. A plain, simple, but liberal supply of fruit is the best food that can be placed before those who are preparing for the work of God. {CD 310.1 1938}
471. GRAINS, FRUITS, NUTS, AND VEGETABLES CONSTITUTE THE DIET CHOSEN FOR US BY OUR CREATOR. THESE FOODS PREPARED IN AS SIMPLE AND NATURAL A MANNER AS POSSIBLE, ARE THE MOST HEALTHFUL AND NOURISHING. They impart a strength, a power of endurance, and a vigor of intellect, that are not afforded by a more complex and stimulating diet. {CD 310.2 1938}
651. Among those who are waiting for the coming of the Lord, meat eating will eventually be done away; flesh will cease to form a part of their diet. We should ever keep this end in view, and endeavor to work steadily toward it. I cannot think that in the practice of flesh eating we are in harmony with the light which God has been pleased to give us. All who are connected with our health institutions especially should be educating themselves to SUBSIST ON FRUITS, GRAINS, AND VEGETABLES. If we move from principle in these things, if we as Christian reformers educate our own taste, and bring our diet to God’s plan, then we may exert an influence upon others in this matter, which will be pleasing to God. {CD 380.4 1938}
652. It is not the chief end of man to gratify his appetite. There are physical wants to be supplied; but because of this is it necessary that man shall be controlled by appetite? Will the people who are seeking to become holy, pure, refined, that they may be introduced into the society of heavenly angels, continue to take the life of God’s creatures, and enjoy their flesh as a luxury? From what the Lord has shown me, this order of things will be changed, and God’s peculiar people will exercise temperance in all things. {CD 381.1 1938}
653. Those who have received instruction regarding the evils of the use of flesh foods, tea, and coffee, and rich and unhealthful food preparations, and who are determined to make a covenant with God by sacrifice, will not continue to indulge their appetite for food that they know to be unhealthful. GOD DEMANDS THAT THE APPETITE BE CLEANSED, AND THAT SELF-DENIAL BE PRACTICED IN REGARD TO THOSE THINGS WHICH ARE NOT GOOD. THIS IS A WORK THAT WILL HAVE TO BE DONE BEFORE HIS PEOPLE CAN STAND BEFORE HIM A PERFECTED PEOPLE. {CD 381.2 1938}
654. It is for their own good that the Lord counsels the remnant church to discard the use of flesh meats, tea, and coffee, and other harmful foods. There are plenty of other things on which we can subsist that are wholesome and good. {CD 381.3 1938}
655. Greater reforms should be seen among the people who claim to be looking for the soon appearing of Christ. Health reform is to do among our people a work which it has not yet done. There are those who ought to be awake to the danger of meat eating, who are still eating the flesh of animals, thus endangering the physical, mental, and spiritual health. Many who are now only half converted on the question of meat eating will go from God’s people to walk no more with them. {CD 382.1 1938}
Those who indulge in meat eating, tea drinking, and gluttony are sowing seeds for a harvest of pain and death. The unhealthful food placed in the stomach strengthens the appetites that war against the soul, developing the lower propensities. A diet of flesh meat tends to develop animalism. A development of animalism lessens spirituality, rendering the mind incapable of understanding truth. {CD 382.3 1938}
THE WORD OF GOD PLAINLY WARNS US THAT UNLESS WE ABSTAIN FROM FLESHLY LUSTS, THE PHYSICAL NATURE WILL BE BROUGHT INTO CONFLICT WITH THE SPIRITUAL NATURE. Lustful eating wars against health and peace. Thus a warfare is instituted between the higher and the lower attributes of the man. The lower propensities, strong and active, oppress the soul. The highest interests of the being are imperiled by the indulgence of appetites unsanctioned by Heaven. {CD 382.4 1938}
Nearly all persons can speak loud enough to be heard in ordinary conversation, and why should not the same voice and talent be used when they are called upon to bear testimony or offer prayer? When speaking of heavenly and divine things, why not speak in distinct tones, in a manner that will make it manifest that you know what you are talking about, and are not ashamed to show your colors? Why not pray as though you had a conscience void of offense, and could come to the throne of grace in humility and yet with holy boldness, lifting up holy hands without wrath and doubting? DO NOT BOW DOWN AND COVER UP YOUR FACE AS IF THERE WERE SOMETHING THAT YOU DESIRED TO CONCEAL; BUT LIFT UP YOUR EYES TOWARD THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, WHERE CHRIST YOUR MEDIATOR STANDS BEFORE THE FATHER TO PRESENT YOUR PRAYERS AS FRAGRANT INCENSE, MINGLED WITH HIS OWN MERIT AND SPOTLESS RIGHTEOUSNESS. You are invited to come, to ask, to seek, to knock, and you are assured that you will not come in vain. Jesus says “Ask, and it shall be given you: seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you; for every one that asketh receiveth, and he that seeketh findeth, and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened.” He illustrates the willingness of God to bless by presenting before us the willingness of a father to grant the request of his child. He asks, “If a son ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone, or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? [Luke 11:9-13.] {CE 127.2 1893-1894}
Like the Sabbath, the week originated at creation, and it has been preserved and brought down to us through BIBLE history. GOD HIMSELF MEASURED OFF THE FIRST WEEK AS A SAMPLE FOR SUCCESSIVE WEEKS TO THE CLOSE OF TIME. Like every other, it consisted of seven literal days. Six days were employed in the work of creation; upon the seventh, God rested, and he then blessed this day, and set it apart as a day of rest for man. {CE 190.1 1893-1894}
In THE LAW given from Sinai, God recognized the week, and the facts upon which it is based. After giving the command, “Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy,” and specifying what shall be done on the six days, and what shall not be done on the seventh, he states the reason for thus observing the week, by pointing back to his own example: “For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day; wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it.” [Exodus 20:8-11.] This reason appears beautiful and forcible when we understand the days of creation to be literal. The first six days of each week are given to man for labor, because God employed the same period of the first week in the work of creation. On the seventh day man is to refrain from labor, in commemoration of THE CREATOR’S REST. {CE 190.2 1893-1894}
But the assumption that the events of the first week required thousands upon thousands of years, strikes directly at the foundation of the fourth commandment. It represents THE CREATOR as commanding men to observe the week of literal days in commemoration of vast, indefinite periods. This is unlike his method of dealing with his creatures. It makes indefinite and obscure that which he has made very plain. It is infidelity in its most insidious and hence most dangerous form; its real character is so disguised that it is held and taught by many who profess to believe the BIBLE. {CE 190.3 1893-1894}
By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast. [Psalm 33:6, 9.] THE BIBLE RECOGNIZES NO LONG AGES IN WHICH THE EARTH WAS EVOLVED FROM CHAOS. OF EACH SUCCESSIVE DAY OF CREATION, THE SACRED RECORD DECLARES THAT IT CONSISTED OF THE EVENING AND THE MORNING, LIKE ALL OTHER DAYS THAT HAVE FOLLOWED. At the close of each day is given the result of THE CREATOR’S WORK. The statement is made at the close of the first week’s record, These are the generations of the heavens and of the earth when they were created. [Genesis 2:4.] But this does not convey the idea that the days of creation were other than literal days. Each day was called a generation, because that in it God generated, or produced, some new portion of his work. {CE 191.1 1893-1894}
Geologists claim to find evidence from the earth itself that it is very much older than the Mosaic record teaches. Bones of men and animals, as well as instruments of warfare, petrified trees, etc., much larger than any that now exist, or that have existed for thousands of years, have been discovered, and from this it is inferred that the earth was populated long before the time brought to view in the record of creation, and by a race of beings vastly superior in size to any men now living. Such reasoning has led many professed BIBLE believers to adopt the position that the days of creation were vast, indefinite periods. {CE 191.2 1893-1894}
But apart from BIBLE history, geology can prove nothing. Those who reason so confidently upon its discoveries, have no adequate conception of the size of men, animals, and trees before the flood, or of the great changes which then took place. Relics found in the earth do give evidence of conditions differing in many respects from the present; but the time when these conditions existed can be learned only from the Inspired Record. In the history of the flood, inspiration has explained that which geology alone could never fathom. In the days of Noah, men, animals, and trees, many times larger than now exist, were buried, and thus preserved as an evidence to later generations that the antediluvians perished by a flood. GOD DESIGNED THAT THE DISCOVERY OF THESE THINGS SHOULD ESTABLISH FAITH IN INSPIRED HISTORY; but men, with their vain reasoning, fall into the same error as did the people before the flood,–the things which God gave them as a benefit, they turn into a curse by making a wrong use of them. {CE 191.3 1893-1894}
It is one of Satan’s devices to lead the people to accept the fables of infidelity; for he can thus obscure THE LAW OF GOD, in itself very plain, and embolden men to rebel against the divine government. His efforts are especially directed against the fourth commandment, because it so clearly points to THE LIVING GOD, THE MAKER OF THE HEAVENS AND THE EARTH. {CE 192.1 1893-1894}
But the Lord gave me a view of the heavenly sanctuary. The temple of God was open in heaven, and I was shown the ark of God covered with the mercy seat. Two angels stood one at either end of the ark, with their wings spread over the mercy seat, and their faces turned toward it. This my accompanying angel informed me represented all the heavenly host looking with reverential awe toward THE LAW OF GOD, which had been written by the finger of God. {CET 85.4}
Jesus is about to leave the mercy seat of the heavenly sanctuary, to put on garments of vengeance, and pour out His wrath in judgments upon those who have not responded to the light God has given them. “Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.” Ecclesiastes 8:11. Instead of being softened by the patience and long forbearance that the Lord has exercised toward them, those who fear not God and love not the truth, strengthen their hearts in their evil course. But there are limits even to the forbearance of God, and many are exceeding these boundaries. They have overrun the limits of grace, and therefore God must interfere and vindicate His honor. {CET 185.3}
Thou shalt rejoice in every good thing which the Lord thy God hath given thee. Thanksgiving and praise should be expressed to God for temporal blessings and for whatever comforts He bestows upon us. GOD WOULD HAVE EVERY FAMILY THAT HE IS PREPARING TO INHABIT THE ETERNAL MANSIONS ABOVE GIVE GLORY TO HIM FOR THE RICH TREASURES OF HIS GRACE. Were children, in the home life, educated and trained to be grateful to the Giver of all good things, we would see an element of heavenly grace manifest in our families. Cheerfulness would be seen in the home life, and coming from such homes, the youth would bring a spirit of respect and reverence with them into the schoolroom and into the church. There would be an attendance in the sanctuary where God meets with His people, a reverence for all the ordinances of His worship, and grateful praise and thanksgiving would be offered for all the gifts of His providence. {CG 148.3}
When the happiest period of their life has come, and they in their hearts love Jesus and wish to be baptized, then deal faithfully with them. Before they receive the ordinance, ask them if it is to be their first purpose in life to work for God. Then tell them how to begin. It is the first lessons that mean so much. In simplicity teach them how to do their first service for God. Make the work as easy to be understood as possible. Explain what it means to give up self to the Lord, to do just as HIS WORD directs, under the counsel of Christian parents. {CG 500.1}
WE SHOULD EDUCATE OURSELVES, NOT ONLY TO LIVE IN HARMONY WITH THE LAWS OF HEALTH, BUT TO TEACH OTHERS THE BETTER WAY. Many, even of those who profess to believe the special truths for this time, are lamentably ignorant with regard to health and temperance. They need to be educated, line upon line, precept upon precept. The subject must be kept fresh before them. This matter must not be passed over as nonessential, for nearly every family needs to be stirred up on the question. The conscience must be aroused to the duty of practicing the principles of true reform. {CG 361.2 1954}
After faithful labor, if you are satisfied that your children understand the meaning of conversion and baptism and are truly converted, let them be baptized. But, I repeat, first of all prepare yourselves to act as faithful shepherds in guiding their inexperienced feet in the narrow way of obedience. God must work in the parents that they may give to their children a right example in love, courtesy, and Christian humility, and in an entire giving up of self to Christ. If you consent to the baptism of your children and then leave them to do as they choose, feeling no special duty to keep their feet in the straight path, you yourselves are responsible if they lose faith and courage and interest in the truth. {CG 500.2}
God calls upon you to teach them to prepare to be members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. Co-operate with God by working diligently for their salvation. IF THEY ERR, DO NOT SCOLD THEM. Never taunt them with being baptized and yet doing wrong. Remember that they have much to learn in regard to the duties of a child of God. {CG 500.3}
Remember is placed at the very first of the Fourth Commandment. PARENTS, YOU NEED TO REMEMBER THE SABBATH DAY YOURSELVES TO KEEP IT HOLY. And if you do this, you are giving the proper instruction to your children; they will reverence God’s holy day. . . . Christian education is needed in your homes. All through the week keep the Lord’s holy Sabbath in view, for that day is to be devoted to the service of God. It is a day when the hands are to rest from worldly employment, when the soul’s needs are to receive especial attention. {CG 527.3 1954}
When the Sabbath is thus remembered, the temporal will not be allowed to encroach upon the spiritual. No duty pertaining to the six working days will be left for the Sabbath. During the week our energies will not be so exhausted in temporal labor that on the day when the Lord rested and was refreshed, we shall be too weary to engage in His service. {CG 528.1 1954}
THERE SHOULD BE A SACRED SPOT, LIKE THE SANCTUARY OF OLD, WHERE GOD IS TO MEET WITH HIS PEOPLE. That place should not be used as a lunchroom or as a business room, but simply for the worship of God. When children attend day school in the same place where they assemble to worship on the Sabbath, they cannot be made to feel the sacredness of the place, and that they must enter with feelings of reverence. The sacred and common are so blended that it is difficult to distinguish them. {CG 542.3}
It is for this reason that the house or sanctuary dedicated to God should not be made a common place. Its sacredness should not be confused or mingled with the common everyday feelings or business life. There should be a solemn awe upon the worshipers as they enter the sanctuary, and they should leave behind all common worldly thoughts, for it is the place where God reveals His presence. It is as the audience chamber of the great and eternal God; therefore pride and passion, dissension and self-esteem, selfishness, and covetousness, which God pronounces idolatry, are inappropriate for such a place. {CG 543.1}
As to when He was begotten, it is not for us to inquire, nor could our minds grasp it if we were told…THERE WAS A TIME WHEN CHRIST PROCEEDED FORTH AND CAME FROM GOD, FROM THE BOSOM OF THE FATHER, but that time was so far back in the days of eternity that to finite comprehension, it is practically without beginning. And again, “We know that Christ ‘proceeded forth and came from God’ (John 8:42), but it was so far back in the ages of eternity as to be far beyond the grasp of the mind of man.” Christ and His Righteousness, 1890, p9. Waggoner
Finally, we know the Divine unity of the FATHER AND THE SON from the fact that both have the same Spirit. Paul, after saying that they that are in the flesh cannot please God, continues: But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the SPIRIT OF GOD dwell in you. Now if any man have not the SPIRIT OF CHRIST, he is none of his. Rom. 8:9 . Here we find that THE HOLY SPIRIT IS BOTH THE SPIRIT OF GOD AND THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST. (E. J. Waggoner, Christ and His Righteousness, 23, 1890)
The great majority of this earth’s inhabitants have given their allegiance to the enemy. But we have not been deceived. Notwithstanding the apparent triumph of Satan, Christ is carrying forward His work in the heavenly sanctuary and on the earth. The WORD OF GOD portrays the wickedness and corruption that would exist in the last days. As we see the fulfillment of prophecy, our faith in the final triumph of Christ’s kingdom should strengthen; and we should go forth with renewed courage to do our appointed work. GW 26, 27. {ChS 111.2}
Some men have insight into matters, having ability to counsel. It is a gift of God. In moments when the cause of God is in need of words, sound and solemn and solid, they can speak words which will lead minds perplexed and in darkness, to see as a quick flash of sunlight the course for them to pursue, which [question] has filled them with perplexity and baffled their minds in study for weeks and months. There is an unraveling, a clearing up of the path before them, and the Lord has let His sunlight in, and they see their prayers are answered, their way is made clear. But some rash advice may be given only get out of Battle Creek, notwithstanding there is nothing clearly defined as to what improvement they will make in spiritual advancement for themselves or others in doing this. {CL 25.5 1946} Also {2SM 361.4 1958}
Let canvassing evangelists give themselves up to be worked by the Holy Spirit. Let them by persevering prayer take hold of the power which comes from God, trusting in Him in living faith. His great and effectual influence will be with every true, faithful worker. {CM 106.3 1953}
Realize every moment that you must have the presence of the Holy Spirit; for it can do a work that you cannot do of yourself. Testimonies to Ministers, 310. (1923) {CM 107.1 1953}
Our books should be handled by consecrated workers, whom the Holy Spirit can use as His instrumentalities. Christ is our sufficiency, and we are to present the truth in humble simplicity, letting it bear its own savor of life unto life. Testimonies, vol. 6, 319. (1900) {CM 107.2 1953}
The Lord Jesus standing by the side of the canvasser, walking with them, is the chief worker. If we recognize Christ as the One who is with us to prepare the way, the Holy Spirit by our side will make impressions in just the lines needed. Manual for Canvassers, 40. (1902) {CM 107.4 1953}
We can enlighten the people only through the power of God. The canvassers must keep their own souls in living connection with God. They should labor praying that God will open the way, and prepare hearts to receive the message He sends them. It is not the ability of the agent or worker, but it is the SPIRIT OF GOD moving upon the heart that will give true success. Ms 31, 1890. {CM 107.5 1953}
The pursuit of pleasure and amusement centers in the cities. Many parents who choose a city home for their children, thinking to give them greater advantages, meet with disappointment, and too late repent their terrible mistake. THE CITIES OF TODAY ARE FAST BECOMING LIKE SODOM AND GOMORRAH. The many holidays encourage idleness. The exciting sports–theatergoing, horse racing, gambling, liquor-drinking, and reveling–stimulate every passion to intense activity. The youth are swept away by the popular current. Those who learn to love amusement for its own sake open the door to a flood of temptations. They give themselves up to social gaiety and thoughtless mirth, and their intercourse with pleasure lovers has an intoxicating effect upon the mind. They are led on from one form of dissipation to another, until they lose both the desire and the capacity for a life of usefulness. Their religious aspirations are chilled; their spiritual life is darkened. All the nobler faculties of the soul, all that link man with the spiritual world, are debased. [COL 54.3 1900]
After Christ’s ascension His enthronement in His mediatorial kingdom was signalized by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. On the day of Pentecost the Spirit was given. COL 118.3 1900
THE OLD TESTAMENT SHEDS LIGHT UPON THE NEW, AND THE NEW UPON THE OLD. EACH IS A REVELATION OF THE GLORY OF GOD IN CHRIST. BOTH PRESENT TRUTHS THAT WILL CONTINUALLY REVEAL NEW DEPTHS OF MEANING TO THE EARNEST SEEKER. {COL 128.3 1900}
He who dwells in the heavenly sanctuary judges righteously. His pleasure is more in His people, struggling with temptation in a world of sin, than in the host of angels that surround His throne. {COL 176.1}
This robe, woven in the loom of heaven, has in it not one thread of human devising. Christ in His humanity wrought out a perfect character, and this character He offers to impart to us. All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags. Isaiah 64:6. Everything that we of ourselves can do is defiled by sin. But the SON OF GOD was manifested to take away our sins; and in Him is no sin. Sin is defined to be the transgression of THE LAW. 1 John 3:5, 4. COL 311.4 1900
THE COMING OF THE BRIDEGROOM WAS AT MIDNIGHT THE DARKEST HOUR. SO THE COMING OF CHRIST WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE DARKEST PERIOD OF THIS EARTH’S HISTORY. The days of Noah and Lot pictured the condition of the world just before the coming of the Son of man. The SCRIPTURES pointing forward to this time declare that Satan will work with all power and “with all deceivableness of unrighteousness.” 2 Thessalonians 2:9, 10. His working is plainly revealed by the rapidly increasing darkness, the multitudinous errors, heresies, and delusions of these last days. Not only is Satan leading the world captive, but his deceptions are leavening the professed churches of our Lord Jesus Christ. The great apostasy will develop into darkness deep as midnight, impenetrable as sackcloth of hair. To God’s people it will be a night of trial, a night of weeping, a night of persecution for the truth’s sake. But out of that night of darkness God’s light will shine. {COL 414.3 1900}
How the enemy has wrought to place temporal things above spiritual! Many families who have but little to spare for God’s cause, will yet spend money freely to purchase rich furniture or fashionable clothing. How much is spent for the table, and often for that which is only a hurtful indulgence; how much for presents that benefit no one! [CS 294.3 1940]
Many spend considerable sums for photographs to give to their friends. Picture taking is carried to extravagant lengths, and encourages a species of idolatry. How much more pleasing to God it would be if all this means were invested in publications which would direct souls to Christ and the precious truths for this time! The money wasted on needless things would supply many a table with reading matter on present truth, which would prove a savor of life unto life. [CS 295.1 1940]
PARENTS ARE TO BRING UP AND EDUCATE AND TRAIN THEIR CHILDREN IN HABITS OF SELF-CONTROL AND SELF-DENIAL. They are ever to keep before them their obligation to obey the WORD OF GOD and to live for the purpose of serving Jesus. They are to educate their children that there is need of living in accordance with simple habits in their daily life, and to avoid expensive dress, expensive diet, expensive houses, and expensive furniture. The terms upon which eternal life will be ours are set forth in these words, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart; . . . and thy neighbor as thyself.” [CS 295.4 1940]
If children and youth had been properly instructed in this age of the world, what honor, what praise and thanksgiving, would flow from their lips to God! What a revenue of small gifts would be brought from the hands of the little ones to be put into His treasury as thank offerings! God would be remembered instead of forgotten. [CS 296.2 1940]
WHEN HUMAN SYMPATHY IS BLENDED WITH LOVE AND BENEVOLENCE, AND SANCTIFIED BY THE SPIRIT OF JESUS, IT IS AN ELEMENT WHICH CAN BE PRODUCTIVE OF GREAT GOOD. Those who cultivate benevolence are not only doing a good work for others, and blessing those who receive the good action, but they are benefiting themselves by opening their hearts to the benign influence of true benevolence. {CS 345.1 1940}
We must come up to a higher plane of action. Let the SPIRIT OF JESUS vitalize the souls of the workers. Then their plans and methods of labor will be of that character to win souls to Jesus Christ. In our large churches, where there are many children and youth, there is great danger of so managing the Sabbath school that it will become a mere form, mechanical but spiritless. It lacks Jesus. TSS 14 1900. {CSW 164.1 1938}
Harsh dealing will never help the youth to see his errors, or aid him to reform. Let the rules and regulations of the school be carried out in the SPIRIT OF JESUS, and when reproof must be given, let this disagreeable work be done with sorrow blended with love. … CHRIST BEARS LONG WITH US, AND WE MUST BE CHRISTLIKE. HE DOES NOT CUT US OFF BECAUSE OF OUR ERRORS, BUT REPROVES IN TENDERNESS, AND BY LOVE DRAWS US CLOSE TO HIMSELF. {CSW 172.1 1938}
When speaking of divine things, why not speak in distinct tones in a manner that will make it manifest that you know whereof you speak, and are not ashamed to show your colors? Why not pray as if you had a conscience void of offense, and could come to the throne of grace in humility, yet with holy boldness, lifting up holy hands without wrath and doubting? Do not bow down and cover up your faces as if there were something that you desired to conceal; but lift up your eyes toward the heavenly sanctuary, where Christ your Mediator stands before the Father to present your prayers, mingled with His own merit and spotless righteousness, as fragrant incense. {CT 241.2}
The GREAT TEACHER HIMSELF was among you. How did you honor Him? Was He a stranger to some of the educators? Was there need to send for someone of supposed authority to welcome or repel this Messenger from heaven? Though unseen, His presence was among you. CT 363.3 1913
Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? for ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. [1 Corinthians 6:19.] WHEN MEN TAKE ANY COURSE WHICH NEEDLESSLY EXPENDS THEIR VITALITY OR BECLOUDS THEIR INTELLECT, THEY SIN AGAINST GOD; they do not glorify him in their body and spirit, which are his. {CTBH 8.3 1890}
We are in a world that is opposed to righteousness, or purity of character, and especially to growth in grace. Wherever we look, we see defilement and corruption, deformity and sin. How opposed is all this to the work that must be accomplished in us just previous to receiving the gift of immortality! God’s elect must stand untainted amid the corruptions teeming around them in these last days. Their bodies must be made holy, their spirits pure. If this work is to be accomplished, it must be undertaken at once, earnestly and understandingly. THE SPIRIT OF GOD SHOULD HAVE PERFECT CONTROL, INFLUENCING EVERY ACTION. {CTBH 8.5 1890}
THE HEALTH REFORM is one branch of the great work which is to fit a people for the coming of the Lord. It IS AS CLOSELY CONNECTED WITH THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE AS THE HAND IS WITH THE BODY. THE LAW OF TEN COMMANDMENTS has been lightly regarded by man; yet the Lord will not come to punish the transgressors of that LAW WITHOUT FIRST SENDING THEM A MESSAGE OF WARNING. Men and women cannot violate NATURAL LAW by indulging depraved appetite and lustful passions, without violating THE LAW OF GOD. Therefore he has permitted the light of health reform to shine upon us, that we may realize the sinfulness of breaking THE LAWS which he has established in our very being. Our heavenly Father sees the deplorable condition of men who, many of them ignorantly, are disregarding the principles of hygiene. And it is in love and pity to the race that he causes the light to shine upon health reform. HE PUBLISHES HIS LAW AND ITS PENALTIES, IN ORDER THAT ALL MAY LEARN WHAT IS FOR THEIR HIGHEST GOOD. He proclaims HIS LAW so distinctly, and makes it so prominent, that it is like a city set on a hill. All intelligent beings can understand it if they will. None others are responsible. To make NATURAL LAW plain, and to urge obedience to it, is a work that accompanies the third angel’s message. {CTBH 9.1 1890}
IGNORANCE IS NO EXCUSE NOW FOR THE TRANSGRESSION OF LAW. The light shines clearly, and none need be ignorant; for the great God himself is man’s instructor. All are bound by the most sacred obligations to heed the sound philosophy and genuine experience which God is now giving them in reference to health reform. He designs that the subject shall be agitated, and the public mind deeply stirred to investigate it; for it is impossible for men and women, while under the power of sinful, health-destroying, brain-enervating habits, to appreciate sacred truth. Those who are willing to inform themselves concerning the effect which sinful indulgence has upon the health, and who begin the work of reform, even from selfish motives, may in so doing place themselves where the truth of God can reach their hearts. And, on the other hand, those who have been reached by the presentation of SCRIPTURE truth are in a position where the conscience may be aroused upon the subject of health. They see and feel the necessity of breaking away from the tyrannizing habits and appetites which have ruled them so long. There are many who would receive the truths of God’s word, their judgment having been convinced by the clearest evidence; but the carnal desires, clamoring for gratification, control the intellect, and they reject truth because it conflicts with their lustful desires. The minds of many take so low a level that God cannot work either for them or with them. The current of their thoughts must be changed, their moral sensibilities must be aroused, before they can feel the claims of God. {CTBH 9.2 1890}
The apostle Paul exhorts the church, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” [Romans 12:1.] Sinful indulgence defiles the body, and unfits men for spiritual worship. He who cherishes the light which God has given him upon health reform, has an important aid in the work of becoming sanctified through the truth, and fitted for immortality. But if he disregards that light, and lives in violation of NATURAL LAW, he must pay the penalty; his spiritual powers are benumbed, and how can he perfect holiness in the fear of God? {CTBH 10.1 1890}
MEN HAVE POLLUTED THE SOUL-TEMPLE, and God calls upon them to awake, and to strive with all their might to win back their God-given manhood. Nothing but the grace of God can convict and convert the heart; from him alone can the slaves of custom obtain power to break the shackles that bind them. It is impossible for a man to present his body a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, while continuing to indulge habits that are depriving him of physical, mental, and moral vigor. Again the apostle says, “Be not conformed to this world; but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.” [Romans 12:2.] {CTBH 10.2 1890}
Jesus, seated on the Mount of Olives, gave instruction to his disciples concerning the signs which should precede his coming: “As the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” [Matthew 24:37-39.] The same sins that brought judgments upon the world in the days of Noah, exist in our day. Men and women now carry their eating and drinking so far that it ends in gluttony and drunkenness. This prevailing sin, the indulgence of perverted appetite, inflamed the passions of men in the days of Noah, and led to wide-spread corruption. Violence and sin reached to heaven. This moral pollution was finally swept from the earth by means of the flood. The same sins of gluttony and drunkenness benumbed the moral sensibilities of the inhabitants of Sodom, so that crime seemed to be the delight of the men and women of that wicked city. Christ thus warns the world: “Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; but the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed.” [Luke 17:28-30.] {CTBH 11.1 1890}
Christ has here left us a most important lesson. He would lay before us the danger of making our eating and drinking paramount. He presents the result of unrestrained indulgence of appetite. The moral powers are enfeebled, so that sin does not appear sinful. Crime is lightly regarded, and passion controls the mind, until good principles and impulses are rooted out, and God is blasphemed. All this is the result of eating and drinking to excess. This is the very condition of things which Christ declares will exist at his second coming. {CTBH 12.1 1890}
The Saviour presents to us something higher to toil for than merely what we shall eat and drink, and wherewithal we shall be clothed. Eating, drinking, and dressing are carried to such excess that they become crimes. They are among the marked sins of the last days, and constitute a sign of Christ’s soon coming. Time, money, and strength, which belong to the Lord, but which he has intrusted to us, are wasted in superfluities of dress and luxuries for the perverted appetite, which lessen vitality, and bring suffering and decay. It is impossible to present our bodies a living sacrifice to God when we continually fill them with corruption and disease by our own sinful indulgence. {CTBH 12.2 1890}
KNOWLEDGE MUST BE GAINED IN REGARD TO HOW TO EAT AND DRINK AND DRESS SO AS TO PRESERVE HEALTH. SICKNESS IS THE RESULT OF VIOLATING NATURE’S LAW. Our first duty, one which we owe to God, to ourselves, and to our fellowmen, is to OBEY THE LAWS OF GOD. These include the LAWS OF HEALTH. If we are sick, we impose a weary tax upon our friends, and unfit ourselves for doing our duty either in the family or to our neighbors. And when premature death is the result, we bring sorrow and suffering to others; we deprive our neighbors of the help we might have rendered them; we rob our families of the comfort and help which they should have received from us, and rob God of the service he claims of us to advance his glory. Then are we not, in a high sense, transgressors of GOD’S LAW? {CTBH 12.3 1890}
IT IS NOT THE WILL OF GOD THAT MEN AND WOMEN SHOULD DIE PREMATURELY, leaving their work unfinished. He would have us live out the full measure of our days, with every organ free to do its allotted work. Many complain of the providences of God when disease and death remove members of the household; but it is unjust to charge God with what is but the sure result of their own transgression of NATURAL LAWS. {CTBH 90.1 1890}
Many are unwilling to put forth the needed effort to obtain a knowledge of THE LAWS OF LIFE and the simple means to be employed for the restoration of health. They do not place themselves in right relation to life. WHEN SICKNESS IS THE RESULT OF THEIR TRANSGRESSION OF NATURAL LAW, THEY DO NOT SEEK TO CORRECT THEIR ERRORS, AND THEN ASK THE BLESSING OF GOD, BUT THEY RESORT TO THE PHYSICIANS. IF THEY RECOVER HEALTH, THEY GIVE TO DRUGS AND DOCTORS ALL THE HONOR. They are ever ready to idolize human power and wisdom, seeming to know no other god than the creature, dust and ashes. {CTBH 112.3 1890}
Providence has been leading the people of God out from the extravagant habits of the world, away from the indulgence of appetite and passion, to take their stand upon the platform of self-denial, and temperance in all things. The people whom God is leading will be peculiar. They will not be like the world. If they follow the leadings of God, they will accomplish his purposes, and will yield their will to his will. Christ will dwell in the heart. The temple of God will be holy. Your body, says the apostle, is the temple of the Holy Ghost. God does not require his children to deny themselves to the injury of physical strength. HE REQUIRES THEM TO OBEY NATURAL LAW, IN ORDER TO PRESERVE PHYSICAL HEALTH. NATURE’S PATH IS THE ROAD HE MARKS OUT, AND IT IS BROAD ENOUGH FOR ANY CHRISTIAN. With a lavish hand God has provided us with rich and varied bounties for our sustenance and enjoyment. But in order for us to enjoy the natural appetite, which will preserve health and prolong life, he restricts the appetite. He says, Beware! restrain, deny, unnatural appetite. If we create a perverted appetite, we violate THE LAWS OF OUR BEING, and assume the responsibility of abusing our bodies and of bringing disease upon ourselves. {CTBH 150.4 1890}
Some are not impressed with the necessity of eating and drinking to the glory of God. The indulgence of appetite affects them in all the relations of life. It is seen in the family, in the church, in the prayer-meeting, and in the conduct of their children. It is the curse of their lives. It prevents them from understanding the truths for these last days. {CTBH 151.2 1890}
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. Revelation 21:4. {CTr 372.1 1999}
1890 – Leadership attempts to remove the name Seventh-day Adventist from the American Sentinel (Religious Liberty journal of the SDA Church) to make the magazine popular with other denominations, but this step is averted because a living prophet is present. Ellen White states, “This policy is the first step in a succession of wrong steps” (Counsels to Writer and Editors, p. 96) the leading brethren are taking down the road to ecumenical concessions.
His name shall be called Immanuel, . . . God with us. “The light of the knowledge of the glory of God” is seen “in the face of Jesus Christ.” FROM the days of eternity the Lord Jesus Christ was one with the Father; He was “the image of God,” the image of His greatness and majesty, “the outshining of His glory.” It was to manifest this glory that He came to our world. To this sin-darkened earth He came to reveal the light of God’s love, to be “God with us.” Therefore it was prophesied of Him, “His name shall be called Immanuel.” {DA 19.1 1898}
By coming to dwell with us, Jesus was to reveal God both to men and to angels. HE WAS THE WORD OF GOD, GOD’S THOUGHT MADE AUDIBLE. In His prayer for His disciples He says, “I have declared unto them Thy name,” “merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,” “that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them, and I in them.” But not alone for His earthborn children was this revelation given. Our little world is the lesson book of the universe. God’s wonderful purpose of grace, the mystery of redeeming love, is the theme into which “angels desire to look,” and it will be their study throughout endless ages. BOTH THE REDEEMED AND THE UNFALLEN BEINGS WILL FIND IN THE CROSS OF CHRIST THEIR SCIENCE AND THEIR SONG. It will be seen that the glory shining in the face of Jesus is the glory of self-sacrificing love. In the light from Calvary it will be seen that THE LAW OF SELF-RENOUNCING LOVE IS THE LAW OF LIFE for earth and heaven; that the love which “seeketh not her own” has its source in the heart of God; and that in the meek and lowly One is manifested the character of Him who dwelleth in the light which no man can approach unto. {DA 19.2 1898}
In the beginning, God was revealed in all the works of creation. IT WAS CHRIST THAT SPREAD THE HEAVENS, AND LAID THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE EARTH. IT WAS HIS HAND THAT HUNG THE WORLDS IN SPACE, AND FASHIONED THE FLOWERS OF THE FIELD. “His strength setteth fast the mountains.” “The sea is His, and He made it.” Psalm 65:6; 95:5. It was He that filled the earth with beauty, and the air with song. AND UPON ALL THINGS IN EARTH, AND AIR, AND SKY, HE WROTE THE MESSAGE OF THE FATHER’S LOVE. {DA 20.1 1898}
In these words is set forth the great principle which is THE LAW OF LIFE FOR THE UNIVERSE. ALL THINGS CHRIST RECEIVED FROM GOD, BUT HE TOOK TO GIVE. SO IN THE HEAVENLY COURTS, IN HIS MINISTRY FOR ALL CREATED BEINGS: THROUGH THE BELOVED SON, THE FATHER’S LIFE FLOWS OUT TO ALL; THROUGH THE SON IT RETURNS, IN PRAISE AND JOYOUS SERVICE, A TIDE OF LOVE, TO THE GREAT SOURCE OF ALL. AND THUS THROUGH CHRIST THE CIRCUIT OF BENEFICENCE IS COMPLETE, REPRESENTING THE CHARACTER OF THE GREAT GIVER, THE LAW OF LIFE. Desire of Ages 21, 1898
ONLY CHRIST CAN CLEANSE THE SOUL TEMPLE. But He will not force an entrance. He comes not into the heart as to the temple of old; but HE SAYS, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him.” Revelation 3:20. HE WILL COME, not for one day merely; for He says, “I WILL DWELL IN THEM, and walk in them; … and they shall be My people.” “He will subdue our iniquities; and Thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.” 2 Corinthians 6:16; Micah 7:19. HIS PRESENCE WILL CLEANSE AND SANCTIFY THE SOUL, so that it may be a holy temple unto the Lord, and “an habitation of God through the Spirit.” Ephesians 2:21, 22. {DA 161.2 1898}
Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25. Though the ministration was to be removed from the earthly to the heavenly temple; though the sanctuary and our great high priest would be invisible to human sight, yet the disciples were to suffer no loss thereby. They would realize no break in their communion, and no diminution of power because of the Saviour’s absence. WHILE JESUS MINISTERS IN THE SANCTUARY ABOVE, HE IS STILL BY HIS SPIRIT THE MINISTER OF THE CHURCH ON EARTH. HE IS WITHDRAWN FROM THE EYE OF SENSE, BUT HIS PARTING PROMISE IS FULFILLED, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” Matthew 28:20. While HE delegates HIS POWER to inferior ministers, HIS ENERGIZING PRESENCE IS STILL WITH HIS CHURCH. {DA 166.2 1898}
Jesus continued: “That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.” By nature the heart is evil, and “who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean? not one.” Job 14:4. No human invention can find a remedy for the sinning soul. “The carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to THE LAW OF GOD, neither indeed can be.” “Out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies.” Rom. 8:7; Matt. 15:19. The fountain of the heart must be purified before the streams can become pure. HE WHO IS TRYING TO REACH HEAVEN BY HIS OWN WORKS IN KEEPING THE LAW IS ATTEMPTING AN IMPOSSIBILITY. THERE IS NO SAFETY FOR ONE WHO HAS MERELY A LEGAL RELIGION, A FORM OF GODLINESS. THE CHRISTIAN’S LIFE IS NOT A MODIFICATION OR IMPROVEMENT OF THE OLD, BUT A TRANSFORMATION OF NATURE. THERE IS A DEATH TO SELF AND SIN, AND A NEW LIFE ALTOGETHER. THIS CHANGE CAN BE BROUGHT ABOUT ONLY BY THE EFFECTUAL WORKING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. [DA 172.1 1898]
As the light and life of men was rejected by the ecclesiastical authorities in the days of Christ, so it has been rejected in every succeeding generation. Again and again the history of Christ’s withdrawal from Judea has been repeated. WHEN THE REFORMERS PREACHED THE WORD OF GOD, THEY HAD NO THOUGHT OF SEPARATING THEMSELVES FROM THE ESTABLISHED CHURCH; but the religious leaders would not tolerate the light, and THOSE THAT BORE IT WERE FORCED TO SEEK ANOTHER CLASS, WHO WERE LONGING FOR THE TRUTH. IN OUR DAY few of the professed followers of the Reformers are actuated by their spirit. FEW ARE LISTENING FOR THE VOICE OF GOD, AND READY TO ACCEPT TRUTH IN WHATEVER GUISE IT MAY BE PRESENTED. OFTEN THOSE WHO FOLLOW IN THE STEPS OF THE REFORMERS ARE FORCED TO TURN AWAY FROM THE CHURCHES THEY LOVE, IN ORDER TO DECLARE THE PLAIN TEACHING OF THE WORD OF GOD. AND MANY TIMES THOSE WHO ARE SEEKING FOR LIGHT ARE BY THE SAME TEACHING OBLIGED TO LEAVE THE CHURCH OF THEIR FATHERS, THAT THEY MAY RENDER OBEDIENCE. [DA 232.1 1898]
The burden of Christ’s preaching was, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent ye, and believe the gospel.” Thus THE GOSPEL MESSAGE, AS GIVEN BY THE SAVIOUR HIMSELF, WAS BASED ON THE PROPHECIES. The “time” which He declared to be fulfilled was the period made known by the angel Gabriel to Daniel. “Seventy weeks,” said the angel, “are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most holy.” Daniel 9:24. A day in prophecy stands for a year. See Numbers 14:34; Ezekiel 4:6. The seventy weeks, or four hundred and ninety days, represent four hundred and ninety years. A starting point for this period is given: “Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks,” sixty-nine weeks, or four hundred and eighty-three years. Daniel 9:25. The commandment to restore and build Jerusalem, as completed by the decree of Artaxerxes Longimanus (see Ezra 6:14; 7:1, 9, margin), went into effect in the autumn of B. C. 457. From this time four hundred and eighty-three years extend to the autumn of A. D. 27. According to the prophecy, this period was to reach to the Messiah, the Anointed One. In A. D. 27, Jesus at His baptism received the anointing of the Holy Spirit, and soon afterward began His ministry. Then the message was proclaimed. “The time is fulfilled.” {DA 233.1 1898}
Then, said the angel, “He shall confirm the covenant with many for one week [seven years].” For seven years after the Saviour entered on His ministry, the gospel was to be preached especially to the Jews; for three and a half years by Christ Himself; and afterward by the apostles. “In the midst of the week He shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease.” Daniel 9:27. IN THE SPRING OF A. D. 31, CHRIST THE TRUE SACRIFICE WAS OFFERED ON CALVARY. Then the veil of the temple was rent in twain, showing that the sacredness and significance of the sacrificial service had departed. The time had come for the earthly sacrifice and oblation to cease. {DA 233.2 1898}
THE ONE WEEK–SEVEN YEARS–ENDED IN A. D. 34. Then by the stoning of Stephen the Jews finally sealed their rejection of the gospel; the disciples who were scattered abroad by persecution “went everywhere preaching the word” (Acts 8:4); and shortly after, Saul the persecutor was converted, and became Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles. {DA 233.3 1898}
The Lord God will do nothing, but He revealeth His secret unto His servants and prophets. While the secret things belong unto the Lord our God, those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children forever. Amos 3:7; Deuteronomy 29:29. God has given these things to us, and His blessing will attend the reverent, PRAYERFUL STUDY OF THE PROPHETIC SCRIPTURES. {DA 234.3 1898}
AS THE MESSAGE OF CHRIST’S FIRST ADVENT ANNOUNCED THE KINGDOM OF HIS GRACE, SO THE MESSAGE OF HIS SECOND ADVENT ANNOUNCES THE KINGDOM OF HIS GLORY. AND THE SECOND MESSAGE, LIKE THE FIRST, IS BASED ON THE PROPHECIES. The words of the angel to Daniel relating to the last days were to be understood in the time of the end. At that time, “many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.” “The wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.” Daniel 12:4, 10. The Saviour Himself has given signs of His coming, and He says, “When ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.” “And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.” “Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.” Luke 21:31, 34, 36. {DA 234.4 1898}
We have reached the period foretold in these SCRIPTURES. The time of the end is come, the visions of the prophets are unsealed, and their solemn warnings point us to our Lord’s coming in glory as near at hand. {DA 235.1 1898}
The Jews misinterpreted and misapplied the WORD OF GOD, and they knew not the time of their visitation. The years of the ministry of Christ and His apostles, the precious last years of grace to the chosen people, they spent in plotting the destruction of the Lord’s messengers. Earthly ambitions absorbed them, and the offer of the spiritual kingdom came to them in vain. So today the kingdom of this world absorbs men’s thoughts, and they take no note of the rapidly fulfilling prophecies and the tokens of the swift-coming kingdom of God. {DA 235.2 1898}
But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. While we are not to know the hour of our Lord’s return, we may know when it is near. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6. {DA 235.3 1898}
The defenses of the soul are broken down. He has no barrier against sin. WHEN ONCE THE RESTRAINTS OF GOD’S WORD AND HIS SPIRIT ARE REJECTED, NO MAN KNOWS TO WHAT DEPTHS OF DEGRADATION HE MAY SINK. Secret sin or master passion may hold him a captive as helpless as was the demoniac of Capernaum. Yet his condition is not hopeless. The Desire of Ages, 258. (1898) {Ev 592.2}
Every man is free to choose what power he will have to rule over him. None have fallen so low, none are so vile, but that they can find deliverance in Christ. The demoniac, in place of prayer, could utter only the words of Satan; yet the heart’s unspoken appeal was heard. No cry from a soul in need, though it fail of utterance in words, will be unheeded. Those who will consent to enter into covenant relation with the God of heaven are not left to the power of Satan or to the infirmity of their own nature. They are invited by the Saviour, “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me; and he shall make peace with Me.” The spirits of darkness will battle for the soul once under their dominion, but angels of God will contend for that soul with prevailing power. DA, 258, 259. (1898) {Ev 626.2}
THE ONLY SAFEGUARD AGAINST HIS POWER IS FOUND IN THE PRESENCE OF JESUS. Before men and angels Satan has been revealed as man’s enemy and destroyer; Christ, as man’s friend and deliverer. HIS SPIRIT WILL DEVELOP IN MAN ALL THAT WILL ENNOBLE THE CHARACTER AND DIGNIFY THE NATURE. IT WILL BUILD MAN UP FOR THE GLORY OF GOD IN BODY AND SOUL AND SPIRIT. {DA 341.1 1898}
THE SAVIOUR HAS NOT PROMISED HIS FOLLOWERS THE LUXURIES OF THE WORLD; THEIR FARE MAY BE PLAIN, AND EVEN SCANTY; THEIR LOT MAY BE SHUT IN BY POVERTY; BUT HIS WORD IS PLEDGED THAT THEIR NEED SHALL BE SUPPLIED, and He has promised that which is far better than worldly good, – the abiding comfort of His own presence. (DA, 367, ‘Give Ye Then to Eat’)
Jesus says, My Father which is in heaven, as reminding His disciples that while by His humanity He is linked with them, a sharer in their trials, and sympathizing with them in their sufferings, by His divinity He is connected with the throne of the Infinite. Wonderful assurance! {DA 442.3 1898}
Religious teachers read the BIBLE in the light of their own understanding and traditions; and the people do not search the SCRIPTURES for themselves, and judge for themselves as to what is truth; but they yield up their judgment, and commit their souls to their leaders. DA, 459
MANY ARE DECEIVED TODAY IN THE SAME WAY AS WERE THE JEWS. Religious teachers read the BIBLE in the light of their own understanding and traditions; and THE PEOPLE DO NOT SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES FOR THEMSELVES, and judge for themselves as to what is truth; but they yield up their judgment, and commit their souls to their leaders. The preaching and teaching of HIS WORD is one of the means that God has ordained for diffusing light; but we must bring every man’s teaching to the test of SCRIPTURE. Whoever will PRAYERFULLY STUDY THE BIBLE, desiring to know the truth, that he may obey it, will receive divine enlightenment. He will understand the SCRIPTURES. “If any man willeth to do His will, he shall know of the teaching.” John 7:17, R. V. {DA 459.1 1898}
However much a shepherd may love his sheep, he loves his sons and daughters more. Jesus is not only our shepherd; He is our “everlasting Father.” And He says, “I know Mine own, and Mine own know Me, even as the Father knoweth Me, and I know the Father.” John 10:14, 15, R. V. What a statement is this! THE ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, HE WHO IS IN THE BOSOM OF THE FATHER, HE WHOM GOD HAS DECLARED TO BE “THE MAN THAT IS MY FELLOW” (Zechariah 13:7), the communion between Him and the eternal God is taken to represent the communion between Christ and His children on the earth! {DA 483.2 1898} {LHU 205.3 1988} {7ABC 438.4 1970}
Because we are the gift of His Father, and the reward of His work, Jesus loves us. He loves us as His children. Reader, He loves you. Heaven itself can bestow nothing greater, nothing better. Therefore trust. {DA 483.3 1898}
Jesus declared, “I am the resurrection, and the life.” IN CHRIST IS LIFE, ORIGINAL, UNBORROWED, UNDERIVED. “He that hath the Son hath life.” The divinity of Christ is the believer’s assurance of eternal life. The Desire of Ages, 530 (1898) {Ev 616.2}
In all that He did, Christ was co-operating with His Father. Ever He had been careful to make it evident that He did not work independently; it was by faith and prayer that He wrought His miracles. Christ desired all to know His relationship with His Father. Desire of Ages 536
But to sit on My right hand, and on My left, He continued, “is not Mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of My Father.” In the kingdom of God, position is not gained through favoritism. It is not earned, nor is it received through an arbitrary bestowal. It is the result of character. THE CROWN AND THE THRONE ARE THE TOKENS OF A CONDITION ATTAINED; THEY ARE THE TOKENS OF SELF-CONQUEST THROUGH OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. {DA 549.1 1898}
Circumstances may separate us from every earthly friend; but no circumstance, no distance, can separate us from THE HEAVENLY COMFORTER. Wherever we are, wherever we may go, HE IS ALWAYS AT OUR RIGHT HAND TO SUPPORT, SUSTAIN, UPHOLD, AND CHEER. The disciples still failed to understand Christ’s words in their SPIRITUAL sense, and again He explained His meaning. BY THE SPIRIT, HE SAID, HE WOULD MANIFEST HIMSELF TO THEM. {DA 670.1 1898}
THE COMFORTER IS CALLED “THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH. His work is to define and maintain the truth. HE FIRST DWELLS IN THE HEART AS THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH, and thus He becomes the Comforter. There is comfort and peace in the truth, but no real peace or comfort can be found in falsehood. It is through false theories and traditions that Satan gains his power over the mind. By directing men to false standards, he misshapes the character. Through the SCRIPTURES the Holy Spirit speaks to the mind, and impresses truth upon the heart. Thus He exposes error, and expels it from the soul. IT IS BY THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH, WORKING THROUGH THE WORD OF GOD, THAT CHRIST SUBDUES HIS CHOSEN PEOPLE TO HIMSELF. {DA 671.1 1898}
It is BY THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH, working through the WORD OF GOD, that CHRIST SUBDUES HIS CHOSEN PEOPLE TO HIMSELF. In describing to His disciples the office work of the Holy Spirit, Jesus sought to inspire them with the joy and hope that inspired His own heart. He rejoiced because of the abundant help He had provided for His church. THE HOLY SPIRIT WAS THE HIGHEST OF ALL GIFTS THAT HE COULD SOLICIT FROM HIS FATHER for the exaltation of His people. THE SPIRIT WAS TO BE GIVEN AS A REGENERATING AGENT, AND WITHOUT THIS THE SACRIFICE OF CHRIST WOULD HAVE BEEN OF NO AVAIL. The power of evil had been strengthening for centuries, and the submission of men to this satanic captivity was amazing. SIN COULD BE RESISTED AND OVERCOME ONLY THROUGH THE MIGHTY AGENCY OF THE THIRD PERSON OF THE GODHEAD, WHO WOULD COME WITH NO MODIFIED ENERGY, BUT IN THE FULLNESS OF DIVINE POWER. It is the SPIRIT that makes effectual what has been wrought out by THE WORLD’S REDEEMER. It is by the SPIRIT that the heart is made pure. Through the SPIRIT the believer becomes a partaker of the divine nature. CHRIST HAS GIVEN HIS SPIRIT AS A DIVINE POWER TO OVERCOME ALL HEREDITARY AND CULTIVATED TENDENCIES TO EVIL, AND TO IMPRESS HIS OWN CHARACTER UPON HIS CHURCH. {DA 671.2 1898}
OF THE SPIRIT JESUS SAID, “HE SHALL GLORIFY ME.” THE SAVIOUR CAME TO GLORIFY THE FATHER BY THE DEMONSTRATION OF HIS LOVE; SO THE SPIRIT WAS TO GLORIFY CHRIST BY REVEALING HIS GRACE TO THE WORLD. The very image of God is to be reproduced in humanity. The honor of God, the honor of Christ, is involved in the perfection of the character of His people. {DA 671.3 1898}
WHEN HE [THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH] IS COME, HE WILL REPROVE THE WORLD OF SIN, AND OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, AND OF JUDGMENT. The preaching of the word will be of no avail without the continual presence and aid of the Holy Spirit. This is the only effectual teacher of divine truth. Only when the truth is accompanied to the heart by the Spirit will it quicken the conscience or transform the life. One might be able to present the letter of the WORD OF GOD, he might be familiar with all its commands and promises; but unless the Holy Spirit sets home the truth, no souls will fall on the Rock and be broken. No amount of education, no advantages, however great, can make one a channel of light without the co-operation of the SPIRIT OF GOD. The sowing of the gospel seed will not be a success unless the seed is quickened into life by the dew of heaven. Before one book of the NEW TESTAMENT was written, before one gospel sermon had been preached after Christ’s ascension, the Holy Spirit came upon the praying apostles. Then the testimony of their enemies was, Ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine. Acts 5:28. {DA 671.4 1898}
CHRIST HAS PROMISED THE GIFT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT TO HIS CHURCH, AND THE PROMISE BELONGS TO US AS MUCH AS TO THE FIRST DISCIPLES. BUT LIKE EVERY OTHER PROMISE, IT IS GIVEN ON CONDITIONS. There are many who believe and profess to claim the Lord’s promise; they talk about Christ and about the Holy Spirit, yet receive no benefit. THEY DO NOT SURRENDER THE SOUL TO BE GUIDED AND CONTROLLED BY THE DIVINE AGENCIES. WE CANNOT USE THE HOLY SPIRIT. THE SPIRIT IS TO USE US. Through the Spirit, God works in His people “to will and to do of His good pleasure.” But many will not submit to this. They want to manage themselves. This is why they do not receive the heavenly gift. Only to those who wait humbly upon God, who watch for His guidance and grace, is the Spirit given. The power of God awaits their demand and reception. This promised blessing, claimed by faith, brings all other blessings in its train. It is given according to the riches of the grace of Christ, and He is ready to supply every soul according to the capacity to receive. The Desire of Ages, 672. {ChS 253.1}
These things I have spoken unto you, He said, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. Christ did not fail, neither was He discouraged, and His followers are to manifest a faith of the same enduring nature. They are to live as He lived, and work as He worked, because they depend on Him as the great Master Worker. Courage, energy, and perseverance they must possess. Though apparent impossibilities obstruct their way, by His grace they are to go forward. Instead of deploring difficulties, they are called upon to surmount them. They are to despair of nothing, and to hope for everything. WITH THE GOLDEN CHAIN OF HIS MATCHLESS LOVE CHRIST HAS BOUND THEM TO THE THRONE OF GOD. IT IS HIS PURPOSE THAT THE HIGHEST INFLUENCE IN THE UNIVERSE, EMANATING FROM THE SOURCE OF ALL POWER, SHALL BE THEIRS. THEY ARE TO HAVE POWER TO RESIST EVIL, POWER THAT NEITHER EARTH, NOR DEATH, NOR HELL CAN MASTER, POWER THAT WILL ENABLE THEM TO OVERCOME AS CHRIST OVERCAME. {DA 679.3 1898}
THE HOLY SPIRIT IS CHRIST’S REPRESENTATIVE, BUT DIVESTED OF THE PERSONALITY OF HUMANITY, AND INDEPENDENT THEREOF. CUMBERED WITH HUMANITY, CHRIST COULD NOT BE IN EVERY PLACE PERSONALLY. THEREFORE IT WAS FOR THEIR INTEREST THAT HE SHOULD GO TO THE FATHER, AND SEND THE SPIRIT TO BE HIS SUCCESSOR ON EARTH. No one could then have any advantage because of his location or his PERSONAL contact with Christ. BY THE SPIRIT THE SAVIOR WOULD BE ACCESSIBLE TO ALL. IN THIS SENSE HE WOULD BE NEARER TO THEM THAN IF HE HAD NOT ASCENDED ON HIGH. “He that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will MANIFEST MYSELF to him.” Jesus read the future of His disciples. He saw one brought to the scaffold, one to the cross, one to exile among the lonely rocks of the sea, others to persecution and death. HE ENCOURAGED THEM WITH THE PROMISE THAT IN EVERY TRIAL HE WOULD BE WITH THEM. That promise has lost none of its force. The Lord knows all about His faithful servants who for His sake are lying in prison or who are banished to lonely islands. HE COMFORTS THEM WITH HIS OWN PRESENCE. When for the truth’s sake the believer stands at the bar of unrighteous tribunals, CHRIST STANDS BY HIS SIDE. All the reproaches that fall upon him, fall upon Christ. Christ is condemned over again in the person of His disciple. When one is incarcerated in prison walls, CHRIST RAVISHES THE HEART WITH HIS LOVE. {Desire of Ages p 699}. Also {Ms. 5a, 1895. Lt.W-119-1895}
When the loud cry, “It is finished,” came from the lips of Christ, the priests were officiating in the temple. It was the hour of the evening sacrifice. The lamb representing Christ had been brought to be slain. Clothed in his significant and beautiful dress, the priest stood with lifted knife, as did Abraham when he was about to slay his son. With intense interest the people were looking on. BUT THE EARTH TREMBLES AND QUAKES; FOR THE LORD HIMSELF DRAWS NEAR. With a rending noise the inner veil of the temple is torn from top to bottom by an unseen hand, throwing open to the gaze of the multitude a place once filled with the presence of God. In this place the Shekinah had dwelt. Here God had manifested His glory above the mercy seat. NO ONE BUT THE HIGH PRIEST EVER LIFTED THE VEIL SEPARATING THIS APARTMENT FROM THE REST OF THE TEMPLE. He entered in once a year to make an atonement for the sins of the people. But lo, this veil is rent in twain. THE MOST HOLY PLACE OF THE EARTHLY SANCTUARY IS NO LONGER SACRED. {DA 756.5} Also {LHU 44.3}
Another deception was now to be brought forward. Satan declared that mercy destroyed justice, that the death of Christ abrogated THE FATHER’S LAW. HAD IT BEEN POSSIBLE FOR THE LAW TO BE CHANGED OR ABROGATED, THEN CHRIST NEED NOT HAVE DIED. But to abrogate THE LAW would be to immortalize transgression, and place the world under Satan’s control. It was because THE LAW was changeless, because man could be saved only through obedience to its precepts, that Jesus was lifted up on the cross. Yet the very means by which Christ established THE LAW Satan represented as destroying it. Here will come the last conflict of the great controversy between Christ and Satan. {DA 762.5 1898}
THAT THE LAW WHICH WAS SPOKEN BY GOD’S OWN VOICE IS FAULTY, THAT SOME SPECIFICATION HAS BEEN SET ASIDE, IS THE CLAIM WHICH SATAN NOW PUTS FORWARD. IT IS THE LAST GREAT DECEPTION THAT HE WILL BRING UPON THE WORLD. He needs not to assail THE WHOLE LAW; if he can lead men to disregard one precept, his purpose is gained. For “whosoever shall keep THE WHOLE LAW, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.” James 2:10. BY CONSENTING TO BREAK ONE PRECEPT, MEN ARE BROUGHT UNDER SATAN’S POWER. BY SUBSTITUTING HUMAN LAW FOR GOD’S LAW, SATAN WILL SEEK TO CONTROL THE WORLD. This work is foretold in prophecy. Of the great apostate power which is the representative of Satan, it is declared, “He shall speak great words against the Most High, and shall wear out the saints of the Most High, and THINK TO CHANGE TIMES AND LAWS: and they shall be given into his hand.” Daniel 7:25. {DA 763.1 1898}
THE WARFARE AGAINST GOD’S LAW, WHICH WAS BEGUN IN HEAVEN, WILL BE CONTINUED UNTIL THE END OF TIME. EVERY MAN WILL BE TESTED. OBEDIENCE OR DISOBEDIENCE IS THE QUESTION TO BE DECIDED BY THE WHOLE WORLD. ALL WILL BE CALLED TO CHOOSE BETWEEN THE LAW OF GOD AND THE LAWS OF MEN. Here the dividing line will be drawn. There will be but two classes. Every character will be fully developed; and all will show whether they have chosen the side of loyalty or that of rebellion. {DA 763.3 1898}
IN THE BEGINNING THE FATHER AND THE SON HAD RESTED UPON THE SABBATH AFTER THEIR WORK OF CREATION. When “the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them” (Genesis 2:1), THE CREATOR and all heavenly beings rejoiced in contemplation of the glorious scene. {DA 769.2 1898}
As evening drew on, an unearthly stillness hung over Calvary. The crowd dispersed, and many returned to Jerusalem greatly changed in spirit from what they had been in the morning. Many had flocked to the crucifixion from curiosity, and not from hatred toward Christ. Still they believed the accusations of the priests, and looked upon Christ as a malefactor. Under an unnatural excitement they had united with the mob in railing against Him. But when the earth was wrapped in blackness, and they stood accused by their own consciences, they felt guilty of a great wrong. No jest or mocking laughter was heard in the midst of that fearful gloom; and when it was lifted, they made their way to their homes in solemn silence. They were convinced that the charges of the priests were false, that Jesus was no pretender; and a few weeks later, when Peter preached upon the day of Pentecost, they were among the thousands who became converts to Christ. {DA 770.3 1898}
But the Jewish leaders were unchanged by the events they had witnessed. Their hatred of Jesus had not abated. The darkness that had mantled the earth at the crucifixion was not more dense than that which still enveloped the minds of the priests and rulers. At His birth the star had known Christ, and had guided the wise men to the manger where He lay. The heavenly hosts had known Him, and had sung His praise over the plains of Bethlehem. The sea had known His voice, and had obeyed His command. Disease and death had recognized His authority, and had yielded to Him their prey. The sun had known Him, and at the sight of His dying anguish, had hidden its face of light. The rocks had known Him, and had shivered into fragments at His cry. Inanimate nature had known Christ, and had borne witness to His divinity. BUT THE PRIESTS AND RULERS OF ISRAEL KNEW NOT THE SON OF GOD. {DA 770.4 1898}
YET THE PRIESTS AND RULERS WERE NOT AT REST. THEY HAD CARRIED OUT THEIR PURPOSE IN PUTTING CHRIST TO DEATH; BUT THEY DID NOT FEEL THE SENSE OF VICTORY THEY HAD EXPECTED. Even in the hour of their apparent triumph, they were harassed with doubts as to what would next take place. They had heard the cry, “It is finished.” “Father, into Thy hands I commend My spirit.” John 19:30; Luke 23:46. They had seen the rocks rent, and had felt the mighty earthquake, and they were restless and uneasy. {DA 771.1 1898}
They had been jealous of Christ’s influence with the people when living; they were jealous of Him even in death. They dreaded the dead Christ more, far more, than they had ever feared the living Christ. They dreaded to have the attention of the people directed any further to the events attending His crucifixion. They feared the results of that day’s work. Not on any account would they have had His body remain on the cross during the Sabbath. THE SABBATH WAS NOW DRAWING ON, and it would be a violation of its sanctity for the bodies to hang upon the cross. So, using this as a pretext, the leading Jews requested Pilate that the death of the victims might be hastened, and their bodies be removed BEFORE THE SETTING OF THE SUN. {DA 771.2 1898}
Pilate was as unwilling as they for the body of Jesus to remain upon the cross. His consent having been obtained, the legs of the two thieves were broken to hasten their death; but Jesus was found to be already dead. The rude soldiers had been softened by what they had heard and seen of Christ, and they were restrained from breaking His limbs. Thus in the offering of the LAMB OF GOD was fulfilled THE LAW OF THE PASSOVER, “They shall leave none of it unto the morning, nor break any bone of it: according to all the ordinances of the Passover they shall keep it.” Numbers 9:12 {DA 771.3 1898}
The priests and rulers were amazed to find that Christ was dead. Death by the cross was a lingering process; it was difficult to determine when life had ceased. It was an unheard-of thing for one to die within six hours of crucifixion. The priests wished to make sure of the death of Jesus, and at their suggestion a soldier thrust a spear into the Saviour’s side. From the wound thus made, there flowed two copious and distinct streams, one of blood, the other of water. This was noted by all the beholders, and John states the occurrence very definitely. He says, “One of the soldiers with a spear pierced His side, and forthwith came there out blood and water. And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true: and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe. For these things were done, that the SCRIPTURE should be fulfilled, A bone of Him shall not be broken. And again another SCRIPTURE saith, They shall look on Him whom they pierced.” John 19:34-37. {DA 771.4 1898}
AN EARTHQUAKE MARKED THE HOUR WHEN CHRIST LAID DOWN HIS LIFE, AND ANOTHER EARTHQUAKE WITNESSED THE MOMENT WHEN HE TOOK IT UP IN TRIUMPH. He who had vanquished death and the grave came forth from the tomb with the tread of a conqueror, amid the reeling of the earth, the flashing of lightning, and the roaring of thunder. When He shall come to the earth again, He will shake “not the earth only, but also heaven.” “The earth shall reel to and fro like a drunkard, and shall be removed like a cottage.” “The heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll;” “the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” But “the Lord will be the hope of His people, and the strength of the children of Israel.” Hebrews 12:26; Isaiah 24:20; 34:4; 2 Peter 3:10; Joel 3:16. {DA 780.1 1898}
AT THE DEATH OF JESUS THE SOLDIERS HAD BEHELD THE EARTH WRAPPED IN DARKNESS AT MIDDAY; BUT AT THE RESURRECTION THEY SAW THE BRIGHTNESS OF THE ANGELS ILLUMINATE THE NIGHT, AND HEARD THE INHABITANTS OF HEAVEN SINGING WITH GREAT JOY AND TRIUMPH: Thou hast vanquished Satan and the powers of darkness; Thou hast swallowed up death in victory! {DA 780.2 1898}
But now in His own familiar voice Jesus said to her, “Mary.” Now she knew that it was not a stranger who was addressing her, and turning she saw before her the living Christ. In her joy she forgot that He had been crucified. Springing toward Him, as if to embrace His feet, she said, “Rabboni.” But Christ raised His hand, saying, Detain Me not; “for I am not yet ascended to My Father: but go to My brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God.” And Mary went her way to the disciples with the joyful message. [DA 790.2]
JESUS REFUSED TO RECEIVE THE HOMAGE OF HIS PEOPLE UNTIL HE HAD THE ASSURANCE THAT HIS SACRIFICE WAS ACCEPTED BY THE FATHER. He ascended to the heavenly courts, and from God Himself heard the assurance that His atonement for the sins of men had been ample, that through His blood all might gain eternal life. THE FATHER RATIFIED THE COVENANT MADE WITH CHRIST, THAT HE WOULD RECEIVE REPENTANT AND OBEDIENT MEN, AND WOULD LOVE THEM EVEN AS HE LOVES HIS SON. Christ was to complete His work, and fulfill His pledge to “make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir.” Isaiah 13:12. All power in heaven and on earth was given to the Prince of Life, and He returned to His followers in a world of sin, that He might impart to them of His power and glory. [DA 790.3] [AG 152.5]
While the Saviour was in God’s presence, receiving gifts for His church, the disciples thought upon His empty tomb, and mourned and wept. The day that was a day of rejoicing to all heaven was to the disciples a day of uncertainty, confusion, and perplexity. Their unbelief in the testimony of the women gives evidence of how low their faith had sunk. The news of Christ’s resurrection was so different from what they had anticipated that they could not believe it. It was too good to be true, they thought. They had heard so much of the doctrines and the so-called scientific theories of the Sadducees that the impression made on their minds in regard to the resurrection was vague. They scarcely knew what the resurrection from the dead could mean. They were unable to take in the great subject. [DA 790.4]
Before the disciples could fulfill their official duties IN CONNECTION WITH THE CHURCH, CHRIST BREATHED HIS SPIRIT UPON THEM. He was committing to them a most sacred trust, and He desired to impress them with the fact that without the Holy Spirit this work could not be accomplished. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS THE BREATH OF SPIRITUAL LIFE IN THE SOUL. THE IMPARTATION OF THE SPIRIT IS THE IMPARTATION OF THE LIFE OF CHRIST. IT IMBUES THE RECEIVER WITH THE ATTRIBUTES OF CHRIST. ONLY THOSE WHO ARE THUS TAUGHT OF GOD, those who possess the inward working of the Spirit, and in whose life the Christ-life is manifested, ARE TO STAND AS REPRESENTATIVE MEN, TO MINISTER IN BEHALF OF THE CHURCH. {DA 805.3 1898}
Christ’s words on the mountainside were the announcement that His sacrifice in behalf of man was full and complete. The conditions of the atonement had been fulfilled; the work for which He came to this world had been accomplished. He was on His way to the throne of God, to be honored by angels, principalities, and powers. He had entered upon His mediatorial work. Clothed with boundless authority, He gave His commission to the disciples: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations,” “baptizing them into the name of THE FATHER AND OF THE SON AND OF THE HOLY SPIRIT: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Matthew 28:19, 20, R. V. {DA 819.3 1898}
The first disciples went forth preaching the word. They revealed Christ in their lives. And the Lord worked with them, “confirming the word with signs following.” Mark 16:20. These disciples prepared themselves for their work. Before the day of Pentecost they met together, and put away all differences. They were of one accord. They believed Christ’s promise that the blessing would be given, and they prayed in faith. They did not ask for a blessing for themselves merely; they were weighted with the burden for the salvation of souls. The gospel was to be carried to the uttermost parts of the earth, and they claimed the endowment of power that Christ had promised. THEN IT WAS THAT THE HOLY SPIRIT WAS POURED OUT, AND THOUSANDS WERE CONVERTED IN A DAY. {DA 827.1 1898} Also {RH, November 19, 1908 par. 13}
SO IT MAY BE NOW. Instead of man’s speculations, LET THE WORD OF GOD BE PREACHED. LET CHRISTIANS PUT AWAY THEIR DISSENSIONS, AND GIVE THEMSELVES TO GOD FOR THE SAVING OF THE LOST. Let them in faith ask for the blessing, and it will come. The outpouring of the Spirit in apostolic days was the “former rain,” and glorious was the result. But the “latter rain” will be more abundant. Joel 2:23. {DA 827.2 1898} Also {RH, November 19, 1908 par. 14}
ALL WHO CONSECRATE SOUL, BODY, AND SPIRIT TO GOD WILL BE CONSTANTLY RECEIVING A NEW ENDOWMENT OF PHYSICAL AND MENTAL POWER. THE INEXHAUSTIBLE SUPPLIES OF HEAVEN ARE AT THEIR COMMAND. CHRIST GIVES THEM THE BREATH OF HIS OWN SPIRIT, THE LIFE OF HIS OWN LIFE. THE HOLY SPIRIT PUTS FORTH ITS HIGHEST ENERGIES TO WORK IN HEART AND MIND. THE GRACE OF GOD ENLARGES AND MULTIPLIES THEIR FACULTIES, AND EVERY PERFECTION OF THE DIVINE NATURE COMES TO THEIR ASSISTANCE IN THE WORK OF SAVING SOULS. THROUGH CO-OPERATION WITH CHRIST THEY ARE COMPLETE IN HIM, AND IN THEIR HUMAN WEAKNESS THEY ARE ENABLED TO DO THE DEEDS OF OMNIPOTENCE. {DA 827.3 1898} Also {RH, November 19, 1908 par. 15} {The Ministry of Healing, 159 1905}
CHRIST HAD ASCENDED TO HEAVEN IN THE FORM OF HUMANITY. The disciples had beheld the cloud receive Him. The same Jesus who had walked and talked and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet, the same Jesus had now gone to share His Father’s throne. And the angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended. He will come “with clouds; and every eye shall see Him.” “The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with THE VOICE OF THE ARCHANGEL, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise.” “The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory.” Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord’s own promise to His disciples: “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord’s return. {DA 832.2 1898}
THERE IS THE THRONE, AND AROUND IT THE RAINBOW OF PROMISE. THERE ARE CHERUBIM AND SERAPHIM. THE COMMANDERS OF THE ANGEL HOSTS, THE SONS OF GOD, THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNFALLEN WORLDS, ARE ASSEMBLED. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused GOD AND HIS SON, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion, all are there to welcome THE REDEEMER. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King. {DA 834.1 1898}
But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. BEFORE THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE EARTH WERE LAID, THE FATHER AND THE SON HAD UNITED IN A COVENANT TO REDEEM MAN IF HE SHOULD BE OVERCOME BY SATAN. THEY HAD CLASPED THEIR HANDS IN A SOLEMN PLEDGE THAT CHRIST SHOULD BECOME THE SURETY FOR THE HUMAN RACE. THIS PLEDGE CHRIST HAS FULFILLED. WHEN UPON THE CROSS HE CRIED OUT, “IT IS FINISHED,” HE ADDRESSED THE FATHER. THE COMPACT HAD BEEN FULLY CARRIED OUT. NOW HE DECLARES: FATHER, IT IS FINISHED. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, “I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.” John 19:30; 17:24. {DA 834.2 1898}
THE VOICE OF GOD is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ’s toiling, struggling ones on earth are “accepted in the BELOVED.” Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. “Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.” Psalm 85:10. The Father’s arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, “Let all the angels of God worship Him.” Hebrews 1:6. {DA 834.3 1898}
Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints… (Jude 3, 4) …The exhortation to contend for the faith delivered to the saints, is to us alone. And it is very important for us to know what for and how to contend. In the 4th verse he gives us the reason why we should contend for the faith, a particular faith; for there are certain men, or a certain class who deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ.… The way spiritualizers have disposed of or denied the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ is first using THE OLD UNSCRIPTURAL TRINITARIAN CREED, VIZ., THAT JESUS CHRIST IS THE ETERNAL GOD, though they have not one passage to support it, while we have plain SCRIPTURE testimony in abundance that he is the SON OF THE ETERNAL GOD. (James White, January 24, 1846, The Day Star)
And I saw those who rose up with Jesus send up their faith to Jesus in the Holiest, and praying, Father give us thy spirit. Then Jesus would breathe on them the Holy Ghost. In the breath was light, power and much love, joy and peace. … (The Day Star, March 14, 1846, Par.1)
About four months since, I had a vision of events, all in the future. And I saw the time of trouble, such as never was,–Jesus told me it was the time of Jacob’s trouble, and that we should be delivered out of it by THE VOICE OF GOD. Just before we entered it, we all received the seal of the living God. Then I saw the four Angels cease to hold the four winds. And I saw famine, pestilence and sword, nation rose against nation, and the whole world was in confusion. Then we cried to God for deliverance day and night till we began to hear the bells on Jesus’ garment. And I saw Jesus rise up in the Holiest, and as he came out we heard the tinkling of bells, and knew our High Priest was coming out. THEN WE HEARD THE VOICE OF GOD WHICH SHOOK THE HEAVENS AND EARTH, AND GAVE THE 144,000 THE DAY AND HOUR OF JESUS’ COMING. Then the saints were free, united and full of the glory of God, for he had turned their captivity. And I saw a flaming cloud come where Jesus stood and he laid off his priestly garment and put on his kingly robe, took his place on the cloud which carried him to the east where it first appeared to the saints on earth, a small black cloud, which was the sign of the Son of Man. While the cloud was passing from the Holiest to the east which took a number of days, the Synagogue of Satan worshiped at the saints feet. Ellen G. Harmon {DS, March 14, 1846 par. 2}
The greatness of God is to us incomprehensible. The Lord’s throne is in heaven (Psalm 11:4); yet by HIS SPIRIT He is everywhere present. He has an intimate knowledge of, and a personal interest in, all the works of His hand. {Education, p. 132} 1903
LET YOUR FAITH BE SUBSTANTIATED BY THE WORD OF GOD. GRASP FIRMLY THE LIVING TESTIMONY OF TRUTH. HAVE FAITH IN CHRIST AS A PERSONAL SAVIOUR. HE HAS BEEN AND EVER WILL BE OUR ROCK OF AGES. Ev 362 1946 (1905). {LDE 66.1 1992}
Reconciliation one with another is the work for which the ordinance of feet washing was instituted. By the example of our Lord and Master, this humiliating ceremony has been made a sacred ordinance. Whenever it is celebrated, CHRIST IS PRESENT BY HIS HOLY SPIRIT. IT IS THIS SPIRIT THAT BRINGS CONVICTION TO HEARTS. {Ev 275.1} Also {FLB 298.4}
This ordinance of feet washing was made a religious service. . . . It was given as something to test and prove the loyalty of the children of God. When modern Israel observes the sacramental ordinance, this ceremony should precede the partaking of the emblems of the Lord’s death. {Ev 275.3}
The preparation for baptism is a matter that needs to be carefully considered. The new converts to the truth should be faithfully instructed in the plain “Thus saith the Lord.” The WORD OF THE LORD is to be read and explained to them point by point. {Ev 308.1}
THE ETERNAL HEAVENLY DIGNITARIES–GOD, AND CHRIST, AND THE HOLY SPIRIT–arming them [the disciples] with more than mortal energy, . . . would advance with them to the work and convince the world of sin. Ms 145, 1901. {Ev 616.4 1946}
The third angel’s message is swelling into a loud cry, and you must not feel at liberty to neglect the present duty, and still entertain the idea that at some future time you will be the recipients of great blessing, when without any effort on your part a wonderful revival will take place. . . . TODAY YOU ARE TO HAVE YOUR VESSEL PURIFIED, THAT IT MAY BE READY FOR THE HEAVENLY DEW, READY FOR THE SHOWERS OF THE LATTER RAIN; FOR THE LATTER RAIN WILL COME, AND THE BLESSING OF GOD WILL FILL EVERY SOUL THAT IS PURIFIED FROM EVERY DEFILEMENT. It is our work today to yield our souls to Christ, that we may be fitted for the time of refreshing from the presence of the Lord fitted for the baptism of the Holy Spirit. . . . {Ev 701.4 1946}
In these days of travel, the opportunities for coming in contact with men and women of all classes and of many nationalities, are much greater than in the days of Israel. The thoroughfares of travel have multiplied a thousandfold. God has wonderfully prepared the way. The agency of the printing press, with its manifold facilities, is at our command. BIBLES and publications in many languages, setting forth the truth for this time, are at our hand, and can be swiftly carried to every part of the world. {Ev 702.2 1946}
Sabbath, March 24, 1849, we had a sweet and very interesting meeting with the brethren at Topsham, Maine. The Holy Ghost was poured out upon us, and I was taken off in the Spirit to the city of the living God. Then I was shown that the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ relating to the shut door could not be separated, and that the time for the commandments of God to shine out with all their importance, and for God’s people to be tried on the Sabbath truth, was when the door was opened in the most holy place in the heavenly sanctuary, where the ark is, in which are contained the ten commandments. This door was not opened until the mediation of Jesus was finished in the holy place of the sanctuary in 1844. Then Jesus rose up and shut the door of the holy place, and opened the door into the most holy, and passed within the second veil, where He now stands by the ark, and where the faith of Israel now reaches. {EW 42.1}
THE SAINTS WILL REST IN THE HOLY CITY AND REIGN AS KINGS AND PRIESTS ONE THOUSAND YEARS; then Jesus will descend with the saints upon the Mount of Olives, and the mount will part asunder and become a mighty plain for the Paradise of God to rest upon. The rest of the earth will not be cleansed until the end of the one thousand years, when the wicked dead are raised, and gather up around the city. The feet of the wicked will never desecrate the earth made new. Fire will come down from God out of heaven and devour them–burn them up root and branch. Satan is the root, and his children are the branches. The same fire that will devour the wicked will purify the earth. {EW 51.3 1882}
[In February, 1845, I had a vision of events commencing with the Midnight Cry.] I SAW A THRONE AND ON IT SAT THE FATHER AND THE SON. I gazed on Jesus’ countenance and admired his lovely person. The Father’s person I could not behold, for a cloud of glorious light covered him. I ASKED JESUS IF HIS FATHER HAD A FORM LIKE HIMSELF. HE SAID HE HAD, BUT I COULD NOT BEHOLD IT, FOR SAID HE IF YOU SHOULD ONCE BEHOLD THE GLORY OF HIS PERSON YOU WOULD CEASE TO EXIST. Before the throne I saw the Advent people the church and the world. I SAW TWO COMPANIES, ONE BOWED DOWN BEFORE THE THRONE, DEEPLY INTERESTED, while the other stood uninterested and careless. THOSE WHO WERE BOWED BEFORE THE THRONE WOULD OFFER UP THEIR PRAYERS AND LOOK TO JESUS; THEN HE WOULD LOOK TO HIS FATHER, AND APPEAR TO BE PLEADING WITH HIM. A LIGHT WOULD COME FROM THE FATHER TO THE SON AND FROM THE SON TO THE PRAYING COMPANY. THEN I SAW AN EXCEEDING BRIGHT LIGHT COME FROM THE FATHER TO THE SON, AND FROM THE SON IT WAVED OVER THE PEOPLE BEFORE THE THRONE. BUT FEW WOULD RECEIVE THIS GREAT LIGHT. Many came out from under it and immediately resisted it; others were careless and did not cherish the light, and it moved off from them. SOME CHERISHED IT, AND WENT AND BOWED DOWN WITH THE LITTLE PRAYING COMPANY. THIS COMPANY ALL RECEIVED THE LIGHT AND REJOICED IN IT, AND THEIR COUNTENANCES SHONE WITH ITS GLORY. {EW 54.2 1882} Also {AG 71.2} {Broadside1, April 6, 1846 par. 7}
I SAW THE FATHER RISE FROM THE THRONE, AND IN A FLAMING CHARIOT GO INTO THE HOLY OF HOLIES WITHIN THE VEIL, AND SIT DOWN. THEN JESUS ROSE UP FROM THE THRONE, AND THE MOST OF THOSE WHO WERE BOWED DOWN AROSE WITH HIM. I did not see one ray of light pass from Jesus to the careless multitude after He arose, and they were left in perfect darkness. Those who arose when Jesus did, kept their eyes fixed on Him as He left the throne and led them out a little way. Then He raised His right arm, and we heard His lovely voice saying, “Wait here; I am going to My Father to receive the kingdom; keep your garments spotless, and in a little while I will return from the wedding and receive you to Myself.” Then a cloudy chariot, with wheels like flaming fire, surrounded by angels, came to where Jesus was. He stepped into the chariot and was borne to the holiest, where the Father sat. There I beheld Jesus, a great High Priest, standing before the Father. On the hem of His garment was a bell and a pomegranate, a bell and a pomegranate. Those who rose up with Jesus would send up their faith to Him in the holiest, and pray, “MY FATHER, GIVE US THY SPIRIT.” THEN JESUS WOULD BREATHE UPON THEM THE HOLY GHOST. IN THAT BREATH WAS LIGHT, POWER, AND MUCH LOVE, JOY, AND PEACE. {EW 55.1 1882} Also {AG 71.3}
I turned to look at the company who were still bowed before the throne; they did not know that Jesus had left it. SATAN APPEARED TO BE BY THE THRONE, TRYING TO CARRY ON THE WORK OF GOD. I saw them look up to the throne, and pray, “Father, give us Thy Spirit.” Satan would then breathe upon them an unholy influence; in it there was light and much power, but no sweet love, joy, and peace. Satan’s object was to keep them deceived and to draw back and deceive God’s children. {EW 56.1 1882}
Satan was once an honored angel in heaven, next to Christ. His countenance, like those of the other angels, was mild and expressive of happiness. His forehead was high and broad, showing great intelligence. His form was perfect; his bearing noble and majestic. But WHEN GOD SAID TO HIS SON, ‘LET US MAKE MAN IN OUR IMAGE,’ SATAN WAS JEALOUS OF JESUS. (EW, 145 1882)
Holy angels often visited the garden, and gave instruction to Adam and Eve concerning their employment and also taught them concerning the rebellion and fall of Satan. THE ANGELS WARNED THEM OF SATAN AND CAUTIONED THEM NOT TO SEPARATE FROM EACH OTHER IN THEIR EMPLOYMENT, FOR THEY MIGHT BE BROUGHT IN CONTACT WITH THIS FALLEN FOE. The angels also enjoined upon them to follow closely the directions God had given them, for in perfect obedience only were they safe. Then this fallen foe could have no power over them. [EW 147.1]
SATAN COMMENCED HIS WORK WITH EVE, TO CAUSE HER TO DISOBEY. SHE FIRST ERRED IN WANDERING FROM HER HUSBAND, NEXT IN LINGERING AROUND THE FORBIDDEN TREE, AND NEXT IN LISTENING TO THE VOICE OF THE TEMPTER, AND EVEN DARING TO DOUBT WHAT GOD HAD SAID, “In the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” She thought that perhaps the Lord did not mean just what He said, and venturing, she put forth her hand, took of the fruit and ate. It was pleasing to the eye and pleasant to the taste. Then she was jealous that God had withheld from them what was really for their good, and she offered the fruit to her husband, thereby tempting him. She related to Adam all that the serpent had said and expressed her astonishment that he had the power of speech. [EW 147.2]
I saw a sadness come over Adam’s countenance. He appeared afraid and astonished. A struggle seemed to be going on in his mind. He felt sure that this was the foe against whom they had been warned, and that HIS WIFE MUST DIE. They must be separated. HIS LOVE FOR EVE WAS STRONG, AND IN UTTER DISCOURAGEMENT HE RESOLVED TO SHARE HER FATE. HE SEIZED THE FRUIT AND QUICKLY ATE IT. Then Satan exulted. He had rebelled in heaven, and had gained sympathizers who loved him and followed him in his rebellion. He had fallen and caused others to fall with him. And he had now tempted the woman to distrust God, to inquire into His wisdom, and to seek to penetrate His all-wise plans. Satan knew that the woman would not fall alone. Adam, through his love for Eve, disobeyed the command of God, and fell with her. [EW 148.1]
THE NEWS OF MAN’S FALL SPREAD THROUGH HEAVEN. EVERY HARP WAS HUSHED. THE ANGELS CAST THEIR CROWNS FROM THEIR HEADS IN SORROW. All heaven was in agitation. A council was held to decide what must be done with the guilty pair. The angels feared that they would put forth the hand, and eat of the tree of life, and become immortal sinners. But God said that He would drive the transgressors from the garden. ANGELS WERE IMMEDIATELY COMMISSIONED TO GUARD THE WAY OF THE TREE OF LIFE. It had been Satan’s studied plan that Adam and Eve should disobey God, receive His frown, and then partake of the tree of life, that they might live forever in sin and disobedience, and thus sin be immortalized. But holy angels were sent to drive them out of the garden, and to bar their way to the tree of life. Each of these mighty angels had in his right hand something which had the appearance of a glittering sword. [EW 148.2]
Then Satan triumphed. He had made others suffer by his fall. He had been shut out of heaven, they out of Paradise. [EW 149.1]
SORROW FILLED HEAVEN, AS IT WAS REALIZED THAT MAN WAS LOST, AND THAT WORLD WHICH GOD HAD CREATED WAS TO BE FILLED WITH MORTALS DOOMED TO MISERY, SICKNESS, AND DEATH, AND THERE WAS NO WAY OF ESCAPE FOR THE OFFENDER. THE WHOLE FAMILY OF ADAM MUST DIE. I saw the lovely Jesus and beheld an expression of sympathy and sorrow upon His countenance. Soon I saw Him approach the exceeding bright light which enshrouded the Father. Said my accompanying angel, He is in close converse with His Father. The anxiety of the angels seemed to be intense while Jesus was communing with His Father. THREE TIMES HE WAS SHUT IN BY THE GLORIOUS LIGHT ABOUT THE FATHER, AND THE THIRD TIME HE CAME FROM THE FATHER, His person could be seen. His countenance was calm, free from all perplexity and doubt, and shone with benevolence and loveliness, such as words cannot express. HE THEN MADE KNOWN TO THE ANGELIC HOST THAT A WAY OF ESCAPE HAD BEEN MADE FOR LOST MAN. HE TOLD THEM THAT HE HAD BEEN PLEADING WITH HIS FATHER, AND HAD OFFERED TO GIVE HIS LIFE A RANSOM, TO TAKE THE SENTENCE OF DEATH UPON HIMSELF, THAT THROUGH HIM MAN MIGHT FIND PARDON; THAT THROUGH THE MERITS OF HIS BLOOD, AND OBEDIENCE TO THE LAW OF GOD, THEY COULD HAVE THE FAVOR OF GOD, AND BE BROUGHT INTO THE BEAUTIFUL GARDEN, AND EAT OF THE FRUIT OF THE TREE OF LIFE. [EW 149.2]
At first the angels could not rejoice; for their Commander concealed nothing from them, but opened before them the plan of salvation. Jesus told them that He would stand between the wrath of His Father and guilty man, that He would bear iniquity and scorn, and but FEW WOULD RECEIVE HIM AS THE SON OF GOD. Nearly all would hate and reject Him. He would leave all His glory in heaven, appear upon earth as a man, humble Himself as a man, become acquainted by His own experience with the various temptations with which man would be beset, that He might know how to succor those who should be tempted; and that finally, after His mission as a teacher would be accomplished, He would be delivered into the hands of men, and endure almost every cruelty and suffering that Satan and his angels could inspire wicked men to inflict; that He would die the cruelest of deaths, hung up between the heavens and the earth as a guilty sinner; that He would suffer dreadful hours of agony, which even angels could not look upon, but would veil their faces from the sight. NOT MERELY AGONY OF BODY WOULD HE SUFFER, BUT MENTAL AGONY, THAT WITH WHICH BODILY SUFFERING COULD IN NO WISE BE COMPARED. THE WEIGHT OF THE SINS OF THE WHOLE WORLD WOULD BE UPON HIM. He told them He would die and rise again the third day, and would ascend to His Father to intercede for wayward, guilty man. [EW 149.3]
THE ANGELS prostrated themselves before Him. They OFFERED THEIR LIVES. Jesus said to them that He would by His death save many, that the life of an angel could not pay the debt. HIS LIFE ALONE COULD BE ACCEPTED OF HIS FATHER AS A RANSOM FOR MAN. Jesus also told them that they would have a part to act, to be with Him and at different times strengthen Him; that HE WOULD TAKE MAN’S FALLEN NATURE, AND HIS STRENGTH WOULD NOT BE EVEN EQUAL WITH THEIRS; that they would be witnesses of His humiliation and great sufferings; and that as they would witness His sufferings, and the hatred of men toward Him, they would be stirred with the deepest emotion, and through their love for Him would wish to rescue and deliver Him from His murderers; but that they must not interfere to prevent anything they should behold; and that they should act a part in His resurrection; that the plan of salvation was devised, and His Father had accepted the plan. [EW 150.1]
With a holy sadness Jesus comforted and cheered the angels and informed them that hereafter those whom He should redeem would be with Him, and that by His death He should ransom many and destroy him who had the power of death. And HIS FATHER WOULD GIVE HIM THE KINGDOM AND THE GREATNESS OF THE KINGDOM UNDER THE WHOLE HEAVEN, AND HE WOULD POSSESS IT FOREVER AND EVER. Satan and sinners would be destroyed, nevermore to disturb heaven or the purified new earth. Jesus bade the heavenly host be reconciled to the plan that His Father had accepted and rejoice that through His death fallen man could again be exalted to obtain favor with God and enjoy heaven. [EW 151.1]
THEN JOY, INEXPRESSIBLE JOY, FILLED HEAVEN. AND THE HEAVENLY HOST SANG A SONG OF PRAISE AND ADORATION. They touched their harps and sang a note higher than they had done before, for the great mercy and condescension of God in yielding up HIS DEARLY BELOVED to die for a race of rebels. Praise and adoration were poured forth for the self-denial and sacrifice of Jesus; that He would consent to leave the bosom of His Father, and choose a life of suffering and anguish, and die an ignominious death to give life to others. [EW 151.2]
Said the angel, “Think ye that the Father yielded up HIS DEARLY BELOVED SON without a struggle? No, no. It was even a struggle with the God of heaven, whether to let guilty man perish, or to give His beloved Son to die for him.” Angels were so interested for man’s salvation that there could be found among them those who would yield their glory and give their life for perishing man, “But,” said my accompanying angel, “that would avail nothing. The transgression was so great that an angel’s life would not pay the debt. Nothing but the death and intercessions of His son would pay the debt and save lost man from hopeless sorrow and misery.” [EW 151.3]
But the work of the angels was assigned them, to ascend and descend with strengthening balm from glory to soothe the SON OF GOD in His sufferings, and minister unto Him. Also, their work would be to guard and keep the subjects of grace from the evil angels and the darkness constantly thrown around them by Satan. I SAW THAT IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE FOR GOD TO ALTER OR CHANGE HIS LAW TO SAVE LOST, PERISHING MAN; THEREFORE HE SUFFERED HIS BELOVED SON TO DIE FOR MAN’S TRANSGRESSION. [EW 152.1]
Satan again rejoiced with his angels that he could, by causing man’s fall, pull down the SON OF GOD from His exalted position. He told his angels that when Jesus should take fallen man’s nature, he could overpower Him and hinder the accomplishment of the plan of salvation. [EW 152.2]
I was shown Satan as he once was, a happy, exalted angel. Then I was shown him as he now is. He still bears a kingly form. His features are still noble, for he is an angel fallen. But the expression of his countenance is full of anxiety, care, unhappiness, malice, hate, mischief, deceit, and every evil. That brow which was once so noble, I particularly noticed. His forehead commenced from his eyes to recede. I saw that he had so long bent himself to evil that every good quality was debased, and every evil trait was developed. His eyes were cunning, sly, and showed great penetration. His frame was large, but the flesh hung loosely about his hands and face. As I beheld him, his chin was resting upon his left hand. He appeared to be in deep thought. A smile was upon his countenance, which made me tremble, it was so full of evil and satanic slyness. This smile is the one he wears just before he makes sure of his victim, and as he fastens the victim in his snare, this smile grows horrible. [EW 152.3]
The resurrection of Christ is commemorated by our being buried with Him by baptism, and raised up out of the watery grave in likeness of His resurrection, to live in newness of life. EW 217. {PaM 163.1}
GOD HAS ESPECIALLY GUARDED THE BIBLE, YET WHEN COPIES OF IT WERE FEW, LEARNED MEN HAVE IN SOME INSTANCES CHANGED THE WORDS, THINKING THAT THEY WERE MAKING IT MORE PLAIN, WHEN IN REALITY THEY WERE MYSTIFYING THAT WHICH WAS PLAIN, BY CAUSING IT TO LEAN TO THEIR ESTABLISHED VIEWS WHICH WERE GOVERNED BY TRADITION. BUT THE WORD OF GOD, AS A WHOLE, IS A PERFECT CHAIN, ONE PORTION LINKING INTO AND EXPLAINING ANOTHER. TRUE SEEKERS FOR TRUTH NEED NOT ERR; FOR NOT ONLY IS THE WORD OF GOD PLAIN AND SIMPLE IN DECLARING THE WAY TO LIFE, BUT THE HOLY SPIRIT IS GIVEN AS A GUIDE IN UNDERSTANDING THE WAY TO LIFE THEREIN REVEALED. {EW, 220.2, 1882; Also The Bible Echo, December 20, 1897 par. 9}
In like manner I saw that Jesus regarded with the deepest compassion the disappointed ones who had waited for His coming; and He sent His angels to direct their minds that they might follow Him where He was. He showed them that this earth is not the sanctuary, but that HE MUST ENTER THE MOST HOLY PLACE OF THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY TO MAKE AN ATONEMENT FOR HIS PEOPLE AND TO RECEIVE THE KINGDOM FROM HIS FATHER, AND THAT HE WOULD THEN RETURN TO THE EARTH AND TAKE THEM TO DWELL WITH HIM FOREVER. The disappointment of the first disciples well represents the disappointment of those who expected their Lord in 1844. {EW 244.2}
I was shown the grievous disappointment of the people of God that they did not see Jesus at the expected time. They knew not why their Saviour did not come; for they could see no evidence that prophetic time had not ended. Said the angel, “Has God’s word failed? Has God failed to fulfill His promises? No; He has fulfilled all that He promised. Jesus has risen up and shut the door of the holy place of the heavenly sanctuary and has opened a door into the most holy place and entered in to cleanse the sanctuary. All who wait patiently shall understand the mystery. Man has erred; but there has been no failure on the part of God. All was accomplished that God promised; but man erroneously believed the earth to be the sanctuary to be cleansed at the end of the prophetic periods. It is man’s expectation, not the promise of God, that has failed.” {EW 250.1}
I WAS THEN BIDDEN TO TAKE NOTICE OF THE TWO APARTMENTS OF THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. THE CURTAIN, OR DOOR, WAS OPENED, AND I WAS PERMITTED TO ENTER. IN THE FIRST APARTMENT I SAW THE CANDLESTICK WITH SEVEN LAMPS, THE TABLE OF SHEWBREAD, THE ALTAR OF INCENSE, AND THE CENSER. ALL THE FURNITURE OF THIS APARTMENT LOOKED LIKE PUREST GOLD AND REFLECTED THE IMAGE OF THE ONE WHO ENTERED THE PLACE. THE CURTAIN WHICH SEPARATED THE TWO APARTMENTS WAS OF DIFFERENT COLORS AND MATERIAL, WITH A BEAUTIFUL BORDER, IN WHICH WERE FIGURES WROUGHT OF GOLD TO REPRESENT ANGELS. THE VEIL WAS LIFTED, AND I LOOKED INTO THE SECOND APARTMENT. I SAW THERE AN ARK WHICH HAD THE APPEARANCE OF BEING OF THE FINEST GOLD. AS A BORDER AROUND THE TOP OF THE ARK, WAS MOST BEAUTIFUL WORK REPRESENTING CROWNS. IN THE ARK WERE TABLES OF STONE CONTAINING THE TEN COMMANDMENTS. {EW 251.3}
I WAS ALSO SHOWN A SANCTUARY UPON THE EARTH CONTAINING TWO APARTMENTS. IT RESEMBLED THE ONE IN HEAVEN, AND I WAS TOLD THAT IT WAS A FIGURE OF THE HEAVENLY. The furniture of the first apartment of the earthly sanctuary was like that in the first apartment of the heavenly. The veil was lifted, and I looked into the holy of holies and saw that the furniture was the same as in the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary. The priest ministered in both apartments of the earthly. He went daily into the first apartment, but entered the most holy only once a year, to cleanse it from the sins which had been conveyed there. I SAW THAT JESUS MINISTERED IN BOTH APARTMENTS OF THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The priests entered into the earthly with the blood of an animal as an offering for sin. CHRIST ENTERED INTO THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY BY THE OFFERING OF HIS OWN BLOOD. The earthly priests were removed by death; therefore they could not continue long; but Jesus was a priest forever. Through the sacrifices and offerings brought to the earthly sanctuary, the children of Israel were to lay hold of the merits of a Saviour to come. And in the wisdom of God the particulars of this work were given us that we might, by looking to them, understand the work of Jesus in the heavenly sanctuary. {EW 252.2} {1SG 160.1}
As Jesus died on Calvary, He cried, “It is finished,” and the veil of the temple was rent in twain, from the top to the bottom. THIS WAS TO SHOW THAT THE SERVICES OF THE EARTHLY SANCTUARY WERE FOREVER FINISHED, and that God would no more meet with the priests in their earthly temple, to accept their sacrifices. THE BLOOD OF JESUS WAS THEN SHED, WHICH WAS TO BE OFFERED BY HIMSELF IN THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. As the priest entered the most holy once a year to cleanse the earthly sanctuary, so Jesus entered the most holy of the heavenly, at the end of the 2300 days of Daniel 8, in 1844, to make a final atonement for all who could be benefited by His mediation, and thus to cleanse the sanctuary. {EW 253.1} {1SG 161.1}
I saw a company who stood well guarded and firm, giving no countenance to those who would unsettle the established faith of the body. God looked upon them with approbation. I was shown three steps–the first, second, and third angels’ messages. Said my accompanying angel, ‘Woe to him who shall move a block or stir a pin of these messages. THE TRUE UNDERSTANDING OF THESE MESSAGES IS OF VITAL IMPORTANCE. THE DESTINY OF SOULS HANGS UPON THE MANNER IN WHICH THEY ARE RECEIVED.’ I was again brought down through these messages, and saw how dearly the people of God had purchased their experience. It had been obtained through much suffering and severe conflict. God had led them along step by step, until He had placed them upon a solid, immovable platform. {EW, 258,259 1882}
Many look with horror at the course of the Jews in rejecting and crucifying Christ; and as they read the history of His shameful abuse, they think they love Him, and would not have denied Him as did Peter, or crucified Him as did the Jews. But God who reads the hearts of all, has brought to the test that love for Jesus which they professed to feel. All heaven watched with the deepest interest the reception of the first angel’s message. But many who professed to love Jesus, and who shed tears as they read the story of the cross, derided the good news of His coming. Instead of receiving the message with gladness, they declared it to be a delusion. They hated those who loved His appearing and shut them out of the churches. Those who rejected the first message could not be benefited by the second; neither were they benefited by the midnight cry, which was to prepare them to enter with Jesus by faith into the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary. And by rejecting the two former messages, they have so darkened their understanding that they can see no light in the third angel’s message, which shows the way into the most holy place. I SAW THAT AS THE JEWS CRUCIFIED JESUS, SO THE NOMINAL CHURCHES HAD CRUCIFIED THESE MESSAGES, AND THEREFORE THEY HAVE NO KNOWLEDGE OF THE WAY INTO THE MOST HOLY, AND THEY CANNOT BE BENEFITED BY THE INTERCESSION OF JESUS THERE. Like the Jews, who offered their useless sacrifices, they offer up their useless prayers to the apartment which Jesus has left; and Satan, pleased with the deception, assumes a religious character, and leads the minds of these professed Christians to himself, working with his power, his signs and lying wonders, to fasten them in his snare. Some he deceives in one way, and some in another. He has different delusions prepared to affect different minds. Some look with horror upon one deception, while they readily receive another. Satan deceives some with Spiritualism. He also comes as an angel of light and spreads his influence over the land by means of false reformations. The churches are elated, and consider that God is working marvelously for them, when it is the work of another spirit. The excitement will die away and leave the world and the church in a worse condition than before. {EW 260.1}
I WAS POINTED DOWN TO THE TIME WHEN THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE WAS CLOSING. THE POWER OF GOD HAD RESTED UPON HIS PEOPLE; THEY HAD ACCOMPLISHED THEIR WORK AND WERE PREPARED FOR THE TRYING HOUR BEFORE THEM. THEY HAD RECEIVED THE LATTER RAIN, or refreshing from the presence of the Lord, and the living testimony had been revived. The last great warning had sounded everywhere, and it had stirred up and enraged the inhabitants of the earth who would not receive the message. {EW 279.1 1882}
I saw angels hurrying to and fro in heaven. An angel with a writer’s inkhorn by his side returned from the earth and reported to Jesus that his work was done, and the saints were numbered and sealed. THEN I SAW JESUS, WHO HAD BEEN MINISTERING BEFORE THE ARK CONTAINING THE TEN COMMANDMENTS, THROW DOWN THE CENSER. HE RAISED HIS HANDS, AND WITH A LOUD VOICE SAID, “IT IS DONE.” And all the angelic host laid off their crowns as Jesus made the solemn declaration, “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.” {EW 279.2 1882}
O I so much wish that the Lord of heaven would open many eyes that are now blind, that they might see themselves as God sees them, and give to them a sense of the work to be done in the fields of labor. But I have no hope that all the appeals I make will avail, unless the Lord speaks to the soul and writes His requirements upon the tablets of the heart. Cannot every living human agent have a high and elevated sense of what it means to have a large and important field of home missionary work appointed to him, without the necessity of going to far-off lands? And while some must proclaim the message of mercy to them that are afar off, there are many who have to proclaim the message to those who are nigh. Our schools are to be educating schools to qualify youth to become missionaries both by precept and example. Let the one who is acting in the capacity of teacher ever bear in mind that these children and youth are the purchase of the blood of the SON OF GOD. They must be led to believe in Christ as their personal Saviour. THE NAME OF EACH SEPARATE BELIEVER IS GRAVEN ON THE PALMS OF HIS HANDS. THE CHIEF SHEPHERD IS LOOKING DOWN FROM THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY UPON THE SHEEP OF HIS PASTURE. “He calleth His own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.” “If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” O precious, blessed truth! He does not treat one case with indifference. {FE 272.2} Also {CE 158.1}
Christ’s work was not done in such a way as to dazzle men with His superior abilities. HE CAME FORTH FROM THE BOSOM OF THE ALL-WISE, and could have astonished the world with the great and glorious knowledge which He possessed; yet He was reticent and uncommunicative. It was not His mission to overwhelm them with the immensity of His talents, but to walk in meekness and lowliness, that He might instruct the ignorant in the ways of salvation. Too great devotion to study, even of true science, creates an abnormal appetite, which increases as it is fed. This creates a desire to secure more knowledge than is essential to do the work of the Lord. THE PURSUIT OF KNOWLEDGE MERELY FOR ITS OWN SAKE DIVERTS THE MIND FROM DEVOTION TO GOD, CHECKS ADVANCE ALONG THE PATH OF PRACTICAL HOLINESS, AND HINDERS SOULS FROM TRAVELING IN THE WAY WHICH LEADS TO A HOLIER, HAPPIER LIFE. The Lord Jesus imparted only such a measure of instruction as could be utilized. My brethren, your way of representing the necessity for years of study is not pleasing to God. {FE 338.2 1923}
THERE SHOULD BE A CONTINUAL EFFORT TO IMITATE THE SOCIETY WE EXPECT SOON TO JOIN; NAMELY, ANGELS OF GOD WHO HAVE NEVER FALLEN BY SIN. THE CHARACTER SHOULD BE HOLY, THE MANNERS COMELY, THE WORDS WITHOUT GUILE, AND THUS SHOULD WE FOLLOW ON STEP BY STEP UNTIL WE ARE FITTED FOR TRANSLATION. {FLB 69.6 1958}
AS THE BIBLE PRESENTS TWO LAWS, ONE CHANGELESS AND ETERNAL, THE OTHER PROVISIONAL AND TEMPORARY, SO THERE ARE TWO COVENANTS. THE COVENANT OF GRACE WAS FIRST MADE WITH MAN IN EDEN, when after the Fall, there was given a divine promise that the seed of the woman should bruise the serpent’s head. To all men this COVENANT OFFERED PARDON, AND THE ASSISTING GRACE OF GOD FOR FUTURE OBEDIENCE THROUGH FAITH IN CHRIST. IT ALSO PROMISED THEM ETERNAL LIFE ON CONDITION OF FIDELITY TO GOD’S LAW. Thus the patriarchs received the hope of salvation. [FLB 77.2]
This same covenant was renewed to Abraham in the promise, “In thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed.” Genesis 22:18. This promise pointed to Christ. So Abraham understood it, and he trusted in Christ for the forgiveness of sins. It was this faith that was accounted unto him for righteousness. The covenant with Abraham also maintained the authority of GOD’S LAW. The Lord appeared unto Abraham, and said, “I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.” The testimony of God concerning His faithful servant was, “Abraham obeyed my voice, and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and MY LAWS.” Genesis 17:1; 26:5. . . . [FLB 77.3]
THE COVENANT OF GRACE IS NOT A NEW TRUTH, FOR IT EXISTED IN THE MIND OF GOD FROM ALL ETERNITY. THIS IS WHY IT IS CALLED THE EVERLASTING COVENANT. [FLB 77.5]
There is hope for us only as we come under the Abrahamic covenant, which is THE COVENANT OF GRACE BY FAITH IN CHRIST JESUS. The gospel preached to Abraham, through which he had hope, was the same gospel that is preached to us today. . . . Abraham looked unto Jesus, who is also the author and the finisher of our faith. [FLB 77.6]
God . . . gave them [Israel] HIS LAW, with the promise of great blessings on condition of obedience: “If ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then . . . ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation.” Exodus 19:5, 6. The people did not realize the sinfulness of their own hearts, and that without Christ it was impossible for them to keep GOD’S LAW; and they readily entered into covenant with God. Feeling that they were able to establish their own righteousness, they declared, “All that the Lord hath said will we do, and be obedient.” Exodus 24:7. They had witnessed the proclamation of THE LAW in awful majesty, and had trembled with terror before the mount; and yet only a few weeks passed before they broke their covenant with God, and bowed down to worship a graven image. They could not hope for the favor of God through a covenant which they had broken; and now, seeing their sinfulness and their need of pardon, they were brought to feel their need of the Saviour revealed in the Abrahamic covenant, and shadowed forth in the sacrificial offerings. . . . [FLB 78.3]
OBEDIENCE TO HIS STATUTES AND LAWS IS THE LIFE AND PROSPERITY OF HIS PEOPLE. {FLB 89.4 1958} {Ms67-1907}
We have died to the world…. WE HAVE BEEN BURIED IN THE LIKENESS OF CHRIST’S DEATH AND RAISED IN THE LIKENESS OF HIS RESURRECTION, AND WE ARE TO LIVE A NEW LIFE. Our life is to be bound up with the life of Christ. {FLB 146.4}
If we are true to our vow, there is opened to us a door of communication with heaven–a door that no human hand or satanic agency can close. {FLB 146.6}
There are children … who have been taught from their youth to observe the Sabbath. Some of these are very good children, faithful to duty as far as temporal matters are concerned; but they feel no deep conviction of sin and no need of repentance from sin…. As there are no outbreaking sins in their own lives, they flatter themselves they are about right. To these youth I am authorized to say: Repent ye and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out…. You are required to repent, believe, and be baptized. Christ was wholly righteous; yet He, the Saviour of the world, gave man an example by Himself taking the steps which He requires the sinner to take to become a child of God, and heir of heaven. {FLB 147.3}
If CHRIST, THE SPOTLESS AND PURE REDEEMER OF MAN, condescended to take the steps necessary for the sinner to take in conversion, why should any, with the light of truth shining upon their pathway, hesitate to submit their hearts to God, and in humility confess that they are sinners, and show their faith in the atonement of Christ by words and actions, identifying themselves with those who profess to be His followers? {FLB 147.4}
And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. Acts 22:16. {FLB 148.1}
THE ORDINANCE OF FEET WASHING MOST FORCIBLY ILLUSTRATES THE NECESSITY OF TRUE HUMILITY. While the disciples were contending for the highest place, in the promised kingdom, Christ girded Himself, and performed the office of a servant by washing the feet of those who called Him Lord. {FLB 298.3}
ENOCH HAD TEMPTATIONS AS WELL AS WE. HE WAS SURROUNDED WITH SOCIETY NO MORE FRIENDLY TO RIGHTEOUSNESS THAN IS THAT WHICH SURROUNDS US. THE ATMOSPHERE HE BREATHED WAS TAINTED WITH SIN AND CORRUPTION, THE SAME AS OURS; YET HE LIVED A LIFE OF HOLINESS. He was unsullied with the prevailing sins of the age in which he lived. So may we remain pure and uncorrupted. He was a representative of the saints who live amid the perils and corruptions of the last days. For his faithful obedience to God he was translated. So, also, the faithful, who are alive and remain, will be translated. They will be removed from a sinful and corrupt world to the pure joys of heaven. The course of God’s people should be upward and onward to victory. {FLB 350.3 1958}
There are to be but two classes upon the earth, the obedient children of God and the disobedient. Upon one occasion Christ thus set before His hearers the judgment work: “When the Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory: and before Him shall be gathered all nations: and He shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: and He shall set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. {FW 44.1 1979}
An eyewitness living in Massachusetts describes the event as follows: “In the morning the sun rose clear, but was soon overcast. The clouds became lowery, and from them, black and ominous, as they soon appeared, lightning flashed, thunder rolled, and a little rain fell. Toward nine o’clock, the clouds became thinner, and assumed a brassy or coppery appearance, and earth, rocks, trees, buildings, water, and persons were changed by this strange, unearthly light. A few minutes later, a heavy black cloud spread over the entire sky except a narrow rim at the horizon, and it was as dark as it usually is at nine o’clock on a summer evening. . . . [GC (1911) 306.3]
Fear, anxiety, and awe gradually filled the minds of the people. Women stood at the door, looking out upon the dark landscape; men returned from their labor in the fields; the carpenter left his tools, the blacksmith his forge, the tradesman his counter. Schools were dismissed, and tremblingly the children fled homeward. Travelers put up at the nearest farmhouse. ‘What is coming?’ queried every lip and heart. It seemed as if a hurricane was about to dash across the land, or as if it was the day of the consummation of all things. [GC (1911) 306.4]
Candles were used; and hearth fires shone as brightly as on a moonless evening in autumn. . . . Fowls retired to their roosts and went to sleep, cattle gathered at the pasture bars and lowed, frogs peeped, birds sang their evening songs, and bats flew about. But the human knew that night had not come. . . . [GC (1911) 307.1]
Dr. Nathanael Whittaker, pastor of the Tabernacle church in Salem, held religious services in the meeting-house, and preached a sermon in which he maintained that the darkness was supernatural. Congregations came together in many other places. The texts for the extemporaneous sermons were invariably those that seemed to indicate that the darkness was consonant with Scriptural prophecy. . . . The darkness was most dense shortly after eleven o’clock.–The Essex Antiquarian, April, 1899, vol. 3, No. 4, pp. 53, 54. In most parts of the country it was so great in the daytime, that the people could not tell the hour by either watch or clock, nor dine, nor manage their domestic business, without the light of candles. . . . [GC (1911) 307.2]
Christ had bidden His people watch for the signs of His advent and rejoice as they should behold the tokens of their coming King. “When these things begin to come to pass,” He said, “then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.” He pointed His followers to the budding trees of spring, and said: “When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand. So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.” Luke 21:28, 30, 31. [GC (1911) 308.2] [Mar (1976) 150.6]
BUT AS THE SPIRIT OF HUMILITY AND DEVOTION IN THE CHURCH HAD GIVEN PLACE TO PRIDE AND FORMALISM, LOVE FOR CHRIST AND FAITH IN HIS COMING HAD GROWN COLD. ABSORBED IN WORLDLINESS AND PLEASURE SEEKING, THE PROFESSED PEOPLE OF GOD WERE BLINDED TO THE SAVIOUR’S INSTRUCTIONS CONCERNING THE SIGNS OF HIS APPEARING. The doctrine of the second advent had been neglected; the SCRIPTURES relating to it were obscured by misinterpretation, until it was, to a great extent, ignored and forgotten. Especially was this the case in the churches of America. The freedom and comfort enjoyed by all classes of society, the ambitious desire for wealth and luxury, begetting an absorbing devotion to money-making, the eager rush for popularity and power, which seemed to be within the reach of all, led men to center their interests and hopes on the things of this life, and to put far in the future that solemn day when the present order of things should pass away. [GC (1911) 309.1]
WHEN THE SAVIOUR POINTED OUT TO HIS FOLLOWERS THE SIGNS OF HIS RETURN, HE FORETOLD THE STATE OF BACKSLIDING THAT WOULD EXIST JUST PRIOR TO HIS SECOND ADVENT. There would be, as in the days of Noah, the activity and stir of worldly business and pleasure seeking–buying, selling, planting, building, marrying, and giving in marriage–with forgetfulness of God and the future life. For those living at this time, Christ’s admonition is: “Take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.” “Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.” Luke 21:34, 36. [GC (1911) 309.2]
THE CONDITION OF THE CHURCH AT THIS TIME IS POINTED OUT IN THE SAVIOUR’S WORDS IN THE REVELATION: “Thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.” And to those who refuse to arouse from their careless security, the solemn warning is addressed: “If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” Revelation 3:1, 3. [GC (1911) 309.3]
IT WAS NEEDFUL THAT MEN SHOULD BE AWAKENED TO THEIR DANGER; THAT THEY SHOULD BE ROUSED TO PREPARE FOR THE SOLEMN EVENTS CONNECTED WITH THE CLOSE OF PROBATION. The prophet of God declares: “The day of the Lord is great and very terrible; and who can abide it?” Who shall stand when He appeareth who is “of purer eyes than to behold evil,” and cannot “look on iniquity”? Joel 2:11; Habakkuk 1:13. To them that cry, “My God, we know Thee,” yet have transgressed His covenant, and hastened after another god, hiding iniquity in their hearts, and loving the paths of unrighteousness– to these the day of the Lord is “darkness, and not light, even very dark, and no brightness in it.” Hosea 8:2, 1; Psalm 16:4; Amos 5:20. “It shall come to pass at that time,” saith the Lord, “that I will search Jerusalem with candles, and punish the men that are settled on their lees: that say in their heart, The Lord will not do good, neither will He do evil.” Zephaniah 1:12. “I will punish the world for their evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; and I will cause the arrogancy of the proud to cease, and will lay low the haughtiness of the terrible.” Isaiah 13:11. “Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them;” “their goods shall become a booty, and their houses a desolation.” Zephaniah 1:18, 13. [GC (1911) 310.1]
The prophet Jeremiah, looking forward to this fearful time, exclaimed: “I am pained at my very heart. . . . I cannot hold my peace, because thou hast heard, O my soul, the sound of the trumpet, the alarm of war. Destruction upon destruction is cried.” Jeremiah 4:19, 20. [GC (1911) 310.2]
That day is a day of wrath, a day of trouble and distress, a day of wasteness and desolation, a day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and thick darkness, a day of the trumpet and alarm. Zephaniah 1:15, 16. Behold, the day of the Lord cometh, . . . to lay the land desolate: and He shall destroy the sinners thereof out of it. Isaiah 13:9. [GC (1911) 310.3]
NOT UNTIL THE PERSONAL ADVENT OF CHRIST CAN HIS PEOPLE RECEIVE THE KINGDOM. The Saviour said: “When the Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory: and before Him shall be gathered all nations: and He shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: and He shall set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on His right hand, Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” Matthew 25:31-34. We have seen by the SCRIPTURES just given that when the Son of man comes, the dead are raised incorruptible and the living are changed. By this great change they are prepared to receive the kingdom; for Paul says: “Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.” 1 Corinthians 15:50. Man in his present state is mortal, corruptible; but the kingdom of God will be incorruptible, enduring forever. Therefore man in his present state cannot enter into the kingdom of God. But when Jesus comes, He confers immortality upon His people; and then He calls them to inherit the kingdom of which they have hitherto been only heirs. {GC 322.2}
THE MATCHLESS SPLENDOR OF THE EARTHLY TABERNACLE REFLECTED TO HUMAN VISION THE GLORIES OF THAT HEAVENLY TEMPLE WHERE CHRIST OUR FORERUNNER MINISTERS FOR US BEFORE THE THRONE OF GOD. The abiding place of the King of kings, where thousand thousands minister unto Him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stand before Him (Daniel 7:10); that temple, filled with the glory of the eternal throne, where seraphim, its shining guardians, veil their faces in adoration, could find, in the most magnificent structure ever reared by human hands, but a faint reflection of its vastness and glory. Yet important truths concerning the heavenly sanctuary and the great work there carried forward for man’s redemption were taught by the earthly sanctuary and its services. {GC 414.2}
The work of Christ as man’s intercessor is presented in that beautiful prophecy of Zechariah concerning Him “whose name is the Branch.” Says the prophet: “He shall build the temple of the Lord; and He shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon His [the Father’s] throne; and He shall be a priest upon His throne: and the counsel of peace shall be between Them both.” Zechariah 6:12, 13. {GC 415.3 1911}
He shall build the temple of the Lord. By His sacrifice and mediation Christ is both the foundation and the builder of the church of God. The apostle Paul points to Him as the chief Cornerstone; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth into an holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also, he says, are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. Ephesians 2:20-22. {GC 416.1 1911}
He shall bear the glory. To Christ belongs the glory of redemption for the fallen race. Through the eternal ages, the song of the ransomed ones will be: Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood, . . . to Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Revelation 1:5, 6. {GC 416.2 1911}
He went away: “I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: for the Father Himself loveth you.” John 16:26, 27. God was “in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself.” 2 Corinthians 5:19. And in the ministration in the sanctuary above, “the counsel of peace shall be between Them both.” “God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16. {GC 416.4 1911}
THE MINISTRATION OF THE PRIEST THROUGHOUT THE YEAR IN THE FIRST APARTMENT OF THE SANCTUARY, “WITHIN THE VEIL” WHICH FORMED THE DOOR AND SEPARATED THE HOLY PLACE FROM THE OUTER COURT, REPRESENTS THE WORK OF MINISTRATION UPON WHICH CHRIST ENTERED AT HIS ASCENSION. It was the work of the priest in the daily ministration to present before God the blood of the sin offering, also the incense which ascended with the prayers of Israel. So did Christ plead His blood before the Father in behalf of sinners, and present before Him also, with the precious fragrance of His own righteousness, the prayers of penitent believers. Such was the work of ministration in the first apartment of the sanctuary in heaven. {GC 420.3}
FOR EIGHTEEN CENTURIES THIS WORK OF MINISTRATION CONTINUED IN THE FIRST APARTMENT OF THE SANCTUARY. The blood of Christ, pleaded in behalf of penitent believers, secured their pardon and acceptance with the Father, yet their sins still remained upon the books of record. AS IN THE TYPICAL SERVICE THERE WAS A WORK OF ATONEMENT AT THE CLOSE OF THE YEAR, SO BEFORE CHRIST’S WORK FOR THE REDEMPTION OF MEN IS COMPLETED THERE IS A WORK OF ATONEMENT FOR THE REMOVAL OF SIN FROM THE SANCTUARY. This is the service which began when the 2300 days ended. At that time, as foretold by Daniel the prophet, our High Priest entered the most holy, to perform the last division of His solemn work to cleanse the sanctuary. {GC 421.2}
AS ANCIENTLY THE SINS OF THE PEOPLE WERE BY FAITH PLACED UPON THE SIN OFFERING AND THROUGH ITS BLOOD TRANSFERRED, IN FIGURE, TO THE EARTHLY SANCTUARY, SO IN THE NEW COVENANT THE SINS OF THE REPENTANT ARE BY FAITH PLACED UPON CHRIST AND TRANSFERRED, IN FACT, TO THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. AND AS THE TYPICAL CLEANSING OF THE EARTHLY WAS ACCOMPLISHED BY THE REMOVAL OF THE SINS BY WHICH IT HAD BEEN POLLUTED, SO THE ACTUAL CLEANSING OF THE HEAVENLY IS TO BE ACCOMPLISHED BY THE REMOVAL, OR BLOTTING OUT, OF THE SINS WHICH ARE THERE RECORDED. BUT BEFORE THIS CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED, THERE MUST BE AN EXAMINATION OF THE BOOKS OF RECORD TO DETERMINE WHO, THROUGH REPENTANCE OF SIN AND FAITH IN CHRIST, ARE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF HIS ATONEMENT. THE CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY THEREFORE INVOLVES A WORK OF INVESTIGATION A WORK OF JUDGMENT. THIS WORK MUST BE PERFORMED PRIOR TO THE COMING OF CHRIST TO REDEEM HIS PEOPLE; FOR WHEN HE COMES, HIS REWARD IS WITH HIM TO GIVE TO EVERY MAN ACCORDING TO HIS WORKS. Revelation 22:12. {GC 421.3}
Now was seen the application of those words of Christ in the Revelation, addressed to the church at this very time: “These things saith He that is holy, He that is true, He that hath the key of David, He that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” Revelation 3:7, 8. {GC 430.1}
NONE BUT THOSE WHO HAVE FORTIFIED THE MIND WITH THE TRUTHS OF THE BIBLE WILL STAND THROUGH THE LAST GREAT CONFLICT. GC 593, 594 (1911). {LDE 66.3 1992}
ONLY THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN DILIGENT STUDENTS OF THE SCRIPTURES AND WHO HAVE RECEIVED THE LOVE OF THE TRUTH WILL BE SHIELDED FROM THE POWERFUL DELUSION THAT TAKES THE WORLD CAPTIVE. BY THE BIBLE TESTIMONY THESE WILL DETECT THE DECEIVER IN HIS DISGUISE. To all the testing time will come. By the sifting of temptation the genuine Christian will be revealed. Are the people of God now so firmly established upon His word that they would not yield to the evidence of their senses? Would they, in such a crisis, cling to the BIBLE and the BIBLE only? Satan will, if possible, prevent them from obtaining a preparation to stand in that day. He will so arrange affairs as to hedge up their way, entangle them with earthly treasures, cause them to carry a heavy, wearisome burden, that their hearts may be overcharged with the cares of this life and the day of trial may come upon them as a thief. {GC 625.3 1911} {LDE 66.4}
The presence of Christ having been removed, Satan works wonders to support his claims. (GC 663 1911)
Thus THE VISIONS OF REVELATION 4 & 5 DO NOT RELATE TO ONE SPECIFIC OCCURRENCE IN HEAVEN BUT RATHER A TIMELESS, SYMBOLIC PORTRAYAL OF CHRIST’S VICTORY AND GOD’S VINDICATION. The heavenly accolade commencing at the cross and rising to a crescendo as the great controversy comes to its victorious climax when all creation recognises God’s righteousness (GC670-671).
I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away. Revelation 21:1. The fire that consumes the wicked purifies the earth. Every trace of the curse is swept away. No eternally burning hell will keep before the ransomed the fearful consequences of sin. {GC 674.1}
O Tower of the flock, the stronghold of the daughter of Zion, unto thee shall it come, even the first dominion. [Micah 4:8; Ephesians 1:14.] The time has come, to which holy men have looked with longing since the flaming sword barred the first pair from Eden, the time for the redemption of the purchased possession. [Micah 4:8; Ephesians 1:14.] The earth originally given to man as his kingdom, betrayed by him into the hands of Satan, and so long held by the mighty foe, has been brought back by the great plan of redemption. All that was lost by sin has been restored. Thus saith the Lord . . . that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited. [Isaiah 45:18.] God’s original purpose in the creation of the earth is fulfilled as it is made the eternal abode of the redeemed. The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein forever. [Psalm 37:29.] {GC88 674.2 1888} {GC 674.3 1911}
THE GREAT CONTROVERSY IS ENDED. SIN AND SINNERS ARE NO MORE. THE ENTIRE UNIVERSE IS CLEAN. One pulse of harmony and gladness beats through the vast creation. From Him who created all flow life and light and gladness throughout the realms of illimitable space. From the minutest atom to the greatest world, all things, animate and inanimate, in their unshadowed beauty and perfect joy, declare that God is love. GC 678 1911. {CTr 372.7}
Opposition is the lot of all whom God employs to present truths specially applicable to their time. There was a present truth in the days of Luther, a truth at that time of special importance; there is a present truth for the church today. He who does all things according to the counsel of his will, has been pleased to place men under various circumstances, and to enjoin upon them duties peculiar to the times in which they live, and the conditions under which they are placed. If they would prize the light given them, broader views of truth would be opened before them. But truth is no more desired by the majority today than it was by the papists who opposed Luther. There is the same disposition to accept the theories and traditions of men instead of the WORD OF GOD as in former ages. THOSE WHO PRESENT THE TRUTH FOR THIS TIME SHOULD NOT EXPECT TO BE RECEIVED WITH GREATER FAVOR THAN WERE EARLIER REFORMERS. THE GREAT CONTROVERSY BETWEEN TRUTH AND ERROR, BETWEEN CHRIST AND SATAN, IS TO INCREASE IN INTENSITY TO THE CLOSE OF THIS WORLD’S HISTORY. {GC88 143.3 1888}
PROPHECY NOT ONLY FORETELLS THE MANNER AND OBJECT OF CHRIST’S COMING, BUT PRESENTS TOKENS BY WHICH MEN ARE TO KNOW WHEN IT IS NEAR. Said Jesus: “There shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars.” [Luke 21:25.] “The sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory.” [Mark 13:24-26.] The Revelator thus describes the first of the signs to precede the second advent: “There was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon become as blood.” [Revelation 6:12.] [GC (1888) 304.1] [Mar (1976) 149.2]
These signs were witnessed before the opening of the present century. In fulfillment of this prophecy there occurred, in the year 1755, the most terrible earthquake that has ever been recorded. Though commonly known as the earthquake of Lisbon, it extended to the greater part of Europe, Africa, and America. It was felt in Greenland, in the West Indies, in the island of Madeira, in Norway and Sweden, Great Britain and Ireland. It pervaded an extent of not less than four million square miles. In Africa the shock was almost as severe as in Europe. A great part of Algiers was destroyed; and a short distance from Morocco, a village containing eight or ten thousand inhabitants was swallowed up. A vast wave swept over the coast of Spain and Africa, engulfing cities, and causing great destruction. [GC (1888) 304.2] [GC (1911) 304.2] [Mar (1976) 149.3]
It was in Spain and Portugal that the shock manifested its extreme violence. At Cadiz the inflowing wave was said to be sixty feet high. Mountains—some of the largest in Portugal—“were impetuously shaken, as it were from the very foundation; and some of them opened at their summits, which were split and rent in a wonderful manner, huge masses of them being thrown down into the subjacent valleys. Flames are related to have issued from these mountains.” [GC (1888) 304.3] [Mar (1976) 149.4]
At Lisbon “a sound of thunder was heard underground, and immediately afterward a violent shock threw down the greater part of that city. In the course of about six minutes sixty thousand persons perished. The sea first retired, and laid the bar dry, it then rolled in, rising fifty feet above its ordinary level.” “The most extraordinary circumstance which occurred at Lisbon during the catastrophe, was the subsidence of the new quay, built entirely of marble, at an immense expense. A great concourse of people had collected there for safety, as a spot where they might be beyond the reach of falling ruins; but suddenly the quay sunk down with all the people on it, and not one of the dead bodies ever floated to the surface.” [GC (1888) 305.1] [GC (1911) 305.1]
The shock of the earthquake “was instantly followed by the fall of every church and convent, almost all the large and public buildings, and one-fourth of the houses. In about two hours afterward, fires broke out in different quarters, and raged with such violence for the space of nearly three days that the city was completely desolated. The earthquake happened on a holy day, when the churches and convents were full of people, very few of whom escaped.” “The terror of the people was beyond description. Nobody wept; it was beyond tears. They ran hither and thither, delirious with horror and astonishment, beating their faces and breasts, crying, ‘Misericordia! the world’s at an end!’ Mothers forgot their children, and ran loaded with crucifixed images. Unfortunately, many ran to the churches for protection; but in vain was the sacrament exposed; in vain did the poor creatures embrace the altars; images, priests, and people were buried in one common ruin.” “Ninety thousand persons are supposed to have been lost on that fatal day.” [GC (1888) 305.2] [GC (1911) 305.2]
Twenty-five years later appeared the next sign mentioned in the prophecy,—the darkening of the sun and moon. What rendered this more striking was the fact that the time of its fulfillment had been definitely pointed out. In the Saviour’s conversation with his disciples upon Olivet, after describing the long period of trial for the church—the 1260 years of papal persecution, concerning which he had promised that the tribulation should be shortened—he thus mentioned certain events to precede his coming, and fixed the time when the first of these should be witnessed: “In those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light.” [Mark 13:24.] The 1260 days, or years, terminated in 1798. A quarter of a century earlier, persecution had almost wholly ceased. Between these two dates, according to the words of Christ, the sun was to be darkened. On the 19th of May, 1780, this prophecy was fulfilled. [GC (1888) 305.3] [GC (1911) 306.1]
Almost if not altogether alone as the most mysterious and as yet unexplained phenomenon of its kind, . . . stands the dark day of May 19, 1780,—a most unaccountable darkening of the whole visible heavens and atmosphere in New England. That the darkness was not due to an eclipse is evident from the fact that the moon was then nearly full. It was not caused by clouds, or the thickness of the atmosphere, for in some localities where the darkness extended, the sky was so clear that the stars could be seen. Concerning the inability of science to assign a satisfactory cause for this manifestation, Herschel the astronomer declares: The dark day in North America was one of those wonderful phenomena of nature which philosophy is at a loss to explain. [GC (1888) 306.1] [Mar (1976) 150.3]
The extent of the darkness was also very remarkable. It was observed at the most easterly regions of New England; westward, to the farthest part of Connecticut, and at Albany, N. Y.; to the southward, it was observed all along the sea coast; and to the north, as far as the American settlements extended. It probably far exceeded those boundaries, but the exact limits were never positively known. With regard to its duration, it continued in the neighborhood of Boston for at least fourteen or fifteen hours. [GC (1888) 306.2] [GC (1911) 307.3]
The morning was clear and pleasant, but about eight o’clock there was observed an uncommon appearance in the sun. There were no clouds, but the air was thick, having a smoky appearance, and the sun shone with a pale, yellowish hue, but kept growing darker and darker, until it was hid from sight. There was midnight darkness at noonday. [GC (1888) 307.1]
The occurrence brought intense alarm and distress to multitudes of minds, as well as dismay to the whole brute creation, the fowls fleeing bewildered to their roosts, and the birds to their nests, and the cattle returning to their stalls. Frogs and night hawks began their notes. The cocks crew as at daybreak. Farmers were forced to leave their work in the fields. Business was generally suspended, and candles were lighted in the dwellings. The Legislature of Connecticut was in session at Hartford, but being unable to transact business adjourned. Everything bore the appearance and gloom of night. [GC (1888) 307.2]
The intense darkness of the day was succeeded, an hour or two before evening, by a partially clear sky, and the sun appeared, though it was still obscured by the black, heavy mist. “After sundown, the clouds came again overhead, and it grew dark very fast.” “Nor was the darkness of the night less uncommon and terrifying than that of the day; notwithstanding there was almost a full moon, no object was discernible but by the help of some artificial light, which, when seen from the neighboring houses and other places at a distance, appeared through a kind of Egyptian darkness which seemed almost impervious to the rays.”–Isaiah Thomas, Massachusetts Spy; or, American Oracle of Liberty, vol. 10, No. 472 (May 25, 1780). Said an eyewitness of the scene: “I could not help conceiving at the time, that if every luminous body in the universe had been shrouded in impenetrable shades, or struck out of existence, the darkness could not have been more complete.”–Letter by Dr. Samuel Tenney, of Exeter, New Hampshire, December, 1785 (in Massachusetts Historical Society Collections, 1792, 1st series, vol. 1, p. 97). Though at nine o’clock that night the moon rose to the full, “it had not the least effect to dispel the deathlike shadows.” After midnight the darkness disappeared, and the moon, when first visible, had the appearance of blood. [GC (1888) 307.3] [GC (1911) 307.4] [Mar (1976) 150.4]
MAY 19, 1780, STANDS IN HISTORY AS “THE DARK DAY.” Since the time of Moses, no period of darkness of equal density, extent, and duration has ever been recorded. The description of this event, as given by the poet and the historian, is but an echo of the words of the Lord, recorded by the prophet Joel, twenty-five hundred years previous to their fulfillment: “The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the Lord come.” [Joel 2:31.] [GC (1888) 308.2] GC (1911) 308.1
A Great religious awakening under the proclamation of Christ’s soon coming, is foretold in the prophecy of the first angel’s message of Revelation 14. An angel is seen flying “in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.” “With a loud voice” he proclaims the message, “Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his Judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.” [Revelation 14:6, 7.] {GC88 355.1}
The fact that an angel is said to be the herald of this warning, is significant. By the purity, the glory, and the power of the heavenly messenger, divine wisdom has been pleased to represent the exalted character of the work to be accomplished by the message, and the power and glory that were to attend it. And the angel’s flight “in the midst of heaven,” the “loud voice” with which the warning is uttered, and its promulgation to all “that dwell on the earth,” “to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,” give evidence of the rapidity and world-wide extent of the movement. {GC88 355.2 1888}
THE MESSAGE ITSELF SHEDS LIGHT AS TO THE TIME WHEN THIS MOVEMENT IS TO TAKE PLACE. IT IS DECLARED TO BE A PART OF THE “EVERLASTING GOSPEL;” AND IT ANNOUNCES THE OPENING OF THE JUDGMENT. The message of salvation has been preached in all ages; but this message is a part of the gospel which could be proclaimed only in the last days, for only then would it be true that the hour of Judgment had come. The prophecies present a succession of events leading down to the opening of the Judgment. This is especially true of the book of Daniel. But that part of his prophecy which related to the last days, Daniel was bidden to close up and seal “to the time of the end.” Not till we reach this time could a message concerning the Judgment be proclaimed, based on a fulfillment of these prophecies. But at the time of the end, says the prophet, “many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.” [Daniel 12:4.] {GC88 355.3 1888}
As his work tended to build up the churches, it was for a time regarded with favor. But as ministers and religious leaders decided against the Advent doctrine, and desired to suppress all agitation of the subject, they not only opposed it from the pulpit, but denied their members the privilege of attending preaching upon the second advent, or even of speaking of their hope in the social meetings of the church. THUS THE BELIEVERS FOUND THEMSELVES IN A POSITION OF GREAT TRIAL AND PERPLEXITY. THEY LOVED THEIR CHURCHES, AND WERE LOTH TO SEPARATE FROM THEM; BUT AS THEY SAW THE TESTIMONY OF GOD’S WORD SUPPRESSED, AND THEIR RIGHT TO INVESTIGATE THE PROPHECIES DENIED, THEY FELT THAT LOYALTY TO GOD FORBADE THEM TO SUBMIT. Those who sought to shut out the testimony of GOD’S WORD they could not regard as constituting the CHURCH OF CHRIST, “the pillar and ground of the truth.” Hence they felt themselves justified in separating from their former connection. In the summer of 1844 about fifty thousand withdrew from the churches. {GC88 375.3 1888}
Before the entrance of evil, there was peace and joy throughout the universe. All was in perfect harmony with THE CREATOR’S WILL. Love for God was supreme, love for one another impartial. CHRIST THE WORD, THE ONLY BEGOTTEN OF GOD, WAS ONE WITH THE ETERNAL FATHER, ONE IN NATURE, IN CHARACTER, AND IN PURPOSE, THE ONLY BEING IN ALL THE UNIVERSE THAT COULD ENTER INTO ALL THE COUNSELS AND PURPOSES OF GOD. BY CHRIST, THE FATHER WROUGHT IN THE CREATION OF ALL HEAVENLY BEINGS. “By him were all things created, that are in Heaven, . . . whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers;” [Colossians 1:16.] and to Christ, equally with the Father, all Heaven gave allegiance. {GC88 493.1 1888} {GC 493.1 1911} {PP, p. 34 1890}
THE SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN, IN WHICH JESUS MINISTERS IN OUR BEHALF, IS THE GREAT ORIGINAL, OF WHICH THE SANCTUARY BUILT BY MOSES WAS A COPY. God placed his Spirit upon the builders of the earthly sanctuary. The artistic skill displayed in its construction was a manifestation of divine wisdom. The walls had the appearance of massive gold, reflecting in every direction the light of the seven lamps of the golden candlestick. The table of show-bread and the altar of incense glittered like burnished gold. The gorgeous curtain which formed the ceiling, inwrought with figures of angels in blue and purple and scarlet, added to the beauty of the scene. And beyond the second veil was the holy shekinah, the visible manifestation of God’s glory, before which none but the high priest could enter and live. The matchless splendor of the earthly tabernacle reflected to human vision the glories of that heavenly temple where Christ our forerunner ministers for us before the throne of God. The abiding-place of the King of kings, where thousand thousands minister unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stand before him; [Daniel 7:10.] that temple, filled with the glory of the eternal throne, where seraphim, its shining guardians, veil their faces in adoration, could find, in the most magnificent structure ever reared by human hands, but a faint reflection of its vastness and glory. YET IMPORTANT TRUTHS CONCERNING THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY AND THE GREAT WORK THERE CARRIED FORWARD FOR MAN’S REDEMPTION, WERE TAUGHT BY THE EARTHLY SANCTUARY AND ITS SERVICES. {GC88 413.3} Also {4SP 260.2} {GC 414.1} {CCh 347.5}
Thus those who were studying the subject found indisputable proof of the existence of a sanctuary in Heaven. Moses made the earthly sanctuary after a pattern which was shown him. Paul declares that that pattern was the true sanctuary which is in Heaven. And John testifies that he saw it in Heaven. {GC88 415.1} Also {GC 415.1}
IN THE TEMPLE IN HEAVEN, THE DWELLING-PLACE OF GOD, HIS THRONE IS ESTABLISHED IN RIGHTEOUSNESS AND JUDGMENT. IN THE MOST HOLY PLACE IS HIS LAW, THE GREAT RULE OF RIGHT BY WHICH ALL MANKIND ARE TESTED. The ark that enshrines the tables of THE LAW is covered with the mercy-seat, before which Christ pleads his blood in the sinner’s behalf. Thus is represented the union of justice and mercy in the plan of human redemption. This union infinite wisdom alone could devise, and infinite power accomplish; it is a union that fills all Heaven with wonder and adoration. The cherubim of the earthly sanctuary, looking reverently down upon the mercy-seat, represent the interest with which the heavenly host contemplate the work of redemption. This is the mystery of mercy into which angels desire to look,— that God can be just while he justifies the repenting sinner, and renews his intercourse with the fallen race; that Christ could stoop to raise unnumbered multitudes from the abyss of ruin, and clothe them with the spotless garments of his own righteousness, to unite with angels who have never fallen, and to dwell forever in the presence of God. {GC88 415.2} Also {GC 415.2} {4SP 261.3}
And he shall bear the glory. To Christ belongs the glory of redemption for the fallen race. Through the eternal ages, the song of the ransomed ones will be, Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, . . . to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. [Revelation 1:5, 6.] {GC88 416.2 1888}
HE “SHALL SIT AND RULE UPON HIS THRONE; AND HE SHALL BE A PRIEST UPON HIS THRONE.” Not now “upon the throne of his glory;” the kingdom of glory has not yet been ushered in. NOT UNTIL HIS WORK AS A MEDIATOR SHALL BE ENDED, WILL GOD “GIVE UNTO HIM THE THRONE OF HIS FATHER DAVID,” A KINGDOM OF WHICH “THERE SHALL BE NO END.” [Luke 1:32, 33.] As a priest, Christ is now set down with the Father in his throne. [Revelation 3:21.] Upon the throne with the eternal, self-existent One, is he who “hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows,” who “was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin,” that he might be “able to succor them that are tempted.” “If any man sin, we have an Advocate with the Father.” [Isaiah 53:4; Hebrews 4:15; 2:18; 1 John 2:1] His intercession is that of a pierced and broken body, of a spotless life. The wounded hands, the pierced side, the marred feet, plead for fallen man, whose redemption was purchased at such infinite cost. {GC88 416.3 1888}
AND THE COUNSEL OF PEACE SHALL BE BETWEEN THEM BOTH. THE LOVE OF THE FATHER, NO LESS THAN OF THE SON, IS THE FOUNTAIN OF SALVATION FOR THE LOST RACE. Said Jesus to his disciples, before he went away, I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you; for the Father himself loveth you. [John 16:26, 27.] God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself. [2 Corinthians 5:19.] And in the ministration in the sanctuary above, the counsel of peace shall be between them both. God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. [John 3:16.] {GC88 416.4 1888} {GC 416.3 1911}
The question, What is the sanctuary? is clearly answered in the SCRIPTURES. THE TERM SANCTUARY, AS USED IN THE BIBLE, REFERS, FIRST, TO THE TABERNACLE BUILT BY MOSES, AS A PATTERN OF HEAVENLY THINGS; AND, SECONDLY, TO THE “TRUE TABERNACLE” IN HEAVEN, TO WHICH THE EARTHLY SANCTUARY POINTED. AT THE DEATH OF CHRIST THE TYPICAL SERVICE ENDED. THE “TRUE TABERNACLE” IN HEAVEN IS THE SANCTUARY OF THE NEW COVENANT. And as the prophecy of Daniel 8:14 is fulfilled in this dispensation, the sanctuary to which it refers must be the sanctuary of the new covenant. At the termination of the 2300 days, in 1844, there had been no sanctuary on earth for many centuries. Thus the prophecy, “Unto two thousand three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed,” unquestionably points to the sanctuary in Heaven. {GC88 417.1 1888}
But the most important question remains to be answered: What is the cleansing of the sanctuary? That there was such a service in connection with the earthly sanctuary, is stated in the OLD-TESTAMENT SCRIPTURES. But can there be anything in Heaven to be cleansed? In Hebrews 9 the cleansing of both the earthly and the heavenly sanctuary is plainly taught. “Almost all things are by THE LAW purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these [the blood of animals]; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these,” [Hebrews 9:22, 23.] even the precious blood of Christ. {GC88 417.2 1888}
THE CLEANSING, BOTH IN THE TYPICAL AND IN THE REAL SERVICE, MUST BE ACCOMPLISHED WITH BLOOD; IN THE FORMER, WITH THE BLOOD OF ANIMALS; IN THE LATTER, WITH THE BLOOD OF CHRIST. Paul states, as the reason why this cleansing must be performed with blood, that without shedding of blood is no remission. Remission, or putting away of sin, is the work to be accomplished. But how could there be sin connected with the sanctuary, either in Heaven or upon the earth? This may be learned by reference to the symbolic service; for the priests who officiated on earth, served “unto the example and shadow of heavenly things.” [Hebrews 8:5.] {GC88 417.3 1888}
THE MINISTRATION OF THE EARTHLY SANCTUARY CONSISTED OF TWO DIVISIONS; THE PRIESTS MINISTERED DAILY IN THE HOLY PLACE, WHILE ONCE A YEAR THE HIGH PRIEST PERFORMED A SPECIAL WORK OF ATONEMENT IN THE MOST HOLY, FOR THE CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY. Day by day the repentant sinner brought his offering to the door of the tabernacle, and placing his hand upon the victim’s head, confessed his sins, thus in figure transferring them from himself to the innocent sacrifice. The animal was then slain. “Without shedding of blood,” says the apostle, there is no remission of sin. “The life of the flesh is in the blood.” [Leviticus 17:11.] The broken LAW OF GOD demanded the life of the transgressor. The blood, representing the forfeited life of the sinner, whose guilt the victim bore, was carried by the priest into the holy place and sprinkled before the veil, behind which was the ark containing THE LAW that the sinner had transgressed. By this ceremony the sin was, through the blood, transferred in figure to the sanctuary. In some cases the blood was not taken into the holy place; but the flesh was then to be eaten by the priest, as Moses directed the sons of Aaron, saying, “God hath given it you to bear the iniquity of the congregation.” [Leviticus 10:17.] Both ceremonies alike symbolized the transfer of the sin from the penitent to the sanctuary. {GC88 418.1 1888}
SUCH WAS THE WORK THAT WENT ON, DAY BY DAY, THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. THE SINS OF ISRAEL WERE THUS TRANSFERRED TO THE SANCTUARY, AND A SPECIAL WORK BECAME NECESSARY FOR THEIR REMOVAL. GOD COMMANDED THAT AN ATONEMENT BE MADE FOR EACH OF THE SACRED APARTMENTS. “He shall make an atonement for the holy place, because of the uncleanness of the children of Israel, and because of their transgressions in all their sins; and so shall he do for the tabernacle of the congregation, that remaineth among them in the midst of their uncleanness.” [Leviticus 16:16, 19.] An atonement was also to be made for the altar, to “cleanse it, and hallow it from the uncleanness of the children of Israel.” [Leviticus 16:16, 19.] {GC88 418.2 1888}
ONCE A YEAR, ON THE GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT, THE PRIEST ENTERED THE MOST HOLY PLACE FOR THE CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY. THE WORK THERE PERFORMED COMPLETED THE YEARLY ROUND OF MINISTRATION. On the day of atonement, two kids of the goats were brought to the door of the tabernacle, and lots were cast upon them, “one lot for the Lord, and the other lot for the scape-goat.” [Leviticus 16:8, 21, 22.] The goat upon which fell the lot for the Lord was to be slain as a sin-offering for the people. And the priest was to bring his blood within the veil, and sprinkle it upon the mercy-seat, and before the mercy-seat. The blood was also to be sprinkled upon the altar of incense, that was before the veil. {GC88 419.1 1888}
And Aaron shall lay both his hands upon the head of the live goat, and confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat, and shall send him away by the hand of a fit man into the wilderness; and the goat shall bear upon him all their iniquities unto a land not inhabited. [Leviticus 16:8, 21, 22.] The scape-goat came no more into the camp of Israel, and the man who led him away was required to wash himself and his clothing with water before returning to the cam {GC88 419.2 1888} {GC 419.2}
THE WHOLE CEREMONY WAS DESIGNED TO IMPRESS THE ISRAELITES WITH THE HOLINESS OF GOD AND HIS ABHORRENCE OF SIN; AND, FURTHER, TO SHOW THEM THAT THEY COULD NOT COME IN CONTACT WITH SIN WITHOUT BECOMING POLLUTED. EVERY MAN WAS REQUIRED TO AFFLICT HIS SOUL WHILE THIS WORK OF ATONEMENT WAS GOING FORWARD. All business was to be laid aside, and the whole congregation of Israel were to spend the day in solemn humiliation before God, with prayer, fasting, and deep searching of heart. {GC88 419.3 1888}
IMPORTANT TRUTHS CONCERNING THE ATONEMENT ARE TAUGHT BY THE TYPICAL SERVICE. A SUBSTITUTE WAS ACCEPTED IN THE SINNER’S STEAD; BUT THE SIN WAS NOT CANCELED BY THE BLOOD OF THE VICTIM. A MEANS WAS THUS PROVIDED BY WHICH IT WAS TRANSFERRED TO THE SANCTUARY. BY THE OFFERING OF BLOOD, THE SINNER ACKNOWLEDGED THE AUTHORITY OF THE LAW, CONFESSED HIS GUILT IN TRANSGRESSION, AND EXPRESSED HIS DESIRE FOR PARDON THROUGH FAITH IN A REDEEMER TO COME; BUT HE WAS NOT YET ENTIRELY RELEASED FROM THE CONDEMNATION OF THE LAW. ON THE DAY OF ATONEMENT THE HIGH PRIEST, HAVING TAKEN AN OFFERING FROM THE CONGREGATION, WENT INTO THE MOST HOLY PLACE WITH THE BLOOD OF THIS OFFERING, AND SPRINKLED IT UPON THE MERCY-SEAT, DIRECTLY OVER THE LAW, TO MAKE SATISFACTION FOR ITS CLAIMS. Then, in his character of mediator, he took the sins upon himself, and bore them from the sanctuary. Placing his hands upon the head of the scape-goat, he confessed over him all these sins, thus in figure transferring them from himself to the goat. The goat then bore them away, and they were regarded as forever separated from the people. {GC88 420.1 1888}
Such was the service performed “unto the example and shadow of heavenly things.” And what was done in type in the ministration of the earthly sanctuary, is done in reality in the ministration of the heavenly sanctuary. After his ascension, our Saviour began his work as our high priest. Says Paul, “Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into Heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us.” [Hebrews 9:24.] {GC88 420.2 1888}
Thither the faith of Christ’s disciples followed him as he ascended from their sight. Here their hopes centered, “which hope we have,” said Paul, “as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest forever.” “Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.” [Hebrews 6:19, 20; 9:12.] {GC88 421.1 1888} {GC 421.1 1911}
Thus THOSE WHO FOLLOWED IN THE ADVANCING LIGHT OF THE PROPHETIC WORD SAW THAT INSTEAD OF COMING TO THE EARTH AT THE TERMINATION OF THE 2300 DAYS IN 1844, CHRIST THEN ENTERED THE MOST HOLY PLACE OF THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, INTO THE PRESENCE OF GOD, TO PERFORM THE CLOSING WORK OF ATONEMENT, PREPARATORY TO HIS COMING. {4SP 266.2} Also {SR 378.3} {GC88 422.1} {GC 422.1}
IT WAS SEEN, ALSO, THAT WHILE THE SIN-OFFERING POINTED TO CHRIST AS A SACRIFICE, AND THE HIGH PRIEST REPRESENTED CHRIST AS A MEDIATOR, THE SCAPE-GOAT TYPIFIED SATAN, THE AUTHOR OF SIN, UPON WHOM THE SINS OF THE TRULY PENITENT WILL FINALLY BE PLACED. When the high priest, by virtue of the blood of the sin-offering, removed the sins from the sanctuary, he placed them upon the scape-goat. When Christ, by virtue of his own blood, removes the sins of his people from the heavenly sanctuary at the close of his ministration, he will place them upon Satan, who, in the execution of the judgment, must bear the final penalty. The scape-goat was sent away into a land not inhabited, never to come again into the congregation of Israel. So will Satan be forever banished from the presence of God and his people, and he will be blotted from existence in the final destruction of sin and sinners. {GC88 422.2 1888}
In the service of the earthly sanctuary, which, as we have seen, is a figure of the service in the heavenly, when the high priest on the day of atonement entered the most holy place, the ministration in the first apartment ceased. God commanded, “There shall be no man in the tabernacle of the congregation when he goeth in to make an atonement in the holy place, until he come out.” [Leviticus 16:17.] SO WHEN CHRIST ENTERED THE HOLY OF HOLIES TO PERFORM THE CLOSING WORK OF THE ATONEMENT, HE CEASED HIS MINISTRATION IN THE FIRST APARTMENT. BUT WHEN THE MINISTRATION IN THE FIRST APARTMENT ENDED, THE MINISTRATION IN THE SECOND APARTMENT BEGAN. When in the typical service the high priest left the holy on the day of atonement, he went in before God to present the blood of the sin-offering in behalf of all Israel who truly repented of their sins. So Christ had only completed one part of his work as our intercessor, to enter upon another portion of the work, and he still pleaded his blood before the Father in behalf of sinners. {GC88 428.3} Also {GC 428.3}
IT IS THOSE WHO BY FAITH FOLLOW JESUS IN THE GREAT WORK OF THE ATONEMENT, WHO RECEIVE THE BENEFITS OF HIS MEDIATION IN THEIR BEHALF; while those who reject the light which brings to view this work of ministration, are not benefited thereby. The Jews who rejected the light given at Christ’s first advent, and refused to believe on him as the Saviour of the world, could not receive pardon through him. When Jesus at his ascension entered by his own blood into the heavenly sanctuary to shed upon his disciples the blessings of his mediation, the Jews were left in total darkness, to continue their useless sacrifices and offerings. The ministration of types and shadows had ceased. That door by which men had formerly found access to God, was no longer open. The Jews had refused to seek him in the only way whereby he could then be found, through the ministration in the sanctuary in Heaven. Therefore they found no communion with God. To them the door was shut. They had no knowledge of Christ as the true sacrifice and the only mediator before God; hence they could not receive the benefits of his mediation. {GC88 430.2} Also {GC 430.2}
THE TEMPLE OF GOD WAS OPENED IN HEAVEN, AND THERE WAS SEEN IN HIS TEMPLE THE ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT. [Revelation 11:19.] THE ARK OF GOD’S TESTAMENT IS IN THE HOLY OF HOLIES, THE SECOND APARTMENT OF THE SANCTUARY. In the ministration of the earthly tabernacle, which served unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, this apartment was opened only upon the great day of atonement, for the cleansing of the sanctuary. THEREFORE THE ANNOUNCEMENT THAT THE TEMPLE OF GOD WAS OPENED IN HEAVEN, AND THE ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT WAS SEEN, POINTS TO THE OPENING OF THE MOST HOLY PLACE OF THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, IN 1844, AS CHRIST ENTERED THERE TO PERFORM THE CLOSING WORK OF THE ATONEMENT. THOSE WHO BY FAITH FOLLOWED THEIR GREAT HIGH PRIEST, AS HE ENTERED UPON HIS MINISTRY IN THE MOST HOLY PLACE, BEHELD THE ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT. As they had studied the subject of the sanctuary, they had come to understand the Saviour’s change of ministration, and they saw that he was now officiating before the ark of God, pleading his blood in behalf of sinners. {GC88 433.1} {GC 433.1} {LHU 136.2}
IN THE VERY BOSOM OF THE DECALOGUE IS THE FOURTH COMMANDMENT, as it was first proclaimed: “REMEMBER THE SABBATH DAY, TO KEEP IT HOLY. Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God; in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day; wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it.” [Exodus 20:8-11.] {GC88 434.2 1888}
Many and earnest were the efforts made to overthrow their faith. None could fail to see that if the earthly sanctuary was a figure or pattern of the heavenly, THE LAW deposited in the ark on earth was an exact transcript of THE LAW in the ark in Heaven; and that an acceptance of the truth concerning the heavenly sanctuary involved an acknowledgment of the claims of GOD’S LAW, and the obligation of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. Here was the secret of the bitter and determined opposition to the harmonious exposition of the SCRIPTURES that revealed the ministration of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary. Men sought to close the door which God had opened, and to open the door which he had closed. But “He that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth,” had declared, “Behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” [Revelation 3:7, 8.] Christ had opened the door, or ministration, of the most holy place, light was shining from that open door of the sanctuary in Heaven, and the fourth commandment was shown to be included in THE LAW which is there enshrined; what God had established, no man could overthrow. {GC88 435.1} Also {GC 435.1} {4SP 275.1} {SR 380.2}
THESE TRUTHS, AS PRESENTED IN REVELATION 14, IN CONNECTION WITH THE “EVERLASTING GOSPEL,” WILL DISTINGUISH THE CHURCH OF CHRIST AT THE TIME OF HIS APPEARING. For as the result of the threefold message it is announced, “Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” And THIS MESSAGE IS THE LAST TO BE GIVEN BEFORE THE COMING OF THE LORD. Immediately following its proclamation, the Son of man is seen by the prophet, coming in glory to reap the harvest of the earth. {GC88 453.3 1888}
THE ANCIENT OF DAYS IS GOD THE FATHER. Says the psalmist, Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God. [PS. 90:2.] It is he, the source of all being, and THE FOUNTAIN OF ALL LAW, that is to preside in the Judgment. {GC88 479 1888}
CHRIST THE WORD, THE ONLY BEGOTTEN OF GOD, WAS ONE WITH THE ETERNAL FATHER,–ONE IN NATURE, IN CHARACTER, AND IN PURPOSE,–THE ONLY BEING IN ALL THE UNIVERSE THAT COULD ENTER INTO ALL THE COUNSELS AND PURPOSES OF GOD. {GC88 493 1888} {PP 34 1890}
The great controversy between Christ and Satan, that has been carried forward for nearly six thousand years, is soon to close; and the wicked one redoubles his efforts to defeat the work of Christ in man’s behalf, and to fasten souls in his snares. To hold the people in darkness and impenitence till the Saviour’s mediation is ended, and there is no longer a sacrifice for sin, is the object which he seeks to accomplish. {GC88 518.1 1888}
Now the event takes place, foreshadowed in the last solemn service of the day of atonement. When the ministration in the holy of holies had been completed, and the sins of Israel had been removed from the sanctuary by virtue of the blood of the sin-offering, then the scape-goat was presented alive before the Lord; and in presence of the congregation of high priest confessed over him “all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat.” [Leviticus 16:21.] In like manner, when the work of atonement in the heavenly sanctuary has been completed, then in the presence of God and heavenly angels, and the host of the redeemed, the sins of God’s people will be placed upon Satan; he will be declared guilty of all the evil which he has caused them to commit. And as the scape-goat was sent away into a land not inhabited, so Satan will be banished to the desolate earth, an uninhabited and dreary wilderness. {GC88 657.3} {GC 658.1}
SATAN’S WORK OF RUIN IS FOREVER ENDED. For six thousand years he has wrought his will, filling the earth with woe, and causing grief throughout the universe. The whole creation has groaned and travailed together in pain. Now God’s creatures are forever delivered from his presence and temptations. “The whole earth is at rest, and is quiet; they [the righteous] break forth into singing.” [Isaiah 14:7.] And a shout of praise and triumph ascends from the whole loyal universe. “The voice of a great multitude,” “as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings,” is heard, saying, “Alleluia; for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.” {GC88 673.2 1888} {CTr 372.3}
WHILE THE EARTH WAS WRAPPED IN THE FIRE OF DESTRUCTION, THE RIGHTEOUS ABODE SAFELY IN THE HOLY CITY. Upon those that had part in the first resurrection, the second death has no power. [Revelation 20:6; Psalm 84:11.] While God is to the wicked a consuming fire, he is to his people both a sun and a shield. [Revelation 20:6; Psalm 84:11.] {GC88 673.3 1888}
ONE REMINDER ALONE REMAINS: OUR REDEEMER WILL EVER BEAR THE MARKS OF HIS CRUCIFIXION. UPON HIS WOUNDED HEAD, UPON HIS SIDE, HIS HANDS AND FEET, ARE THE ONLY TRACES OF THE CRUEL WORK THAT SIN HAS WROUGHT. Says the prophet, beholding Christ in his glory, “He had bright beams coming out of his side; and there was the hiding of his power.” [Habakkuk 3:4 (MARGIN)] That pierced side whence flowed the crimson stream that reconciled man to God, – THERE IS THE SAVIOUR’S GLORY, there “the hiding of his power.” “Mighty to save,” through the sacrifice of redemption, he was therefore strong to execute justice upon them that despised God’s mercy. And the tokens of his humiliation are HIS HIGHEST HONOR; THROUGH THE ETERNAL AGES THE WOUNDS OF CALVARY WILL SHOW FORTH HIS PRAISE, AND DECLARE HIS POWER. {GC88 674.1 1888} {4SP 489.2 1884}
GREAT REPROACH HAS BEEN CAST UPON THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, BY THE ERRORS OF A CLASS THAT, CLAIMING ITS ENLIGHTENMENT, PROFESS TO HAVE NO FURTHER NEED OF GUIDANCE FROM THE WORD OF GOD. THEY ARE GOVERNED BY IMPRESSIONS WHICH THEY REGARD AS THE VOICE OF GOD IN THE SOUL. BUT THE SPIRIT THAT CONTROLS THEM IS NOT THE SPIRIT OF GOD. This following of impressions, to the neglect of the SCRIPTURES, can lead only to confusion, to deception and ruin. It serves only to further the designs of the evil one. Since THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IS OF VITAL IMPORTANCE TO THE CHURCH OF CHRIST, it is one of the devices of Satan, through the errors of extremists and fanatics to cast contempt upon the work of the Spirit, and cause the people of God to neglect this source of strength which our Lord himself has provided. {GC88 e.2 1888}
IN HARMONY WITH THE WORD OF GOD, HIS SPIRIT WAS TO CONTINUE ITS WORK THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE PERIOD OF THE GOSPEL DISPENSATION. DURING THE AGES WHILE THE SCRIPTURES OF BOTH THE OLD AND THE NEW TESTAMENT WERE BEING GIVEN, THE HOLY SPIRIT DID NOT CEASE TO COMMUNICATE LIGHT TO INDIVIDUAL MINDS, APART FROM THE REVELATIONS TO BE EMBODIED IN THE SACRED CANON. The BIBLE itself relates how, through the Holy Spirit, men received warning, reproof, counsel, and instruction, in matters in no way relating to the giving of the SCRIPTURES. And mention is made of prophets in different ages, of whose utterances nothing is recorded. In like manner, after the close of THE CANON OF SCRIPTURE, the Holy Spirit was still to continue its work, to enlighten, warn, and comfort the children of God. {GC88 e.3 1888}
Jesus promised his disciples, “The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” “When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth; . . . and he will show you things to come.” John 14:26; 16:13. SCRIPTURE PLAINLY TEACHES THAT THESE PROMISES, SO FAR FROM BEING LIMITED TO APOSTOLIC DAYS, EXTEND TO THE CHURCH OF CHRIST IN ALL AGES. The Saviour assures his followers, “I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” Matthew 28:20. And Paul declares that the gifts and manifestations of the Spirit were set in the church “for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ; till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the SON OF GOD, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” Ephesians 4:12, 13. {GC88 e.4 1888}
We receive the promise of the Spirit through faith; but what brings it? THE SPIRIT OF GOD; AND WHEN WE HAVE THAT, CHRIST DWELLS IN THE HEART. THEN IT IS THE HOLY SPIRIT THAT BRINGS THE PERSONAL PRESENCE OF JESUS CHRIST, AND IN BRINGING HIS PERSONAL PRESENCE TO US, HE BRINGS HIMSELF. (A.T. Jones, `General Conference Bulletin #11, 1893, p. 31.)
O, my very soul is drawn out in these things! Men who have not learned to submit themselves to the control and discipline of God, are not competent to train the youth, to deal with human minds. It is just as much an impossibility for them to do this work as it would be for them to make a world. THAT THESE MEN SHOULD STAND IN A SACRED PLACE, TO BE AS THE VOICE OF GOD TO THE PEOPLE, AS WE ONCE BELIEVED THE GENERAL CONFERENCE TO BE, THAT IS PAST. What we want now is a reorganization. We want to begin at the foundation, and to build upon a different principle. {GCB, April 3, 1901 par. 25} {PC 422.5 1985} {LDE 50.4 1992} {1888 1745.3}
According to the light that has been given me – and just how it is to be accomplished I can not say – greater strength must be brought into the managing force of the Conference. But this will not be done by intrusting responsibilities to men who have had light poured upon them year after year for the last ten or fifteen years, and yet have not heeded the light that God has given them. THE WORD OF GOD IS TO BE OUR GUIDE. Have you given heed to the WORD? THE TESTIMONIES ARE NOT BY ANY MEANS TO TAKE THE PLACE OF THE WORD. THEY ARE TO BRING YOU TO THAT NEGLECTED WORD, that you may eat the words of Christ, that you may feed upon them, that by living faith you may be built up from that upon which you feed. If you live in obedience to CHRIST AND HIS WORD, you are eating the leaves of the tree of life, which are for the healing of the nations. {GCB, April 3, 1901 par. 31}
Here are the very words that we want to bring into our life practice. The men that have long stood in positions of trust while disregarding the light that God has given, are not to be depended upon. God wants them to be removed. He wants a new life element brought into the publishing institutions. There are those who have stood as managers and yet have not managed after God’s order. Some have served on committees here and committees there, and have felt free to dictate just what the committee should say and do, claiming that those who did not carry out these ideas were sinning against Christ. When the power of God is manifest in the church and in the management of the various departments of his work, when it is evident that the managers are themselves controlled by the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD, then it is time to consider that you are safe in accepting what they may say, under God. But you must know that you are guided by the principles of the WORD OF THE LIVING GOD. THE GREAT GENERAL OF ARMIES, THE CAPTAIN OF THE LORD’S HOST, IS OUR LEADER. {GCB, April 3, 1901 par. 32}
The Lord can take every one of us in his embrace; for his arm encircles the race. Let us remember this, after Christ had taken the necessary steps in repentance, conversion, and faith in behalf of the human race, he went to John to be baptized of him in Jordan. “John forbade him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?” Jesus answered, “Suffer it to be so now; for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness.” When he came up out of the water, he knelt down on the banks of the Jordan, and offered a prayer such as had never before entered heaven. While he was praying, the heavens opened, and the glory of God, in the form of a dove of burnished gold, rested upon him, and from the highest heaven was heard THE VOICE OF THE INFINITE ONE, “This is MY BELOVED SON, in whom I am well pleased.” {GCB, April 4, 1901 par. 15}
Have you thought of what this means to us;– that in this prayer is included every son and daughter of Adam, who will believe in Christ as a personal Saviour, and take the requisite steps in repentance, conversion, faith, and baptism? WE ARE BAPTIZED IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER, SON, AND THE HOLY GHOST, AND THESE THREE GREAT, INFINITE POWERS ARE UNITEDLY PLEDGED TO WORK IN OUR BEHALF IF WE WILL CO-OPERATE WITH THEM. WE ARE BURIED WITH CHRIST IN BAPTISM AS AN EMBLEM OF HIS DEATH. WE ARE RAISED FROM THE WATER AS AN EMBLEM OF HIS RESURRECTION. We are to live as new-born souls, that we may be raised at the last great day. You are to live in newness of life; for you are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.” This is where you are to place your treasure. {GCB, April 4, 1901 par. 16}
We talk of the Holy Ghost; we preach of the Holy Ghost; but WE NEED TO UNDERSTAND BETTER WHAT THE OFFICE OF THE HOLY GHOST IS. We need to understand that we must co-operate with God in every sense or God can not co-operate with us. We are laborers together with God. {GCB, April 3, 1901 par. 30}
Here the great crisis is coming upon the world. The SCRIPTURES teach that popery is to regain its lost supremacy, and that the fires of persecution will be rekindled through the timeserving concessions of the so-called Protestant world (GCB April 13, 1891) [7BC 975.10]
Ellen White writes, “These principles are so foreign to God’s principles that God cannot bless those who vote upon them.” (GCB 1903, p.152) E.J. Waggoner also objects: “It is fundamentally and diametrically opposed to the principles of organization as set forth in the BIBLE.” (GCB 1903) Percy Magan says, “They are the same principles and introduced in precisely the same way as they were hundreds of years ago when the Papacy was made.” (GCB Day 3, No 10, p. 150) A.T. Jones states, “This proposed constitution is subversive of the principles of organization given to us at the G.C of 1897 and that of 1901.” (GCB 1903, p. 152,153) This G.C session has rejected the 1897 and 1901 recommendations.
THE WORK IS SOON TO CLOSE. THE MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH MILITANT WHO HAVE PROVED FAITHFUL WILL BECOME THE CHURCH TRIUMPHANT. In reviewing our past history, having travelled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what God has wrought, I am filled with astonishment and with confidence in Christ as Leader. WE HAVE NOTHING TO FEAR FOR THE FUTURE, EXCEPT AS WE SHALL FORGET THE WAY THE LORD HAS LED US, AND HIS TEACHING IN OUR PAST HISTORY. We are now a strong people, if we will put our trust in the Lord; for we are handling the mighty truths of the WORD OF GOD. We have everything to be thankful for. If we walk in the light as it shines upon us from the living oracles of God, we shall have large responsibilities, corresponding to the great light given us of God. We have many duties to perform, because we have been made the depositories of sacred truth to be given to the world in all its beauty and glory. We are debtors to God to use every advantage he has entrusted to us to beautify the truth of holiness of character, and to send the message of warning, and of comfort, of hope and love, to those who are in the darkness of error and sin. {GCDB, January 29, 1893 par. 5}
By Christ the work upon which the fulfillment of God’s purpose rests, was accomplished. THIS WAS THE AGREEMENT IN THE COUNCILS OF THE GOD-HEAD. THE FATHER PURPOSED IN COUNSEL WITH HIS SON THAT THE HUMAN FAMILY SHOULD BE TESTED AND PROVED, TO SEE WHETHER THEY WOULD BE ALLURED BY THE TEMPTATIONS OF SATAN, OR WHETHER THEY WOULD MAKE CHRIST THEIR RIGHTEOUSNESS, KEEPING GOD’S COMMANDMENTS, AND LIVE. GOD GAVE TO HIS SON ALL WHO WOULD BE TRUE AND LOYAL. CHRIST COVENANTED TO REDEEM THEM FROM THE POWER OF SATAN, AT THE PRICE OF HIS OWN LIFE. {GH, June 11, 1902 par. 6}
WHEN CHRIST ASCENDED TO HEAVEN, THE HOLY SPIRIT TOOK HIS PLACE, AND WAS A PERFECT REPRESENTATION OF HIM. It is the work of the Spirit to administer the richest grace, and make it effectual in the hearts of God’s people, that the elect may be gathered into one family. We need more quiet, abiding trust in God, and then the very best and highest activities will be put forth. Not one false movement will be made. {GH, June 11, 1902 par. 7}
As God’s ministers look by faith into the holy of holies, and see the work of our great High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary, they realize that they are men of unclean lips, men whose tongues have often spoken vanity. Well may they despair as they contrast their own unworthiness with the perfection of Christ. With contrition of heart, feeling wholly unworthy and unfit for their great work, they cry,”I am undone.” But if, like Isaiah, they humble their hearts before God, the work done for the prophet will be performed for them. Their lips will be touched with a live coal from off the altar, and they will lose sight of self in a sense of the greatness and power of God and His readiness to help them. They will realize the sacredness of the work entrusted to them, and will be led to abhor everything that would cause them to dishonor Him who has sent them forth with His message. {GW 22.4}
The terrible condition of the world would seem to indicate that the death of Christ has been almost in vain, and that Satan has triumphed. The great majority of this earth’s inhabitants have given their allegiance to the enemy. But we have not been deceived. Notwithstanding the apparent triumph of Satan, Christ is carrying forward His work in the heavenly sanctuary and on the earth. The WORD OF GOD portrays the wickedness and corruption that would exist in the last days. As we see the fulfilment of prophecy, our faith in the final triumph of Christ’s kingdom should strengthen; and we should go forth with renewed courage to do our appointed work. {GW 26.2}
GOD’S PLAN IN THE TITHING SYSTEM IS BEAUTIFUL IN ITS SIMPLICITY AND EQUALITY. ALL MAY TAKE HOLD OF IT IN FAITH AND COURAGE, FOR IT IS DIVINE IN ITS ORIGIN. IN IT ARE COMBINED SIMPLICITY AND UTILITY, AND IT DOES NOT REQUIRE DEPTH OF LEARNING TO UNDERSTAND AND EXECUTE IT. All may feel that they can act a part in carrying forward the precious work of salvation. Every man, woman, and youth may become a treasurer for the Lord, and may be an agent to meet the demands upon the treasury. . . . [GW 223.2]
The Lord would have His people bury political questions. On these themes silence is eloquence. Christ calls upon His followers to come into unity on the pure gospel principles which are plainly revealed in the WORD OF GOD. WE CANNOT WITH SAFETY VOTE FOR POLITICAL PARTIES; for we do not know whom we are voting for. We cannot with safety take part in any political scheme. We cannot labor to please men who will use their influence to repress religious liberty, and to set in operation oppressive measures to lead or compel their fellow-men to keep Sunday as the Sabbath. The first day of the week is not a day to be reverenced. It is a spurious sabbath, and the members of the Lord’s family cannot participate with the men who exalt this day, and violate THE LAW OF GOD by trampling upon His Sabbath. THE PEOPLE OF GOD ARE NOT TO VOTE TO PLACE SUCH MEN IN OFFICE; FOR WHEN THEY DO THIS, THEY ARE PARTAKERS WITH THEM OF THE SINS WHICH THEY COMMIT WHILE IN OFFICE. {GW 391.2} 1915 & {FE 475.2} 1923; also {CCh 316.2} 1923 for the first 4 sentences.
I call upon my brethren who are appointed to educate, to change their course of action. IT IS A MISTAKE FOR YOU TO LINK YOUR INTERESTS WITH ANY POLITICAL PARTY, TO CAST YOUR VOTE WITH THEM OR FOR THEM. Those who stand as educators, as ministers, as laborers together with God in any line, have no battles to fight in the political world. Their citizenship is in heaven. The Lord calls upon them to stand as a separate and peculiar people. He would have no schisms in the body of believers. His people are to possess the elements of reconciliation. {GW 393.2 1915}
An unselfish equality is to be shown in dealing with the working forces in home and foreign lands. MORE AND MORE WE MUST REALIZE THAT THE MEANS WHICH IS BROUGHT TO THE LORD’S TREASURY IN THE TITHES AND GIFTS OF OUR PEOPLE, SHOULD BE USED FOR THE SUPPORT OF THE WORK, NOT ONLY AT HOME, BUT IN FOREIGN FIELDS. Those living in places where the work has long been established, should bind about their supposed wants, so that the work in new fields may go forward. In the institutions that have been long established there is sometimes a desire to grasp more and still more advantages. But the Lord declares that this should not be. The money in His treasury is to be used in building up the work all over the world. [GW 455.2 (1915)]
The work of the minister is only begun when the truth is opened to the understanding of the people. Christ is our mediator and officiating high priest in the presence of the Father. He was shown to John as a lamb that had been slain, as in the very act of pouring out his blood in the sinner’s behalf. When THE LAW OF GOD is set before the sinner, showing him the depth of his sins, he should then be pointed to the LAMB OF GOD, that taketh away the sin of the world. He should be taught repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. Thus will the labor of Christ’s representative be in harmony with the Saviour’s work in the heavenly sanctuary. {GW92 13.2}
The last merciful message is intrusted to God’s humble, faithful servants of this time. GOD HAS LED ALONG THOSE WHO WOULD NOT SHUN RESPONSIBILITY, AND HAS LAID BURDENS UPON THEM, AND HAS THROUGH THEM PRESENTED TO HIS PEOPLE A PLAN OF SYSTEMATIC BENEVOLENCE IN WHICH ALL CAN ENGAGE, AND WORK IN HARMONY. THIS SYSTEM HAS BEEN CARRIED OUT, AND HAS WORKED LIKE MAGIC. It liberally sustains the preachers and the cause. As soon as the preachers ceased their opposition, and stood out of the way, the people heartily responded to the call, and prized the system. Everything is made convenient and easy for the preachers, that they may work, free from embarrassment. Our people have taken hold with a will and an interest which is not to be found among any other class. And God is displeased with preachers who now complain, and fail to throw their whole energies into this all-important work. They are without excuse, yet some are deceived, and think that they are sacrificing much, and are having a hard time, when they really know nothing about suffering, self-denial, or want. They may often be weary, so would they be if they were dependent on manual labor for a support. [Gospel Workers 92 61.3 (1892)]
160. Excessive eating of even the best of food will produce a morbid condition of the moral feelings. . . . Wrong habits of eating and drinking lead to errors in thought and action. Indulgence of appetite strengthens the animal propensities, giving them the ascendency over the mental and spiritual powers. . . . Everything that conflicts with NATURAL LAW creates a diseased condition of the soul. RH 1881, No. 4. {HL 41.2 1897}
161. Irregularity in eating and drinking, and improper dressing, deprave the mind and corrupt the heart, and bring the noble attributes of the soul in slavery to the animal passions. H. R. {HL 41.3 1897}
163. A religious life can be more successfully gained and maintained if flesh meats are discarded; for a meat diet stimulates into intense activity lustful propensities, and enfeebles the spiritual and moral nature.–U. T., Nov. 5, 1896. {HL 41.5 1897}
164. Children reared in a healthful way are much more easily controlled than those who are indulged in eating everything their appetite craves, and at all times. They are usually cheerful, contented, and healthy. Even the most stubborn, passionate, and wayward have become submissive, patient, and possessed of self-control by persistently following up this order of diet, united with a firm but kind management in regard to other matters.–H. R. {HL 42.1 1897}
165. The Lord requires a living sacrifice of mind, soul, body, and strength. All that we have and are is to be given him, that we may answer the purpose of our creation.–U. T., Aug. 25, 1897. {HL 42.2 1897}
166. True sanctification is not merely a theory, an emotion, or a form of words, but a living, active principle, entering into the every-day life. It requires that our habits of eating, drinking, and dressing be such as to secure the preservation of physical, mental, and moral health, that we may present to the Lord our bodies, not an offering corrupted by wrong habits, but a “living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God.” RH, 1881, No. 4. {HL 42.3 1897}
167. It should ever be kept prominent that the great object to be attained through this channel is not only health, but perfection and the spirit of holiness, which cannot be attained with diseased bodies and minds. This object cannot be secured by working merely from the worldling’s standpoint. 1T 554. {HL 42.4 1897}
168. A diseased body causes a disordered brain, and hinders the work of sanctifying grace upon the mind and heart.–H. R. {HL 42.5 1897}
169. If man will cherish the light that God in mercy gives him upon health reform, he may be sanctified through the truth, and fitted for immortality. 3T 162. {HL 43.1 1897}
170. If Christians . . . OBEY THE LAWS WHICH GOVERN HEALTH AND LIFE, they will have the blessing of physical and mental vigor. They will have moral power to engage in the warfare against Satan; and in the name of him who conquered appetite in their behalf, they may be more than conquerors on their own account. 4T 35, 36. {HL 43.2 1897}
436. The Lord intends to bring his people back to live upon simple fruits, vegetables, and grains. He led the children of Israel into the wilderness where they could not get a flesh diet; and he gave them the bread of heaven. “Man did eat angels’ food.” But they craved the flesh-pots of Egypt, and mourned and cried for flesh, notwithstanding the promise of the Lord that if they would submit to his will, he would carry them into the land of Canaan, and establish them there, a pure, holy, happy people, and that there should not be a feeble one in all their tribes; for he would take away all sickness from among them. . . . The Lord would have given them flesh had it been essential for their health, but he who had created and redeemed them led them through that long journey in the wilderness to educate, discipline, and train them in correct habits. The Lord understood what influence flesh eating has upon the human system. He would have a people that would, in their physical appearance, bear the divine credentials, notwithstanding their long journey. U. T., Nov. 5, 1896. {HL 96.2 1897}
THE INFLUENCE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IS THE LIFE OF CHRIST IN THE SOUL. WE DO NOT NOW SEE CHRIST AND SPEAK TO HIM, BUT HIS HOLY SPIRIT IS JUST AS NEAR US IN ONE PLACE AS ANOTHER. It works in and through every one who receives Christ. Those who know the indwelling of the Spirit reveal the fruits of the Spirit, “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.” “Ye have an unction from the Holy One,” writes John, “and ye know all things. I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth. . . .Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father.” {HM, July 1, 1897 par. 19} {BEcho June 17, 1901, par. 6}
There is another class who meet with loss because they are indolent, and spend their powers in pleasing themselves, in using their tongues, and letting their muscles rust with inaction. They waste their opportunities by inaction, and do not glorify God. They might do much if they would put their time and physical strength to use by acquiring means with which to place their children in favorable positions to acquire knowledge; but they would rather let them grow up in ignorance than to exercise their own God-given ability to do something whereby their children might be blessed with a good education. Such men and women are being weighed in the balances of the heavenly sanctuary and found wanting. {HM, October 1, 1894 par. 6}
Thus this question was forever settled in regard to every seeker after truth. GOD WORKS; BUT MAN MUST CO-OPERATE WITH HIM IN THE GREAT PLAN OF SALVATION. The condition of eternal life is not merely to believe, but to do the words of God. The men, who, from their office work, we might have expected to represent Christ in sympathy and love for those who needed help, “passed by on the other side.” They little knew that the universe of heaven was looking upon them, watching their works, reading the intents and purposes of their hearts, and weighing their characters in the scales of the heavenly sanctuary. They little knew that this same scene will be reproduced before them, in the light in which God regards it, in the day of Judgment, when every man shall be judged according to his works. {HM, October 1, 1897 par. 6}
THE GIFT OF HIS HOLY SPIRIT, RICH, FULL, AND ABUNDANT, IS TO HIS CHURCH AS AN ENCOMPASSING WALL OF FIRE, AND THE POWERS OF HELL SHALL NOT PREVAIL AGAINST IT. In their untainted purity and spotless perfection Christ looks upon his people as the reward of all his suffering, his humiliation, and his love, and the supplement of his glory, Christ the great center from which radiates all glory. {HM, November 1, 1893 par. 24}
How can we stand in the day of test if we do not understand the words of Christ? He said: “These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” It is the Holy Spirit that is to bring to our remembrance the words of Christ. The theme Christ chose to dwell upon in his last discourse to his disciples was that of the office of the Holy Spirit. He opened before them a wide tract of truth. They were to receive his words by faith, and the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, was to bring all things to their remembrance. The consolation given by Christ in this promise was found in the fact that the divine influence was to be with his followers to the end. But this promise is not accepted and believed by the people today, and therefore is not cherished by them, nor is its fulfillment seen in the experience of the church. THE PROMISE OF THE GIFT OF THE SPIRIT OF GOD IS LEFT AS A MATTER TO BE LITTLE CONSIDERED BY THE CHURCH. It is not impressed upon the people, and the result is only that which might be expected, spiritual drought, spiritual darkness, spiritual declension and death. Minor matters occupy the mind and soul, but divine power which is necessary for the growth and prosperity of the church, which would if possessed, bring all other blessings in its train, is lacking, although it is offered to us in infinite plenitude. Just as long as the church is satisfied with small things, it is disqualified to receive the great things of God. {HM, November 1, 1893 par. 25}
But why do we not hunger and thirst after the gift of the Holy Spirit, since it is the means whereby the heart may be kept pure? THE LORD DESIGNS THAT DIVINE POWER SHALL CO-OPERATE WITH HUMAN EFFORT. It is all-essential for the Christian to understand the meaning of the promise of the Holy Spirit just prior to the coming of our Lord Jesus the second time. Talk of it, pray for it, preach concerning it; for the Lord is more willing to give the Holy Spirit than parents are to give good gifts to their children. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”{HM, November 1, 1893 par. 26}
WE ARE LIVING IN THE LAST DAYS, WHEN ERROR OF A MOST DECEPTIVE CHARACTER IS ACCEPTED AND BELIEVED, WHILE TRUTH IS DISCARDED. The Lord will hold both ministers and people responsible for the light which shines in our day. God calls upon all who claim to believe present truth to work diligently in gathering up the precious jewels of truth, and placing them in their position in the framework of the gospel. Let them shine in all their divine beauty and loveliness, that the light may flash forth amid the moral darkness. This cannot be accomplished without the aid of the Holy Spirit, but with the aid of the Spirit we can do all things. WHEN WE ARE ENDOWED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT, WE BY FAITH TAKE HOLD OF INFINITE POWER. There is nothing to be lost of that which comes from God. The Saviour of the world sends his divine messenger to the soul, that men may dig for the truth, that by its revelation they may dispel the multitude of errors. This is the Christian’s work. {HM, November 1, 1893 par. 27}
THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IS IMMEASURABLY GREAT. IT IS FROM THIS SOURCE THAT POWER AND EFFICIENCY COME TO THE WORKER FOR GOD; AND THE HOLY SPIRIT IS THE COMFORTER, AS THE PERSONAL PRESENCE OF CHRIST TO THE SOUL. He who looks to Christ in simple, child-like faith, is made a partaker of the divine nature through the agency of the Holy Spirit. WHEN LED BY THE SPIRIT OF GOD, THE CHRISTIAN MAY KNOW THAT HE IS MADE COMPLETE IN HIM WHO IS THE HEAD OF ALL THINGS. As Christ was glorified on the day of Pentecost, so will he again be glorified in the closing work of the gospel, when he shall prepare a people to stand the final test, in the closing conflict of the great controversy. {HM, November 1, 1893 par. 28} (RH, 29th November 1892.
When the earth is lightened with the glory of God, we shall see a work similar to that which was wrought when the disciples, filled with the Holy Spirit, proclaimed the power of a risen Saviour. The light of heaven penetrated the darkened minds of those who had been deceived by the enemies of Christ, and the false representation of him was rejected; for through the efficacy of the Holy Spirit, they now saw him exalted to be a Prince and Saviour, to give repentance unto Israel, and remission of sins. CHRIST WAS GLORIFIED THROUGH THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT RESTING UPON MEN. {HM, November 1, 1893 par. 29}
THE REVELATION OF CHRIST BY THE HOLY SPIRIT brought to them a realizing sense of his power and majesty, and they stretched forth their hands unto him by faith, saying, “I believe.” Thus it was in the time of the early rain; but the latter rain will be more abundant. The Saviour of men will be glorified, and the earth will be lightened with the bright shining of the beams of his righteousness. He is the fountain of light, and light from the gates ajar has been shining upon the people of God, that they may lift him up in his glorious character before those who sit in darkness. {HM, November 1, 1893 par. 30}
It is Christ in his fullness as a sin-pardoning Saviour, that the sinner must see; for the unparalleled love of Christ, THROUGH THE AGENCY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, will bring conviction and conversion to the hardened heart. {HM, November 1, 1893 par. 31}
O that we as a people might humble our hearts before God, and plead with him for the endowment of the Holy Spirit! {HM, November 1, 1893 par. 32}
Christ says of the overcomer, “I will not blot out his name out of the book of life.” THE NAMES OF ALL THOSE WHO HAVE ONCE GIVEN THEMSELVES TO GOD ARE WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF LIFE, AND THEIR CHARACTERS ARE NOW PASSING IN REVIEW BEFORE HIM. ANGELS OF GOD ARE WEIGHING MORAL WORTH. THEY ARE WATCHING THE DEVELOPMENT OF CHARACTER IN THOSE NOW LIVING, TO SEE IF THEIR NAMES CAN BE RETAINED IN THE BOOK OF LIFE. A probation is granted us in which to wash our robes of character and make them white in the blood of THE LAMB. Who is doing this work? Who is separating from himself sin and selfishness (HS 138) [7BC 960.7]
The true Witness has said, “Buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear.” What is the shame of this nakedness and poverty? It is the shame of clothing ourselves with self-righteousness, and of separating ourselves from God, when He has made ample provision for all to receive His blessing (HS 139) [7BC 965.2]
WHEN TEMPTED TO SIN, LET US REMEMBER THAT JESUS IS PLEADING FOR US IN THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. When we put away our sins and come to him in faith, he takes our names in his lips and presents them to his Father, saying, “I have graven them upon the palms of my hands; I know them by name.” And the command goes forth to the angels to protect them. Then in the day of fierce trial he will say, “Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee; hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.” What are the chambers in which they are to hide? They are the protection of Christ and holy angels. The people of God are not at this time all in one place. They are in different companies, and in all parts of the earth; and they will be tried singly, not in groups. Every one must stand the test for himself. {HS 158.3} Also {RH, November 19, 1908 par. 21}
You can also in meekness call the attention of others to the precious truths of God’s word. Young men should be instructed that they may labor in these cities. They may never be able to present the truth from the desk, but they could go from house to house, and point the people to the LAMB OF GOD that taketh away the sin of the world. THE DUST AND RUBBISH OF ERROR HAVE BURIED THE PRECIOUS JEWELS OF TRUTH; BUT THE LORD’S WORKERS CAN UNCOVER THESE TREASURES, so that many will look upon them with delight and awe. {HS 182.1 1886}
There is a great variety of work, adapted to different minds and varied capabilities. In the day of God not one will be excused for being shut up to his own selfish interests. And it is by working for others that you will keep your own souls alive. Do you shrink from this work because there is a cross connected with it? Remember that self must be denied if you would win Christ. Earnest, unselfish effort will garner sheaves for Jesus. The humble worker who obediently responds to the call of God, may be sure of receiving divine assistance. The Lord is a mighty helper. If the workers will rely wholly upon him, he will accomplish a great work through them. {HS 182.2 1886}
THERE IS TO BE A MARK PLACED UPON GOD’S PEOPLE, AND THAT MARK IS THE KEEPING OF HIS HOLY SABBATH (HS 217) [7BC 981.6]
1936 – The General Conference Sabbath School Committee publishes a series of Sabbath School lesson studies (starting with the 4th quarter 1936 to the 2nd quarter 1938) for the church which is intended to show the world what Seventh-day Adventists officially believe, and purportedly to show that the church still upholds the Adventist Pioneer position on the nature of God and Christ. Six men including F.M Wilcox and M.E Kern were voted by the G.C Committee in late 1935 to sit with the Sabbath School Department Lessons Committee when they compile the studies on essential BIBLE doctrines. The studies apply Trinitarian language to non-Trinitarian belief, in effect subtly reinterpreting it in Trinitarian terms. In the third week of the 4th quarter 1936 lesson under the title “The Godhead”, the word Trinity is used twice, once as a heading and once as a sub-heading. Under the “Trinity” heading, they state that “three powers wrought in the work of creation,” and that “the name God is used of the Father, of the Son, and of the Spirit–a kind of heavenly family name. These three constitute the Godhead.” Then under the heading “Unity of the Godhead”, they state, “The Father is in the Son, and the Son is in the Father. The Spirit is ‘the Spirit of God’ and ‘the Spirit of Christ.’ Hence all three dwell together, and the three are one.” (Lesson 3, p.10)
INFIDELITY PREVAILS TO AN ALARMING EXTENT, NOT IN THE WORLD ONLY, BUT IN THE CHURCH. MANY HAVE COME TO DENY DOCTRINES WHICH ARE THE VERY PILLARS OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH. THE GREAT FACTS OF CREATION AS PRESENTED BY THE INSPIRED WRITERS, THE FALL OF MAN, THE ATONEMENT, THE PERPETUITY OF THE LAW THESE ALL ARE PRACTICALLY REJECTED BY A LARGE SHARE OF THE PROFESSEDLY CHRISTIAN WORLD. Thousands who pride themselves in their knowledge regard it as an evidence of weakness to place implicit confidence in the BIBLE, and a proof of learning to cavil at the SCRIPTURES and to spiritualize and explain away their most important truths. {LHU 157.5 1988}
In rejecting the Old, they virtually reject the New; for both are parts of an inseparable whole. NO MAN CAN RIGHTLY PRESENT THE LAW OF GOD WITHOUT THE GOSPEL, OR THE GOSPEL WITHOUT THE LAW. THE LAW IS THE GOSPEL EMBODIED, AND THE GOSPEL IS THE LAW UNFOLDED. THE LAW is the root, the gospel is the fragrant blossom and fruit which it bears. {LHU 306.6 1988}
The third angel is leading up a people, step by step, higher and higher. At every step they will be tested. {LHU 375.5 1988}
THROUGH PERSONAL EFFORT JOINED WITH THE PRAYER OF FAITH, THE SOUL IS TRAINED. Day by day the character grows into the likeness of Christ; and finally, instead of being the sport of circumstances, instead of indulging selfishness and being carried away by light and trifling conversation, the man is master of his thoughts and words. It may cost a severe conflict to overcome habits which have been long indulged, but we may triumph through the grace of Christ. He invites us to learn of Him. He would have us practice self-control, and be perfect in character, working that which is well pleasing in His sight. “By their fruits ye shall know them” is His own standard of judging character. {LHU 376.2 1988}
IF WE ARE TRUE TO THE PROMPTINGS OF THE SPIRIT OF GOD, WE SHALL GO ON FROM GRACE TO GRACE, AND FROM GLORY TO GLORY, UNTIL WE SHALL RECEIVE THE FINISHING TOUCH OF IMMORTALITY. {LHU 376.3 1988}
JESUS PRAYED THAT HIS DISCIPLES MIGHT BE ONE AS HE WAS ONE WITH HIS FATHER. THIS PRAYER DID NOT CONTEMPLATE ONE DISCIPLE WITH TWELVE HEADS, BUT TWELVE DISCIPLES, MADE ONE IN OBJECT AND EFFORT IN THE CAUSE OF THEIR MASTER. NEITHER ARE THE FATHER AND THE SON PARTS OF THE THREE-ONE GOD. THEY ARE TWO DISTINCT BEINGS, YET ONE IN THE DESIGN AND ACCOMPLISHMENT OF REDEMPTION. The redeemed, from the first who shares in the great redemption, to the last, all ascribe the honor, and glory, and praise, of their salvation, to both GOD AND THE LAMB. (James White, 1868, Life Incidents, page 343)
And when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a centurion of Augustus’ band. And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us. {LP 261.1}
Adramyttium was situated upon the west coast of the province of Asia; therefore the travelers could perform but a part of their journey in a ship bound for that city. But in some of the larger ports at which the vessel touched, they would be likely to find a ship in which they could embark for Rome. {LP 261.2}
The season of safe navigation was already far advanced, before the apostle’s ship left Caesarea, and the time was fast approaching when travel by sea would be closed for the year. Every day’s delay increased the peril of the voyage. But the journey which would be difficult and dangerous to the ordinary traveler, would be doubly trying to the apostle as a prisoner. Roman soldiers were held responsible with their own lives for the security of their prisoners, and this had led to the custom of chaining prisoners by the right wrist to the left wrist of soldiers, who relieved each other in turn. Thus not only could the apostle have no movement free, but he was placed in close and constant connection with men of the most uncongenial and absolutely repulsive character; men who were not only uneducated and unrefined, but who, from the demoralizing influence of their surroundings, had become brutal and degraded. This custom, however, was less rigidly observed on shipboard than when prisoners were ashore. One circumstance greatly lightened the hardships of his lot. He was permitted to enjoy the companionship of his brethren, Luke and Aristarchus. In his letter to the Colossians, he speaks of the latter as his “fellow-prisoner.” But it was as an act of choice, because of his affection for Paul, that Aristarchus shared his bondage, and ministered to him in his afflictions. {LP 262.1}
The matter was earnestly discussed, and was finally referred by the centurion to Paul, who had won the respect of both sailors and soldiers. The apostle unhesitatingly advised that they remain where they were. Said he, “Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.” But the owner of the ship, who was on board, and the majority of passengers and crew, were unwilling to accept this counsel. They urged that the harbor of Fair Havens was but imperfectly protected from the wintry winds, and that the neighboring town, being so small, would afford little occupation for three hundred sailors and passengers during a stay of several months. Port Phenice, but thirty-four miles distant, had a well-sheltered harbor, and was in all other respects a far more desirable place in which to winter. {LP 264.1}
After a time they neared the small island of Clauda, and while under its shelter they did all in their power to make ready for the worst. The boat would be their only means of escape, in case the ship should founder; but while in tow it was every moment likely to be dashed to pieces. The first work was to hoist it on board the ship. This was no easy task; for it was with the utmost difficulty that the seamen could perform the simplest duty. All possible precaution was taken to render the ship firm and secure, and then there was nothing left to do but to drift at the mercy of wind and wave. There was no place into which they could run for shelter, the wind was driving them, and even the poor protection afforded by the little island would not avail them long. Such was the disastrous ending of the day which had begun with soft breezes and high hopes. {LP 265.1}
In the midst of that terrible scene, the apostle retained his calmness and courage. Notwithstanding he was physically the greatest sufferer of them all, he had words of hope for the darkest hour, a helping hand in every emergency. In this time of trial, he grasped by faith the arm of infinite power, his heart was stayed upon God, and amid the surrounding gloom his courage and nobility of soul shone forth with the brightest luster. While all around were looking only for swift destruction, this man of God, in the serenity of a blameless conscience, was pouring forth his earnest supplications in their behalf. {LP 266.1}
Paul had no fears for himself; he felt assured that he would not be swallowed up by the hungry waters. God would preserve his life, that he might witness for the truth at Rome. But his human heart yearned with pity for the poor souls around him. Sinful and degraded as they were, they were unprepared to die, and he earnestly pleaded with God to spare their lives. It was revealed to him that his prayer was granted. When there was a lull in the tempest, so that his voice could be heard, he stood forth on the deck and said: {LP 266.2}
Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss. And now I exhort you to be of good cheer; for there shall be no loss of any man’s life among you, but of the ship. For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar; and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer; for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me. Howbeit we must be cast upon a certain island. {LP 266.3}
It was the fourteenth night that they had been tossed up and down on the black, heaving billows, when, amid the sound of the storm, the sailors distinguished the roar of breakers, and reported that they were near some land. They “sounded, and found it twenty fathoms; and when they had gone a little further, they sounded again, and found it fifteen fathoms.” They were now threatened by a new danger, of having their ship driven upon some rock-bound coast. They immediately cast out four anchors, which was the only thing that could be done. All through the remaining hours of that night they waited, knowing that any moment might be their last. The leak was constantly increasing, and the ship might sink at any time, even if the anchors held. {LP 267.2}
At last through rain and tempest the gray light fell upon their haggard and ghastly faces. The outlines of the stormy coast could be dimly seen, but not a single familiar landmark was visible. The selfish heathen sailors determined to abandon the ship and crew, and save themselves in the boat which they had with so much difficulty hoisted on board. Pretending that they could do something more to secure the safety of the ship, they unloosed the boat, and began to lower it into the sea. Had they succeeded, they would have been dashed in pieces upon the rocks, while all on board would have perished from their inability to handle the sinking vessel. {LP 267.3}
At this moment, Paul perceived the base design, and averted the danger. With his usual prompt energy and courage he said to the centurion and soldiers, “Except these abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved.” The apostle’s faith in God did not waver; he had no doubt concerning his own preservation, but the promise of safety to the crew had been conditional upon their performance of duty. The soldiers, on hearing Paul’s words, immediately cut off the ropes of the boat, letting her fall off into the sea. {LP 268.1}
Paul himself set the example. “When he had thus spoken, he took bread, and gave thanks to God in presence of them all; and when he had broken it, he began to eat. Then were they all of good cheer, and they also took some meat.” That worn, drenched, discouraged throng of two hundred and seventy-six souls, who but for Paul would have become despairing and desperate, now took fresh courage, and joined with the apostle in their first meal for fourteen days. After this, knowing that it would be impossible to save their cargo, they righted up the ship by throwing overboard the wheat with which she was laden. {LP 268.3}
When the roll was called, not one was missing. Nearly three hundred souls, sailors, soldiers, passengers, and prisoners, stood that stormy November morning upon the shore of the island of Melita. And there were some that joined with Paul and his brethren in giving thanks to God who had preserved their lives, and brought them safe to land through the perils of the great deep. {LP 270.1}
For three months the ship’s company remained at Melita. During this time Paul and his fellow-laborers improved every opportunity to preach the gospel. The Lord wrought through them in a remarkable manner, and for Paul’s sake the entire company were treated with great kindness; all their wants were supplied, and upon leaving they were liberally provided with everything needful for their voyage. {LP 271.1}
There were a few Christians in this place, who entreated the apostle to remain with them seven days, and the privilege was kindly granted by the centurion. Since receiving Paul’s Epistle to the Romans, the Christians of Italy had eagerly looked forward to a visit from the apostle. They had little expected to see him in chains as a prisoner, but his sufferings only endeared him to them the more. The distance from Puteoli to Rome being but a hundred and forty miles, and the seaport being in constant communication with the metropolis, the Roman Christians were informed of Paul’s approach, and some of them started to meet and welcome him. {LP 272.2}
The case of Jonah was presented before me. God commanded him to go into Nineveh and deliver the message that he gave him. Jonah obeyed, and for the space of three days and nights the solemn cry was heard throughout the streets of the wicked city, ‘Yet forty days and Nineveh shall be overthrown!’ The city was a marvel of wealth and magnificence; yet the king believed the warning and humbled himself and his people before the Lord in fasting and sackcloth. {LS80 203.2 1880}
A merciful God accepted their repentance and lengthened the days of their probation. He turned away his fierce anger and awaited the fruits of Nineveh’s humiliation. But Jonah dreaded being called a false prophet. He murmured at the compassion of God in sparing the people whom he had warned of destruction by the mouth of his prophet. He could not bear the thought of standing before the people as a deceiver. He overlooked the great mercy of God toward the repentant city, in the personal humiliation of seeing his prophecy unfulfilled. {LS 80 203.3 1880}
Elder Bates was keeping the Sabbath, and urged its importance. I did not feel its importance, and thought that Elder B. erred in dwelling upon the fourth commandment more than upon the other nine. But the Lord gave me a view of the heavenly sanctuary. The temple of God was opened in heaven, and I was shown the ark of God covered with the mercy-seat. Two angels stood one at either end of the ark, with their wings spread over the mercy-seat, and their faces turned toward it. This my accompanying angel informed me represented all the heavenly host looking with reverential awe toward THE LAW OF GOD which had been written by the finger of God. Jesus raised the cover of the ark, and I beheld the tables of stone on which the ten commandments were written. I was amazed as I saw the fourth commandment in the very center of the ten precepts, with a soft halo of light encircling it. Said the angel, ‘It is the only one of the ten which defines the living God who created the heavens and the earth and all things that are therein. When the foundations of the earth were laid, then was also laid the foundation of the Sabbath. I was shown that if the true Sabbath had been kept there would never have been an infidel or an atheist. The observance of the Sabbath would have preserved the world from idolatry. The fourth commandment has been trampled upon, therefore we are called upon to repair the breach in THE LAW and plead for the broken down Sabbath. The man of sin who exalted himself above God, and thought to change times and laws, brought about the change of the Sabbath from the seventh to the first day of the week. In doing this he made a breach in THE LAW OF GOD. Just prior to the great day of God, a message is sent forth to warn the people to come back to their allegiance to THE LAW OF GOD which antichrist has broken down. Attention must be called to the breach in THE LAW by precept and example. I was shown that the third angel proclaiming the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, represents the people who receive this message and raise the voice of warning to the world, TO KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD AND HIS LAW as the apple of the eye, and that in response to this warning many would embrace the Sabbath of the Lord. {LS80 236.3}
In His word, God has revealed saving truths. AS A PEOPLE WE SHOULD BE EARNEST STUDENTS OF PROPHECY; WE SHOULD NOT REST UNTIL WE BECOME INTELLIGENT IN REGARD TO THE SUBJECT OF THE SANCTUARY, WHICH IS BROUGHT OUT IN THE VISIONS OF DANIEL AND JOHN. This subject sheds great light on our present position and work, and gives us unmistakable proof that God has led us in our past experience. It explains our disappointment in 1844, showing us that the sanctuary to be cleansed was not the earth, as we had supposed, but that Christ then entered into the most holy apartment of the heavenly sanctuary, and is there performing the closing work of His priestly office, in fulfillment of the words of the angel to the prophet Daniel, ‘Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.’ Daniel 8:14. {LS 278.1}
I saw the commandments of God and shut door could not be separated. I saw [that] the time for the commandments of God to shine out to His people was when the door was opened in the inner apartment of the heavenly sanctuary in 1844. Then Jesus rose up and shut the door in the outer apartment and opened the door in the inner apartment and passed into the Most Holy Place, and the faith of Israel now reaches within the second veil where Jesus now stands by the ark. I saw that Jesus had shut the door in the Holy Place and no man can open it, and that He had opened the door in the Most Holy Place and no man can shut it; and that since Jesus had opened the door in the Most Holy Place the commandments have been shining out and God has been testing His people on the holy Sabbath. I SAW THAT THE TEST ON THE SABBATH COULD NOT COME UNTIL THE MEDIATION OF JESUS WAS FINISHED IN THE HOLY AND HE HAD PASSED WITHIN THE SECOND VEIL; therefore Christians who died before the seventh month, 1844, and had not kept the true Sabbath, rest in hope, for there was no condemnation until the true light on the Sabbath came. {Lt5-1849} {Mar 247.2 1976}
I saw that this call to the Laodicean church will affect souls. A becoming zeal is called for by God on our part. We must repent, throw away our whole feelings, feel our destitution, buy gold that we may be rich, eyesalve that we may see, white raiment that we may be clothed (Lt2, 1851) [7BC 966.5]
Why do we so seldom visit the fountain when it is full and free? Our souls often need to drink at the fountain in order to be refreshed and flourish in the Lord. Salvation we must have. WITHOUT VITAL GODLINESS OUR RELIGION IS VAIN. A form will be of no advantage to us. WE MUST HAVE THE DEEP WORKINGS OF THE SPIRIT OF GOD. Lt2a, 1856. {RC 351.6 1985} {OFC 313.6 1991}
Some who have lacked order, cleanliness and elevated feelings, look upon those who have refined taste and neatness and order as being proud. They feel uncomfortable because others do not come down to their level. This is all wrong. The truth does not bring us all down on a level, but brings us all up on a level. You are too careless, too neglectful of your person and apparel. God calls for a reform on your part. You are a hindrance to others embracing the truth. You must begin to work and reform. God cannot approve and bless you, until you can be a better example and better represent the truth. Take a more elevated position. {Lt11-1861} {5MR 291.3 1990}
The truth is designed to elevate the receiver, to refine his taste and sanctify his judgment. There should be a continual aim to imitate the society we expect soon to associate with–angels of God who have never fallen by sin. OUR CHARACTERS SHOULD BE HOLY, OUR MANNERS COMELY, OUR WORDS WITHOUT GUILE, AND WE SHOULD GO ON STEP BY STEP UNTIL WE ARE ALL FITTED FOR TRANSLATION. There is a work to be done to attain to this. Add to our faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, etc. Lt18, 1861, pp. 2, 3. (To Brother H. G. Buck, January 19, 1861.) {5MR 293.1}
Give up your schemes, your projects and enterprises. Face duty, stern duty and faithfully perform that which rests upon you. Friday commence in the morning to prepare for the Sabbath and one hour BEFORE SUNDOWN, HAVE EVERYTHING DONE and you be prepared for reading. {Lt5a-1865}
DO NOT NEGLECT TO WATCH AND PRAY. I have risen early to write to you. I am very anxious that you should succeed in the Christian warfare. The eyes of angels are upon you constantly. Seek to do good. Help those who need help. Pray much, this is your strength. {Lt21-1867} [3MR 129.1 1990]
In these last days, especially, should all seek to elevate their lives, for they are fitting for translation and must be without spot or wrinkle or any such thing–perfect before God, pure in heart and life, holy–and then will their light shine. You need not imitate the fashions of the world in order to have influence, but in order to have influence you must all take an exalted position that your influence may tell. You who are looking for Christ’s coming should be the most orderly, systematic, cleanly people upon the earth; but it has not been thus. Some have acted as though it was no matter what they wore, how their houses or persons appeared, and that these slovenly manners were tokens of humility. Instead of this it is a true sign hung out to unbelievers of what is within; you are judged accordingly. God help you to arise. Lt23, 1868, pp. 2,3. (To “Dear Friends in Burlington,” April 27, 1868.) {9MR 280.2 1990}
OUR SALVATION DEPENDS UPON OUR KEEPING ALL OF GOD’S COMMANDMENTS. Perfect obedience without hesitancy or doubt is all that God will accept. We should not even obey the commandments merely to secure heaven, but by obedience to please Him who died to save sinners from the penalty of the transgression of THE FATHER’S LAW. {Lt35-1877.25}
We arrived at home in Denison before the Sabbath and were WELL ARRANGED BEFORE SUNDOWN. {Lt45-1879}
Let me tell you that the Lord will work in this last work in a manner very much out of the common order of things, and in a way that will be contrary to any human planning. There will be those among us who will always want to control the work of God, to dictate even what movements shall be made when the work goes forward under the direction of the angel who joins the third angel in the message to be given to the world. GOD WILL USE WAYS AND MEANS BY WHICH IT WILL BE SEEN THAT HE IS TAKING THE REINS IN HIS OWN HANDS. The workers will be surprised by the simple means that He will use to bring about and perfect His work of righteousness. Those who are accounted good workers will need to draw nigh to God, they will need the divine touch. They will need to drink more deeply and continuously at the fountain of living water, in order that they may discern God’s work at every point. Workers may make mistakes, but you should give them a chance to correct their errors, give them an opportunity to learn caution by leaving the work in their hands. {Lt5-1885}
THERE IS IN EVERY ONE WHO TRULY LOVES GOD THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST, which always leads to peace and love and never to dissension. The more the heart is under the influence of the SPIRIT OF GOD, and its affections centered in Christ, the less will it be disturbed with the roughness and hardships that will be met in this life. True Christians will talk of Christ; they will work for Christ; and as they are imbued with His Spirit, they will work with unselfish interest to bless humanity around them. They are growing, ever growing to the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. They become more and more like Christ in disposition. Discontent, restlessness, and murmuring come from a heart that is not renewed by grace. The heart that is at peace with God is constantly rising above the low earthly elements and is partaker of the divine nature. {Lt21-1886}
Satan will work his miracles to deceive; he will set up his power as supreme. THE CHURCH MAY APPEAR AS ABOUT TO FALL, BUT IT DOES NOT FALL. IT REMAINS, while the sinners in Zion will be sifted out–the chaff separated from the precious wheat. This is a terrible ordeal, but nevertheless it must take place. None but those who have been overcoming by the blood of THE LAMB and the word of their testimony will be found with the loyal and true, without spot or stain of sin, without guile in their mouths. . . . The remnant that purify their souls by obeying the truth gather strength from the trying process, exhibiting the beauty of holiness amid the surrounding apostasy (Lt55, 1886) [7BC 911.6]
WE SHOULD BE OFTEN IN PRAYER. The outpouring of the SPIRIT OF GOD came in answer to earnest prayer. But mark this fact concerning the disciples: “They were all with one accord in one place.” And suddenly there came a sound as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost.” They were not assembled to relate tidbits of scandal, they were not seeking to expose every stain they could find on a brother’s character. They felt their spiritual need and cried to the Lord for the unction to help them in overcoming their own infirmities and to fit them for the work of saving others. They prayed with intense earnestness that the love of Christ might be shed abroad in their hearts. This is our great need today in every church in the land. “For if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” That which was objectionable in the character is purified from the soul by the love of Jesus. All selfishness is expelled, all envy, all evil speaking is rooted out, and a radical transformation is wrought in the life. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, meekness, goodness, faith, temperance; against such there is no LAW.” {Lt19 1887}
The followers of Jesus need not be amazed if they are made partakers of His sufferings. Their motives will be questioned, and they will meet with disappointments on every hand; but Christ endured all this. How can He look upon those for whom He has paid so infinite a price and “be satisfied,” when they have never appreciated His great gift to them? “Consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest ye be wearied, and faint in your minds.” {Lt39-1887} {20MR 137.2 1993}
THE WORK OF CHRIST’S REPRESENTATIVES WILL BE SIMILAR TO THAT OF THEIR REDEEMER. THEY ARE TO COMMUNICATE THAT WHICH IS HEAVENLY AND DIVINE. And they are not to look to self, nor trust in their own efforts. Neither should they place too high an estimate upon their own work. When they see that others do not regard their efforts as they themselves estimate them, they should not feel that their labors might as well cease; for this is the work of the enemy. We live to God, not to men. God estimates our work at its full value. He measures nobility of character; and whether men appreciate us or not in our lifetime, our character lives after we are gone. After man has no more to do with anything under the sun, the example he has set, the golden words he has spoken live through all time and through all eternity. {Lt39-1887} {20MR 137.3 1993}
True Christians will have an experience like that of Christ in the wilderness of temptation, especially those who engage in rescuing souls from the snares of Satan. They will meet the assaults of the enemy of all righteousness; and as Christ overcame, so may they overcome through His grace. No one should feel that he is abandoned of God because he is subjected to sore temptations. If he remains unshaken by the temptations, Satan will leave him, and angels will minister to him as they did to Jesus. There is no comfort equal to that which Christians enjoy when the tempted soul has patiently suffered and Satan has been vanquished. They have borne witness for Jesus, RELYING WHOLLY UPON THE WORD OF GOD, “It is written,” and thus have resisted every advance of Satan, till they have beaten him back and gained the victory. {Lt39-1887} {20MR 138.1 1993}
The principles of righteousness must be implanted in the soul. The faith must grasp the power of Jesus Christ, else there is no safety. Licentious practices are getting to be as common as in the days before the flood. Not one should be buried with Christ by baptism unless they are critically examined whether they have ceased to sin, whether they have fixed moral principles, whether they know what sin is, whether they have moral defilement which God abhors. Find out by close questioning if these persons are really ceasing to sin, if with David they can say, I hate sin with a perfect hatred. Lt26d, 1887, p. 6. (To “Brother Covert and those who hold responsible positions in the Indiana Conference,” September 27, 1887.) {6MR 165.3}
THE WORKING OF THE SPIRIT OF GOD IN YOU WILL NEVER LEAD YOU TO ANY KIND OF DECEPTION; it will never lead you to accuse your brethren. Though the SPIRIT OF CHRIST works upon hearts, its operations are silent, not boastful. Its fruits are to be seen in good works; the effect produced is more powerful in its influence for good upon others. {Lt14-1888}
I have been shown that our disappointment in 1844 was not because of failure in the reckoning of prophetic periods, but in the events to take place. The earth was believed to be the sanctuary. But the sanctuary which was to be cleansed at the end of the prophetic periods was the heavenly sanctuary and not the earth as we all supposed. THE SAVIOUR DID ENTER THE MOST HOLY PLACE IN 1844 TO CLEANSE THE SANCTUARY AND THE INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT HAD COMMENCED FOR THE DEAD. {Lt38-1888} {10MR 269.1}
Never did the CHURCH OF GOD need daily, divine enlightenment more than at this present, important period of time. The days in which we live are solemn and fearful; the SPIRIT OF GOD is surely, but gradually, being withdrawn from the earth and from man. The plagues and judgments are already falling upon the despisers of the grace of God. The signs in casualties by sea and by land, the fire and the floods that are coming in towns and cities, are portentous. They forecast the shadows of approaching events of the greatest magnitude. The elements of evil are combining their forces and consolidating for vigorous resistance to God and the truth. The enemy has already determined his course of action. The man of sin in popery is increasing in power. Infidelity is extending, and sectarianism, formalism, and sin are abounding. God is dishonored; Christ rejected. Soul destroying doctrines, specious errors, are intruding themselves everywhere. {Lt15-1889}
The salvation that Christ made such a sacrifice to gain for man, is that which is alone of value, that which saves from sin–the cause of all the misery and woe in our world. Mercy extended to the sinner is constantly drawing him to Jesus. If he responds, coming in penitence with confession, in faith laying hold of the hope set before him in the gospel, God will not despise the broken and contrite heart. Thus THE LAW OF GOD is not weakened, but the power of sin is broken, and the scepter of mercy is extended to the penitent sinner (Lt1f, 1890) [6BC 1072.3] {SpTA01b 21.1 1897}
I have thought I could get this into the office before Sabbath, but the matter seems hopeless as it is NEARLY SUNDOWN. {Lt91-1890}
The power of the Holy Ghost must be upon us, and the Captain of the Lord’s host will stand at the head of the angels of heaven to direct the battle. Solemn events before us are yet to transpire. Trumpet after trumpet is to be sounded, vial after vial poured out one after another upon the inhabitants of the earth. Scenes of stupendous interest are right upon us (Lt112, 1890) [7BC 982.7]
This is the test that the people of God must have before they are sealed. ALL WHO PROVED THEIR LOYALTY TO GOD BY OBSERVING HIS LAW, AND REFUSING TO ACCEPT A SPURIOUS SABBATH, WILL RANK UNDER THE BANNER OF THE LORD GOD JEHOVAH, AND WILL RECEIVE THE SEAL OF THE LIVING GOD. Those who yield the truth of heavenly origin and accept the Sunday sabbath, will receive the mark of the beast (Lt11, 1890) [7BC 976.3]
The third angel is represented as flying in the midst of heaven, symbolizing the work of those who proclaim the first, second, and third angels’ messages; all are linked together. The evidences of the abiding, ever-living truth of these grand messages, that means so much to us, that have awakened such intense opposition from the religious world, are not extinct. Satan is constantly seeking to cast his hellish shadow about these messages, so that the remnant people of God shall not clearly discern their import, their time and place; but they live, and are to exert their power upon our religious experience while time shall last. Lt1f, 1890, 5, 6. (To Brethren in Responsible Positions, November, 1890.) {1MR 56.2 1981}
It is not essential for you to know and be able to define just what the Holy Spirit is. CHRIST TELLS US THAT THE HOLY SPIRIT IS THE COMFORTER, AND THE COMFORTER IS THE HOLY GHOST, “the Spirit of truth, which the Father shall send in my name.” “I will pray the Father, and he shall send you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him; but ye know him, for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” THIS REFERS TO THE OMNIPRESENCE OF THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST, CALLED THE COMFORTER. Again Jesus says, “I have many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit, when he, the Spirit of truth is come, he will guide you into all truth.” {Lt7-1891} {Also 14MR 179.2} John 16:12-13.
There are many mysteries which I do not seek to understand or to explain; they are too high for me, and too high for you. On some of these points, silence is golden. PIETY, DEVOTION, SANCTIFICATION OF SOUL, BODY, AND SPIRIT – THIS IS ESSENTIAL FOR US ALL. “This is life eternal, that they might know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent” [John 17:3]. “This is the will of Him that sent Me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on Him, may have everlasting life” [John 6:40]. {Lt7-1891} {14MR 179.3 1990}
Remember, you are building character for eternity. You have failed in some points again and again, as many others have done. You need to bring more solid timber into your character-building and to remove every specked, worm-eaten, decaying piece. The world passes judgment upon us, our words, our actions, our failures to stand true to principle. The Lord weighs us in the scales of the heavenly sanctuary. He gives each one of us a post of duty and expects us to look to Him for orders, to be reliable and trustworthy, for sacred, solemn responsibilities are placed upon us. The steward must be found faithful. {Lt34-1891}
No one is to sound a trumpet before them and exalt the great things which they are doing while they demerit men in other branches, fully as essential as God regards it. THE CHURCH OF GOD IN ALL ITS WORKINGS MUST COOPERATE WITH THE UNIVERSE OF HEAVEN. BOTH HEAVEN AND EARTH ARE COOPERATING. THE SAME PRINCIPLE THAT CONTROLS IN HEAVEN MUST RUN THROUGH EVERY DEPARTMENT OF THE WORK ON EARTH. There have been many seasons of fasting and prayer appointed for the Lord to raise up laborers to go into the fields all white for the harvest, and justice is not being done with those already in the field. They have not the love of Christ controlling their hearts. {Lt52-1891}
It will not be decided in the measurement of the balances of the heavenly sanctuary whether a man is merely innocent or guilty, but a question of how guilty. Every man will find himself not judged by his signing up of himself as to merit or guilt, but the just judge of man’s work will be proportionate to the light given him of God, the circumstances surrounding him in comparison with those who, though their opportunities and religious advantages were far less than his, appropriated these advantages, laying hold on eternal life, [and sought] every help he could obtain that he might form a character that will place him among the blessed. {Lt52-1891}
There are many represented to me in the church who seem just like drowning men engaged in a desperate struggle to keep their heads above water. They have not in their religious life ever died to self. SELF IS THEIR IDOL; they worship at its shrine. Weakness and a fluctuating experience open the way for Satan’s temptations and they will be easily overcome. A faithful waiting upon the Lord will renew their strength. Trials of faith will come, but love, patience, and constancy will be weighed by the golden scales of the heavenly sanctuary. {Lt26a-1891}
The true people of God are now pulling apart, and the tares are being bound in bundles ready to burn. Decided positions will be taken. Satan will move upon minds that have been indulged, upon men who have always had their own way, and anything presented to them in counsel or reproof to change their objectionable traits of character is considered faultfinding, binding them, restraining them, that they cannot have liberty to act themselves. The Lord in great mercy has sent messages of warning to them, but they would not listen to reproof. Like the enemy who rebelled in heaven, they do not like to hear, do not correct the wrong they have done but become accusers, declaring themselves misused and unappreciated. {Lt13 August 22, 1892 E.G.White Letter to S.H.Haskell}
The Laodicean message has been sounding. Take this message in all its phases and sound it forth to the people wherever Providence opens the way. JUSTIFICATION BY FAITH AND THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF CHRIST ARE THE THEMES TO BE PRESENTED TO A PERISHING WORLD (Lt24, 1892) [7BC 964.3]
THE OFFICE WORK OF THE SPIRIT OF GOD IS TO QUALIFY MEN TO BECOME TEACHERS. The Holy Spirit might be given to all men to teach them, but God does not work in that way. The Lord works through human agencies. “Ye are my witnesses,” saith the Lord. God sends men and women to instruct and educate others, and to preach to the world the tidings of the gospel. Not until the work of our great High Priest is done in the heavenly sanctuary will our work be done. The work of teaching will go on, the care of the sick will rest upon us, and institutions will be needed for the treatment of the afflicted, and means will be required for the extension of the knowledge of the glorious gospel of God and our Lord Jesus Christ, until a people shall be found without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, standing blameless before heaven, and prepared for the great day of the Lord. {Lt93-1892}
The wares of heaven are offered to our churches. Every individual needs to have a decided interest in the invitation of Christ. Brethren and sisters, are your thoughts after this order? “These sharp, decided words do not mean me; I am in a fairly good condition spiritually, though I may not have all the fervor and zeal that some have. I believe the truth. Those to whom this message belongs may take it. I think some need it.” You who think and reason thus, be assured that you are the very ones to whom this message belongs. While the costly wares of heaven are open before you, draw nigh and buy that which you have lost–the gold of love and faith, and the white raiment which is the righteousness of Christ (Lt30a, 1892) [7BC 964.9]
While Christ is our officiating priest in the heavenly sanctuary, we may have faith in Jesus Christ. We may repent of our sins, “Ye believe in God, believe also in me”. Every provision has been made for every necessity of our moral and spiritual nature. Truth in Jesus Christ reveals to us “God is love” and that He careth for us. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth those who fear him.” {Lt12-1893}
He might bring the human soul to the threshold of heaven, and through the open door show us its inner glory flooding the heavenly sanctuary and shining out through its portals, but we must behold it by faith, not with the natural eyes. He does not forget that we are His human agents to work the works of God in a world all seared and marred with the curse. It is in this world, that is clothed with moral darkness like the pall of death, where darkness covers the earth, and gross darkness the people, that we are to walk in the light of heaven. {Lt30-1893}
In our experience we have seen men and women to whom was entrusted a large amount of capital become decidedly selfish in spirit and practice, so that they even embezzled their Lord’s means. After God had tried and tested them, and they failed to repent and reform, against their names was registered, “weighed in the balances of the heavenly sanctuary and found wanting.” Let not this be the case with you. For Christ’s sake I implore you to be a faithful steward. May the Holy Spirit guide us with heavenly wisdom and keep us so that we shall not handle the WORD OF GOD deceitfully. We want to be able to discern the meaning that God would have His Truth convey. {Lt63-1893}
A saint in the home will be a saint everywhere and will receive the heavenly reward. Angels of God are ever watching the development of character and weighing moral worth in the golden scales of the heavenly sanctuary. Just what a man or woman is in spirit, in character, in his home life, he will be in the church. Has he the character of Christ? {Lt109-1893}
DO NOT UNDERSTAND ME AS APPROVING OF THE RECENT ACTION OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE ASSOCIATION, of which you write; but in regard to that matter it is right that I should speak to them. They have many difficulties to meet, and if they err in their action, the Lord knows it all and can overrule all for the good of those who trust in Him. I sympathize with you in your difficulties and perplexities, but I must advise you to wait, patiently wait. These delays may seem to you to be very tedious and to be working you personal injury, but please do not take this view of the matter. If you will put your trust in God, and wait patiently a short time, I trust that everything will be adjusted satisfactorily. You have been deprived of your temporal eyesight; but if you have bought the spiritual eyesalve from the heavenly Merchantman, and anointed your eyes that you may see, your spiritual sight will be of far more value to you than gold and silver and precious stones. You may have to wait awhile for the adjustment of the matters that trouble you, but do not get yourself into worse temptations by feverish frettings or by seeking to obtain relief by any means contrary to the will of God. {Lt49-1894} {Ms140-1901} Testimony To Elder Littlejohn, August 3, 1894 {PC 422.7 1985}
Many are Laodiceans, living in a spiritual self-deception. They clothe themselves in the garments of their own righteousness, imagining themselves to be rich and increased with goods and in need of nothing, when they need daily to learn of Jesus, His meekness and lowliness, else they find themselves bankrupt, their whole life being a lie (Lt66, 1894 par. 14) [7BC 962.5]
The great Vendor of spiritual riches is inviting your recognition. [Revelation 3:18 quoted.] . . . The Saviour comes with jewels of truth of the richest value in distinction from all counterfeits, all that is spurious. He comes to every house, to every door; He is knocking, presenting His priceless treasure, urging, “Buy of me” (Lt66, 1894 par. 16) [7BC 964.8]
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. “And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him because we keep his commandments and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.” “And we know that the SON OF GOD is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in HIS SON JESUS CHRIST. This is the true God, and eternal life. Little children keep yourselves from idols.” The Lord is soon to come. We want that complete and perfect understanding which the Lord alone can give. It is not safe to catch the spirit from another. WE WANT THE HOLY SPIRIT, WHICH IS JESUS CHRIST. If we commune with God, we shall have strength and grace and efficiency. {Lt66 1894 par.18}
This is represented as the pardoning blood, inseparably connected with the resurrection and life of OUR REDEEMER, illustrated by the ever-flowing stream that proceeds from the throne of God, the water of the river of life (Lt87, 1894) [7BC 948.1]
True religion is the imitation of Christ. Those who follow Christ will deny self, take up the cross, and walk in His footsteps. Following Christ means obedience to all His commandments. No soldier can be said to follow his commander unless he obeys orders. Christ is our model. To copy Jesus, full of love and tenderness and compassion, will require that we draw near to Him daily. O how God has been dishonored by His professed representatives (Lt31a, 1894) [7BC 949.3]
THE HOLY SPIRIT IS THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST, which is sent to all men to give them sufficiency, that through His grace we might be complete in Him. The Lord has provided that we should always be under the teaching and influence of the Holy Spirit. We shall then discover that THE LAW OF GOD is holy, just, and good, and we would learn to delight in THE LAW OF GOD. We love the requirements of THE LAW, and from our hearts render obedience to its requirements. {14MR 84.3 1990} MR No. 1094 Leaders to be Under the Discipline of God; Christ’s Power can Transform Human Nature (Written January 2, 1894, from Melbourne, Australia, to Jacob Christiansen, captain of the mission ship Pitcairn.) {Lt11a-1894}
There are many who have never had the light. They are deceived by their teachers, and they have not received the mark of the beast. The Lord is working with them; He has not left them to their own ways. Until they shall be convicted of the truth and trample upon the evidence given to enlighten them, the Lord will not withdraw His grace from them (Lt7, 1895) [7BC 976.5]
True faith and repose in God are always accompanied by the illumination of the Holy Spirit, whose temple we are. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST; IT IS HIS REPRESENTATIVE. Here is the divine agency that carries conviction to hearts. When the power of His Spirit is revealed through the servants of God, we behold divinity flashing through humanity. When accompanied by the Holy Spirit, the presentation of truth as it is in Jesus will be of more value than all the honor or glory of the world. {Lt18-1895} {13MR 313.3 1990} MR No. 1056 Reveal Christ’s Spirit while Defending Truth and Pointing Out Error (Written September 13, 1895, from Granville, N.S.W., to a minister in Stanmore, Sydney, N.S.W.)
Those who are waiting for the appearing of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ cannot mingle with those who are lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God, who are seeking amusement in games and pleasure parties. As faithful watchmen they must proclaim the warning, “The morning cometh, and also the night.” CHRIST HAS LEFT HIS HOLY SPIRIT TO BE HIS REPRESENTATIVE IN THE WORLD, to give celestial aid to every hungering, thirsting soul. Heavenly inspiration is still imparted to men, and it is the work of those who have had light, to let light shine forth to those who are in darkness. Let no one feel inclined to hide his light. Those who hide their light so that the world may not distinguish between them and those who walk in darkness will soon lose all power to diffuse light. They are the ones who are represented by the five foolish virgins, and when the crisis comes, when the call is heard, “Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him,” they will arouse at last to find that their lamps have gone out, that they have mixed with the elements of the world and have not provided themselves with the oil of grace. They were lulled to sleep by the cry of peace and safety, and did not keep lamps trimmed and burning. Aroused to their darkness they plead for oil, but it is impossible for one Christian to impart character to another soul. {Lt84-1895}
CUMBERED WITH HUMANITY, CHRIST COULD NOT BE IN EVERY PLACE PERSONALLY; THEREFORE IT WAS ALTOGETHER FOR THEIR ADVANTAGE THAT HE SHOULD LEAVE THEM, GO TO HIS FATHER, AND SEND THE HOLY SPIRIT TO BE HIS SUCCESSOR ON EARTH. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS HIMSELF DIVESTED OF THE PERSONALITY OF HUMANITY AND INDEPENDENT THEREOF. HE WOULD REPRESENT HIMSELF AS PRESENT IN ALL PLACES BY HIS HOLY SPIRIT, AS THE OMNIPRESENT. BUT THE COMFORTER, WHICH IS THE HOLY GHOST, WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, HE SHALL (ALTHOUGH UNSEEN BY YOU), [This phrase was added by Ellen White.] TEACH YOU ALL THINGS, AND BRING ALL THINGS TO YOUR REMEMBRANCE, WHATSOEVER I HAVE SAID UNTO YOU [John 14:26]. Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will come not unto you; but if I depart, I will send Him unto you [John 16:7]. {Lt119-1895} (pages 23, 24; written February 18 and 19, 1895) {14MR 23.3 1990}
The result of this has been in various ways. The sacred character of the cause of God is no longer realized at the center of the work. THE VOICE FROM BATTLE CREEK, which has been regarded as authority in counseling how the work should be done, IS NO LONGER THE VOICE OF GOD; but it is the voice of whom? From whence does it come, and where is its vital power? This state of things is maintained by men who should have been disconnected from the work long ago. These men do not scruple to quote the WORD OF GOD as their authority, but the god who is leading them is a false god. {Lt4-1896} 17MR 185 1990 (1896). {LDE 50.2}
Were men free to depart from the Lord’s requirements and could set up standards of duty for themselves, there would be a variety of standards set up, to suit different minds. Men would feel competent to take the government out of the Lord’s hands, and act as gods themselves. The law of self would be exalted. The will of men would be made supreme, and the high and holy will of God, His purpose of love toward His heritage would be dishonored and disrespected. When men feel free to choose their own way, they are in controversy with God. There is no place for gods in the heaven above. GOD IS THE ONLY TRUE GOD. HE FILLS ALL HEAVEN. Those who now submit to His will shall see His face; His name will be in the foreheads of all who are pure and holy. Lt5 1896.14 December 18, 1896
I arose early Thursday morning, about two o’clock, and was writing busily upon the True Vine, when I felt a presence in my room, as I have many times before, and I lost all recollection of what I was about. I seemed to be in the presence of Jesus. He was communicating to me that in which I was to be instructed. Everything was so plain that I could not misunderstand. […] Not an audible word was spoken to my ear, but to my mind. I said, LORD, I WILL DO AS THOU HAST COMMANDED. Lt36, 1896, p. 2. (To Elder S. N. Haskell, April 26, 1896.) {5MR 147.1} {5MR 147 1990}
After the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the disciples, clothed with the divine panoply, went forth as witnesses to tell the wonderful story of the manger and the cross. They were humble men, but they went forth with the truth. After the death of the Lord, they were a helpless, disappointed, discouraged company—as sheep without a shepherd; but now they go forth as witnesses for the truth, with no weapons but THE WORD AND SPIRIT OF GOD, TO TRIUMPH OVER ALL OPPOSITION. Their Saviour had been rejected and condemned and nailed to the ignominious cross. The Jewish priests and rulers had declared in scorn, “He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the king of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him.” But that cross, that instrument of shame and torture, brought hope and salvation to the world. The believers rallied; there hopelessness and conscious helplessness had left them. They were transformed in character, and united in the bonds of Christian love. Although without wealth, though counted by the world as mere ignorant fishermen, they were made by the Holy Spirit witnesses for Christ. Without earthly honor or recognition, they were heroes of faith. From their lips came words of divine eloquence and power that shook the world. {Lt38-1896} {YRP 165.2 1995}
THERE IS NEED OF A MUCH CLOSER STUDY OF THE WORD OF GOD; ESPECIALLY SHOULD DANIEL AND THE REVELATION HAVE ATTENTION as never before in the history of our work. We may have less to say in some lines, in regard to the Roman power and the papacy, but we should call attention to what the prophets and apostles have written under the inspiration of the SPIRIT OF GOD. {Lt57-1896} {Ms142-1901} {CTr 335.2 1999}
Read the book of Daniel. Call up, point by point, the history of the kingdoms there represented. Behold statesmen, councils, powerful armies, and see how God wrought to abase pride and lay human glory in the dust. God alone is represented as great. In the vision of the prophet He is seen casting down one mighty ruler and setting up another. He is revealed as the monarch of the universe, about to set up His everlasting kingdom the Ancient of days, the living God, the Source of all wisdom, the Ruler of the present, the Revealer of the future. Read and understand how poor, how frail, how short-lived, how erring, how guilty, are mortals. {Lt57-1896} {CTr 335.3 1999}
The light that Daniel received direct from God was given especially for these last days. THE VISIONS HE SAW BY THE BANKS OF THE ULAI AND THE HIDDEKEL, THE GREAT RIVERS OF SHINAR, ARE NOW IN PROCESS OF FULFILLMENT, AND ALL THE EVENTS FORETOLD WILL SOON HAVE COME TO PASS. {Lt57-1896} {CTr 335.4 1999}
Consider the circumstances of the Jewish nation when the prophecies of Daniel were given. THE ISRAELITES WERE IN CAPTIVITY, THEIR TEMPLE HAD BEEN DESTROYED, THEIR TEMPLE SERVICES SUSPENDED. THEIR RELIGION HAD CENTERED IN THE CEREMONIES OF THE SACRIFICIAL SYSTEM. THEY HAD MADE THE OUTWARD FORMS ALL-IMPORTANT, WHILE THEY HAD LOST THE SPIRIT OF TRUE WORSHIP. . . THE LORD WROUGHT TO BRING THE PEOPLE INTO CAPTIVITY, AND TO SUSPEND THE SERVICES OF THE TEMPLE, IN ORDER THAT THE OUTWARD CEREMONIES MIGHT NOT BECOME THE SUM TOTAL OF THEIR RELIGION. . . . THE OUTWARD GLORY WAS REMOVED, THAT THE SPIRITUAL MIGHT BE REVEALED. {Lt57-1896} {CTr 335.5 1999}
In giving the light to His people, God did not work exclusively through any one class of persons. Daniel was a prince of Judah. Isaiah also was of the royal tribe. David was a shepherd boy, Amos a herdsman, Zechariah a captive from Babylon, Elisha a tiller of the soil. The Lord raised up as representative leaders the prophets and princes, the noble and the lowly, and by inspiration taught them truths to be given to His people. Lt57, 1896 (16MR 333-335 1990) {CTr 335.6}
Who can now feel sure that they are safe in respecting the voice of the General Conference Association? If the people in our churches understood the management of the men who walk in the light of the sparks of their own kindling, would they respect their decisions? I answer, No, not for a moment. I have been shown that the people at large do not know that THE HEART OF THE WORK IS BEING DISEASED AND CORRUPTED AT BATTLE CREEK. Many of the people are in a lethargic, listless, apathetic condition, and assent to plans which they do not understand. {Lt81-1896} Special Instruction Relating To The Review And Herald Office And The Work In Battle Creek, 19, 20 (1896) {PC 422.8 1985}
The grace of God takes men as they are and works as an educator, using every principle on which an all-sided education depends. The steady influence of the grace of God trains the soul after Christ’s methods, and every fierce passion, every defective trait of character is worked upon by the molding influence of the SPIRIT OF CHRIST, until new motive power becomes filled with the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD, after the likeness of the divine similitude. {Lt85-1896} {Also UL 89.4}
My words seem inadequate, and I despair of clothing the truth God has made known concerning his great redemption, which engrossed to itself His undivided attention in the ONLY BEGOTTEN SON OF THE INFINITE ONE. The truths that are to last through time and through eternity, the great plan of redemption, which cost so much for the salvation of the human race, presenting before them a life that measures with the life of God these truths are too full, deep, and holy for human words, or human pen, to adequately express. Lt90-1896.7
Religion is made to dwell too much in an iron case. Pure religion and undefiled leads us to a childlike simplicity. We want to pray and talk with humility, having a single eye to the glory of God. THERE HAS BEEN TOO MUCH OF A FORM OF GODLINESS WITHOUT THE POWER. THE OUTPOURING OF THE SPIRIT OF GOD WILL LEAD TO A GRATEFUL ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF THE SAME; and while we feel and realize the wondrous love of God, we shall not hold our peace, we shall sacrifice to God with the voice of thanksgiving and make melody to Him with our hearts and voices. Let us plant our feet upon the Rock of ages and then we will have abiding support and consolation. Our soul will repose in God with unshaken confidence. {Lt2a-1856} {OFC 313.5 1991}
Hear, O Hear.–I tell you in the name of the Lord, that those who have had great light are today in the state described by Christ in His message to the Laodicean church. They think that they are rich, and increased in goods, and feel that they have need of nothing. Christ speaks to you. Hear, O hear, if you have any regard for your souls, the words of the great Counselor, and act upon them [Revelation 3:18 quoted] (Lt5, 1897) [7BC 962.3]
Who is Christ? Whose Son is He? The ONLY BEGOTTEN SON OF THE INFINITE GOD. What distinction had He in the heavenly courts? He was Commander of all heaven. He laid aside His glory, His royal robe, His high position as Commander of the heavenly angels. He laid aside His princely crown, His majesty, and clothed His divinity with humanity, that humanity might touch humanity. HAD HE NOT DONE THIS, HE COULD NOT HAVE APPROACHED FALLEN, SINFUL MAN AT ALL. John, full of faith and zeal, cries out, “Behold the LAMB OF GOD, which taketh away the sins of the world.” He was the Prince of life; but He came to represent humanity, to elevate and ennoble every human being that will come unto Him, that he might have life. {Lt21-1897}
The great apostasy is working to a point, and will develop into darkness deep as midnight, impenetrable as sackcloth of hair. This is the time to employ any system that can be devised to discover and counteract the leaven of error. Let there be light. There should be one hundred light bearers in our world where there is one today. Darkness will become more dense in human minds after the truth has penetrated and been rejected. But there are some minds where the darkness will be removed. They recognize the light. {Lt31-1897}
The message the Lord has for His people is the proclamation of the angels flying in the midst of heaven. [Revelation 14:6-12 quoted.] These messages are connected and bound together. One cannot be carried without the other. Lt65, 1897, 2. (To Brother and Sister Hawkins, April 6, 1897.) {1MR 56.3 1981}
God loves His obedient children. He has a kingdom prepared, not for disloyal subjects, but for His children whom He has tested and tried in a world marred and corrupted by sin. As obedient children, we have the privilege of relationship with God. “If children,” He says, “then heirs” to an immortal inheritance. . . . Christ and His people are one (Lt119, 1897) [6BC 1077.8]
What saith our Saviour? “I will not leave thee comfortless; I will come unto you.” “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me; and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father; and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” When trials overshadow the soul, REMEMBER THE WORDS OF CHRIST, REMEMBER THAT HE IS AN UNSEEN PRESENCE IN THE PERSON OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, and He will be the peace and comfort given you, manifesting to you that He is with you, the Sun of Righteousness, chasing away your darkness. “If a man loves me,” Christ said, “he will keep my words, and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” Be of good cheer; light will come, and your soul will rejoice greatly in the Lord. {Lt124-1897} Also {DG 185.2 1998} {The Holy Spirit IS called a PERSON Inspired Writings.}
THERE IS NEED OF PERFECT UNITY IN THE CHURCH OF GOD. All kinds of calamity are trying the nations that have so long trampled THE LAW OF GOD; and this is only the beginning of the end. Those who claim to be Seventh-day Adventists will be tried as by fire. There are tares among the wheat, and the untrue will be separated from the true. They will go out from us because they are not of us. {Lt146-1897}
We must not wait for the latter rain. It is coming upon all who will recognize and appropriate the dew and showers of grace that fall upon us. When we gather up the fragments of light, when we appreciate the sure mercies of God, who loves to have us trust Him, then every promise will be fulfilled. [Isaiah 61:11 quoted.] The whole earth is to be filled with the glory of God (Lt151, 1897) [7BC 984.5]
The principles of Satan’s working in heaven are the same principles by which he works through human agents in this world. It is through these corrupting principles that every earthly empire and the churches have been increasingly corrupted. It is by the working out of these principles that Satan deceives and corrupts the whole world from the beginning to the ending. He is continuing this same policy-working, originally begun in the heavenly universe. He is energizing the whole world with his violence with which he corrupted the world in the days of Noah (Lt156, 1897) [4BC 1163.8]
The CHURCH OF CHRIST on earth is amid the moral darkness of a disloyal world, which is trampling upon THE LAW OF JEHOVAH. But THEIR REDEEMER, who has purchased their ransom with the price of His own precious blood, has made every provision that His church shall be a transformed body, illumined with the Light of the world, possessing the glory of Emmanuel. The bright beams of the SUN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, shining through His church, will gather into His fold every lost, straying sheep, who will come unto Him and find refuge in Him. They will find peace and light and joy in Him who is peace and righteousness for ever (Lt89c, 1897) [7BC 968.3]
Christ could not help being bright and shining. His very work was to shine. I am come, He said, “that they may have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” In Me is no darkness at all. With sadness Christ says that there are some who love not the light, because their deeds are evil. They do not come to Jesus to deliver them from the power of evil. Light means revelation, and the light is to shine amid moral darkness. CHRIST IS EVERYTHING TO THOSE WHO RECEIVE HIM. HE IS THEIR COMFORTER, THEIR SAFETY, THEIR HEALTHFULNESS. Apart from Christ there is no light at all. {Lt153a-1897} {21MR 372 1993)
Let all bear in mind that the tree of life bears twelve manner of fruits. This represents the spiritual work of our earthly missions. THE WORD OF GOD IS TO US THE TREE OF LIFE. Every portion of the SCRIPTURE has its use. In every part of the WORD is some lesson to be learned. Then learn how to study your BIBLES. THIS BOOK IS not a heap of odds and ends. It is AN EDUCATOR. Your own thoughts must be called into exercise before you can be really benefited by BIBLE study. Spiritual sinew and muscle must be brought to bear upon the WORD. THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL BRING TO REMEMBRANCE THE WORDS OF CHRIST. HE WILL ENLIGHTEN THE MIND, AND GUIDE THE RESEARCH (Lt3, 1898) [7BC 989.7]
My brethren, I have a message for you. The Lord would have you put your trust in Him, and EVERY DAY, FROM SUNRISE UNTIL SUNSET, consider your individual responsibility. The responsibility resting upon every individual, if at all realized, make his life a very solemn one. Consider what is truth. “Sanctify them through thy truth, thy word is truth. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” I set myself apart to the entire service of God, that I may leave others an example that they may safely follow. The perfection of Christ’s character is what we should struggle for earnestly. {Lt4-1898}
On whose side are we? THE WORLD CAST CHRIST OUT; THE HEAVENS RECEIVED HIM. MAN, FINITE MAN, REJECTED THE PRINCE OF LIFE; GOD, OUR SOVEREIGN RULER, RECEIVED HIM INTO THE HEAVENS. God has exalted him. Man crowned him with a crown of thorns, God has crowned him with a crown of royal majesty. We must all think candidly. Will you have this man Christ Jesus to rule over you, or will you have Barabbas? The death of Christ brings to the rejecter of his mercy the wrath and judgments of God, unmixed with mercy. This is the wrath of THE LAMB. But the death of Christ is hope and eternal life to all who receive him and believe in him. (Lt31, 1898) {PH086 37.2 1898} [5BC 1107.2]
John was called to behold a people distinct from those who worship the beast and his image by keeping the first day of the week. The observance of this day is the mark of the beast (Lt31, 1898) [7BC 979.11]
The sign of obedience is the observance of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. If men keep the fourth commandment, they will keep all the rest (Lt31, 1898) [7BC 981.5]
Will the churches heed the Laodicean message? Will they repent or will they, notwithstanding that the most solemn message of truth the third angel’s message is being proclaimed to the world, go on in sin? This is the last message of mercy, the last warning to a fallen world. If the CHURCH OF GOD becomes lukewarm, it does not stand in favor with God any more than do the churches that are represented as having fallen and become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and the cage of every unclean and hateful bird. {Lt35-1898}
How much pleased I would be to see you and visit with you. I have so much desired that you would visit us in Australia; but IT HAS BEEN SOME YEARS SINCE I HAVE CONSIDERED THE GENERAL CONFERENCE AS THE VOICE OF GOD, and therefore I feel no desire to write, although again and again I have come to the point of requesting you to make a visit to Australia. Cannot you do this? Please write us whether you can. {Lt77-1898} 17MR 216 1990 (1898). {LDE 50.3}
The Lord has a work for us all to do. And if the truth is not rooted in the heart, if the natural traits of character are not transformed by the Holy Spirit, we can never be colaborers with Jesus Christ. Self will constantly appear, and the character of Christ will not be manifested in our lives (Lt80, 1898) [7BC 969.4]
As the representative of God, Christ appeared in human flesh. Though in the form of a man, He was the SON OF GOD, and the world was given an opportunity to see how it would treat God. Christ declared, “He that hath seen me hath seen the Father.” But when He comes the second time, divinity is no longer concealed. HE COMES AS ONE EQUAL WITH GOD, AS HIS OWN BELOVED SON, PRINCE OF HEAVEN AND EARTH. HE IS ALSO THE REDEEMER OF HIS PEOPLE, THE LIFEGIVER. THE GLORY OF THE FATHER AND THE SON ARE SEEN TO BE ONE. His claim to being one with the Father is now substantiated. HIS GLORY IS THE GLORY OF THE SON, AND THE GLORY OF GOD. Then shall He shine forth before His ancients gloriously. {Lt90-1898}
Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God. Therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him, purifieth himself, even as he is pure. {Lt90 1898}
The Father’s wisdom and glory shines forth in His [Christ’s] majesty. He is exalted and precious to all who believe. But His own personal glory, who can describe it? He comes with His divine nature plainly revealed He who was denied and rejected by man, who stood at the bar of Pilate as a criminal. Where is that priest who rent his robe in hypocritical horror as he charged Him with blasphemy? Look at Him as He comes forth from the dead. What think ye of Jesus now? Will men now withhold from Him recognition and honor? Will those who were actors at the bar of Pilate refuse Him worship now? Will those who made manifest what human nature will do under the control of satanic agencies, as they behold in His hands and feet the marks of the crucifixion, now cry, “Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas”? Every mouth is closed. {Lt90 1898}
Christ is now acknowledged as the King of Glory. “Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord. The question of His divinity is forever settled. Where are those who held the Saviour bond at Pilate’s bar, who smote Him in the face, who scourged Him, who drove the nails through His hands and feet; those who mocked Him, saying, “He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the KIng of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him. He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will have him; for he said, I am the SON OF GOD”? Where is the puny arm that will be lifted against Him now? The scene is changed. “At the name of Jesus every knee shall bow, and every tongue shall confess that Jesus is Christ, Lord of heaven and earth, to the glory of God the Father. The angels of heaven bow in adoration before him. His enemies discern the mistake they have made, and every tongue confesses His divinity. {Lt90 1898}
THE GLORY OF CHRIST’S HUMANITY DID NOT APPEAR WHEN HE WAS UPON THE EARTH. He was regarded as a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief. We hid as it were our faces from Him. But He was pursuing the path the plan of God had devised. That same humanity now appears as He descends from heaven, robed in glory, triumphant, exalted. {Lt90 1898}
His priestly character appears. He has taken the blood of His own atonement into the holiest of all, sprinkled it there upon the mercy seat, and upon His own garments, and blessed the people. He has come and offered Himself a sacrifice, and appear the second time to declare that there is to be no more sacrifice for sin. {Lt90 1898}
His believing people have made their calling and election sure. They come forth at the first resurrection, and the song is sung by innumerable voices, “Behold the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God himself shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow nor crying: neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” {Lt90 1898}
You need not be surprised if everything in the journey heavenward is not pleasant. There is no use in looking to our own defects. Looking unto Jesus, the darkness passes away, and the true light shineth. Go forth daily, expressing the prayer of David, “Hold up my goings in thy paths, that my footsteps slip not.” All the paths of life are beset with peril, but we are safe if we follow where the Master leads the way, trusting the One whose voice we hear saying, “Follow me.” “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” Let your heart repose in His love. We need sanctification, soul, body, and spirit. This we must seek for. {Lt120-1898} (11NL, p. 2) [3BC 1143.2]
God has put into operation every conceivable plan that the value of the human soul should be appreciated. He would lead all to see what souls are worth. Christ died to save every man. He desires that every effort shall be made to save perishing souls. He sends out evangelists and missionaries, and causes religious periodicals to be circulated. The press is brought in to help to reach souls in darkness. Those who are on this ground must not put on their citizen’s dress, but the wedding garment. They have been married to Christ, and the robe of His righteousness is to clothe them. THE CHURCH IS THE BRIDE OF CHRIST, and her members are to yoke up with their Leader. God warns us not to defile our garments. {Lt123a-1898} [7BC 986.2]
WHAT IS THE SEAL OF THE LIVING GOD, which is placed in the foreheads of His people? IT IS A MARK WHICH ANGELS, BUT NOT HUMAN EYES, CAN READ; for the destroying angel must see this mark of redemption. The intelligent mind has seen the sign of the cross of Calvary in the Lord’s adopted sons and daughters. The sin of the transgression of THE LAW OF GOD is taken away. They have on the wedding garment, and are obedient and faithful to all God’s commands (Lt126, 1898) [7BC 968.13]
Men who want to present something original will conjure up things new and strange, and without consideration will step forward on these unstable theories, that have been woven together as a precious theory, and present it as a life and death question. Lt136a, 1898. {2SM 15.2 1958}
The light came to me clear and distinct that the medical missionary work was absorbing too much, while a more definite work in special lines was being neglected, that you were gathering into your arms a class of work that is never ending, which was eclipsing the work that needs to be done in every city, the proclamation of the soon coming of Christ. The third angel’s message was being blanketed. Lt55, 1899, 2, 3. (To Dr. J. H. Kellogg, March 24, 1899.) White Estate Washington, D. C. September 10, 1944 {1MR 59.3 1981}
The living fountain is to be kept before the souls who are perishing in their sins. They must arouse. They must come to the fountain opened in the house of David. They need the balm of the Saviour’s love applied to their bruised and wounded souls. We must have the mighty energy of the Holy Spirit, with all its quickening, transforming, life-giving power, in order to penetrate the palsied soul. Work we must in spiritual lines. LIFT UP CHRIST IN HIS POWER IN THE PERSON OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. He is waiting for them to open the door and admit Him. His presence will thrill every nerve and muscle. Every organ will begin to perform its functions, and the whole man will be restored to spiritual soundness as he sees Christ by faith. {Lt59-1899} {The Holy Spirit is called a person – Inspired Writings.}
This recognition of God is of the highest value to every human being All who love and serve Him are very precious in His sight. He would have them stand where they are worthy representatives of the truth as it is in Jesus (Lt77, 1899) [7BC 969.2]
My burden is that ministers of the gospel shall preach the truth as to what constitutes true conversion. They are not to lead down into the water souls who are not converted. The church is becoming composed of men and women who have never realized how sinful sin is. Lt134, 1899, p. 5. (To “Dear Brethren in America,” September 8, 1899). {6MR 166.1}
Let those in America, who suppose the voice of the General Conference to be the voice of God, become one with God before they utter their opinions. THE WORD OF GOD IS TO BE LIVED AS WELL AS PREACHED. It is to be brought into every phase of the Christian work done in this world. The men God has appointed to do His work must be emptied of self. Let Jesus in. Open the door of the heart to the heavenly Guest. LET NO MAN BE LOOKED UP TO AS GOD. When those who come nigh God in service are consecrated, cleansed, and purified, approaching nearer and still nearer the divine benevolence, they can voice the commission of God, and be respected. {Lt187-1899} Testimony To Elder Haskell, November 16, 1899. {PC 422.6 1985}
At times Christ reproached the disciples with the slowness of their comprehension. He placed in their possession truths of which they little suspected the value. He had been with them a long time, giving them lessons in clear lines, but their previous religious education, the erroneous interpretation which they had heard the Jewish teachers place on the SCRIPTURES, kept their minds clouded. CHRIST PROMISED THEM THAT HE WOULD SEND HIS SPIRIT, WHO WOULD RECALL HIS WORDS TO THEIR MINDS AS FORGOTTEN TRUTHS. “He shall teach you all things,” Christ said, “and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” {Lt204-1899}
What is it that gives its kingdom to this power? Protestantism, a power which, while professing to have the temper and spirit of a lamb and to be allied to Heaven, speaks with the voice of a dragon. It is moved by a power from beneath (Lt232, 1899) [7BC 983.5]
When the test comes, it will be clearly shown what THE MARK OF THE BEAST IS. It is THE KEEPING OF SUNDAY. Those who, after having heard the truth, continue to regard this day as holy bear the signature of the man of sin, who THOUGHT TO CHANGE TIMES AND LAWS (Lt12, 1900) [7BC 980.9]
The gospel message for this time is comprised in THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE, WHICH EMBRACES THE MESSAGES OF THE FIRST AND SECOND ANGEL, and which is to be proclaimed everywhere; for IT IS PRESENT TRUTH. This message is to go forth with great distinctness and power. It is not to be clouded by human theories and sophistries. Lt20, 1900, 5, 6. (To James Edson and Emma White, January 31, 1900.) {1MR 57.2 1981}
WHEN THE FATHER GAVE HIS SON TO LIVE AND DIE FOR MAN, HE PLACED ALL THE TREASURE OF HEAVEN AT OUR DISPOSAL. There is no excuse for sin. God has given us all the advantages he could possibly give, that we may have strength to withstand the temptations of the enemy. Had man, when tested and tried, followed the example of Christ, he would have given his children and his children’s children an example of steadfast purity and righteousness, and the race would not have deteriorated, but improved. {Lt143-1900} [6MR 3.2]
Many will not receive the seal of God because they do not keep His commandments or bear the fruits of righteousness (Lt76, 1900) [7BC 970.5]
Satan’s work today is that of a deceiver and a accuser. The Lord declares him to be an accuser of the brethren day and night. By long practice Satan has become well skilled in his trade of faultfinding, and will educate every man whom he can use to unite with him in this work. By him many are being deceived, and are moving blindfolded into paths of Satan’s opening. The central power of the earth is a demon. His throne is in the midst of the world where should have been seen the throne of God. He has been patronized by the church, for the church has been conformed to the world, and is living in transgression of THE HOLY LAW OF GOD. {Lt78 January 20th, 1900}
Holy angels will join in the song of the redeemed. Though they cannot sing from experimental knowledge, “He hath washed us in His own blood, and redeemed us unto God,” yet they understand the great peril from which the people of God have been saved. Were they not sent to lift up for them a standard against the enemy? They can fully sympathize with the glowing ecstasy of those who have overcome by the blood of THE LAMB and the word of their testimony (Lt79, 1900) [7BC 922.8]
The ministers of Jehovah, ANGELS HAVE SKILL AND POWER AND GREAT STRENGTH, being commissioned to go forth from heaven to earth to minister to His people. They are given the work of keeping back the raging power of him who has come down like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. The Lord is a refuge for all who put their trust in Him. He bids them hide in Him for a little moment, until the indignation shall be overpast. He is soon to come out of His place to punish the world for its iniquity. Then the earth shall disclose her blood and shall no more cover her slain (Lt79, 1900) [7BC 967.10]
Christ is coming the second time, with power unto salvation. To prepare human beings for this event, He has sent the first, second, and third angels’ messages. These angels represent those who receive the truth, and with power open the gospel to the world (Lt79, 1900) [7BC 978.11]
God created man for His own glory, that after test and trial the human family might become one with the heavenly family. And to every man is given his work to receive the mind of God. It was God’s purpose to repopulate heaven with the human family, if they would show themselves obedient to His every word. Adam was to be tested, to see whether he would be obedient as the loyal angels or disobedient. If he stood the test, his instruction to his children would have been only of loyalty. His mind and thoughts would have been as the mind and thoughts of God. He would have been taught by God as His husbandry and building. His character would have been molded in accordance with the character of God. Lt91-1900.3 {CC 21.5 1970}
God has a controversy with the churches of today. They are fulfilling the prophecy of John. “All nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.” They have divorced themselves from God by refusing to receive His sign. They have not the spirit of God’s true commandment-keeping people. And the people of the world, in giving their sanction to a false sabbath, and in trampling under their feet the Sabbath of the Lord, have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication (Lt98, 1900) [7BC 979.8]
THE PRESENT TRUTH FOR THIS TIME COMPRISES THE MESSAGES, THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE SUCCEEDING THE FIRST AND SECOND. Lt121, 1900, 5. (To Elder and Mrs. S. N. Haskell, August 13, 1900.) {1MR 59.2 1981}
There seems to be a burning desire to get up something fictitious and bring it in as new light. Thus men try to weave into the web as important truths a tissue of lies. This fanciful mixture of food that is being prepared for the flock will cause spiritual consumption, decline and death. WHEN THOSE WHO PROFESS TO BELIEVE PRESENT TRUTH COME TO THEIR SENSES, WHEN THEY ACCEPT THE WORD OF THE LIVING GOD JUST AS IT READS, AND DO NOT TRY TO WREST THE SCRIPTURES, THEN THEY WILL BUILD THEIR HOUSE UPON THE ETERNAL ROCK, EVEN CHRIST JESUS. {Lt131-1900} {PC 423.2 1985}
God is the owner of man. He required the human family to perfect faultless characters, and leave the results to future generations. Many in this our day act as though this were a matter of small importance; but had the human family, even after the fall of Adam, worked according to the example of Christ, every father and mother would leave their children an example how to conduct themselves so as to fulfil their obligations to God. Then the world would have been as Eden. The earth, now a desert of sin, would have rejoiced and blossomed as the rose. Lt143, 1900, pp. 5, 6. (To N. McClure, typed November 5, 1900.) [6MR 3.3]
Wonderful truth! This is a two-edged sword which cuts both ways. This life and death question is before the whole human race. THE CHOICE WE MAKE IN THIS LIFE WILL BE OUR CHOICE THROUGH ALL ETERNITY. WE SHALL RECEIVE EITHER ETERNAL LIFE OR ETERNAL DEATH. THERE IS NO MIDDLE GROUND, NO SECOND PROBATION. We are called upon to overcome in this life as Christ overcame. Heaven has provided us with abundant opportunities and privileges, so that we may overcome as Christ overcame, and sit down with Him on His throne. But in order to be overcomers, there must be in our lives no petting of fleshly inclinations. All selfishness must be cut out by the roots (Lt156, 1900) [6BC 1112.6]
Then men will have a clear, sharp remembrance of all their transactions in this life. Not a word or a deed will escape their memory. Those will be trying times. And while we are not to mourn over the time of trouble to come, let us, as Christ’s followers, search our hearts as with a lighted candle to see what manner of spirit we are of. For our present and eternal good, let us criticize our actions, to see how they stand in the light of THE LAW OF GOD. FOR THIS LAW IS OUR STANDARD. Let every soul search his own heart (Lt22, 1901) [7BC 986.8]
It is as hard today to break away from the regular lines as it was in Christ’s day. We have had great light. Let us not become narrow. Let us break the bonds which bind us. Christ is the source of all true growth, the maintainer of all life. BY HIS HOLY SPIRIT HE COMMUNICATES HEAVENLY PRINCIPLES AND FURNISHES SPIRITUAL LIFE. {Lt65-1901} {20MR 143 1993}
AS YOU OPENLY RENOUNCED SIN AND SATAN, THE FATHER, THE SON, AND THE HOLY GHOST PLEDGED THEMSELVES TO BE YOUR SUFFICIENCY. As you forsook sin and became dead to the world, you were raised to newness of life by the power which raised Christ from the dead. You came forth from the watery grave, pledged by the solemn covenant of baptism to devote your life to the service of God. You are henceforth to live a new life, as if reason, knowledge, affection, speech, property had been anew entrusted to you, with a distinct declaration from the WORD OF GOD that these gifts are to be recognized as coming from Christ, to be used and improved for Him. You are to take up the life of cross-bearing, cheerfully partaking of the sufferings of Christ. Your life is to be bound up with the life of Christ in obedience to THE LAW OF GOD. {Lt73-1901} {13MR 218.1}
JESUS, THE SON OF GOD, OUR SIN-BEARER, THE GIVER OF ETERNAL LIFE, speaks to His disciples. Hear what He says: “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” He understands every temptation. He can turn the cross into a means of eternal happiness. We must live His life. We must be co-laborers with Him. He calls upon His followers to tread in His footsteps of self-denial and self-sacrifice. THE CHARACTER OF THE CHRISTIAN IS TO BE A REPRODUCTION OF CHRIST. The same love, the same grace, the same unselfish benevolence, that characterized the life of THE REDEEMER, is to characterize the lives of His followers. {Lt73-1901} {13MR 218.2}
Let those who have been baptized be true to the vow they have made. “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things that are above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God.” “You cannot serve God and mammon. If God be God, follow Him; if Baal, then follow him.” No one is compelled to serve God. The full results of a man’s choice rest upon himself; for he chooses of his own free will. Let him remember that if he chooses the principles of God, respecting and maintaining them, they become a part of his life, moulding him according to the divine similitude. They are “in him a well of water, springing up into everlasting life.” {Lt73-1901} {13MR 219.1}
The message to the Laodicean church applies most decidedly to those whose religious experience is insipid, who do not bear decided witness in favor of the truth (Lt98, 1901) [7BC 962.2]
THE CHURCH IS THE BRIDE, THE LAMB’S WIFE. SHE SHOULD KEEP HERSELF PURE, SANCTIFIED, HOLY. Never should she indulge in any foolishness; for she is the bride of a King. Yet she does not realize her exalted position. If she understood this, she would be all-glorious within (Lt177, 1901) [7BC 986.1]
1902 – Ellen White feels perplexed and frustrated with the G.C and decides to withdraw herself from all their meetings. She writes to her sons Edson and Willie, “I have but very little confidence that the Lord is giving these men in positions of responsibility, spiritual eyesight and heavenly discernment. I am thrown into perplexity over their course; and I desire now to attend to my special work, to have no part in any of their councils, and to attend no camp meetings, nigh or afar off. My mind shall not be dragged into confusion by the tendency they manifest to work directly contrary to the light that God has given me. I am done. I will preserve my God-given intelligence. My voice has been heard in the different conferences, and at camp meetings. I must now make a change… I shall therefore leave, leave them to receive word from the BIBLE… This is the light given me and I shall not depart from it.” (LtW-186, 2 Dec, 1902 to Edson and Willie White, p. 4, 5)
GOD IS THE HUSBAND OF HIS CHURCH. THE CHURCH IS THE BRIDE, THE LAMB’S WIFE. Every true believer is a part of the body of Christ. Christ regards unfaithfulness shown to Him by His people as the unfaithfulness of a wife to her husband. We are to remember that we are members of Christ’s body (Lt39, 1902) [7BC 985.9]
Our Saviour is one with us in humanity; for He was born of a woman; yet He is one with God. It was God’s plan that the human race should be saved by the sacrifice of the life of His Son. The only way in which human beings could be redeemed was by the union of man’s humanity with the divinity of the One whom God has made the head over all things. Every line of business, every church, every human being, is embraced in God’s merciful provision. This is the pledge that “of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end.” {Lt39-1902}
Who is Christ? Ask Isaiah, a worker prominent in the carrying out of God’s purpose. “Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.” {Lt39-1902}
When God’s temple in heaven is opened, what a triumphant time that will be for all who have been faithful and true! In the temple will be seen the ark of the testament in which were placed the two tables of stone, on which are written GOD’S LAW. These tables of stone will be brought forth from their hiding place, and on them will be seen the Ten Commandments engraved by the finger of God. These tables of stone now lying in the ark of the testament will be a convincing testimony to the truth and binding claims of GOD’S LAW (Lt47, 1902) [7BC 972.3]
THE THEME OF GREATEST IMPORTANCE IS THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE, EMBRACING THE MESSAGES OF THE FIRST AND SECOND ANGELS. ALL SHOULD UNDERSTAND THE TRUTHS CONTAINED IN THESE MESSAGES; FOR THEY ARE ESSENTIAL TO SALVATION. We shall have to study earnestly in order to understand these truths; and our power to learn and comprehend will be taxed to the utmost. Lt97, 1902, 2. (To Elder E. J. Waggoner, July 7, 1902.) {1MR 57.1 1981}
Each LAW OF GOD is an enactment of mercy, love, and saving power. THESE LAWS, OBEYED, ARE OUR LIFE, OUR SALVATION, OUR HAPPINESS, OUR PEACE. [Psalm 119:165 quoted] (Lt112, 1902). {3BC 1153.6} Also {FLB 89.3}
The church must and will shine forth “fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners.” God’s servants must, by laboring together with Christ, roll away the curse that has made the church so lukewarm. [Revelation 3:15-19 quoted.] The chastening reveals a hope of reform [Revelation 3:20, 21 quoted] (Lt130, 1902) [7BC 966.4]
Transgression has almost reached its limit. Confusion fills the world, and a great terror is soon to come upon human beings. The end is very near. WE WHO KNOW THE TRUTH SHOULD BE PREPARING FOR WHAT IS SOON TO BREAK UPON THE WORLD AS AN OVERWHELMING SURPRISE. {Lt141-1902}
What wonderful instruction this record contains. It shows the simplicity of the Lord’s plans for the advancement of His work. And it shows that the agencies of heaven are ever ready to co-operate with human agencies in working out the Lord’s plans. It should lead us to place ourselves in readiness to work for those who, though not having received the whole truth, are serving God with sincere, earnest purpose. In our world there are many such men as Cornelius, and for them the Lord desires his servants to make personal efforts. The Lord showed Peter, the Jew, that there were Gentiles who were serving God as acceptably as he. I am instructed that in the churches there are souls who are much nearer the kingdom of heaven than we suppose. {Lt144-1902}
We each have work to do – the work of proclaiming to the world the last message of warning. In clear, distinct tones we must give this message; but I greatly fear that though we have had such great light, we are not as earnest as we should be. Let us study the words: [1 Thessalonians 1:5-10 quoted]. {Lt150-1902} {10MR 383.3 1990}
Just such an experience as this is what we need today. We need the Holy Spirit and assurance. Living power must attend the message of Christ’s second coming in the clouds of heaven. We must not rest until we see many souls converted to the blessed hope of the Lord’s appearing. THE MESSAGE WROUGHT A REAL WORK THAT TURNED SOULS FROM IDOLS TO SERVE THE LIVING GOD. THE WORK TO BE DONE TODAY IS JUST AS REAL, AND THE TRUTH IS JUST AS MUCH TRUTH; ONLY WE ARE TO GIVE THE MESSAGE WITH AS MUCH MORE EARNESTNESS AS THE COMING OF THE LORD IS NEARER. THE MESSAGE FOR THIS TIME IS POSITIVE, SIMPLE, AND OF THE DEEPEST IMPORTANCE. We must act like men and women who believe. We are not half awake to the perils and the dangers that we must be prepared to meet. Waiting, watching, working, praying, warning the world this is our work. Lt150, 1902, 2, 3. (To Prof. C. W. Irwin, from Los Angeles, Calif., Sept. 22, 1902. White Estate April 27, 1981 {10MR 383.4 1990})
In receiving baptism, the human agent, inspired with new purposes, pledges himself to die to the world and live in obedience to Christ. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost supply the power that makes him victorious in every conflict with the prince of darkness. Lt200, 1902, p. 7. (To Brother and Sister Kress, December 15, 1902). {6MR 167.2}
We are to proclaim the third angel’s message to a perishing world, and we are not to permit our minds to become diverted by minutiae that practically amount to nothing. If our brethren would consider the important matters pertaining to eternal life and eternal death, many of the smaller matters that they desire so much to adjust, would adjust themselves. Lt16, 1903, 5-7. (To Elder and Mrs. S. N. Haskell, January 1, 1903.) {1MR 58.4 1981}
Halfhearted Christians are worse than infidels; for their deceptive words and noncommittal position lead many astray. The infidel shows his colors. The lukewarm Christian deceives both parties. He is neither a good worldling nor a good Christian. Satan uses him to do a work that no one else can do (Lt44, 1903) [7BC 963.6]
There are those who, though professedly serving God, are witnessing against Him. To them the message to the Laodicean church is given. Christ says to them, “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot.” When the avenging angel shall pass through the land, Christ cannot say of them, “Touch them not. I have graven them upon the palms of my hands.” No; of these halfhearted ones He says, “I will spew them out of my mouth. They are offensive to me” (Lt44, 1903) [7BC 963.7] (Luke 13:24-30.).
He who lives in the fear that others do not appreciate his value is losing sight of Him who alone makes us worthy of glorifying God. Let us be faithful stewards over ourselves. Let us look away from self to Christ. Then there will be no trouble at all. All the work done, however excellent it may appear to be, is worthless if not done in the love of Jesus. One may go through the whole round of religious activity, and yet, unless Christ is woven into all that he says and does, he will work for his own glory (Lt48, 1903) [7BC 958.4]
Cast out of heaven, Satan set up his kingdom in this world, and ever since, he has been untiringly striving to seduce human beings from their allegiance to God. He uses the same power that he used in heaven–the influence of mind on mind. Men become tempters of their fellow men. The strong, corrupting sentiments of Satan are cherished, and they exert a masterly, compelling power. Under the influence of these sentiments, men bind up with one another in confederacies (Lt114, 1903) [7BC 973.5]
The great mass of professing Christians will meet with bitter disappointment in the day of God. They have not upon their foreheads the seal of the living God. Lukewarm and halfhearted, they dishonor God far more than the avowed unbeliever. They grope in darkness, when they might be walking in the noonday light of the WORD, under the guidance of One who never errs (Lt121, 1903) [7BC 970.6]
Those who come out from the world, to stand distinct from worldlings in words and works, those who realize that it is an honor to bear God’s sign, will receive power to become His sons. The Lord will have men who can be depended on. No one will enter the courts above who does not bear the sign of God. Those who in this sin-cursed earth bear this sign in holy boldness, looking upon it as an honor, will be recognized and honored by Christ in the courts above (Lt125, 1903) [7BC 969.8]
1903 – Dr. John Harvey Kellogg promotes Trinitarian doctrines in Battle Creek after converting from Pantheism. Kellogg asks Jones to teach at Battle Creek College. Waggoner moves to Battle Creek, placing him in great peril. Ellen White writes to him: “Satan is working stealthily, untiringly, to affect your downfall through his specious temptations… He hopes to lead you into the mazes of spiritualism.” (Lt231, 1903)
I wish to write a few words about the letters and manuscripts that were sent you during the council. Shortly before I sent the testimonies that you said arrived just in time, I had read an incident about a ship in a fog meeting an iceberg. For several nights I slept but little. I seemed to be bowed down as a cart beneath sheaves. One night a scene was clearly presented before me. A vessel was upon the waters, in a heavy fog. Suddenly the lookout cried, “Iceberg just ahead!” There, towering high above the ship, was a gigantic iceberg. An authoritative voice cried out, “Meet it!” There was not a moment’s hesitation. It was a time for instant action. The engineer put on full steam, and the man at the wheel steered the ship straight into the iceberg. With a crash she struck the ice. There was a fearful shock, and the iceberg broke into many pieces, falling with a noise like thunder upon the deck. The passengers were violently shaken by the force of the collision, but no lives were lost. The vessel was injured, but not beyond repair. She rebounded from the contact, trembling from stem to stern, like a living creature. Then she moved forward on her way. {Lt238-1903} {SpTB02 55.3 1904} {1SM 205.3 1958}
Well I knew the meaning of this representation. I had my orders. I had heard the words, like a living voice from our Captain, “Meet it!” I knew what my duty was and that there was not a moment to lose. The time for decided action had come. I must without delay obey the command, “Meet it!” {Lt238-1903}
We have all stood at our posts like faithful sentinels, working early and late to send to the council instruction that we thought would help you. {Lt238-1903}
Last night I did not sleep after half past ten. The burden of the work rests heavily upon me. How strange it is that Dr. Kellogg’s associates seem to be so completely blinded by the enemy. I see with amazement how dangerous it is to trust in man and make flesh our arm. Often I think of Moses and Aaron standing before Pharaoh, casting their rods to the ground, while the magicians did the same. In the Lord’s power Moses and Aaron gained a victory over the enemy. {Lt238 1903}
We must now take a decided stand for truth and righteousness. I am anxious to see what course Dr. Kellogg’s close associates will follow. I feel so sorry for them. But their time of test and proving has come. How strange it is that with all the warnings there are in the WORD OF GOD, men should allow themselves to be led by their fellow men. {Lt238 1903}
I am glad that I am alive to meet the danger and if possible to avert it. The experience that I have had in the past is a help to me at this time. {Lt238 1903}
Again and again I have been shown that the past experiences of God’s people are not to be counted as dead facts. We are not to treat the record of these experiences as we would treat a last year’s almanac. The record is to be kept in mind; for history will repeat itself. The darkness of the mysteries of the night is to be illuminated with the light of heaven. {Lt238 1903}
If we watch and pray and trust GOD’S LIVING WORD, we shall gain victories. “Watch and pray,” Christ said, “that ye enter not into temptation.” The day dawns. We must enter each battle with full faith that through Christ we shall be more than conquerors. As faithful watchmen we must diligently watch for the dangers threatening God’s people. Other chapters will open before us, and in order to discern their meaning, we shall need keen perception. We are not to be depressed or discouraged, but filled with holy boldness. We are not to be disheartened by the prevalence of sin nor by the difficulties that arise on the right hand and on the left. We must put on the whole armor of God and stand firm for the right. In the future, Satan’s superstitions will assume new forms. False theories, clothed with garments of light, will be presented to God’s people. Thus Satan will try to deceive if possible the very elect. Our watchword is to be, “To THE LAW AND TO THE TESTIMONY; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” {Lt238 1903}
The world is to be taken captive by Satan’s deceiving representations. Where then is our security? How shall we guard against Satan’s bewitching artifices? BY READING THE WORD OF GOD WITH AN INTENSITY OF DESIRE TO KNOW HIM in the light of revelation which He has left on record of Himself; by meditating upon his precepts diligently. We are to obey His commands, afraid to venture out of the path of divine revelation and to indulge in fallacious reasoning. {Lt253a-1903}
We are to realize that if we work the works of Christ, we will not unite with the world. The Holy Spirit will give us a clear, distinct message to the world. If we will come into close relation to Christ, we shall have a part to act in carrying forward the work of present truth for this time. We are to co-operate with the three highest powers in heaven the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; and these powers will work through us, making us workers together with God. But when a man goes forth in human sufficiency, then the enemy comes in and inspires him, and he knows not what manner of spirit he is of. The Lord saw this and instructed me that, at the General Conference held in Oakland, I should hold no conversation with you. {Lt253a 1903}
CHRIST TOOK HUMAN NATURE UPON HIM AND BORE IT, PURE AND SPOTLESS, INTO THE HEAVENLY COURTS. HE WILL BEAR THIS NATURE THROUGH THE AGES OF ETERNITY. IN ASCENDING TO HEAVEN WITH A GLORIFIED HUMANITY, Christ has declared what man can become if he will do the will of God, but it is only through the mediation of Christ that any human being can overcome. Of the redeemed we read, “They overcame him by the blood of THE LAMB, and by the word of their testimony.” God will honor those who accept Christ, making them witnesses of Him to the world. {Lt257 1903}
THOSE WHO DO NOT LAY HOLD OF AND APPRECIATE THIS POWER STAND IN THEIR OWN LIGHT, KEEPING THEMSELVES FROM THOROUGH CONSECRATION. My brother, you have been losing a most valuable experience. Study to develop a sensitive appreciation of what Christ has done for you. Examine yourself to see whether you are in the faith. There is danger that your mind will continue to be so filled with business cares that you will not give yourself time to receive the grace of Christ. Your eyes have been so blinded that you have not seen your danger. But it is not too late for wrongs to be righted. {Lt257-1903}
The sanctuary question is a clear and definite doctrine as we have held it as a people. YOU ARE NOT DEFINITELY CLEAR ON THE PERSONALITY OF GOD, WHICH IS EVERYTHING TO US AS A PEOPLE. YOU HAVE VIRTUALLY DESTROYED THE LORD GOD HIMSELF. {Lt300-1903} [Within a letter to J H Kellogg dated March 16, 1903.] (The Elmshaven Years, Vol.5, 1900-1905. Arthur L. White, 1941)
We all need to keep the subject of the sanctuary in mind. God forbid that the clatter of words coming from human lips should lessen the belief of our people in the truth that there is a sanctuary in heaven, and that a pattern of this sanctuary was once built on this earth. God desires His people to become familiar with this pattern, keeping ever before their minds the heavenly sanctuary, where God is all and in all. We must keep our minds braced by prayer and a study of GOD’S WORD, that we may grasp these truths. Lt233, 1904, 3, 4. (To E. R. Palmer, July 8, 1904.) {2MR 186.3 1987} {14MR 217.1}
GOD’S LAW IS ETERNAL, UNCHANGEABLE, IMMUTABLE. IT IS AN EXPRESSION OF HIS HIGH AUTHORITY. Upon us rests the responsibility of obeying the word of the highest Potentate in heaven. “VERILY MY SABBATHS YE SHALL KEEP,” HE DECLARES; “FOR IT IS A SIGN BETWEEN ME AND YOU THROUGH OUT YOUR GENERATIONS FOREVER.” Human beings are to bring themselves into entire conformity to GOD’S HOLY LAW. The cross of Calvary is to be to them a perpetual memorial of the nobler world. By faith they are to see Him who is invisible. They have enlisted in Christ’s army, and they are to come out from the world, and be separate, loving not the world, neither the things of the world. They are to set their affections on things above. They are to represent Christ in character. This is the special charge that has been given them. They are to live in this world as men and women waiting only for that perfection of character which will enable them fully to represent the Saviour. How important, then, that they should stand out in bold relief from the world, beseeching men to be reconciled to God. {Lt247-1904}
1904 – Ellen White has a vision in which the angel says to Jones and Waggoner, “The sentiments that you have received in harmony with the special theories presented in the book ‘Living Temple’ are not pure truth. There is a co-mingling of truth and error… Separate entirely from the bewitching, misleading sentiments that run through ‘Living Temple’.” (Lt279, 1904)
GIVE TO THE WORLD THE MESSAGE THE LORD HAS GIVEN YOU. REMOVE NOT A PIN OR A PILLAR FROM THE FOUNDATION OF OUR FAITH. PREACH THE TRUTH AS IT HAS BEEN GIVEN BY THE LORD. Lt279, 1904, 9. (To Brethren Paulson, Sadler, Jones and Waggoner, August 1, 1904.) {1MR 56.1 1981}
Was the human nature of the Son of Mary changed into the divine nature of the SON OF GOD? No; THE TWO NATURES WERE MYSTERIOUSLY BLENDED IN ONE PERSON THE MAN CHRIST JESUS. In Him dwelt all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. WHEN CHRIST WAS CRUCIFIED, IT WAS HIS HUMAN NATURE THAT DIED. Deity did not sink and die; that would have been impossible. Christ, the sinless One, will save every son and daughter of Adam who accepts the salvation proffered them, consenting to become the children of God. The Saviour has purchased the fallen race with His own blood. {Lt280a-1904}
THIS IS a great mystery, A MYSTERY THAT WILL NOT BE FULLY, COMPLETELY UNDERSTOOD IN ITS GREATNESS UNTIL THE TRANSLATION OF THE REDEEMED SHALL TAKE PLACE. Then the power and greatness and efficacy of the gift of God to man will be understood. But the enemy is determined that this gift shall be so mystified that it will become a nothingness. If believers only knew what this means, the work would be done in our churches that must be done if the members ever enter the kingdom of heaven. But when men in responsible positions pervert their reason and give themselves up to Satan’s way of thinking, they will surely stand before the world on Satan’s side, however great their influence may have been and still is, doing the work that Satan did, led and inspired by his spirit. {Lt280a 1904}
I have written many books, and they have been given a wide circulation. Of myself, I could not have brought out the truths in these books, but the Lord has given me the help of HIS HOLY SPIRIT. These books, giving the instruction that the Lord has given me during the past sixty years, contain light from heaven and will bear the test of investigation. Lt55-1905.5
The question is sometimes raised, “What if Mrs. White should die?” I answer: “The books that she has written will not die. They are a living witness to what saith the SCRIPTURES.” Lt55-1905.6
I understood that some were anxious to know if MRS. WHITE held the same views as she did years ago when they had heard her speak in the sanitarium grove, in the Tabernacle, and at the camp-meetings held in the suburbs of Battle Creek. I assured them that the message she BEARS TODAY IS THE SAME THAT SHE HAS BORNE DURING THE SIXTY YEARS OF HER PUBLIC MINISTRY. She has the same service to do for the Master that was laid upon her in her girlhood. She receives lessons from the same Instructor. The directions given her are, “Make known to others what I have revealed to you. Write out the messages that I give you, that the people may have them.” This is what she has endeavored to do. Lt55-1905.4 Also RH, July 26, 1906 par. 20.
THE TRUTHS THAT HAVE BEEN SUBSTANTIATED BY THE MANIFEST WORKING OF GOD ARE TO STAND FAST. LET NO ONE PRESUME TO MOVE A PIN OR A FOUNDATION STONE FROM THE STRUCTURE. THOSE WHO ATTEMPT TO UNDERMINE THE PILLARS OF OUR FAITH ARE AMONG THOSE OF WHOM THE BIBLE SAYS THAT “IN THE LATTER TIMES SOME SHALL DEPART FROM THE FAITH, GIVING HEED TO SEDUCING SPIRITS, AND DOCTRINES OF DEVILS.” Lt87, 1905, 2, 3. (To Elder and Mrs. S. N. Haskell, February 25, 1905.) {1MR 55.2 1981}
In our work, we need men of moral independence, uncontaminated and unshackled, so that when a principle of religion or duty is at stake they will STAND FIRM IN DEFENSE OF THE TRUTH. We need men who will NOT HOLD THEIR PEACE WHEN THEY SEE EVILS COMING IN AND WRONGS BEING DONE. WE NEED MEN WHO WILL REFUSE TO GIVE CONSENT BY SILENCE TO UNJUST ACTIONS. (9MR 1990, Lt116, 1905)
God has never left Himself without witness on the earth. AT ONE TIME MELCHISEDEK REPRESENTED THE LORD JESUS CHRIST IN PERSON, TO REVEAL THE TRUTH OF HEAVEN, AND PERPETUATE THE LAW OF GOD [Lt190, 1905] [SDA 1BC 1092-3]
What an exaltation is brought to view for those who will receive Christ. “To them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” IT IS THROUGH THE MAN CHRIST JESUS THAT HUMAN NATURE IS SO EXALTED. Through His power men become partakers of the divine nature; and as He is honored, they through conformity to His character, and through the power of His grace, become one with Him as He is one with the Father. {Lt293-1905}
IN JESUS IS OUR LIFE DERIVED. IN HIM IS LIFE, THAT IS ORIGINAL, UNBORROWED, UNDERIVED LIFE. In us there is a streamlet from the fountain of life. In Him is the fountain of life. Our life is something that we receive, something that the Giver takes back again to Himself. If our life is hid with Christ in God, we shall, when Christ shall appear, also appear with Him in glory. And while in this world we will give to God, in sanctified service, all the capabilities He has given us. Lt309, 1905. {MM 7.3} 1905 {Lt309-1905}
I am instructed to say that these words we may use as appropriate for this time, for THE TIME HAS COME WHEN SIN MUST BE CALLED BY ITS RIGHT NAME. We are hindered in our work by men who are not converted, who seek their own glory. They wish to be thought originators of new theories, which they present claiming that they are truth. But if these theories are received, they will lead to a denial of the truth that for the past fifty years God has been giving to His people, substantiating it by the demonstration of the Holy Spirit. Lt329, 1905. {1SM 162.1 1958}
Heavenly angels are commissioned to watch the sheep of Christ’s pasture. When Satan with his deceptive snares would deceive if possible the very elect, these angels set in operation influences that will save the tempted souls if they will take heed to the WORD OF THE LORD, realize their danger, and say: “No, I will not enter into that scheme of Satan. I have an Elder Brother on the throne in heaven, who has shown that He has a tender interest in me, and I will not grieve His heart of love. I know and am assured that He is watching over His children, keeping them as the apple of His eye. There is no diminishing of His love. I will not grieve the heart of Christ; I will try not to become a tempter to others” (Lt52, 1906) [7BC 922.6]
This is what has been presented to me—THAT WE ARE ASLEEP AND DO NOT KNOW THE TIME OF OUR VISITATION. But if we humble ourselves before God, and seek Him with the whole heart, He will be found of us. {Lt54-1906} {21MR 437, 438 1906}
I SHOULD BE AN UNFAITHFUL WATCHMAN, WERE I TO HOLD MY PEACE, WHEN I SEE THE VERY FOUNDATIONS OF OUR FAITH BEING TORN AWAY BY THOSE WHO HAVE DEPARTED FROM THE FAITH, AND WHO ARE NOW ADRIFT, WITHOUT AN ANCHOR. IN THIS TIME, WHEN FALSE DOCTRINES ARE BEING TAUGHT, WE ARE TO TEACH THE SAME TRUTH THAT WE HAVE TAUGHT FOR THE PAST HALF CENTURY. I HAVE NOT CHANGED MY FAITH ONE JOT OR ONE TITTLE, … Lt150-1906.9
UNDER THE NEW COVENANT, THE CONDITIONS BY WHICH ETERNAL LIFE MAY BE GAINED ARE THE SAME AS UNDER THE OLD. The conditions are, and ever have been, based on perfect obedience. Under the old covenant, there were many offenses of a daring, presumptuous character, for which there was no atonement specified by LAW. In the new and better covenant, CHRIST HAS FULFILLED THE LAW FOR THE TRANSGRESSORS OF LAW, if they receive Him by faith as a personal Saviour. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God” (John 1:12). Mercy and forgiveness are the reward of all who come to Christ trusting in His merits to take away their sins. We are cleansed from sin by the blood of Christ Jesus our Saviour. Lt216, 1906, p. 2. (To “My Dear Brother in Christ Jesus,” July 2, 1906.) [1MR 117.1] [8MR 31.1] [7BC 931.10]
As a people, we must prepare the way of the Lord, under the overruling guidance of the Holy Spirit, for the spread of the gospel in its purity. The stream of living water is to deepen and widen in its course. In all fields, nigh and afar off, men will be called from the plow and from the more common commercial business vocations, that largely occupy the mind, and will become educated in connection with men who have had experience—men who understand the truth. Through most wonderful workings of God, mountains of difficulty will be removed and cast into the sea. Let us labor as those who have experienced the virtue of truth as it is in Jesus. {Lt230-1906} {YRP 159.4 1995}
LISTEN NOT A MOMENT TO THE INTERPRETATIONS THAT WOULD LOOSEN ONE PIN, REMOVE ONE PILLAR, FROM THE PLATFORM OF TRUTH. HUMAN INTERPRETATIONS, THE RECEPTION OF FABLES, WILL SPOIL YOUR FAITH, CONFUSE YOUR UNDERSTANDING, AND MAKE OF NONE EFFECT YOUR FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST. STUDY DILIGENTLY THE THIRD CHAPTER OF REVELATION. IN IT IS POINTED OUT THE DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOLD UPON THE THINGS THAT YOU HAVE HEARD AND LEARNED FROM THE SOURCE OF ALL LIGHT. Lt230, 1906, 4. (To Elders of the Battle Creek Church, and to Ministers and Physicians, July 5, 1906.) {1MR 54.4 1981}
AT THIS TIME MANY EFFORTS WILL BE MADE TO UNSETTLE OUR FAITH IN THE SANCTUARY QUESTION; BUT WE MUST NOT WAVER. NOT A PIN IS TO BE MOVED FROM THE FOUNDATIONS OF OUR FAITH. TRUTH IS STILL TRUTH. Those who become uncertain will drift into erroneous theories, and will finally find themselves infidel in regard to the past evidence we have had of what is truth. THE OLD WAYMARKS MUST BE PRESERVED, THAT WE LOSE NOT OUR BEARINGS. Lt395, 1906, 4. (To Elder S. M. Cobb, December 25, 1906.) {1MR 55.3 1981}
The salvation of souls should be our first consideration. I am troubled when I see many rejoicing in temporal prosperity; for those who possess worldly treasure seldom seek earnestly to secure the heavenly. They are in danger of falling into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown man in destruction. To those who seek the heavenly treasure, a more cheerful and encouraging prospect is held out. “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” “Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; that they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold upon eternal life.” {Lt12 1907}
There are some things we do not understand concerning the problems of this life. We need clear moral perceptions in order to understand the mystery of godliness; we have such an uncertain sense of eternal realities. But in Christ there is certainty. Through Him we may know the love of God, which passeth knowledge. {Lt12 1907}
MANY WHO PROFESS TO BE CHRISTIANS DO NOT ADVANCE STEP BY STEP IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD AND IN TRUE FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST. Feeling is not to be the test of our religion. WE MUST RELY FIRMLY UPON GOD. We must eat the flesh and drink the blood of the SON OF GOD. This means that we shall appropriate to ourselves the words of SCRIPTURE, and live by them, letting all the life’s actions be controlled by a “Thus saith the Lord.” {Lt12 1907}
My dear friends, we do not realize that we can have the pure, unadulterated faith that works by love and purifies the soul. We need a more firm reliance upon a “Thus saith the Lord.” If we have this, we shall not trust to feeling and be ruled by feeling. God asks us to rest in His love. It is our privilege to know the WORD OF GOD as a sure and tried guide, an infallible assurance. Let us work on the faith side of the question. Let us believe and trust and talk faith and hope and courage. Let the praise of God be in our hearts and on our lips oftener than it is. “Whosoever offereth praise, glorifieth God.” KEEP THE MIND STAYED UPON GOD, AND KNOW THE LOVE OF CHRIST AS THE WORD OF GOD REVEALS IT. THIS WORD IS LIFE. TALK OF CHRIST; call others to behold Him as YOUR REDEEMER. {Lt12 1907}
It is our privilege to rest in an active, living faith in Christ as the Life-giver. It is our privilege to comprehend with all saints what is the length and depth and height, and to know the love of God which passeth knowledge, and be filled with all the fulness of God. Let us contemplate Christ as the One in whom all fulness dwells. Beholding Him as our personal Saviour, we shall appreciate the value of His saving grace. We should think about Jesus more than we do. We should let His praise be in our hearts; we should speak of the love that has been so abundantly expressed for us. We certainly have every reason to praise God with heart and soul and voice, saying, I will praise the Lord for His great love wherewith He hath loved me. Let your patients see that it is their privilege also to let the heart abound with grateful thanksgiving. My brother and sister, LIFT HIM UP, THE CHRIST OF CALVARY; lift Him up, that the world may behold Him. TALK OF HIS GOODNESS, SING OF HIS LOVE, AND GIVE HIM THE GRATEFUL THANKS OF YOUR HEARTS. {Lt12 1907}
The time has come when we must expect the Lord to do great things for us. Our efforts must not flag or weaken. We are to grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Lord. BEFORE THE WORK IS CLOSED UP AND THE SEALING OF GOD’S PEOPLE IS FINISHED, WE SHALL RECEIVE THE OUTPOURING OF THE SPIRIT OF GOD. Angels from heaven will be in our midst. The present is a fitting-up time for heaven when we must walk in full obedience to all the commands of God. Lt30, 1907. {1SM 111.3 1958}
My brethren and sisters, will you not heed this appeal? As it is read to the members of the several churches by the one who shall stand in my stead, because I cannot be with you personally, let the believers respond. Bow before God, and make confession of your backsliding. In humility accept the words of Christ, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” {Lt32-1907}
The Lord will use humble men to do a great and good work. Through them He will represent to the world the ineffaceable characteristics of the divine nature (Lt270, 1907) [7BC 969.7]
1907 – Apostasy is here. With the apostasy of J.H. Kellogg, Ellen White warns: “The time of this apostasy is here. Every conceivable effort will be made to throw doubt upon the positions we have occupied for over half a century.” (Lt410, 1907, p. 2 [to J.E. White, Aug 26, 1907]; 7MR 195)
In the message to the church at Ephesus, Christ is represented as holding the seven stars in His hand, and walking in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks. He is represented as “walking” among them, thus illustrating His constant diligence in behalf of His church. He that keepeth Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps. Nor does He become indifferent. These figures are to be carefully studied by the undershepherds, and faithfully applied to their own experience, that they may not lose sight of their great privilege of securing light from the Source of all light, and giving it in turn to those for whom they labor (Lt4, 1908) [7BC 956.1]
We become overcomers by helping others to overcome, by the blood of THE LAMB and the word of our testimony. The keeping of the commandments of God will yield in us an obedient spirit, and the service that is the offspring of such a spirit, God can accept (Lt236, 1908) [7BC 974.4]
Only those who receive the seal of the living God will have the passport through the gates of the Holy City. But there are many who take upon themselves responsibilities in connection with the work of God who are not wholehearted believers, and while they remain thus cannot receive the seal of the living God. They trust in their own righteousness, which the Lord accounts as foolishness (Lt164, 1909) [7BC 970.1]
1935 – Letter from H.W. Carr to Willie White asking about the nature of the Holy Spirit as being promoted by some of the leaders being another separate person from the Father and the Son. Ellen White explaining that the Spirit of God and of Christ (Holy Spirit) is a divine personality begins to be twisted into “someone else” other than Christ the Comforter. Part of Willie White’s response is, “The statements and the arguments of some of our ministers in their effort to prove that the Holy Spirit was an individual as are God, the Father and Christ, the eternal Son, have perplexed me and sometimes they have made me sad. One popular teacher said ‘we may regard Him, (the Holy Spirit) as the fellow who is down here running things.”’ (Letter Willie White, April 30, 1935)
GOD ALONE IS WITHOUT BEGINNING. At the earliest epoch when a beginning could be, – a period so remote that to finite minds it is essentially eternity, – appeared the WORD. ‘In the beginning was THE WORD, AND THE WORD WAS WITH GOD, AND THE WORD WAS GOD.’ John 1:1. THIS UNCREATED WORD WAS THE BEING, who, in the fulness of time, was made flesh, and dwelt among us. His beginning was not like that of any other being in the universe. It is set forth in the mysterious expressions, ‘HIS [God’s] ONLY BEGOTTEN SON’ (John 3:16; 1 John 4:9), ‘the only begotten of the Father’ (John 1:14), and ‘I proceeded forth and CAME FROM GOD.’ John 8:42. Thus it appears that by some divine impulse or process, not creation, known only to Omniscience, and possible only to Omnipotence, the SON OF GOD appeared. And then the Holy Spirit (by an infirmity of translation called ‘the Holy Ghost’), THE SPIRIT OF GOD, THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST, the divine afflatus and medium of their power, representative of them both (Ps.139:7), was in existence also. (Uriah Smith, Looking Unto Jesus, 1898, p. 10.1)
MOST OF THE FOUNDERS OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISM WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO JOIN THE CHURCH TODAY IF THEY HAD TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE DENOMINATION’S FUNDAMENTAL BELIEFS. MORE SPECIFICALLY, MOST WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO AGREE TO BELIEF NUMBER 2, WHICH DEALS WITH THE DOCTRINE OF THE TRINITY. (George R. Knight–professor of church history at the Theological Seminary, Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Michigan; Ministry, October 10, 1993)
Young and old, God is now testing you. You are deciding your own eternal destiny. {Mar 43.5 1976}
There is no BIBLE sanctification for those who cast a part of the truth behind them. There is light enough given in the WORD OF GOD, so that none need err. . . . Jesus, considered as a man, was perfect, yet He grew in grace. “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.” Luke 2:52. Even the most perfect Christian may increase continually in the knowledge and love of God. . . . {Mar 89.5 1976}
How frequently we hear of earthquakes and tornadoes, of destruction by fire and flood, with great loss of life and property! Apparently these calamities are capricious outbreaks of disorganized, unregulated forces of nature, wholly beyond the control of man; but in them all, God’s purpose may be read. They are among the agencies by which He seeks to arouse men and women to a sense of their danger. [Mar (1976) 149.5]
The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the Lord come. Joel 2:31. [Mar (1976) 150.1]
In the Saviour’s conversation with His disciples upon Olivet, after describing the long period of trial for the church–the 1260 years of papal persecution, concerning which He had promised that the tribulation should be shortened–He thus mentioned certain events to precede His coming, and fixed the time when the first of these should be witnessed: “In those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light.” The 1260 days, or years, terminated in 1798. A quarter of a century earlier, persecution had almost wholly ceased. Following this persecution, according to the words of Christ, the sun was to be darkened. On the 19th of May, 1780, this prophecy was fulfilled. [Mar (1976) 150.2]
The description of this event, as given by eyewitnesses, is but an echo of the words of the Lord, recorded by the prophet Joel, twenty-five hundred years previous to their fulfilment: “The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the Lord come.” [Mar (1976) 150.5]
The stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken. Matthew 24:29. [Mar (1976) 151.1]
In 1833, . . . the last of the signs appeared which were promised by the Saviour as tokens of His second advent. Said Jesus, “The stars shall fall from heaven.” And John in the Revelation declared, as he beheld in vision the scenes that should herald the day of God, “The stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.” This prophecy received a striking and impressive fulfilment in the great meteoric shower of November 13, 1833. That was the most extensive and wonderful display of falling stars which has ever been recorded; “the whole firmament, over all the United States, being then, for hours, in fiery commotion! No celestial phenomenon has ever occurred in this country, since its first settlement, which was viewed with such intense admiration by one class in the community, or with so much dread and alarm by another.” “Its sublimity and awful beauty still linger in many minds. . . . Never did rain fall much thicker than the meteors fell toward the earth; east, west, north, and south, it was the same. In a word, the whole heavens seemed in motion. . . . The display, as described in Professor Silliman’s Journal, was seen all over North America. . . . From two o’clock until broad daylight, . . . an incessant play of dazzlingly brilliant luminosities was kept up in the whole heavens.”–R. M. Devens, American Progress; or, The Great Events of the Greatest Century, ch. 28, pars. 1-5. . . . [Mar 151.2 1976]
Thus was displayed the last of those signs of His coming, concerning which Jesus bade His disciples, “When ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.” After these signs, John beheld, as the great event next impending, the heavens departing as a scroll, while the earth quaked, mountains and islands removed out of their places, and the wicked in terror sought to flee from the presence of the Son of man. [Mar (1976) 151.3]
But the day and the hour of His coming Christ has not revealed. . . . The exact time of the second coming of the Son of man is God’s mystery. [Mar (1976) 151.4]
Loose the four angels which are bound in the great river Euphrates. And the four angels were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and a year, for to slay the third part of men. Revelation 9:14, 15. [Mar Mar 152.1 1976]
The history of nations that one after another have occupied their allotted time and place, unconsciously witnessing to the truth of which they themselves knew not the meaning, speaks to us. To every nation and to every individual of today God has assigned a place in His great plan. Today men and nations are being measured by the plummet in the hand of Him who makes no mistake. All are by their own choice deciding their destiny, and God is overruling all for the accomplishment of His purposes. . . . [Mar (1976) 152.2]
ALL THAT PROPHECY HAS FORETOLD AS COMING TO PASS, UNTIL THE PRESENT TIME, HAS BEEN TRACED ON THE PAGES OF HISTORY, AND WE MAY BE ASSURED THAT ALL WHICH IS YET TO COME WILL BE FULFILLED IN ITS ORDER. [Mar (1976) 152.3]
In the year 1840, another remarkable fulfilment of prophecy excited widespread interest. Two years before, Josiah Litch, one of the leading ministers preaching the second advent, published an exposition of Revelation 9, predicting the fall of the Ottoman empire. According to his calculations, this power was to be overthrown “in A.D. 1840, sometime in the month of August;” and only a few days previous to its accomplishment he wrote: “Allowing the first period, 150 years, to have been exactly fulfilled before Deacozes ascended the throne by permission of the Turks, and that the 391 years, fifteen days, commenced at the close of the first period, it will end on the 11th of August, 1840, when the Ottoman power in Constantinople may be expected to be broken. And this, I believe, will be found to be the case.”–Josiah Litch, in ST, and Expositor of Prophecy, Aug. 1, 1840. [Mar (1976) 152.4]
At the very time specified, Turkey, through her ambassadors, accepted the protection of the allied powers of Europe, and thus placed herself under the control of Christian nations. The event exactly fulfilled the prediction. . . . A wonderful impetus was given to the advent movement. [Mar (1976) 152.5]
THE LAST GREAT CONFLICT BETWEEN TRUTH AND ERROR IS BUT THE FINAL STRUGGLE OF THE LONG-STANDING CONTROVERSY CONCERNING THE LAW OF GOD. UPON THIS BATTLE WE ARE NOW ENTERING A BATTLE BETWEEN THE LAWS OF MEN AND THE PRECEPTS OF JEHOVAH, BETWEEN THE RELIGION OF THE BIBLE AND THE RELIGION OF FABLE AND TRADITION. {Mar 161.4 1976}
We should study the great waymarks that point out the times in which we are living. . . . WE SHOULD NOW PRAY MOST EARNESTLY THAT WE MAY BE PREPARED FOR THE STRUGGLES OF THE GREAT DAY OF GOD’S PREPARATION. {Mar 161.5 1976}
THOSE WHO PLACE THEMSELVES UNDER GOD’S CONTROL, TO BE LED AND GUIDED BY HIM, WILL CATCH THE STEADY TREAD OF THE EVENTS ORDAINED BY HIM TO TAKE PLACE. Inspired with the SPIRIT OF HIM who gave His life for the life of the world, they will no longer stand still in impotency, pointing to what they cannot do. Putting on the armor of heaven, they will go forth to the warfare, willing to do and dare for God, knowing that His omnipotence will supply their need. {Mar 161.6 1976}
After the truth has been proclaimed as a witness to all nations, at a time when every conceivable power of evil is set in operation, when minds are confused by the many voices crying, “Lo, here is Christ; Lo, he is there; This is truth, I have the message from God, he has sent me with great light.” and there is a removing of the landmarks and an attempt to tear down the pillars of our faith then a more decided effort is made to exalt the false sabbath, and to cast contempt upon God himself by supplanting the day he has blessed and sanctified. This false sabbath is to be enforced by an oppressive law. . . . But while Satan works with his lying wonders, the time will be fulfilled foretold in the Revelation, and the mighty angel that shall lighten the earth with his glory, will proclaim the fall of Babylon, and call upon God’s people to forsake her. {Mar 189.4 1976} & To Brethren In Responsible Positions, 1892. {PC 423.1} [7BC 985.1]
THE SIGN, OR SEAL, OF GOD IS REVEALED IN THE OBSERVANCE OF THE SEVENTH-DAY SABBATH, THE LORD’S MEMORIAL OF CREATION. . . . The mark of the beast is the opposite of this–the observance of the first day of the week. {Mar 211.3}
No one has yet received the mark of the beast. The testing time has not yet come. There are true Christians in every church, not excepting the Roman Catholic communion. None are condemned until they have had the light and have seen the obligation of the fourth commandment. But when the decree shall go forth enforcing the counterfeit sabbath, and the loud cry of the third angel shall warn men against the worship of the beast and his image, the line will be clearly drawn between the false and the true. Then those who still continue in transgression will receive the mark of the beast. {Mar 211.5}
IN A LITTLE WHILE EVERY ONE WHO IS A CHILD OF GOD WILL HAVE HIS SEAL PLACED UPON HIM. O that it may be placed upon our foreheads! Who can endure the thought of being passed by when the angel goes forth to seal the servants of God in their foreheads? {Mar 211.7}
Our Saviour understood all about human nature, and He says to every human being. “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” AS GOD IS PERFECT IN HIS SPHERE, SO MAN IS TO BE PERFECT IN HIS SPHERE. Those who receive Christ are among the number to whom the words so full of hope are spoken. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” These words declare to us that we should be content with nothing less than the best and highest character, a character formed after the divine similitude. When such a character is possessed, the life, the faith, the purity of the religion, is an instructive example to others. {Mar 227.2 1976}
But those who are waiting to behold a magical change in their characters without determined effort on their part to overcome sin, will be disappointed. We have no reason to fear while looking to Jesus, no reason to doubt but that He is able to save to the uttermost all that come unto Him; but we may constantly fear lest our old nature will again obtain the supremacy, that the enemy shall devise some snare whereby we shall again become his captives. We are to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God that worketh in you to will and to do of His good pleasure. With our limited powers we are to be as holy in our sphere as God is holy in His sphere. To the extent of our ability, we are to make manifest the truth and love and excellence of the divine character. As wax takes the impression of the seal, so the soul is to take the impression of the SPIRIT OF GOD and retain the image of Christ. {Mar 227.3 1976}
WE ARE TO GROW DAILY IN SPIRITUAL LOVELINESS. WE SHALL FAIL OFTEN IN OUR EFFORTS TO COPY THE DIVINE PATTERN. We shall often have to bow down to weep at the feet of Jesus, because of our shortcomings and mistakes; but we are not to be discouraged; we are to pray more fervently, believe more fully, and try again with more steadfastness to grow into the likeness of our Lord. As we distrust our own power, we shall trust the power of OUR REDEEMER, and render praise to God, who is the health of our countenance, and our God. {Mar 227.4 1976}
Were justice extinct, and were it possible for divine mercy to open the gates to the whole race, irrespective of character, there would be a worse condition of disaffection and rebellion in heaven than before Satan was expelled. The peace, happiness, and harmony of heaven would be broken. THE CHANGE FROM EARTH TO HEAVEN WILL NOT CHANGE MEN’S CHARACTER; THE HAPPINESS OF THE REDEEMED IN HEAVEN RESULTS FROM THE CHARACTER FORMED IN THIS LIFE AFTER THE IMAGE OF CHRIST. THE SAINTS IN HEAVEN WILL FIRST HAVE BEEN SAINTS ON EARTH. {Mar 326.5 1976}
THE LORD’S PRAYER WAS TWICE GIVEN BY OUR SAVIOUR, FIRST TO THE MULTITUDE IN THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT, AND AGAIN, SOME MONTHS LATER, TO THE DISCIPLES ALONE. The disciples had been for a short time absent from their Lord, when on their return they found Him absorbed in communion with God. Seeming unconscious of their presence, He continued praying aloud. The Saviour’s face was irradiated with a celestial brightness. He seemed to be in the very presence of the Unseen, and there was a living power in His words as of one who spoke with God. {MB 102.1 1896}
The hearts of the listening disciples were deeply moved. They had marked how often He spent long hours in solitude in communion with His Father. His days were passed in ministry to the crowds that pressed upon Him, and in unveiling the treacherous sophistry of the rabbis, and this incessant labor often left Him so utterly wearied that His mother and brothers, and even His disciples, had feared that His life would be sacrificed. But as He returned from the hours of prayer that closed the toilsome day, they marked the look of peace upon His face, the sense of refreshment that seemed to pervade His presence. It was from hours spent with God that He came forth, morning by morning, to bring the light of heaven to men. The disciples had come to connect His hours of prayer with the power of His words and works. Now, as they listened to His supplication, their hearts were awed and humbled. As He ceased praying, it was with a conviction of their own deep need that they exclaimed, “Lord, teach us to pray.” Luke 11:1. {MB 102.2 1896}
Jesus gives them no new form of prayer. That which He has before taught them He repeats, as if He would say, You need to understand what I have already given. It has a depth of meaning you have not yet fathomed. {MB 103.1 1896}
The Saviour does not, however, restrict us to the use of these exact words. As one with humanity, He presents His own ideal of prayer, words so simple that they may be adopted by the little child, yet so comprehensive that their significance can never be fully grasped by the greatest minds. We are taught to come to God with our tribute of thanksgiving, to make known our wants, to confess our sins, and to claim His mercy in accordance with His promise. {MB 103.2 1896}
JESUS TEACHES US TO CALL HIS FATHER OUR FATHER. He is not ashamed to call us brethren. Hebrews 2:11. So ready, so eager, is the Saviour’s heart to welcome us as MEMBERS OF THE FAMILY OF GOD, that in the very first words we are to use in approaching God He places the assurance of our divine relationship, “Our Father.” {MB 103.3 1896}
Here is the announcement of that wonderful truth, so full of encouragement and comfort, that GOD LOVES US AS HE LOVES HIS SON. This is what Jesus said in His last prayer for His disciples, Thou “hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” John 17:23. {MB 104.1 1896}
The world that Satan has claimed and has ruled over with cruel tyranny, the SON OF GOD has, by one vast achievement, encircled in His love and connected again with the THRONE OF JEHOVAH. Cherubim and seraphim, and the unnumbered hosts of all the unfallen worlds, sang anthems of praise to GOD AND THE LAMB when this triumph was assured. They rejoiced that the way of salvation had been opened to the fallen race and that the earth would be redeemed from the curse of sin. How much more should those rejoice who are the objects of such amazing love! {MB 104.2 1896}
How can we ever be in doubt and uncertainty, and feel that we are orphans? It was in behalf of those who had transgressed THE LAW that Jesus took upon Him human nature; He became like unto us, that we might have everlasting peace and assurance. We have an Advocate in the heavens, and whoever accepts Him as a personal Saviour is not left an orphan to bear the burden of his own sins. {MB 104.3 1896}
Beloved, now are we the sons of God. And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be also glorified together. It doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is. 1 John 3:2; Romans 8:17. {MB 104.4 1896} {RH, October 7, 1890 par. 13}
The very first step in approaching God is to know and believe the love that He has to us (1 John 4:16); for it is through the drawing of His love that we are led to come to Him. {MB 104.5 1896}
The perception of God’s love works the renunciation of selfishness. In calling God our Father, we recognize all His children as our brethren. We are all a part of the great web of humanity, all members of one family. In our petitions we are to include our neighbors as well as ourselves. No one prays aright who seeks a blessing for himself alone. {MB 105.1 1896}
In the time of Christ the people of Palestine lived in walled towns, which were mostly situated upon hills or mountains. THE GATES, WHICH WERE CLOSED AT SUNSET, were approached by steep, rocky roads, and the traveler journeying homeward AT THE CLOSE OF THE DAY often had to press his way in eager haste up the difficult ascent in order to reach the gate BEFORE NIGHTFALL. The loiterer was left without. {MB 138.1 1896}
MANY PERSONS BRING DISEASE UPON THEMSELVES BY THEIR SELF-INDULGENCE. They have not lived in accordance with NATURAL LAW or the principles of strict purity. Others have disregarded the LAWS OF HEALTH in their habits of eating and drinking, dressing, or working. Often some form of vice is the cause of feebleness of mind or body. Should these persons gain the blessing of health, many of them would continue to pursue the same course of heedless transgression of GOD’S NATURAL AND SPIRITUAL LAWS, reasoning that if God heals them in answer to prayer, they are at liberty to continue their unhealthful practices and to indulge perverted appetite without restraint. If God were to work a miracle in restoring these persons to health, He would be encouraging sin. {MH 227.3 1905}
To those who desire prayer for their restoration to health, it should be made plain that THE VIOLATION OF GOD’S LAW, EITHER NATURAL OR SPIRITUAL, IS SIN, and that in order for them to receive His blessing, sin must be confessed and forsaken. {MH 228.1 1905}
Disease never comes without a cause. The way is prepared, and disease invited, by disregard of THE LAWS OF HEALTH. Many suffer in consequence of the transgression of their parents. While they are not responsible for what their parents have done, it is nevertheless their duty to ascertain what are and what are not violations of THE LAWS OF HEALTH. They should avoid the wrong habits of their parents and, by correct living, place themselves in better conditions. {MH 234.1 1905}
God has endowed us with a certain amount of vital force. He has also formed us with organs suited to maintain the various functions of life, and He designs that these organs shall work together in harmony. If we carefully preserve the life force, and keep the delicate mechanism of the body in order, the result is health; but if the vital force is too rapidly exhausted, the nervous system borrows power for present use from its resources of strength, and when one organ is injured, all are affected. Nature bears much abuse without apparent resistance; she then arouses and makes a determined effort to remove the effects of the ill-treatment she has suffered. Her effort to correct these conditions is often manifest in fever and various other forms of sickness. {MH 234.3 1905}
The personality of the FATHER AND THE SON, also the unity that exists between Them, are presented in the seventeenth chapter of John, in the prayer of Christ for His disciples: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.”John 17:20, 21. The unity that exists between Christ and His disciples does not destroy the personality of either. THEY ARE ONE IN PURPOSE, IN MIND, IN CHARACTER, BUT NOT IN PERSON. IT IS THUS THAT GOD AND CHRIST ARE ONE. {The Ministry of Healing, p. 421, 422}
Every living Christian will advance daily in the divine life. As he advances toward perfection, he experiences a conversion to God every day; and this conversion is not completed until he attains to perfection of Christian character, a full preparation for the finishing touch of immortality. {ML 249.7 1952}
Parents should not only teach, but command, their children to enter the sanctuary with sobriety and reverence. {ML 286.6}
Now, my brother, I consider you to be in positive peril. I present this because I know that you are in great danger of being seduced by Satan. We are living in a time when every phase of fanaticism will press its way in among believers and unbelievers. Satan will come in, speaking lies in hypocrisy. Everything that he can invent to deceive men and women will be brought forward. {MM 114.2 1932}
Just in proportion as men lose their sense of the need of vital religion, so they become filled with common, earthly ideas, which they exalt as wonderful knowledge. Physicians who lose their hold on Christ become filled with ideas of their own, which they look upon as some wonderful science, to be brought into the medical profession as something new and strange. {MM 114.3 1932}
Whether they acknowledge it or not, God lays upon all human beings the duty of taking care of the soul temple. THE BODY IS TO BE KEPT CLEAN AND PURE. THE SOUL IS TO BE SANCTIFIED AND ENNOBLED. Then, God says, I will come unto him and take up My abode with him. WE ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR OUR OWN SALVATION, AND GOD HOLDS US ACCOUNTABLE FOR THE INFLUENCE WE EXERT ON THOSE CONNECTED WITH US. WE SHOULD STAND IN SUCH A POSITION, PHYSICALLY AND SPIRITUALLY, THAT WE CAN RECOMMEND THE RELIGION OF CHRIST. WE ARE TO DEDICATE OUR BODIES TO GOD. {MM 295.3 1932}
Then I saw [that] the judgments of Almighty God were speedily coming. I begged of the angel to speak in his language to the people. Said he, “ALL THE THUNDERS AND LIGHTNINGS OF MOUNT SINAI CANNOT MOVE THOSE WHO WILL NOT BE MOVED BY THE PLAIN TRUTHS IN THE WORD OF GOD. Neither would an angel’s message move or awake them.” I saw that the rebels must and will be purged out. THE ANGEL SAID, “GET READY, GET READY, GET READY.” {16MR 32.4 A vision given to E. G. White on January 26, 1850}
I do not wish to ignore or drop one link in the chain of evidence that was formed as, after the passing of the time in 1844, little companies of seekers after truth met together to study the BIBLE and to ask God for light and guidance. . . . The truth, point by point, was fastened in our minds so firmly that we could not doubt. . . .The evidence given in our early experience has the same force that it had then. The truth is the same as it ever has been, and not a pin or a pillar can be moved from the structure of truth. That which was sought for out of the WORD in 1844, 1845, and 1846 remains the truth in every particular. Lt38, 1906, 1, 2. (To the Wahroonga Sanitarium Family, January 23, 1906.) {1MR 52.2 1981}
The truths given us after the passing of the time in 1844 are just as certain and unchangeable as when the Lord gave them to us in answer to our urgent prayers. The visions that the Lord has given me are so remarkable that we know that what we have accepted is the truth. This was demonstrated by the Holy Spirit. Light, precious light from God, established the main points of our faith as we hold them today. Lt50, 1906, 1, 2. (To Elder W. W. Simpson, January 30, 1906.) {1MR 53.2 1981}
WE MUST LET THE GREAT PRINCIPLES OF THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE STAND OUT CLEAR AND DISTINCT. THE GREAT PILLARS OF OUR FAITH WILL HOLD ALL THE WEIGHT THAT CAN BE PLACED UPON THEM. Lt207, 1899, 2. (To Elder S. N. Haskell and Elder G. A. Irwin, December 15, 1899.) {1MR 53.3 1981}
THE TIME HAS COME WHEN WE MUST FIRMLY REFUSE TO BE DRAWN AWAY FROM THE PLATFORM OF ETERNAL TRUTH, WHICH SINCE 1844 HAS STOOD THE TEST. Lt277, 1904, 6. (To J. A. Read, July 31, 1904.) {1MR 53.4 1981}
THE WORD OF THE LORD HAS GUIDED OUR STEPS SINCE THE PASSING OF THE TIME IN 1844. WE HAVE SEARCHED THE SCRIPTURES; WE HAVE BUILT SOLIDLY; AND WE HAVE NOT HAD TO TEAR UP OUR FOUNDATIONS AND PUT IN NEW TIMBERS. Lt24, 1907, 3. (To Elder A. G. Daniells, February 4, 1907.) {1MR 54.1 1981}
DWELL UPON QUESTIONS THAT CONCERN OUR ETERNAL WELFARE. Anything that the enemy can devise to divert the mind from GOD’S WORD, anything new and strange that he can originate to create a diversity of sentiment, he will introduce as something wonderfully important. . . . {1MR 58.2 1981}
The enemy will strive to cause believers to search out matters of minor importance, and to dwell at length upon these matters in committee meetings and council meetings. But by turning their attention to questions of so little consequence, the brethren hinder the work instead of advancing it. {1MR 58.3 1981}
There stood revealed the throne of God; around it were ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands upon thousands, and close about the throne were the martyrs. Among this number I saw the very ones who were so recently in such abject misery, whom the world knew not, whom the world hated and despised. A voice said, “Jesus, who is seated upon the throne, has so loved man that He gave His life a sacrifice to redeem him from the power of Satan, and to exalt him to His throne. He who is above all powers, He who has the greatest influence in heaven and in earth, He to whom every soul is indebted for every favor he has received, was meek and lowly in disposition, holy, harmless, and undefiled in life. He was obedient to all His Father’s commandments. Wickedness has filled the earth; it is defiled under the inhabitants thereof. The high places of the powers of earth have been polluted with corruption and base idolatries; but the time has come when righteousness shall receive the palm of victory and triumph. Those who were accounted by the world as weak and unworthy, those who were defenseless against the cruelty of men, shall be crowned conquerors and more than conquerors.” {2MR 208.4 1987}
JESUS COMES TO YOU AS THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH; STUDY THE MIND OF THE SPIRIT, CONSULT YOUR LORD, FOLLOW HIS WAY. If you yield to the dictates of the mind and flesh, your spirit will lose its proper character and balance, and you fail to discern and cannot appreciate moral power. Then you will seek to carry out the maxims of worldlings. Their voices are heard on every side, Here is the path of success. Your mind will, if you follow their suggestions, be deceived, carnalized, and you will esteem the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit as less than human invention. God calls upon you to close the door to human inventions and to open the door to divine illumination. BE CAREFUL THAT YOU DO NOT RESIST THE SPIRIT OF GOD IN ITS OFFICE WORK UPON THE TEMPLE OF THE SOUL. Be determined to please God, to magnify His name, to enjoy the sweet influence of His grace. (2MR 337.1 1987)
The principalities and powers of darkness were assembled round the throne, engaged in casting the hellish shadow of unbelief into mind and heart. This was the work in which they were engaged. When the Lord created these beings to stand before His throne, they were beautiful and glorious. Their loveliness and holiness were equal to their exalted station. They were enriched with the wisdom of God, and girded with the panoply of heaven. They were Jehovah’s ministers. But who could recognize in the fallen angels the glorious seraphims that once ministered in the heavenly courts? {18MR 70.3 1990}
Love is the connecting link between your heart and the heart of Christ. We love Him because He first loved us. Repeat often to your children the lessons of the Saviour. Christ holds you as a family in His arms of love. From Him your heart received the life-current. Let it be seen that this is actually a part of your daily experience. Spasmodic impulses are not reliable. Christ’s work has in it good reason and wise method. Do not allow your hope in Him to be affected by circumstances. Educate yourself to persevere in receiving grace from Him, and imparting it to others. Thus you can exert a strong influence for good. You can be a great blessing if you will obtain the rich treasures of grace and give them to others, speaking wise, appropriate words, leading, drawing, souls to Christ, teaching them to love and appreciate Him whose they are by creation and by redemption. Lay up treasure beside the throne of God by bringing souls to Christ. This is the work that the Saviour values. Those who faithfully do this work will one day sit with Him on His throne. {13MR 126.2 1990}
And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, he said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, THEY WERE BAPTIZED IN THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS. AND WHEN PAUL HAD LAID HANDS ON THEM, THE HOLY GHOST CAME ON THEM; AND THEY SPAKE WITH TONGUES, AND PROPHESIED. And all the men were about twelve. And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading concerning the things of the kingdom of God (Acts 19:1-8). {7MR 353.4 1990}
The experience of Paul and Barnabas is recorded for the instruction of the churches today. “Arise, shine,” the Lord commands, “for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee” (Isaiah 60:1). The Holy Spirit was given to these disciples who were especially set apart, and the same presence will go with every one who will be a laborer together with God, seeking His counsel, and surrendering the will to His will. THE HOLY SPIRIT THIS IS THE SACRED ENDOWMENT OF THOSE WHO HUMBLE THEIR HEARTS BEFORE GOD, AND SUBMIT TO HIS GUIDANCE; THIS IS THE SECRET OF THEIR POWER. Much prayer, and a humbling of the heart, a constant surrender of the will to God, will bring the help pledged to every worker by the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Angels of God will work for those who yield themselves to the leading of the Spirit. {7MR 354.1 1990}
Then I saw that we must work fast while the day lasts. I begged God to let His messengers go and work fast for the salvation of souls. I SAW THAT GOD WAS WILLING TO GIVE US GREAT BLESSINGS, IF WE WOULD ONLY HAVE FAITH, AND WHEN WE WENT OUT AMONG THE PEOPLE WE MUST GO IN THE NAME OF THE LORD, FOR WITHOUT HIM WE CAN DO NOTHING. THEN AGAIN I SAW THE GOODNESS OF GOD TO US IN GIVING US A BAPTISM OF HIS SPIRIT, BEFORE WE HAD WADED THROUGH THE DEEP WATERS. {Ms5-1851} {6MR 171.1 1990}
We arrived home a little BEFORE SUNDOWN. Received letters from Brother Canright, also Mary Gaskill and Daniel Bourdeau, giving us an account of camp meeting. When we reached home we found John Cranson there. We felt sorry that he should come to see us on the Sabbath. We do not like to have visitors to entertain upon the Sabbath who have no respect for God or His holy day. Ms 11, 1873. {3SM 264.5 1980}
Every case passes in review before Christ in the heavenly sanctuary before He ceases to plead for man. Every name is repeated by the recording angel. Their moral worth is estimated, their acts and deeds are weighed in an even balance and they are rewarded according to their works. Those who served the world and who were ashamed of the cross of Christ, who studied their own convenience rather than the will of God, their names are read by the recording angel and they are pronounced unworthy of Christ’s protection and love, and their life is lost beyond redemption. The Prince of Life is ashamed of them and disowns them before His Father and His holy angels. {Ms7-1875}
We are to war against principalities. It is not a war against flesh and blood, but against wicked powers in high places. How can you do this? By every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God. Just as sure as you look into that mirror that [remainder missing]. Ms 8, 1880. [21MR 226.1 1993]
God had committed to His people a work to be accomplished on earth. The third angel’s message was to be given; the minds of believers were to be directed to the heavenly sanctuary where Christ had entered to make atonement for His people. The Sabbath reform was to be carried forward. THE BREACH IN THE LAW OF GOD MUST BE MADE UP. THE MESSAGE MUST BE PROCLAIMED WITH A LOUD VOICE, that all the inhabitants of earth might receive the warnings. The people of God must purify their souls through obedience to the truth and be prepared to stand without fault before Him at His coming. {Ms4-1883} {1SM 67.9}
Godliness, sobriety, and consistency will characterize the life and example of every true Christian. The work which Christ is doing in the sanctuary above will engage the thoughts and be the burden of the conversation because by faith he has entered into the sanctuary. He is on earth, but his sympathies are in harmony with the work that Christ is doing in heaven. Christ is cleansing the heavenly sanctuary from the sins of the people, and it is the work of all who are laborers together with God to the cleansing the sanctuary of the soul from everything that is offensive to Him. Everything like evil surmising, envy, jealousy, enmity, and hatred will be put away; for such things grieve the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD and put Christ to an open shame. Love of self will not exist, nor will any engaged in this work be puffed up. The example of Christ’s life, the consistency of His character, will make his influence far reaching. He will be a living epistle, known and read of all men. {Ms15-1886} Also {11MR 83.4}[1 Peter 3:8-12 quoted.]
AFTER THE FALL OF ADAM AND EVE the race was plunged in hopeless misery, and it was then that this great plan of redemption was advanced. It was then THE SON OF GOD CONSENTED TO LEAVE HIS FATHER’S THRONE, lay aside His royal crown, clothe Himself with humanity, take upon Him the nature of man, and become a man among men. He became a Man of sorrow and acquainted with grief; wounded for our transgressions, bruised for our iniquities. Then shall we not say with John, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us that we should be called the sons of God!” Many in our world seem to think that to be a Christian is to step down very low, getting upon a very low level. But this is a very mistaken idea. What is it to be a Christian? It is to be like Christ. Who is Christ? THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD. He is the One who wrought out the plan of salvation for the fallen race. Every blessing we have comes through this Source, through Jesus Christ. Anyone who would entertain the idea that it is a great sacrifice to become a Christian should remember, when seated around the family board partaking of the bounties there, that all these blessings come from Jesus Christ. It was in consequence of sin that man was shut out from the throne of God, but Christ steps in and pays the price; and through His merits man is brought back in favor with God. {Ms16-1886}
All who will can be overcomers. Let us strive earnestly to reach the standard set before us. Christ knows our weakness, and to Him we can go daily for help. It is not necessary for us to gain strength a month ahead. We are to conquer from day to day (Ms 28, 1886) [7BC 974.3]
A few began to search the SCRIPTURES after the disappointment in 1844, and the result was light in regard to what constituted the sanctuary. This searching revealed the fact that the prophecy referred not to this earth as the sanctuary to be cleansed at the end of the days, but to the heavenly sanctuary; and this truth explained our disappointment in 1844. Investigation of the SCRIPTURES also revealed the light upon the Sabbath. {Ms76-1886} {4MR 403.1}
After the translation of Enoch to heaven, the sons of men that were set against the worship of God, were drawing away the sons of God. There were two parties in the world then, and there always will be. The worshipers of God called themselves the sons of God. The descendants of Seth went up into the mountains and there made themselves homes separate from the sons of Cain. Here in their mountainous homes they thought to preserve themselves from the prevailing wickedness and idolatry of the descendants of Cain. But after the exhortations and the influence of Enoch was removed from them, they commenced to unite with the descendants of Cain. {Ms86-1886} [CTr 39.2]
THIS EARTH IS THE PLACE OF PREPARATION FOR HEAVEN. The time spent here is the Christian’s winter. Here the chilly winds of affliction blow upon us, and the waves of trouble roll against us. But in the near future, when Christ comes, sorrow and sighing will be forever ended. Then will be the Christian’s summer. All trials will be over, and there will be no more sickness or death. “God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying . . . : for the former things are passed away” (Ms 28, 1886) [7BC 988.4]
The corrupt thought is to be expelled. Every thought is to be brought into captivity to Jesus Christ. All animal propensities are to be subjected to the higher powers of the soul. THE LOVE OF GOD MUST REIGN SUPREME; Christ must occupy an undivided throne. Our bodies are to be regarded as His purchased possession. The members of the body are to become the instruments of righteousness. MS 1, 1888. (AH 127, 128.) {1MCP 236.3 1977}
Here is the work going on, measuring the temple and its worshipers to see who will stand in the last day. Those who stand fast shall have an abundant entrance into the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. When we are doing our work remember there is One that is watching the spirit in which we are doing it. Shall we not bring the Saviour into our everyday lives, into our secular work and domestic duties? Then in the name of God we want to leave behind everything that is not necessary, all gossiping or unprofitable visiting, and present ourselves as servants of the living God (Ms 4, 1888) [7BC 972.2]
Why were they so specially singled out? Because they had to stand with a wonderful truth right before the whole world, and receive their opposition, and while receiving this opposition they were to remember that they were sons and daughters of God, that they must have Christ formed within them the hope of glory (Ms 13, 1888) [7BC 978.2]
THERE ARE BUT FEW, EVEN OF THOSE WHO CLAIM TO BELIEVE IT, THAT COMPREHEND THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE, AND YET THIS IS THE MESSAGE FOR THIS TIME. IT IS PRESENT TRUTH. BUT HOW FEW TAKE UP THIS MESSAGE IN ITS TRUE BEARING, AND PRESENT IT TO THE PEOPLE IN ITS POWER! WITH MANY IT HAS BUT LITTLE FORCE. . . . THE CLOSING WORK OF THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE WILL BE ATTENDED WITH A POWER THAT WILL SEND THE RAYS OF THE SUN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS INTO ALL THE HIGHWAYS AND BYWAYS OF LIFE, AND DECISIONS WILL BE MADE FOR GOD AS SUPREME GOVERNOR; HIS LAW WILL [BE] LOOKED UPON AS THE RULE OF HIS GOVERNMENT. Ms 15, 1888, 5. (“A Call to a Deeper Study of the Word,” November 1, 1888.) {1MR 56.4 1981}
But it seems to me that we do not take these things and learn the lessons from them that we should. Now the unbelieving came up, and the devil took advantage of it and began to work, and they began to say among themselves, “Who is this? Is not this the son of Joseph and Mary?” And just the minute this thought came into their minds, they began to work it out. And you know how it worked. They arose right up and laid hold of Christ and led Him to the brow of the hill and were going to destroy Him. Now, there has not been any improvement made in human nature since that time. Human nature is human nature still. If there is any little point where they can divert the mind, they make the most of it. You see it in the councils. It has been presented to me again and again. They are laying plans for the work of God, trying to make arrangements whereby they can advance the work of God, and there stands someone trying to trig [block] the wheels. As I said to one of our brethren not long since, “You have done more to set back the work of God than ten or twenty of our enemies, because you construe some point into something wonderful, and you have held the committee for hours over nothing, only to throw in a block to trig the wheel, and the time wasted and the good resolutions that should have been carried have been lost. You come in, and they think you are a good man, a moral man, and what you say is all right, but every time you have a chunk to throw in, and they are worried out in their counsels. Nothing is accomplished which should have been done, on account of this hindrance.” {Ms2-1889} {1SAT 93.2 1990}
Now brethren I want to tell you, when the SPIRIT OF GOD comes into our midst, it will strike the minds that are ready to receive it. But if their minds are not open to receive it, they are all ready to pass judgment upon the messenger and the words spoken. In the place of coming to God and asking Him to give them a new heart and a new mind, that the transforming influence of the grace of God shall be upon them, they commence to find fault and pick flaws. It doesn’t strike them, and it must harmonize with their ideas and they will stand right there until these things are culled out of the way, and they place themselves right there to judge. This is the way it was at Minneapolis. {Ms2-1889} {1SAT 94.1 1990}
It is because I know the very same spirit is here, and that we should not give place to it for a moment that I say these things. I know that while the SPIRIT OF GOD will make impressions upon human minds, the enemy will come in and make the most of any little thing that it is possible to make and the leaven will begin to work because the devil wants it so. Now brethren and sisters I want to place you on your guard. I want to ask you if you are satisfied with your coldness, your unbelief, your backslidings. Have you not had enough of it? If not, the devil will give you all you desire. We don’t want any more. {Ms2-1889} {1SAT 95.1 1990}
We see that we are in no better condition than the Jewish people. God gave them the clear light that they might stand as His holy, peculiar people. He had given them the prophets, and then Christ Himself came in order that He might present the truth to them. But when His own nation rejected Him, He turned away. He told them, “Ye have ears, but ye hear not, eyes have ye but ye see not.” (cf. Jeremiah 5:21.) Then they inquired, “Are we blind also?” Christ said, “If ye were blind no sin would be attached, but it is because light has come and ye choose darkness rather than light.” (See John 9:14) Was it a real darkness? No, it was not. The light of truth had shone upon them, but Satan was throwing his blinder before their eyes, and they received it not. {1SAT 95.2 1990}
Now brethren, there is a blessing here for you. You may think it strange that I speak to you about these things, but it is my duty. We never want this thing acted over again on God’s earth; and if God gives me strength I will do it. I want you to inquire, How is it with my soul? Will you take the light, or will you stand complaining? It is time we should know where we are. We should have a chance to pray and talk and seek God. What we want is the Lord, and we don’t want anything else. But we have it here in these words of Zechariah. Joshua stood before the Lord, and Satan stood there at His right hand to resist him. “The Lord rebuke thee,” He said,”is not this a brand plucked out of the fire?” (Zechariah 3:2). {Ms2-1889} {1SAT 95.3 1990}
Now here are the people of God and God wants you to be getting ready for the great day of salvation, that you may be getting others ready. He wants you to have a fitting-up, that you may have a message for the people that will cut its way through the fleshy heart, and that you may go crying through the porch and the altar, “Spare they people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach” (Joel 2:17). Now open your ears to the truth you have had and put away your doubts, unbelief, and Christless surmisings. {1SAT 96.1 1990}
God wants you to come and drink of the clear waters of the streams of Lebanon, and when you have drunk yourselves you will want to call others to drink. Convert after convert is presented to me who does not know what it is to have faith in Christ. It seems they are ready to die; there is no light in them; they are dying for the want of God. {1SAT 96.2 1990}
The people seem to be hungering and thirsting for the bread and water of salvation. The Lord gave me much of HIS HOLY SPIRIT. I was very free in the Lord. Hearts were touched, for the SPIRIT OF THE LORD rested upon the people. WE HAD A VERY EXCELLENT SOCIAL MEETING WHICH LASTED UNTIL AFTER SUNDOWN. This was indeed a good day for this church. Confessions were made by some, very humiliating to the soul, but essential for them, that the fruits might appear unto righteousness. {Ms18-1889}
Satan’s aim had been to reproduce his own character in human beings. No sooner was man created than Satan resolved to efface in him the image of God and to place his stamp where God’s should be. And he has succeeded in instilling into the heart of man the spirit of envy, of hatred, of ambition. In this world he has set up a kingdom of darkness, of which he, the leader in guilt, is prince. He desired to usurp the throne of God. Failing in this, he has worked in darkness, in crookedness, in deception, to usurp his place in the hearts of men. He has set up his throne between God and man to appropriate the adoration that belongs to God alone. {Ms31-1889}
THE ANGELS OF GOD ARE COMMUNICATING WITH AND GUARDING HIS PEOPLE, and are pressing back the powers of darkness that they shall not have any control over those who shall be heirs of salvation. Are we working in harmony with the angels? This is the line of communication the Lord has established with the children of men (Ms 1 1890) [7BC 923.6]
We must make every preparation in our power in order to resist the enemy of souls. Every provision has been made; everything in God’s plan has been arranged so that man should not be left to his own impulses, to his own finite powers, to carry on the warfare against the powers of darkness in his own finite strength; because he would certainly fail if he were thus left to himself (Ms 1 1890) [6BC 1120.2]
To give glory to God is to reveal His character in our own, and thus make Him known. And in whatever way we make known the Father or the Son, we glorify God (Ms 16, 1890) [7BC 979.4]
While it is true that our busy activities will not in themselves ensure salvation, it is also true that faith which unites us to Christ will stir the soul to activity (Ms 16, 1890) [6BC 1111.6]
1888 – The 27th General Conference Session is held at Minneapolis, Minnesota, with 91 delegates, and approx. 475 attendees. God brings the truth of righteousness by faith to His people through Elders Waggoner and Jones. Built on a powerful Biblical foundation, this message of the love of God marks the beginning of the Loud Cry. But sadly, the message is resisted by a large majority of the church leadership. Ellen White writes, “The prejudices and opinions that prevailed at Minneapolis are not dead by any means. The seeds there sown are ready to spring into life and bear a like harvest, because the roots are still left…. and will bear their unholy fruit, to poison the perception and blind the understanding of those you connect with, in regard to the messengers and messages that God sends…” (Ms 40, 1890; 1888 Materials, ch. 115)
I have had a very restless night. I labored hard Friday afternoon, coming at half past two and continuing my labors UNTIL SUNDOWN. The Lord blessed me indeed. The Lord removed the pain in my heart. The Lord gave me peace and joy in the Holy Ghost. {Ms42-1890}
Satan is constantly alluring away from faithfulness and thoroughness in the essential works of preparedness for the great event which will try every man’s soul. The work in the heavenly sanctuary is going forward. Jesus is cleansing the sanctuary. The work on earth corresponds with the work in heaven. The heavenly angels are at work constantly to draw man, the living agent, to look to Jesus to contemplate and meditate upon Jesus that he may, in viewing the perfection of Christ, be impressed with the imperfections of his own character. The Comforter Christ promised to send, He declared, “shall testify of Me.” This is the burden of the message for this time. Go lift up Jesus as the world’s only hope. Stop your controversies, cease your debating, which tends to create prejudice and opposition and leads to immature decisions, that fasten souls against Christ when they might have been gathered with Christ. {Ms48-1890}
In the Jewish church the Lord was the foundation of all its rites. The Lord Jesus prescribed every act of the nation. Nothing which would tend to its advancement was withheld. The smallest service in connection with it was sacred and holy and essential to its perfection and thoroughness, that it should stand as a glorious representation, an instrumentality in types and shadows. Will the CHURCH OF GOD learn the lessons given it of God in His arrangements in the foundation and consecration of the Jewish economy and recognize the principles of God in their relation to God and to the world? Will they see Christ in all the symbols in the divine arrangement? {Ms51-1890}
On the Isle of Patmos John saw in holy vision the One whom he honored and loved above all others. He says, “I heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia.” See the description in Revelation 1. The words uttered were not alone for John on the Isle of Patmos; they were not for the churches alone; but through these churches was to come the inspired message for the people, to have its powerful impression in every age to the close of this earth’s history. Why is not this being done? CHRIST PRESENTED HIMSELF TO JOHN IN HIS GLORIFIED HUMANITY. “I saw,” said he, “one like unto the Son of man.” His first words were, “Fear not.” It was the same voice that spoke to him from the cross through pale and quivering lips, “Son, behold thy mother.” {Ms53-1890} Also {1888 779.2}
Christ’s perfect humanity is the same that man may have through connection with Christ. As God, Christ could not be tempted any more than He was not tempted from His allegiance in heaven. But as Christ humbled Himself to the nature of man, He could be tempted. HE HAD NOT TAKEN ON HIM EVEN THE NATURE OF THE ANGELS, BUT HUMANITY, PERFECTLY IDENTICAL WITH OUR OWN NATURE, EXCEPT WITHOUT THE TAINT OF SIN. A human body, a human mind, with all the peculiar properties, He was bone, brain, and muscle. A man of our flesh, He was compassed with the weakness of humanity. The circumstances of His life were of that character that He was exposed to all the inconveniences that belong to men, not in wealth, not in ease, but in poverty and want and humiliation. He breathed the very air man must breathe. He trod our earth as man. He had reason, conscience, memory, will, and affections of the human soul which was united with His divine nature. {Ms57-1890}
Our Lord was tempted as man is tempted. He was capable of yielding to temptations, as are human beings. His finite nature was pure and spotless, but the divine nature that led Him to say to Philip, “He that hath seen Me hath seen the Father” also, was not humanized; neither was humanity deified by the blending or union of the two natures; each retained its essential character and properties. {Ms57-1890}
No candlestick, no church, shines of itself. From Christ emanates all its light. The church in heaven today is only the complement of the church on earth; but it is higher, grander–perfect. The same divine illumination is to continue through eternal ages. THE LORD GOD ALMIGHTY AND THE LAMB are the light thereof. No church can have light if it fails to diffuse the glory it receives from the throne of God (Ms 1a, 1890) [6BC 1118.8]
The present is a solemn, fearful time for the church. The angels are already girded, awaiting the mandate of God to pour their vials of wrath upon the world. DESTROYING ANGELS ARE TAKING UP THE WORK OF VENGEANCE; FOR THE SPIRIT OF GOD IS GRADUALLY WITHDRAWING FROM THE WORLD. Satan is also mustering his forces of evil, going forth “unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world,” to gather them under his banner, to be trained for “the battle of that great day of God Almighty.” Satan is to make most powerful efforts for the mastery in the last great conflict. Fundamental principles will be brought out, and decisions made in regard to them. Skepticism is prevailing everywhere. Ungodliness abounds. The faith of individual members of the church will be tested as though there were not another person in the world (Ms 1a, 1890) [7BC 983.1]
IN THE WARFARE TO BE WAGED IN THE LAST DAYS THERE WILL BE UNITED, IN OPPOSITION TO GOD’S PEOPLE, ALL THE CORRUPT POWERS THAT HAVE APOSTATIZED FROM ALLEGIANCE TO THE LAW OF JEHOVAH. IN THIS WARFARE THE SABBATH OF THE FOURTH COMMANDMENT WILL BE THE GREAT POINT AT ISSUE; for in the Sabbath commandment THE GREAT LAWGIVER IDENTIFIES HIMSELF AS THE CREATOR of the heavens and the earth (Ms 24, 1891) [7BC 983.7]
The so-called Christian world is to be the theater of great and decisive actions. Men in authority will enact laws controlling the conscience, after the example of the papacy. Babylon will make all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. Every nation will be involved. . . [Revelation 18:3-7 quoted] (Ms 24, 1891) [7BC 949.11]
THE LOVE EXISTING BETWEEN THE FATHER AND HIS SON CANNOT BE PORTRAYED. IT IS MEASURELESS. In Christ God saw the beauty and perfection of excellence that dwells in Himself. Wonder, O heavens, and be astonished, O earth; for God spared not His own Son, but gave Him up to be made sin for us, that those who believe may be made the righteousness of God in Him. “God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” {Ms31-1911} {18MR 337 1990} September, 12 1891
Now, we want to be kept from the evil. “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through Thy truth. . . . As thou hast sent Me into the world, even so” I also send them into the world. [It is] just as much your work to act out right in the world as it was the work of Christ to redeem. He sent you into the world. You are to be the light of the world. YOU ARE TO SHOW THE DISTINCTION BETWEEN THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTIANITY AND THE SPIRIT OF THE WORLDLING. You are to show the controlling influence of the power of God upon the human heart. GOD HELP US THAT WE MAY BE SANCTIFIED THROUGH THE TRUTH; AND THAT SANCTIFICATION SHALL HAVE ITS INFLUENCE TO LEAVEN THOSE THAT ARE AROUND US. Not the leaven of malice; not the leaven of jealousy; not the leaven of evil surmisings, BUT IT IS THE LEAVEN OF THE SPIRIT OF JESUS CHRIST, WHICH IS SENT DOWN FROM HEAVEN, CALLED THE HOLY GHOST, AND THAT SPIRIT AFFECTS THE HEART AND THE CHARACTER. {Ms36-1891} {1SAT 209.2 1990}
I should rejoice greatly to see the spirit of confession followed up throughout the church. Many are now obtaining a glimpse of their true condition and of their real necessities. If they persevere, make thorough work, and continue to draw nigh to God, He will draw nigh to them and will lift up for them a standard against the enemy. THERE WILL CERTAINLY BE AN OUTPOURING OF THE SPIRIT OF GOD. THE CHURCH CANNOT OVER-RATE THEIR SINFUL NEGLECT OF DUTY, THEIR UNFAITHFULNESS, AND THEIR NEGLECT TO RECEIVE LIGHT AND PRACTICE THE TRUTH. Not improving their opportunity has brought defective eyesight and has weakened their faith and corresponding zeal in earnest effort to walk in the light. Through their unbelief—because of the attitude and position of the church—sinners in our borders have become hardened and have been fearfully established in unbelief. {Ms40-1891} {3MR 197.2 1990}
When Jesus is within the sanctuary above, when we have an Advocate in the courts of heaven, how earnestly should the corresponding work of intercession be going on upon the earth! While we may see and should sense the guilt of sin, we are to appreciate the mercy of God through the atonement. The Lord has promised that because of the propitiatory sacrifice He will, if we repent, certainly forgive our iniquities. Now, while Christ is pleading in our behalf, while the Father accepts the merits of the atoning Sacrifice, let us ask and we shall receive. Let all confess their sins and let them go beforehand to judgment that they may be forgiven for Christ’s sake, and that pardon may be written against their names. {Ms40-1891} {3MR 197.3 1990}
I feel my spirit stirred within me. I feel to the depth of my being that the truth must be borne to other countries and nations, and to all classes. Let the missionaries of the cross proclaim that there is ONE GOD, AND ONE MEDIATOR BETWEEN GOD AND MAN, WHO IS JESUS CHRIST THE SON OF THE INFINITE GOD. THIS NEEDS TO BE PROCLAIMED THROUGHOUT EVERY CHURCH IN OUR LAND. Christians need to know this, and not put man where God should be, THAT THEY MAY no longer BE WORSHIPERS of idols, but OF THE LIVING GOD. Idolatry exists in our churches. [Means had] better be employed to save souls from death, which would be placing jewels in the crown of Jesus Christ and stars in our own crowns in the kingdom of heaven. {1888 886.3 1987} Also {Ms40-1891} [re: Battle Creek, January 21, 1891] [This is a powerful non-trinitarian quote by EGW herself.]
GOD BECAME ONE WITH MAN WHEN, IN THE COUNCIL BETWEEN THE FATHER AND THE SON IN HEAVEN, IT WAS DETERMINED THAT IF MAN FELL FROM HIS ALLEGIANCE, THE SON OF GOD SHOULD BE HIS REDEEMER AND RESTORE IN HIM THE MORAL IMAGE OF GOD. How was it to be done? “The WORD was made flesh, and dwelt among us, … full of grace and truth.” John 1:14. “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” Matthew 5:48. CHRIST’S ONENESS WITH THE FATHER BRINGS US INTO CLOSE UNION, THROUGH THE SON OF GOD, WITH THE FATHER. {Ms40-1891} Also {1888 Materials, 869 1987} 1891
The creation of our world was brought into the councils of heaven. There the covering cherub prepared his request that he should be made prince to govern the world then in prospect. This was not accorded him. Jesus Christ was to rule the earthly kingdom; under God He engaged to take the world with all its probabilities. THE LAW OF HEAVEN SHOULD BE THE STANDARD LAW FOR THIS NEW WORLD, FOR HUMAN INTELLIGENCES. Lucifer was jealous of Christ and this jealousy worked into rebellion and he carried with him a large number of the holy angels. JESUS, THE SON OF GOD, WAS NOT DECEIVED BY LUCIFER’S SOPHISTRY. He stood true to principle and resisted every line of reasoning of Lucifer and all the angels who had taken sides with him, THUS EVIDENCING THAT AS HE STOOD, EVERY ANGEL MIGHT HAVE STOOD. {Ms43b-1891.3} {Previously unpublished}.
The imparted Holy Spirit enabled His disciples, the apostles, to stand firmly against every species of idolatry and to exalt the Lord and Him alone. Who, but JESUS CHRIST BY HIS SPIRIT AND DIVINE POWER, GUIDED THE PENS OF THE SACRED HISTORIANS that to the world might be presented the precious record of the sayings and works of Jesus Christ? {Ms1-1892} {2MR 14 1987} 1892
The Lord now demands that every son and daughter of Adam, through faith in Jesus Christ, serve Him in human nature which we now have. The Lord Jesus has bridged the gulf that sin has made. He has connected earth with heaven, and finite man with the infinite God. JESUS, THE WORLD’S REDEEMER, could only keep the commandments of God in the same way that humanity can keep them (Ms 1, 1892) [7BC 929.7]
We need not place the obedience of Christ by itself, as something for which He was particularly adapted, by His particular divine nature, for He stood before God as man’s representative and was tempted as man’s substitute and surety. If Christ had a special power which it is not the privilege of man to have, Satan would have made capital of this matter. The work of Christ was to take from the claims of Satan his control of man, and He could do this only in the way that He came–a man, tempted as a man, rendering the obedience of a man (Ms 1, 1892) [7BC 930.3]
THE SAVIOUR IS OUR COMFORTER. THIS I HAVE PROVED HIM TO BE. I do not understand why I am so afflicted. At first I tried to reason out why I did not have strength to bear my testimony to the people in this country. But I try no longer. I have given my way and my will into the hands of God, for He knows what is best for me. It is not the manifestation of His great and awful majesty and unparalleled power that will leave us without excuse if we refuse Him our love and obedience. It is the love, the compassion, the patience, the longsuffering that He has shown which will witness against those who do not offer Him the willing service of their lives. Those who turn to God with heart and soul and mind will find in Him peaceful security. {Ms20-1892} {8MR 49 1990}
The nights are long and painful, but JESUS IS MY COMFORTER AND MY HOPE. Today I have been able to sit up very little. {Ms20-1892} {19MR 296 1990}
How essential that we have the enlightenment of the SPIRIT OF GOD; for thus only can we see the glory of Christ, and by beholding become changed from character to character in and through faith in Christ. We turn from the picture of our shortcomings to behold the atonement made for us, and we rejoice as we know that we may be clothed with Christ’s righteousness. In Him all fulness dwells. He has grace and pardon for every soul. As by faith we look to Jesus, our faith pierces the shadow, and we adore God for His wondrous love in giving JESUS THE COMFORTER.” {Ms20-1892} (19MR 297.3)
How essential that we have the enlightenment of the SPIRIT OF GOD, for thus only can we see the glory of Christ, and by beholding become changed from character to character in and through faith in Christ. We turn from the picture of our shortcomings to behold the atonement made for us and we rejoice as we know that we may be clothed with Christ’s righteousness. In Him all fulness dwells. He has grace and pardon for every soul. As by faith we look to Jesus, our faith pierces the shadow, and WE ADORE GOD FOR HIS WONDROUS LOVE IN GIVING JESUS THE COMFORTER. {Ms34-July 26, 1892} {19MR 297.3 1990} July 26, 1892
Satan cannot touch the mind or intellect unless we yield it to him. John 3:16. Excuse sins as though we had no power to overcome them? How readily would God have given Adam and Eve power, if they had gone to Him. We may say how weak they were, but we have their example, and it is repeated over and over again. And what is required to save man? To abolish THE LAW OF GOD? No. NOT ONE JOT OR TITTLE OF THE LAW OF GOD HAS BEEN CHANGED. IF THE LAW COULD HAVE BEEN CHANGED, THEN JESUS NEED NOT HAVE DIED. GOD’S LAW was immutable, and changeless as His throne. He would not leave men free to continue in transgression. Because man was lost he must be ransomed with a price. {Ms17-1893}
God has angels whose whole work is to draw those who shall be heirs of salvation. Whenever one takes a step toward Jesus, Jesus is taking steps toward him. The angels’ work is to keep back the powers of Satan (Ms 17, 1893) [7BC 922.5]
Mothers need to be instructed on this point. SWEET CAKE SHOULD BE KEPT OFF THE TABLE, FOR IT IS AN INJURY TO THE STOMACH AND LIVER. THE SWEETS THAT CHILDREN EAT HARM THE LIFE-CURRENT. By THE LAWS OF THE HOME everything that renders the blood impure should be discarded from the table. Especially should little CHILDREN be given wholesome food. They SHOULD BE GIVEN NO TEA OR COFFEE. THEIR FOOD SHOULD NOT CONTAIN SPICES OR ANY KIND OF SEASONING. The plainest food is the most wholesome and keeps the temple of God in the most healthy condition. {Ms50-1893} {1SAT 215.1 1994}
He could not obtain from Christ one word to lead him on. The word, “It is written,” was spoken from point to point as he tested Him. But only the quotation of His own words that He had inspired the holy men of old to write would come from Christ’s lips. All the great leading temptations wherewith man was beset were artfully presented. Weakened by fasting, Christ’s mental sufferings made this ordeal most severe. FORTY DAYS AND FORTY NIGHTS DID HE ENDURE THIS STRAIN. NEVER WERE ASSAULTS OF THE PRINCE OF DARKNESS MORE FEARFUL. His fiery darts were surely aimed, but they found no lodgment. {Ms94-1893}
THROUGH BEING PARTAKERS OF THE DIVINE NATURE WE MAY STAND PURE AND HOLY AND UNDEFILED. THE GODHEAD WAS NOT MADE HUMAN, AND THE HUMAN WAS NOT DEIFIED BY THE BLENDING TOGETHER OF THE TWO NATURES. CHRIST DID NOT POSSESS THE SAME SINFUL, CORRUPT, FALLEN DISLOYALTY WE POSSESS, FOR THEN HE COULD NOT BE A PERFECT OFFERING. {Ms94-1893}
THE HIGHER ATTRIBUTES OF HIS BEING IT IS OUR PRIVILEGE TO HAVE, if we will, through the provisions He has made, appropriate these blessings and diligently cultivate the good in the place of the evil. We have reason, conscience, memory, will, affections all the attributes a human being can possess. Through the provision made when GOD AND THE SON OF GOD made a covenant to rescue man from the bondage of Satan, every facility was provided that human nature should come into union with His divine nature. In such a nature was our Lord tempted. He could have yielded to Satan’s lying suggestions as did Adam, but we should adore and glorify the LAMB OF GOD that He did not in a single point yield one jot or one tittle. {Ms94-1893}
The point you inquire of me is, In our Lord’s great scene of conflict in the wilderness, apparently under the power of Satan and his angels, was He capable, in His human nature, of yielding to these temptations? {Ms94-1893} I will try to answer this important question: AS GOD HE {JESUS} COULD NOT BE TEMPTED; BUT AS A MAN HE COULD BE TEMPTED, AND THAT STRONGLY, AND COULD YIELD TO THE TEMPTATIONS. HIS HUMAN NATURE MUST PASS THROUGH THE SAME TEST AND TRIAL ADAM AND EVE PASSED THROUGH. HIS HUMAN NATURE WAS CREATED; IT DID NOT EVEN POSSESS THE ANGELIC POWERS. IT WAS HUMAN, IDENTICAL WITH OUR OWN. HE WAS PASSING OVER THE GROUND WHERE ADAM FELL. HE WAS NOW WHERE, IF HE ENDURED THE TEST AND TRIAL IN BEHALF OF THE FALLEN RACE, HE WOULD REDEEM ADAM’S DISGRACEFUL FAILURE AND FALL, IN OUR OWN HUMANITY. {Ms94-1893}
A human body and a human mind were His. He was bone of our bone and flesh of our flesh. He was subjected to poverty from His first entrance into the world. He was subject to disappointment and trial in His own home, among His own brethren. He was not surrounded, as in the heavenly courts, with pure and lovely characters. He was compassed with difficulties. He came into our world to maintain a pure, sinless character, and to refute Satan’s lie that it was not possible for human beings to keep THE LAW OF GOD. CHRIST CAME TO LIVE THE LAW IN HIS HUMAN CHARACTER IN JUST THAT WAY IN WHICH ALL MAY LIVE THE LAW IN HUMAN NATURE IF THEY WILL DO AS CHRIST WAS DOING. He had inspired holy men of old to write for the benefit of man: “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me.” Isaiah 27:5. {Ms94 1893}
We have no discouraging message for the church. Although reproofs and cautions and corrections have been made, yet the church has stood as God’s instrumentality to diffuse light. The commandment-keeping people of God have sounded forth a warning to the world, to all languages, tongues, and kindreds. The CHURCH OF GOD is a living witness, a continual testimony, to convince men if accepted, to condemn them if resisted and rejected (Ms 96, 1893) [7BC 967.2]
Oh, what music! There is not an inharmonious note. Every voice proclaims, “Worthy is THE LAMB that was slain.” He sees of the travail of His soul, and is satisfied. Do you think anyone there will take time to tell of his trials and terrible difficulties? “The former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.” “God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes” (Ms 18, 1894) [6BC 1093.7]
You may manifest great zeal in missionary effort, and yet because it is corrupted with selfishness, and tastes strongly of self, it is nought in the sight of God; for it is a tainted, corrupted offering. Unless the door of the heart is open to Jesus, unless He occupies the soul temple, unless the heart is imbued with His divine attributes, human actions when weighed in the heavenly balances, will be pronounced “Wanting.” The love of Christ would make you rich; but many do not realize the value of His love. Many do not realize that the spirit which they cherish is destitute of the meekness and lowliness of Christ, destitute of the love that would constitute them channels of light (Ms 33, 1894) [7BC 961.8]
For thus saith THE HIGH AND LOFTY ONE THAT INHABITETH ETERNITY, WHOSE NAME IS HOLY; I dwell in the high and holy place. Therefore we are to reverence the Lord God and walk carefully and tremblingly before Him. For our comfort and encouragement He adds that, notwithstanding His high and holy position, He dwells with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. IN THIS WONDERFUL STATEMENT FROM OUR HEAVENLY FATHER all may learn what their character will be if they are indeed in vital connection with God. {Ms46-1894}
THERE IS NOT A SECOND PROBATION FOR ANYONE. Now is probationary time, before the angel shall fold her golden wings, the angel of mercy, and shall step down from the throne, and mercy, mercy is gone forever (Ms 49, 1894) [7BC 989.13]
It is the privilege of the Christian to present evidences to the world that the Lord cares for and loves those who believe in Christ as their personal Saviour. God loves the followers of Christ as He loves His only begotten Son. To present this fact to the world will be a power in winning souls to Christ. Will the churches arouse? Will they receive the truth in its purity and loveliness? Truth is love; “God is Love.” If this had not been the case, we must all have perished. {Ms67-1894} -MS 67, 1894. Also {1MCP 250.3 1977}
I have had conversation with W. C. White. He was presenting before me the necessity of our people heeding the voice of the General Conference. Then I said, “WCW, it is time you should understand that, [notwithstanding] the opinion that has prevailed, THE GENERAL CONFERENCE SO-CALLED IS NO LONGER THE VOICE OF GOD. It has become a strange voice, and they are building strange fire. GOD DOES NOT SPEAK THROUGH THEM. The work that is being done in the General Conference is a strange work. Elder Olsen is not in the light. Had he stood in the light, he would not have allowed us to be separated from him and come to this country. He has stood in a divided position in reference to the spirit brought from Minneapolis. He let the burdens fall upon me that never should have come upon me. Had he stood to his post of duty like a man after God’s own heart, the clouds would have broken and light would have come in clear and bright. But his half-and-half position was acting out the Aaron, and God was displeased. We were needed at the heart of the work all the years that we have been away from America. {Ms114-1894}
W. C. White appeared astonished when I told him that he was not wanted in Battle Creek councils and was crowded out, and meetings were held that he should have been notified to attend. But they took special pains that he should not know of these meetings. Elder Olsen could have wholly changed these things if he had stood free in God, bravely opposed to wrong, but he yoked up as a true yoke-fellow with A. R. Henry, who has carried things with a high hand. [They] would control everything upon the Pacific Coast if they could get their grasp upon it. I am instructed that the Lord will let these men have all they have worked for, and then will He punish them and mark their future. {Ms114-1894}
There is being done in America, by the General Conference, that which the churches in the conferences know nothing about. You were not wanted in their councils. They wanted to get you out of the way. Elder Olsen was not fully in all their projects at first, but they Harmon Lindsay and A. R. Henry deceived him. Elder Olsen has betrayed the cause of God. He is not in union with Elder Ellet Waggoner, neither is he in harmony with A. T. Jones. He is yoked up and united with the men who are working at cross-purposes with God, and the churches are becoming leavened with the spirit that prevails at Battle Creek. {Ms114-1894}
At Battle Creek they would expend means largely as they chose, for had they not the power to do so? Were they not the voice which would control all matters in every conference? The wicked course being pursued must be brought to light. Honesty was not practiced in dealing with others, and there was robbery against their fellow men. Their methods in the book concern was a sham. Men were placed there, to pronounce upon the merits of books, who had far better been engaged in secular business that had no definite relation in reference to the work of God. And what will be the end of these things? The people will be left in uncertainty until their faith in their supposed representatives is gone. Some of these men, like Captain Eldridge, may recover after they see their own course of action in the light [as] they might have seen it. {Ms114-1894}
Through the observance of holidays the people both of the world and of the churches have been educated to believe that these lazy days are essential to health and happiness; but the results reveal that they are full of evil, which is ruining the country. The youth generally are not educated to diligent habits. Cities and even country towns are becoming like Sodom and Gomorrah, and like the world in the days of Noah. The training of the youth in those days was after the same order as children are being educated and trained in this age, to love excitement, to glorify themselves, to follow the imagination of their own evil hearts. Now as then, depravity, cruelty, violence, and crime are the results. {Ms8a-1894} [12MR 89.2 1990]
GOD has His faithful witnesses, through whom He has given testimony to revive, to restore, to build up His people in the most holy faith. He HAS FAITHFUL SENTINELS WHO WILL WARN THE CHURCH AGAINST FALSE THEORIES AND DOCTRINES, WHICH WOULD CORRUPT THEIR FAITH and would bring into the church distraction, discord, and strife. In every age the Lord has raised up watchmen to bear a faithful testimony to the generation in which they live. These faithful sentinels carried forward the work, and impressed upon others the necessity of consecrating all to God, and when they were called upon to lay off their armor and leave the work, there were other hands to carry it forward. Faithful souls have constituted the CHURCH OF GOD on earth, and He has taken them into covenant relation with Himself, uniting His church on earth with His church in heaven. He has sent forth heavenly angels to minister to His church, and the gates of hell have not been able to prevail against His people. {Ms38-1895}
One young man, a Swede, will lose his situation. He has been receiving seventeen shillings per week as a professional gardener, but the wife of his employer is a strong Catholic and declares she will not have a Seventh-day Adventist on her premises. A blacksmith has closed his shop and put out his sign, “NO WORK DONE FROM FRIDAY SUNDOWN UNTIL SATURDAY AFTER SUNDOWN.” He bore testimony. {Ms60-1895}
THE PALMS SIGNIFY THAT THEY HAVE GAINED THE VICTORY, AND THE WHITE ROBES THAT THEY HAVE BEEN CLOTHED WITH THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF CHRIST. Thank God that a fountain has been opened to wash our robes of character, and make them as white as snow. “And they cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God, which sitteth upon the throne, and unto THE LAMB. And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshiped God, saying, Amen; blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving and honor, and power, and might be unto our God forever and ever. Amen. {Ms66-1895} [7BC 970.11] {ST May 2, 1895}
The Lord sent for the men to preach the message He should give them that Christ would appear the second time to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity in 1844. The time passed. The event anticipated did not take place. Yet the message of warning was of God, to test and prove the people of the world who heard the note of warning. The mistake was in the event. They were not in error in preaching time. GOD HID FROM THEM THE EVENT THAT WAS TO TAKE PLACE. They thought Christ would come to this earth to purify the world by fire. They regarded the earth as the sanctuary to be cleansed at the end of the 1335 [2300?] days. After the passing of the time, light shone more clearly upon the prophecies that the sanctuary to be cleansed was in heaven. Christ entered the heavenly sanctuary upon the great antitypical day of atonement to cleanse it from the sins of the people by virtue of His own blood. {Ms6-1876}
Have you confessed Christ by faithfully tithing the mint, the anise, and the rue? When we give the Lord the tithe, we are only giving Him that which is His own, to withhold which is theft and robbery. When we withhold the tithe, we keep back that which God designs shall sustain His work on the earth. For this work of redemption God gave the richest gift of heaven; can we not give one tenth of what we have? Many have forgotten God, and have kept back the tithe. Does your account book reveal that you have faithfully paid the Lord? ARE YOU POOR? THEN GIVE YOUR LITTLE. Have you been blessed with abundance? Then be sure to lay aside that which the Lord registers as His own. {Ms13-1896} [Ms Releases Volume 12 page 228.2 (1990)]
There have been one and another who in studying their BIBLES thought they discovered great light, and new theories, but these have not been correct. THE SCRIPTURE IS ALL TRUE, but by misapplying the SCRIPTURE men arrive at wrong conclusions. We are engaged in a mighty conflict, and it will become more close and determined as we near the final struggle. We have a sleepless adversary, and he is constantly at work upon human minds that have not had a personal experience in the teachings of the people of God for the past fifty years. Some will take the truth applicable to their time, and place it in the future. Events in the train of prophecy that had their fulfillment away in the past are made future, and thus by these theories the faith of some is undermined. {Ms31-1896} {17MR 2.4 1990}
THE GREAT WAYMARKS OF TRUTH, SHOWING US OUR BEARING IN PROPHETIC HISTORY, ARE TO BE CAREFULLY GUARDED, LEST THEY BE TORN DOWN AND REPLACED WITH THEORIES THAT WOULD BRING CONFUSION RATHER THAN GENUINE LIGHT. Ms 31, 1896, 1. (“Testimony Concerning the Views of Prophecy Held by Brother John Bell,” November 8, 1896.) {1MR 54.3 1981}
IN THE FIRST ANGEL’S MESSAGE MEN ARE CALLED UPON TO WORSHIP GOD, OUR CREATOR, who made the world and all things that are therein. THEY HAVE PAID HOMAGE TO AN INSTITUTION OF THE PAPACY, MAKING OF NO EFFECT THE LAW OF JEHOVAH, BUT THERE IS TO BE AN INCREASE OF KNOWLEDGE ON THIS SUBJECT. {11Lt Ms, Ms 32, 1896, par. 6{ Also {1MR 44.1 1981}
THE PROCLAMATION OF THE FIRST, SECOND, AND THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGES HAS BEEN LOCATED BY THE WORD OF INSPIRATION. NOT A PEG OR A PIN IS TO BE REMOVED. NO HUMAN AUTHORITY HAS ANY MORE RIGHT TO CHANGE THE LOCATION OF THESE MESSAGES THAN TO SUBSTITUTE THE NEW TESTAMENT FOR THE OLD. THE OLD TESTAMENT IS THE GOSPEL IN FIGURES AND SYMBOLS. THE NEW TESTAMENT IS THE SUBSTANCE. ONE IS AS ESSENTIAL AS THE OTHER. THE OLD TESTAMENT PRESENTS LESSONS FROM THE LIPS OF CHRIST, AND THESE LESSONS HAVE NOT LOST THEIR FORCE IN ANY PARTICULAR. Ms 32, 1896. {CW 26.2 1946}
THE FIRST AND SECOND MESSAGES WERE GIVEN IN 1843 AND 1844, AND WE ARE NOW UNDER THE PROCLAMATION OF THE THIRD; BUT ALL THREE OF THE MESSAGES ARE STILL TO BE PROCLAIMED. IT IS JUST AS ESSENTIAL NOW AS EVER BEFORE THAT THEY SHALL BE REPEATED TO THOSE WHO ARE SEEKING FOR THE TRUTH. BY PEN AND VOICE WE ARE TO SOUND THE PROCLAMATION, SHOWING THEIR ORDER AND THE APPLICATION OF THE PROPHECIES THAT BRING US TO THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE. THERE CANNOT BE A THIRD WITHOUT THE FIRST AND SECOND. THESE MESSAGES WE ARE TO GIVE TO THE WORLD IN PUBLICATIONS, IN DISCOURSES, SHOWING IN THE LINE OF PROPHETIC HISTORY THE THINGS THAT HAVE BEEN, AND THE THINGS THAT WILL BE. {Ms32-1896} {1MR 53.1 1981}
The book that was sealed was not the book of Revelation, but that portion of the prophecy of Daniel which related to the last days. The SCRIPTURE says, “But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.” When the book was opened, the proclamation was made, “Time shall be no longer.” The book of Daniel is now unsealed, and the revelation made by Christ to John is to come to all the inhabitants of the earth. By the increase of knowledge a people is to be prepared to stand in the latter days. {Ms32-1896} {1MR 43.3 1981}
This message, if heeded, will call the attention of every nation and kindred and tongue and people to a close examination of the WORD, and to the true light in regard to the power that has changed the seventh-day Sabbath to a spurious sabbath. THE ONLY TRUE GOD HAS BEEN FORSAKEN, HIS LAW has been discarded, His sacred Sabbath institution has been trampled in the dust by the man of sin. The fourth commandment, so plain and explicit, has been ignored. The Sabbath memorial, declaring who THE LIVING GOD IS, THE CREATOR of the heavens and the earth, has been torn down, and a spurious sabbath has been given to the world in its place. Thus a breach has been made in THE LAW OF GOD. A false sabbath could not be a true standard. {Ms32-1896} {1MR 44.1 1981}
IN THE FIRST ANGEL’S MESSAGE MEN ARE CALLED UPON TO WORSHIP GOD, OUR CREATOR, WHO MADE THE WORLD AND ALL THINGS THAT ARE THEREIN. THEY HAVE PAID HOMAGE TO AN INSTITUTION OF THE PAPACY, MAKING OF NO EFFECT THE LAW OF JEHOVAH, BUT THERE IS TO BE AN INCREASE OF KNOWLEDGE ON THIS SUBJECT. {Ms 32, 1896, par. 6} {1MR 44.1 1981}
Friday, March 20, I arose early, about half past three o’clock in the morning. While writing upon the fifteenth chapter of John, suddenly a wonderful peace came upon me. The whole room seemed to be filled with the atmosphere of heaven. A holy, sacred Presence seemed to be in my room. I laid down my pen and was in a waiting attitude to see what the Spirit would say unto me. I saw no person. I heard no audible voice, but a heavenly Watcher seemed close beside me. I felt that I was in the presence of Jesus. The sweet peace and light which seemed to be in my room it is impossible for me to explain or describe. A sacred, holy atmosphere surrounded me, and there were presented to my mind and understanding matters of intense interest and importance. A line of action was laid out before me as if the unseen presence was speaking with me. The matter I had been writing upon seemed to be lost to my mind and another matter distinctly opened before me. A great awe seemed to be upon me as matters were imprinted upon my mind. {Ms12c-March, 20 1896} {11MR 326 1990} 1896
This ordinance was given for the benefit of Christ’s disciples. And Christ meant all that He said when His lips uttered the words, “I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. . . . If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.” He designed by this to test the true state of the heart and mind of those who participated therein. Ms 8, 1897. {Ev 275.4}
That blood alone is efficacious. It alone can make propitiation for our sins. It is the blood of the ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD that is of value for us that we may draw nigh unto God, His blood alone that taketh “away the sin of the world.” Morning and evening the heavenly universe behold every household that prays, and the angel with the incense, representing the blood of the atonement, finds access to God (Ms 15, 1897) [7BC 971.2]
THE TWO ADAMS WILL MEET IN PARADISE and embrace each other, while the dragon, the beast, and the false prophet, and all who have refused the opportunities and privileges given to them at such infinite cost, and have not returned to their loyalty, will be shut out of Paradise (Ms 33, 1897) [6BC 1093.1]
THE SABBATH QUESTION IS TO BE THE ISSUE IN THE GREAT FINAL CONFLICT, in which all the world will act a part. Men have honored Satan’s principles above the principles that rule in the heavens. They have accepted the spurious sabbath, which Satan has exalted as the sign of his authority. But God has set His seal upon His royal requirement. Each Sabbath institution, both true and false, bears the name of its author, an ineffaceable mark that shows the authority of each. [7BC 977.7] (Ms 88, 1897)
By permitting John to be banished to the Isle of Patmos, Christ placed His disciple in a position where he could receive the most precious truth for the enlightenment of the churches. He placed him in solitude, that his ear and his heart might be sanctified to receive this truth. {Ms94-1897}
The Lord watched over His banished servant, and gave him a new and wonderful revelation of Himself, which he was to give to the churches. The persecution of John’s enemies became a means of grace. Patmos was made resplendent by the glory of a risen Saviour. John had seen Christ in human form, with the marks of the nails, which will ever be His glory, in His hands and feet. Now he was permitted again to behold his risen Lord, clothed with as much glory as a human being could behold, and live. What a Sabbath that was to the lonely exile, always precious in Christ’s sight, but now more than ever exalted. Never had he learned so much of Jesus. Never had he heard such exalted truth. {Ms94-1897}
The worker for God often regards the activities of life as essential to the advancement of the work. Self is mingled with all that is said and done. A dependence on self is seen. The worker looks upon himself as a necessity. God says, This poor soul has lost sight of me and my sufficiency. I must cast my light and my vitalizing power into his heart. I must prepare him to receive truth by anointing him with the heavenly eyesalve. He sees too many things His eye is not fastened on me, his Lord and HIS REDEEMER. {Ms94-1897}
Sometimes the Lord makes His path to the soul by a process painful to humanity. He is compelled to fortify the soul against self-esteem and self-dependence, in order that the worker shall not regard the failings and infirmities of his unsanctified nature as virtues, and thus be ruined by self-exaltation. {Ms94-1897}
If those who claim to believe the grand truths for this time would prepare themselves by searching the SCRIPTURES, by earnest prayer, and by the exercise of faith, they would place themselves where they would receive the light they so much crave. Every soul must be disciplined. The eloquence of silence before God is often essential. If the mind is kept in continual excitement, the ear is prevented from hearing the truth that the Lord would communicate to His believing ones. Christ takes His children from that which hold their attention, that they may behold His glory. {Ms94-1897}
Christ’s servants who are true and faithful may be unrecognized and unhonored by men . . . , but the Lord will honor them. They will not be forgotten by God. He will honor them by His presence because they have been found true and faithful. Those who have grown old in the cause and work of God have an experience of great value for the church. God honors His servants who have grown old in His service. The most glorious truths concerning the last chapters of this earth’s history were given to the aged disciple whom Jesus loved (Ms 109, 1897) [7BC 954.9]
This false Christ was claiming what Satan claimed in heaven—a right to all things. Christ in His humiliation was possessor of all things. In Him was no darkness at all. In the words of Simeon, He was, “A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of my people Israel.” The light of the sanctuary was to be kept burning before God. It was never to burn dim or go out. God was a light so effulgent, that Lucifer occupied the position of covering cherub, so that the universe could at all times look upon His glory. The light was not needed to give light to the heavenly sanctuary; it was to represent His church, to give light to the world. His chosen Israel was to be the light of the world. That light was never to become extinct. {Ms112-1897}
When will Christians know and have a better understanding of God? GOD SAYS, “I AM THAT I AM,” THE HIGH AND LOFTY ONE THAT INHABITETH ETERNITY. “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.” “I AM THE LORD, I CHANGE NOT.” With Him is no variableness neither shadow of turning. {Ms127-1897}
LET US STAND CLEAR OF ALL THESE CHURCH CORRUPTIONS, DISSIPATIONS, AND FESTIVALS which have a demoralizing influence upon young and old. We have no right to throw over them the cloak of sanctity because the means is to be used for church purposes. Such offerings are lame and diseased, and bear the curse of God. They are the price of souls. THE PULPIT MAY DEFEND FESTIVALS, DANCING, LOTTERIES, FAIRS, AND LUXURIOUS FEASTS, TO OBTAIN MEANS FOR CHURCH PURPOSES, BUT LET US PARTICIPATE IN NONE OF THESE THINGS, for if we do, God’s displeasure will be upon us. We do not propose to appeal to the lusts of appetite, or resort to carnal amusements as an inducement to Christ’s professed followers to give of the means which God has entrusted to them. If they do not give willingly for the love of Christ, the offering will in no case be acceptable to God. {Ms132-1897}
WE SEE THE CHURCHES OF OUR DAY ENCOURAGING FEASTING, GLUTTONY, AND DISSIPATION, BY THE SUPPERS, FAIRS, DANCES AND FESTIVALS GOTTEN UP FOR THE PURPOSE OF GATHERING MEANS INTO THE CHURCH TREASURY. Here is a method invented by carnal minds to secure means without sacrificing. Such an example makes an impression upon the minds of the youth. They notice that lotteries and games are sanctioned by the church, and they think there is something fascinating in this way of obtaining means. A youth is surrounded by temptations. He enters the bowling alley, the gaming saloon, to see the sport. He sees the money taken by the one who wins. This looks enticing. It seems an easier way of obtaining money than by earnest work, which requires persevering energy and strict economy. He imagines there can be no harm in this; for similar games have been resorted to in order to obtain means for the benefit of the church. Then why should he not help himself in this way? He has a little means, which he ventures to invest, thinking it may bring him quite a sum. {Ms132-1897}
Whether he gains or loses, he is in the downward road to ruin. But it was the example of the church that led him into this false path. {Ms132-1897}
In giving His commission to His followers, Christ did not tell them they would be left alone. He assured them that He would be near them. He spoke of His Omnipresence in a special way. Go to all nations, He said. Go, to the farthest portion of the habitable globe, but know that My presence will be there. Labor in faith and confidence, for the time will never come when I shall forsake you. (Ms138, December 2, 1897 par. 21)
THE MINDS OF MANY ARE CLOUDED WITH UNBELIEF because those who unite with the church as the chosen of God do not reveal the virtues that are the fruits of the Spirit. Joining the church is not a sure evidence that a man has joined himself to Christ. THE NEW BIRTH IS A RARE EXPERIENCE IN THIS AGE OF THE WORLD. This is the reason why there are so many perplexities in the churches. MANY, SO MANY, WHO ASSUME THE NAME OF CHRIST ARE UNSANCTIFIED AND UNHOLY. They have been baptized, but they were buried alive. Self did not die! and therefore they did not rise to newness of life in Christ. {Ms148-1897} {6BC 1075.7}
In Revelation 14 John beholds another scene. He sees a people whose fidelity and loyalty to THE LAWS OF GOD’S KINGDOM, grow with the emergency. The contempt placed upon THE LAW OF GOD only makes them reveal more decidedly their love for that LAW. It increases with the contempt that is placed upon it (Ms 163, 1897) [7BC 981.9]
God calls upon every member of the church to adorn the doctrines of Christ our Saviour. A child of God, a daughter of the Lord, you are called upon to exert a positive influence for the right. IT IS YOUR PRIVILEGE TO OBEY THE LIVING WORD OF GOD as a truly converted and transformed soul, to perform the highest service as a free, heaven-born spirit, to give evidence that you are worthy of the sacred trust that God has given you by sending His only begotten Son to die for you. IF YOU BELIEVE IN CHRIST AS YOUR PERSONAL SAVIOUR, YOU RECEIVE EVERY GRACE, EVERY SPIRITUAL ENDOWMENT, NECESSARY FOR THE PERFECTING OF THE CHRISTIAN CHARACTER. Show that you appreciate the sacrifice made for you, and regard it as too great to allow you to make a mock of your religious profession by being molded and fashioned after the world’s criterion. Put all there is of you, my sisters, into an effort to get as close as possible to perishing souls. See if you cannot, by a consistent, harmonious, all-round character, by the presentation of truth to individuals who are out of Christ, save some souls from ruin. {Ms167-1897} {OHC 40.6 1961}
Christ is the truth of all that we find in the Father. THE DEFINITION OF HEAVEN IS THE PRESENCE OF CHRIST. {Ms184-1897} [7BC 989.9]
And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; even the Spirit of the truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him; but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. Christ was about to depart to His home in the heavenly courts; but He assured His disciples that He would send them a Comforter, who would abide with them forever. To the guidance of this Comforter all may implicitly trust. He is the spirit of truth, but this truth the world can neither see nor receive. {Ms70a-1897} (12MR 260.1 1990)
The LAMB OF GOD is represented before us as in the midst of the throne of God. He is the great ordinance by which man and God are united and commune together. Thus men are represented as sitting in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. This is the appointed place of meeting between God and humanity (Ms 7-1898) [7BC 967.5]
WHEN DRINK IS IN, REASON IS OUT. This is the hour and power of darkness, when all crime becomes possible, and the whole human machinery is controlled by a power from beneath, when soul and body are brought under the control of passion. And what can stay this passion? What can hinder it? These souls have no certain anchorage. Holidays are leading them on to temptation; for on a holiday many think that it is their privilege, because it is a holiday, to do as they please. Ms 17, 1898. [Te 30.2 1949]
To the poor and oppressed and downtrodden of earth, Christ says, If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, even the Spirit of truth, (which is Christ formed within the hope of glory,) whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not: but ye know him, for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless. (Ms24, February 22, 1898)
CHRIST DETERMINED TO BESTOW A GIFT ON THOSE WHO HAD BEEN WITH HIM AND ON THOSE WHO SHOULD BELIEVE ON HIM, because this was the occasion of His ascension and inauguration, a jubilee in heaven. What gift could Christ bestow rich enough to signalize and grace His ascension to the mediatorial throne? It must be worthy of His greatness and His royalty. CHRIST GAVE HIS REPRESENTATIVE, THE THIRD PERSON OF THE GODHEAD, THE HOLY SPIRIT. THIS GIFT COULD NOT BE EXCELLED. The divine Spirit, converting, enlightening, sanctifying, would be His donation, because He would give all gifts in one. {Ms44-1898 11} {ST, December 1, 1898 par. 2}
Love of self excludes the love of Christ. Those who live for self are ranged under the head of the Laodicean church who are lukewarm, neither cold nor hot. The ardor of the first love has lapsed into a selfish egotism. The love of Christ in the heart is expressed in the actions. If love for Christ is dull, the love for those for whom Christ has died will degenerate. There may be a wonderful appearance for zeal and ceremonies, but this is the substance of their self-inflated religion. Christ represents them as nauseating to His taste [Revelation 3:17, 18 quoted] (Ms 61, 1898) [7BC 962.6]
The sons of men have had a practical knowledge of evil, but Christ came to the world to show them that He had planted for them the tree of life, the leaves of which were for the healing of the nations (Ms 67, 1898) [7BC 989.4]
The leaves of the tree of life are proffered you. They are sweeter than honey and the honeycomb. Take them, eat them, digest them, and your faintheartedness will pass away (Ms 71, 1898) [7BC 989.5]
Christ . . . was the tree of life to all who would pluck and eat (Ms 95, 1898) [7BC 989.6]
These words are given for the people while they are in connection with the world, subject to temptations and influences which are deceiving and deluding. While they stay their mind upon Him who is their sun and their shield, the blackness and darkness that surround them will not leave one spot or stain upon their garments. They will walk with Christ. They will pray and believe and work to save the souls that are ready to perish. These are trying to break the bands that Satan has fastened upon them, and they will not be put to shame if by faith they will make Christ their companion. Temptations and deceptions will be constantly brought up by the great deceiver to spoil the work of the human agent, but if he trusts in God, if he is humble and meek and lowly of heart, keeping the way of the Lord, heaven will rejoice, for he will gain the victory. God says, “He shall walk with Me in white, with unsullied garments, for he is worthy” (Ms 97, 1898) [7BC 960.6]
1898 – Ellen White states, “The church is in the Laodicean state. The presence of God is not in her midst.” (Ms 156, 1898 – Notebook Leaflets from Elms haven Library, Vol.1, Need of Self-Sacrificing Effort, p. 99)
The work of consecration must go forward and upward, elevating the mind, elevating the speech. Thus we become more and more heavenly minded, better prepared for translation. “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. Man is to be perfect in his sphere, as God is perfect in his sphere. How can we attain so lofty a standard? The required perfection is based on the perfection of Christ. In Him is our righteousness. He spoke these words, and he was by birth a human being, though allied to divinity. Every provision has been made that man should be a partaker of the divine nature. God never issues a command without furnishing the grace essential to carry it out. He says, “Without me ye can do nothing.” Ms 157, 1898, pp. 1, 2. (“Be Ye Therefore Perfect,” typed December 5, 1898.) {6MR 5.2 1990}
THE LIVING CHURCH OF GOD IS INDIVIDUALLY A HABITATION OF GOD THROUGH THE SPIRIT, that man may become a well-built temple for the indwelling of the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD, that the Lord Jesus Christ may dwell in his innermost being, ennobling and sanctifying his human nature by His divine attributes, making man a temple for the living God. Man need never dwell upon the inefficiency of human effort, as if it is presumptuous [to think] that man’s human agency is essential in the Lord’s great plan of salvation. {Ms193-1898}
TO THOSE WHO DO NOT PRACTICE IT, THE WORD OF GOD IS A DEAD LETTER. Christ says of such, “I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.” He cannot present their case to the Father. If they realized that they were sinners, He could plead in their behalf, and the Lord would arouse them by HIS HOLY SPIRIT. But they are worse than dead in trespasses and sins. They hear the WORD, but make no application of it to themselves; instead, they apply the WORD spoken to their neighbors (Ms 163a, 1898) [7BC 963.8]
THE PRAYER OF CHRIST TO HIS FATHER, CONTAINED IN THE SEVENTEENTH CHAPTER OF JOHN, IS TO BE OUR CHURCH CREED. IT SHOWS US THAT OUR DIFFERENCE AND DISUNION ARE DISHONORING TO GOD. READ THE WHOLE CHAPTER, VERSE BY VERSE. Ms 12, 1899, 1. (“The Need of a Knowledge of God’s Word,” typed February 22, 1899.) Released June 22, 1971. {5MR 49.1 1990}
The gift of GOD’S DEAR SON makes the promises of God ours of a surety. CHRIST CLOTHED HIS DIVINITY WITH HUMANITY AND PAID THE RANSOM FOR MAN, AND HE DESIRES THAT MAN SHALL ESTIMATE THE LIFE THUS PROVIDED FOR HIM BY THE INFINITE PRICE PAID. Man is to understand by an experimental knowledge the tender love of God for His creatures. God expressed this love in a wonderful way. He could not make man a partaker of the divine nature until HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, ONE EQUAL WITH HIMSELF, should stoop to human nature and reach man where he was. God did not withhold His Son. In Christ humanity touched humanity, while divinity laid hold upon humanity. In Him man becomes a child of God, an heir to all the treasures of heaven. {Ms23-1899} {OHC 40.5 1961}
THOSE WHO WOULD HAVE THE SEAL OF GOD IN THEIR FOREHEADS MUST KEEP THE SABBATH OF THE FOURTH COMMANDMENT. This is what distinguishes them from the disloyal, who have accepted a man-made institution in the place of the true Sabbath. The observance of God’s rest day is the mark of distinction between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not (Ms 27, 1899) [7BC 970.2]
Those who in the face of these specifications refuse to repent of their transgressions will realize the result of disobedience. Individually we need to inquire, In observing a day of rest, have I drawn my faith from the SCRIPTURES, or from a spurious representation of truth? Every soul who fastens himself to the divine, everlasting covenant, made and presented to us as a sign and mark of God’s government, fastens himself to the golden chain of obedience, every link of which is a promise. He shows that he regards GOD’S WORD as above the word of man, God’s love as preferable to the love of man. And those who repent of transgression, and return to their loyalty by accepting God’s mark, show themselves to be true subjects, ready to do His will, to obey His commandments. TRUE OBSERVANCE OF THE SABBATH IS THE SIGN OF LOYALTY TO GOD (Ms 63, 1899) [7BC 981.8]
Those whom Christ warns have some excellent qualifications, but they are neutralized by all who have a diseased self-love, self-deception, self-justification for gross neglect to help brethren in the service of God by encouraging words and deeds. There is a dead fly in the ointment. They are being weighed by One who never makes a mistake. He tells the result of actions which demonstrate that the love of Christ is not an abiding principle in the soul. God calls upon you all to learn from Christ His meekness. Put away your faculty for seeing the mistakes of others. Turn your attention to your own defects. Your self-righteousness is nauseating to the Lord Jesus Christ. [Revelation 3:15-18 quoted.] These words apply to the churches and to many of those in positions of trust in the work of God (Ms 108, 1899) [7BC 962.9]
SUNDAY-KEEPING IS NOT YET THE MARK OF THE BEAST, AND WILL NOT BE UNTIL THE DECREE GOES FORTH causing men to worship this idol sabbath. The time will come when this day will be the test, but that time has not come yet. {Ms118-1899} [7BC 977.9]
Divine ministration is needed to give power and efficiency to the church in this world. God’s family on earth, subject to temptations and trials, is very near to His heart of love. HE HAS ORDAINED THAT COMMUNICATION BE KEPT UP BETWEEN HEAVENLY INTELLIGENCES AND HIS CHILDREN ON THIS EARTH. Angels from the courts above are sent forth to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation (Ms 142, 1899) [7BC 922.4]
I am instructed to bear a message to those who minister by holding forth the WORD OF GOD to others. You must be converted. This is surely what you need. The spiritual anointing of the Lord will never come to self-sufficient men and women. Many who are in God’s service, proclaiming the truth by pen and voice, are not worked by the Holy Spirit. Self has grown to large proportions. Until the soul is emptied of self and the Holy Spirit takes possession, you will be unready for the coming of Christ. You will certainly be weighed in the golden scales of the heavenly sanctuary and be found wanting. {Ms148-1899} {RH, February 7, 1957 par. 10}
But all the heavenly universe saw the result of the conflict with the aged disciple and his separation from his companions in the faith. GOD AND CHRIST AND THE HEAVENLY HOST WERE JOHN’S COMPANIONS ON THE ISLE OF PATMOS. From them he received instruction which he imparted to those separated with him from the world. There he wrote out the visions and revelations he received from God, telling of the things which would take place in the closing period of this earth’s history. When his voice would no longer witness for the truth, when he could no longer testify of the One he loved and served, the messages given to him on that rocky, barren coast were to go forth as a lamp that burneth (Ms 150, 1899) [7BC 954.6]
The battle of Armageddon is soon to be fought. He on whose vesture is written the name, King of kings and Lord of lords, leads forth the armies of heaven on white horses, clothed in fine linen, clean and white (Ms 172, 1899) [7BC 982.5]
The message in regard to the fall of Babylon must be given. God’s people are to understand in regard to the angel who is to lighten the whole world with his glory, while he cries mightily, with a loud voice, “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen.” The solemn events which are now taking place belong to a series of events in the chain of history, the first link of which is connected with Eden. Let the people of God prepare for what is coming upon the earth. EXTRAVAGANCE IN THE USE OF MEANS, SELFISHNESS, HERESIES, HAVE TAKEN THE WORLD CAPTIVE. For centuries satanic agencies have been at work. Will they now give up without a struggle (Ms 172, 1899) [7BC 985.3]
WE NEED TO STUDY THE POURING OUT OF THE SEVENTH VIAL. The powers of evil will not yield up the conflict without a struggle. But Providence has a part to act in the battle of Armageddon. When the earth is lighted with the glory of the angel of Revelation eighteen, the religious elements, good and evil, will awake from slumber, and the armies of the living God will take the field (Ms 175, 1899) [7BC 983.2]
CHRIST had stood in the councils of God, He had dwelt in the innermost recesses of the heavenly sanctuary, and truths, unadulterated and original, were familiar to Him. He taught that which He knew, and testified that which He had seen. HE WAS THE TRUTH, THE WORD OF GOD, THE LIGHT OF LIFE, and He unfolded truth of the higher order. HE WAS THE WORD, THE WISDOM OF GOD, AND HE SPOKE THE TRUTH AS ONE HAVING AUTHORITY. His word was with power, because from His knowledge He was unfolding truth that can never perish—the words of eternal life. {Ms196-1899}
Tuesday, April 17, 1900.–We need men of moral backbone, who can manage this school discreetly. My heart was pained to hear that notwithstanding my talk before the school on Friday morning, when I read a testimony on amusements, and presented before the students the danger of games, the faculty had not wisdom or discernment to understand how to deepen the impression made. They did not give the students to understand that there is an Authority above human wisdom to which they must take heed. The inclinations of the students were heeded, and contempt for the counsel of God was permitted to rule. {Ms26-1900} [8MR 74.5 1990]
The greater man’s influence for good, under the control of the SPIRIT OF GOD, the more determined will be the enemy to indulge his envy and jealousy toward him by religious persecution. But all heaven is on the side of Christ, not of Antichrist. Those who love God and are willing to be partakers with Christ in His sufferings, God will honor. Antichrist, meaning all who exalt themselves against the will and work of God, will at the appointed time feel the wrath of Him who gave Himself that they might not perish but have eternal life. All who persevere in obedience, all who will not sell their souls for money or for the favor of men, God will register in the book of life (Ms 9, 1900) [7BC 950.1]
THE LORD is about to punish the world for its iniquity. He IS ABOUT TO PUNISH RELIGIOUS BODIES FOR THEIR REJECTION OF THE LIGHT AND TRUTH WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN THEM. The great message, combining the first, second, and third angels’ messages, is to be given to the world. This is to be the burden of our work. Those who truly believe in Christ will openly conform to THE LAW OF JEHOVAH. The Sabbath is the sign between God and His people; and we are to make visible our conformity to THE LAW OF GOD by observing the Sabbath. It is to be the mark of distinction between God’s chosen people and the world (Ms 10, 1900) [7BC 949.7]
THERE ARE ONLY TWO PARTIES UPON THIS EARTH–those who stand under the bloodstained banner of Jesus Christ and those who stand under the black banner of rebellion. In the twelfth chapter of Revelation is represented the great conflict between the obedient and the disobedient [Revelation 12:17; 13:11-17 quoted] (Ms 16, 1900) [7BC 974.8]
This message embraces the two preceding messages. It is represented as being given with a loud voice; that is, with the power of the Holy Spirit. Everything is now at stake. THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE is to be regarded as of the highest importance. It IS A LIFE AND DEATH QUESTION. The impression made by this message will be proportionate to the earnestness and solemnity with which it is proclaimed (Ms 16, 1900) [7BC 980.3]
The great final crisis is just before us, when the destiny of every human being will be forever decided. A great work is to be done in setting before men the saving truths of the gospel. To present these truths is the work of the third angel’s message. The Lord designs that the presentation of this message shall be the highest, greatest work carried on in our world at this time. {Ms19-1900} {1MR 57.3 1981}
The whole of the gospel is embraced in the third angel’s message, and in all our work the truth is to be presented as it is in Jesus. In the preaching of the word the first and most important thing is to melt and subdue the soul by presenting the Lord Jesus Christ as the sin-pardoning Saviour. We are to keep before the people the cross of Calvary. We should teach them that Christ’s death was caused by the transgression of THE LAW OF GOD, that Christ died to give men an opportunity of becoming loyal subjects of His kingdom. Never should a sermon be preached, or BIBLE instruction in any line be given, without pointing the hearers to the LAMB OF GOD that taketh away the sin of the world. {Ms19-1900, 1, 4, 5} (March 5 1900.) {1MR 57.3 1981}
The school in Avondale is to be a pattern for other schools which shall be established among our people. Games and amusements are the curse of the Colonies, and they must not be allowed in our school here. {Ms26-1900} [8MR 74.4 1990]
One thing is to be plainly and decidedly carried out. AMUSEMENTS ARE NOT TO BE A PART OF THE EDUCATION given to the students in our school in this place. {Ms26-1900} [8MR 74.6 1990]
ANGELS ARE KEEPING BACK THE DESTROYING AGENCIES; for they have an intense interest for these rebellious sons, and they want to help them to return to the fold in safety and peace, that they may finally be overcomers, and be saved, eternally saved with the family of God in heaven (Ms 29, 1900) [7BC 923.1]
O that those who are halting between two opinions could only understand the agencies continually at work to keep at bay the armies of the power of darkness! By presenting earthly advantages or earthly obstacles to defeat the purposes of God, and by various other methods, Satan would intercept every ray of light from the messengers of God. But if the curtain could be rolled back, and eyes now blind to the invisible agencies could view with restored spiritual vision the conflict continually going on in behalf of the souls perishing away from Christ, what a difference would be made in the working of the agencies in this world! Decided advance movements would be made. Without delay their entire influence for good would be thrown on the side of Christ. They would behold the intense interest of the angels of God in behalf of souls who are throwing away the opportunities and privileges now so valuable to them to obtain an experimental knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ whom He has sent (Ms 29, 1900) [7BC 923.9]
We have a most important work to do—the work of obeying Christ and bearing witness of Him. He said to His disciples, “And ye also shall bear witness of me, because ye have been with me from the beginning.” The disciples were to be honored by bearing witness concerning Christ’s mission. They had been with Him constantly and had gained a most valuable knowledge to impart to others. WE CANNOT BE WITH CHRIST IN PERSON, AS WERE HIS FIRST DISCIPLES, BUT HE HAS SENT HIS HOLY SPIRIT TO GUIDE US INTO ALL TRUTH, AND THROUGH THIS POWER WE TOO CAN BEAR WITNESS FOR THE SAVIOUR. [John 16:13 quoted] (Ms30, June 18, 1900)
If the curtain could be rolled back, and each one could discern the constant activities of the heavenly family to preserve the inhabitants of the earth from Satan’s seductive wiles, lest in their careless attitude they should be led astray through satanic strategy, they would lose a large degree of their self-confidence and self-assurance. They would see that the armies of heaven are in continual warfare with satanic agencies, to obtain victories in behalf of those who do not sense their danger, and who are passing on in unconscious indifference (Ms 32, 1900) [6BC 1120.4]
The Lord has a special message for His ambassadors to bear. They are to give the people the warning, calling upon them to repair the breach that has been made by the papacy in THE LAW OF GOD. THE SABBATH HAS BEEN MADE A NONENTITY, AN UNESSENTIAL REQUIREMENT, WHICH HUMAN AUTHORITY CAN SET ASIDE. THE HOLY DAY OF THE LORD HAS BEEN CHANGED TO A COMMON WORKING DAY. MEN HAVE TORN DOWN GOD’S MEMORIAL, PLACING A FALSE REST DAY IN ITS STEAD. {Ms35-1900}
THE GOSPEL DISPENSATION IS THE LAST PERIOD OF PROBATION THAT WILL EVER BE GRANTED TO MEN. Those who live under this dispensation of test and trial and yet are not led to repent and obey will perish with the disloyal. There is no second trial. The gospel that is to be preached to all nations, kindreds, tongues, and peoples presents the truth in clear lines, showing that obedience is the condition of gaining eternal life. Christ imparts His righteousness to those who consent to let Him take away their sins. We are indebted to Christ for the grace which makes us complete in Him (Ms 40, 1900) [7BC 971.9]
In carrying out his enmity to Christ until He hung upon the cross of Calvary, with wounded, bruised body and broken heart, Satan completely uprooted himself from the affections of the universe. It was then seen that GOD HAD IN HIS SON DENIED HIMSELF, GIVING HIMSELF FOR THE SINS OF THE WORLD, BECAUSE HE LOVED MANKIND. THE CREATOR was revealed in the SON OF THE INFINITE GOD. Here the question, “Can there be self-denial with God?” was forever answered. Christ was God, and condescending to be made flesh, He assumed humanity and became obedient unto death, that He might undergo infinite sacrifice (Ms 50, 1900) [7BC 974.1]
Christ on the cross, not only draws men to repentance toward God for the transgression of HIS LAW–for whom God pardons He first makes penitent– but Christ has satisfied justice; He has proffered Himself as an atonement. His gushing blood, His broken body, satisfy the claims of THE BROKEN LAW, and thus He bridges the gulf which sin has made. He suffered in the flesh that with His bruised and broken body He might cover the defenseless sinner. THE VICTORY GAINED AT HIS DEATH ON CALVARY BROKE FOREVER THE ACCUSING POWER OF SATAN OVER THE UNIVERSE, and silenced his charges that self-denial was impossible with God and therefore not essential in the human family (Ms 50, 1900) [7BC 974.2]
When the mind is drawn to the cross of Calvary, Christ by imperfect sight is discerned on the shameful cross. Why did He die? In consequence of sin. WHAT IS SIN? THE TRANSGRESSION OF THE LAW. Then the eyes are open to see the character of sin. THE LAW IS BROKEN BUT CANNOT PARDON THE TRANSGRESSOR. It is our schoolmaster, condemning to punishment. Where is the remedy? THE LAW drives us to Christ, who was hanged upon the cross that He might be able to impart His righteousness to fallen, sinful man and thus present men to His Father in His righteous character (Ms 50, 1900). [6BC 1110.8]
THE THREE ANGELS’ MESSAGES ARE TO BE COMBINED, GIVING THEIR THREEFOLD LIGHT TO THE WORLD. In the Revelation, John says, “I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory.” [Revelation 18:2-5 quoted.] This represents the giving of the last and threefold message of warning to the world (Ms 52, 1900) [7BC 985.6]
All who enter upon the new life should understand, prior to their baptism, that the Lord requires the undivided affections. . . . The practicing of the truth is essential. The bearing of fruit testifies to the character of the tree. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit. The line of demarcation will be plain and distinct between those who love God and keep His commandments and those who love Him not and disregard His precepts. There is need of a thorough conversion to the truth. Ms 56, 1900. {Ev 308.2}
The atmosphere of the world is charged with spiritual malaria. All who accept of Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour must count themselves dead to all things in their life conduct that Christ would not approve. These newborn souls seldom have sufficient instruction. They are left too much to themselves, and are often tempted, and do not discern the evil of the temptation. Let these souls newly come to the faith feel that it is their privilege to solicit counsel. If they seek the society of those who can help them, they will soon possess the refined taste that will ever choose the company of those who love and fear God. Our conversation with these souls should be of a spiritual, encouraging character. The Lord marks the conflict of every weak, doubting, struggling soul, and he will help all who call upon him. They will see heaven open before them, and angels of God ascending and descending the ladder of shining brightness which they are trying to climb. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 163.1}
The question put to Christ by a lawyer was, “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” There stood the wily priests and rulers expecting to hear from the lips of Christ an answer that would give them opportunity to condemn him. He who reads every heart as an open book understood their purpose. Turning to the lawyer, Christ said unto him, “What is written in THE LAW? how readest thou?” He gives him an opportunity to answer his own question. And the lawyer answering said, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself. And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: This do, and thou shalt live.” Christ will not accept a divided heart. The life of the receiver of truth should witness to the change wrought by the transformation of character. “Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord.” Why? Because they have an indwelling Saviour, who works the mind and heart to reveal that love for Christ which leads them to do his will, not their own. They have that faith which works by love and purifies the soul. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 156.1}
THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD AND OF JESUS CHRIST EXPRESSED IN CHARACTER IS AN EXALTATION ABOVE EVERYTHING THAT IS ESTEEMED IN EARTH OR IN HEAVEN. IT IS THE VERY HIGHEST EDUCATION. It is the very key that opens to us the portals of heaven, that we may obtain eternal life, an immortal inheritance, and eternal substance. All who have this knowledge are constantly advancing heavenward. They have a good report in their own family, in the church, and in the world. Ms 56, 1900. (“Preparation for Baptism,” typed August 12, 1900.) {6MR 165.2}
Before baptism there should be a thorough inquiry as to the experience of the candidate. Let this inquiry be made, not in a cold and distant way, but kindly, tenderly, pointing the new converts to the LAMB OF GOD, who taketh away the sin of the world. Bring the requirement of the gospel to bear upon the candidates for baptism. Christ is represented as bearing the griefs and sorrows caused by sin, and he does this, not only as our sympathizing friend, but as our substitute. Therefore our sins of selfishness, of unamiable temper, of indolence, of wrong habits and practices, are to be positively and firmly put away. The one who breaks with Satan is to give no place to his temptations. LET THE SOULS WHO COME TO CHRIST CONSIDER THAT HE IS THE SIN-BEARER, “wounded for our transgressions, bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.” “Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.” All this is done for the sinner, and as the sinner comes to Christ, helpless, penitent, and humble; as he views the expensive expiation made in his behalf, let the repenting soul lay hold by faith of the provision made to save him, not in his sin, but from his sin. CHRIST AS THE SIN-BEARER MUST TAKE AWAY THE SIN AND RESCUE THE SINNER FROM HIS MORBID SPIRITUAL CONDITION. As he asks for a change of heart, the answer comes, “My son, give me thine heart.” “A new heart will I give thee.” I will restore you to a pure, holy atmosphere, that you, being dead to sin, may live unto righteousness. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 157.1}
Thy sins be forgiven thee.” These words are spoken to the repentant, believing soul. Wonderful Saviour! All need to understand the process of conversion. The fruit is seen in the changed life. True repentance will be shown to be sincere by producing fruit in good works. None can depend upon their profession of faith as proof that they have a saving connection with Christ. It is by conformity to the will of God in our words, our deportment, our character that we prove our connection with him. We cannot depend on any other one to do our work for us. We must perform our duties for ourselves. We must work the will of God, and delight to do his commandments. Then we shall not lean upon any one but Jesus Christ for support and efficiency. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 157.2}
One of the points upon which those newly come to the faith will need faithful instruction is the subject of dress. In the examination of candidates for baptism this subject should not be lost sight of. Let the new converts be faithfully dealt with. Are they vain in dress? do they cherish pride of heart? THE IDOLATRY OF DRESS IS A MORAL DISEASE. IT MUST NOT BE TAKEN OVER INTO THE NEW LIFE. In most cases submission to the gospel requirements will demand a decided change in the dress. True conversion of the heart will work wonderful changes in the outward appearance. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 158.1}
There should be no carelessness in dress. TEACH THE YOUNG CONVERTS THAT DRESS IS A TALENT. For Christ’s sake, whose property we are, we should seek to make the best of our appearance. In the tabernacle service, GOD SPECIFIED EVERY DETAIL CONCERNING THE GARMENTS OF THOSE WHO MINISTERED BEFORE HIM. Thus we are taught that the Lord has a preference in regard to the dress of those who serve him. Very specific were the directions given in regard to Aaron’s robes, for his dress was symbolical. So the dress of Christ’s followers should be symbolical. In all things we are to be representatives of him. Good taste should be exercised in the selection of appropriate colors. Our dress should be tidy and well-fitting. The hair should be carefully arranged. Our appearance in every respect should be characterized by neatness, modesty, and purity. But the WORD OF GOD gives us no sanction in making changes in our apparel merely for the sake of fashion, that we may appear like the world. When the desire for display in dress absorbs the mind, vanity is manifested. All this must be put away. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 158.2}
The words of SCRIPTURE in regard to dress should be carefully considered. The Holy Spirit through the apostle Paul says, “In like manner also, let women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; but (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.” And through the apostle Peter the instruction is given, “Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.” {Ms56-1900} {6MR 159.1}
CHRISTIANS ARE NOT TO DECORATE THE PERSON WITH COSTLY ARRAY OF EXPENSIVE ORNAMENTS. All this display imparts no value to the character. The Lord desires every converted person to put away the idea that dressing as worldlings dress will give value to our influence. THE ORNAMENTATION OF THE PERSON WITH JEWELS AND LUXURIOUS THINGS IS A SPECIES OF IDOLATRY. This needless display reveals a love for those things which are supposed to place a value upon the person. It gives evidence to the world of a heart destitute of the inward adornment. Expensive dress and adornments of jewelry give an incorrect representation of the truth that should always be represented as of the highest value. An overdressed, outwardly adorned person bears the sign of inward poverty. A lack of spirituality is revealed. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 159.2}
Extravagance in dress requires the expenditure of means that is needed to advance the work of the Lord. Extra ribbons and bows mean pennies and shillings spent needlessly. The trimming of ladies’ hats with high-standing bows is a needless expense, and it is unbecoming to a Christian. In the house of God the overtrimmed hats are a positive annoyance. The congregation desire to see the face of the speaker as well as to hear his voice; but the ladies’ hats with their high-standing ribbons and bows, obscure the view. Many in the congregation may be seen peering this way and that to get a glimpse of the speaker; but often their efforts are in vain. Their enjoyment of the service is marred, and the minister, who observes all this, is disturbed. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 160.1}
Satan has a snare laid to captivate unwary souls by leading them to give more attention to the outward adorning than to the inward graces which love of truth and righteousness display as the fruit borne upon the Christian tree. If the enemy can keep the minds of believers centered upon their dress and outward appearance, he is well pleased. They injure their influence, and the cause of truth which they profess to love. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 160.2}
Many indulge a passion for dress. They spend their money for that which is not bread, and are as foolish as was Esau, who sold his birthright for a mess of pottage. Many bar their own souls from entering the strait gate because they cannot indulge their love for display and yet believe in Christ and walk in his footsteps. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 160.3}
Christians should not neglect to search the SCRIPTURES on these points. They need to understand that which the Lord of heaven appreciates in even the dressing of the body. Those who are earnest in seeking for the grace of Christ will heed the precious words of instruction inspired of God. Even the style of the apparel will express the truth of the gospel. THEIR DRESS BEARS ITS TESTIMONY TO THEIR OWN FAMILY, TO THE CHURCH AND THE WORLD, that they are being purified from vanity and selfishness. They demonstrate that they are not idolaters. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 161.1}
Wherever the grace of humility, a meek and quiet spirit, is cherished, the whole person will express the same. The grace of Christ in the heart finds expression in a dignified, decorous deportment. The truth is manifest in the flesh. And truth lived always has an influence in favor of the truth, testifying of practical godliness. All such experiences are of the highest value. The usefulness of the Christian testifies to the genuineness of his conversion. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 161.2}
As those who claim to believe the truth give expression to the truth in appropriate dress and in their words and conduct, they are living epistles for God, known and read by all who behold them. Their chaste conversation is a sign of the inward adorning. They have enlarged influence; a field of usefulness is ever open before them. They are as signs in the world, perpetuating a saving knowledge of divine truth, as salt that has not lost its savour. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 161.3}
And the WORD was made flesh, and dwelt among us,–the same WORD that was in the beginning with God, and was God. Through his own life in human nature, Christ has revealed to us his methods of usefulness in saving souls. His character is to be revealed in his followers. The reception of the great testing truths for these last days never makes the receiver coarse and rough and uncourteous, harsh in conversation and spirit. THE TRUTH GENUINELY BELIEVED IS A REALITY TO THE RECEIVER. IT NEVER DEGRADES, BUT ALWAYS REFINES, ELEVATES, AND ENNOBLES THE RECEIVER. THROUGH SANCTIFICATION OF THE SPIRIT IT MAKES HIM AN AGENCY THROUGH WHOM THE UNSEEN ANGELS OF GOD WORK OUT HIS HOLY PRINCIPLES. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 162.1}
The principles of the Christian life should be made plain to those who have newly come to the truth. Faithful, Christian men and women should have an intense interest to bring the convicted soul to a correct knowledge of righteousness in Christ Jesus. If any have allowed the desire of pleasure or the love of dress to become supreme, so that any portion of their mind, soul, and strength, is devoted to selfish indulgences, the faithful believers should watch for these souls as they that must give an account. They must not neglect the faithful, tender, loving instruction so essential to the young converts, that there may be no half-hearted work. The very first experiences should be right. IF THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN LONG IN THE WAY WILL TRY TO HELP THE ONE WHO IS JUST BEGINNING THE CHRISTIAN COURSE, THEY WILL OFTEN BE AS THE LORD’S LIVING AGENCIES. All who will be true and faithful in the performance of their duty are representatives of Christ, the true Shepherd. If all realized the conflict which each soul must wage with Satanic agencies that are seeking to ensnare and entice and deceive, there would be much more diligent labor done for those who are young in the faith. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 162.2}
AFTER THE BELIEVING SOUL HAS RECEIVED THE ORDINANCE OF BAPTISM, HE IS TO BEAR IN MIND THAT HE IS DEDICATED TO GOD, TO CHRIST, AND TO THE HOLY SPIRIT. These three all cooperate in the great work of the covenant made by baptism in the sight of the heavenly universe. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit receive the believing soul into covenant relation with God. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 163.2}
ALL WHO STUDY THE LIFE OF CHRIST AND PRACTICE HIS TEACHING WILL BECOME LIKE CHRIST. Their influence will be like His. They will reveal soundness of character. They are established in the faith, and will not be overcome by the devil because of vanity and pride. They seek to walk the humble path of obedience, doing the will of God. Their character exerts an influence that tells for the advancement of the cause of God and the healthful purity of his work. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 163.3}
By the reception of the doctrines revealed and the performance of the duties required in the WORD OF GOD, the professed followers of Christ are to witness to the world of their unity with Christ. They are to show that they have been given to Christ by his Father, and are overcomers through the blood of the LAMB and the word of their testimony. They love him who hath redeemed them. They increase in knowledge of Christ through exemplifying his character. And they cherish expectations that will not be disappointed: they expect to see his face and to rejoice in the sunshine of his countenance. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 164.1}
In these thoroughly converted souls the world has a witness to the sanctifying power of truth upon the human character. Through them Christ makes known to the world his character and will. In the lives of God’s children is revealed the blessedness of serving the Lord, and the opposite is seen in those who do not keep his commandments. The line of demarkation is distinct. ALL WHO OBEY GOD’S COMMANDMENTS ARE KEPT BY HIS MIGHTY POWER amid the corrupting influence of the transgressors of HIS LAW. From the lowliest subject to the highest in positions of trust, they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 164.2}
In his prayer to the Father, Christ says of his followers, “The glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” O what possibilities and probabilities are for God’s people if they will humble themselves and exalt the Lord Jesus. {Ms56-1900} {6MR 164.3}
In his prayer the Saviour says further, “Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” {Ms56-1900} {6MR 165.1}
THE ANGEL’S POSITION, WITH ONE FOOT ON THE SEA, THE OTHER ON THE LAND, SIGNIFIES THE WIDE EXTENT OF THE PROCLAMATION OF THE MESSAGE. It will cross the broad waters and be proclaimed in other countries, even to all the world. The comprehension of truth, the glad reception of the message, is represented in the eating of the little book. The truth in regard to the time of the advent of our Lord was a precious message to our souls (Ms 59, 1900) [7BC 971.8]
The church of Sardis is represented as having in it a few faithful ones among the many who had become, as it were, careless and insensible of their obligations to God. “Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.” Who is so favored as to be numbered among these few in Sardis? Are you? Am I? Who are among this number? Is it not best for us to inquire into this matter, in order that we may learn to whom the Lord refers when He says that a few have not stained their white robes of character (Ms 81, 1900) [7BC 959.3]
These are wonderfully solemn and significant statements. IT WAS THE SOURCE OF ALL MERCY AND PARDON, PEACE AND GRACE, THE SELF-EXISTENT, ETERNAL, UNCHANGEABLE ONE, WHO VISITED HIS EXILED SERVANT ON THE ISLE THAT IS CALLED PATMOS (Ms 81, 1900) [7BC 955.11] (John 1:1-3).
Wednesday, April 18, 1900.–The Lord has blessed me, greatly blessed me, as I HAVE TAKEN MY POSITION IN REGARD TO THE AMUSEMENT QUESTION AND THE GAMES WHICH HAVE BEEN UNWISELY INTRODUCED by the faculty, without one word of counsel with me. We should not forget the things which have happened in the past in America. Little did I suppose that these games would be introduced and carried on upon the anniversary of the opening of our school in Cooranbong. Was this the service of thanksgiving that should have been rendered to God? I feel so sorry as I think of this, and I am instructed to say, All these movements should be sharply rebuked; for there has been no sparing of instruction on this point. Ms 92, 1900, pp. 6-8. (Diary, April 16 to 18, 1900.)
All that man can possibly do toward his own salvation is to accept the invitation, “Whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” No sin can be committed by man for which satisfaction has not been met on Calvary. Thus the cross, in earnest appeals, continually proffers to the sinner a thorough expiation. (Ms 50, 1900) [6BC 1071.6]
THE FATHER, THE SON, AND THE HOLY GHOST, POWERS INFINITE AND OMNISCIENT, receive those who truly enter into covenant relation with God. They are present at every baptism, to receive the candidates who have renounced the world and have received Christ into the soul temple. These candidates have entered into the family of God, and their names are inscribed in THE LAMB’S BOOK OF LIFE. {Ms27a-1900} {6BC 1075.5}
My brethren and sisters, appreciate and study the truths God has given for you and your children. Spend not your time in seeking to know that which will be no spiritual help. “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” This is the all-important question, and it has been clearly answered. “What is written in THE LAW? how readest thou? (Ms 26, 1901) [7BC 978.5]
1901 – Recommendations for change are repeated and voted. One chairman is to head the G.C for only one year. Arthur Daniells is elected, but two years later, he is still president. General Conference Executive Committee increases its members from 13 to 25 (GCB p. 151). Ellen White warns that the church is “working upon wrong principles.” (Ms 37, p.98, 1901)
It is working upon wrong principles that has brought the cause of God into its present embarrassment. THE PEOPLE HAVE LOST CONFIDENCE IN THOSE WHO HAVE THE MANAGEMENT OF THE WORK. YET WE HEAR THAT THE VOICE OF THE CONFERENCE IS THE VOICE OF GOD. EVERY TIME I HAVE HEARD THIS, I HAVE THOUGHT THAT IT WAS ALMOST BLASPHEMY. THE VOICE OF THE CONFERENCE OUGHT TO BE THE VOICE OF GOD, BUT IT IS NOT, because some in connection with it are not men of faith and prayer, they are not men of elevated principle. There is not a seeking of God with the whole heart; there is not a realization of the terrible responsibility that rests upon those in this institution to mold and fashion minds after the divine similitude. {Ms37-1901 p,8}
THE LAODICEAN MESSAGE IS APPLICABLE TO THE CHURCH AT THIS TIME. Do you believe this message? Have you hearts that feel? Or are you constantly saying, We are rich and increased in goods, and have need of nothing? Is it in vain that the declaration of eternal truth has been given to this nation to be carried to all the nations of the world? God has chosen a people and made them the repositories of truth weighty with eternal results. To them has been given the light that must illuminate the world. Has God made a mistake? Are we indeed His chosen instrumentalities? Are we the men and women who are to bear to the world the messages of Revelation fourteen, to proclaim the message of salvation to those who are standing on the brink of ruin? Do we act as if we were (Ms 51, 1901) [7BC 961.9]
Those who have taken part in the solemn rite of baptism have pledged themselves to seek for those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. They have pledged themselves to labor earnestly for the saving of sinners. God asks those who name his name, How are you using the powers that have been redeemed by the death of my Son? Are you doing all in your power to rise to a greater height in spiritual understanding? Are you adjusting your interests and actions in accordance with the momentous claims of eternity? Ms 63, 1901, p. 8. (Diary, April 30, 1901). {6MR 166.2}
A banquet has been prepared for us. The Lord has spread before us the treasures of HIS WORD. But we must not come to the repast clothed in citizen’s dress. We must have on the white robe of Christ’s righteousness, which has been prepared for all the guests (Ms 70, 1901) [5BC 1097.5]
GOD’S CHARACTER IS REVEALED IN THE PRECEPTS OF HIS HOLY LAW. THIS IS THE REASON WHY SATAN WISHES THIS LAW TO BE MADE OF NONE EFFECT. BUT NOTWITHSTANDING ALL HIS EFFORTS, THE LAW STANDS FORTH HOLY AND UNCHANGED. IT IS A TRANSCRIPT OF GOD’S CHARACTER. IT CANNOT BE IMPEACHED OR ALTERED. {Ms73-1901}
The Lord desires us to improve in prayer, and to offer our spiritual sacrifices with increased faith and power. “To them gave He power to become the sons of God.” He has given His own Son for our redemption. If by living faith we accept Him as our Saviour, we are placed on vantage ground with God; for Christ stands before His Father, saying, “Lay their sins on me. I will bear their guilt. They are my property. I have graven them upon the palms of my hands.” In our behalf HE PRESENTS BEFORE HIS FATHER THE MARKS OF THE CRUCIFIXION WHICH HE WILL BEAR THROUGHOUT ETERNITY. {Ms91-1901}
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. If you hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches, and meditate upon the instruction given to them, your ears will be closed to the folly and nonsense which surround you. You will neither hear and repeat these things, nor will you ever hanker after them. When Christ satisfies the soul hunger, these trivialities are to you distasteful and disgusting. You have no desire to feast upon them, but choose instead the bread of heaven (Ms 92, 1901) [7BC 957.11]
As we see souls out of Christ, we are to put ourselves in their place, and in their behalf feel repentance before God, resting not until we bring them to repentance. If we do everything we can for them, and yet they do not repent, the sin lies at their door; but we are still to feel sorrow of heart because of their condition, showing them how to repent, and trying to lead them step by step to Jesus Christ (Ms 92, 1901) [7BC 960.2]
Whenever tempted, we have this open door to behold. No power can hide from us the light of the glory which shines from the threshold of heaven along the whole length of the ladder we are to climb; for the Lord has given us strength in His strength, courage in His courage, light in His light. When the powers of darkness are overcome, when the light of the glory of God floods the world, we shall see and understand more clearly than we do today. If we only realized that the glory of God is round about us, that heaven is nearer earth than we suppose, we should have a heaven in our homes while preparing for the heaven above (Ms 92, 1901) [7BC 961.2]
IN THE DEATH STRUGGLE THE SON OF GOD COULD RELY ONLY UPON HIS HEAVENLY FATHER. ALL WAS BY FAITH. He Himself was a ransom, a gift, given for the freeing of the captives. By His own arm He has brought salvation to humanity; but at what a cost to Himself! Ms 125, 1901 (UL 357). {CTr 8.6}
Satan has made men and women his prisoners, and claims them as his subjects. When Christ saw that there was no human being able to be man’s intercessor, He Himself entered the fierce conflict and battled with Satan. THE FIRST BEGOTTEN OF GOD was the only One who could liberate those who by Adam’s sin had been brought in subjection to Satan. {Ms125-1901} {CTr 8.4 1999}
The SON OF GOD gave Satan every opportunity to try all his arts upon Him. The enemy had tempted the angels in heaven, and afterwards the first Adam. Adam fell, and Satan supposed he could succeed in ensnaring Christ after He assumed humanity. All the fallen host looked upon this engagement as an opportunity to gain the supremacy over Christ. They had longed for a chance to show their enmity against God. When the lips of Christ were sealed in death, Satan and his angels imagined that they had obtained the victory. {Ms125-1901} {CTr 8.5 1999}
As representative of the fallen race, Christ passed over the same ground on which Adam stumbled and fell. By a life of perfect obedience to GOD’S LAW, Christ redeemed man from the penalty of Adam’s disgraceful fall. Man has violated GOD’S LAW. Only for those who return to their allegiance to God, only for those who obey THE LAW that they have violated, will the blood of Christ avail. Christ will never become a party to sin. Bearing the penalty of THE LAW, He gives the sinner another chance, a second trial. He opens a way whereby the sinner can be reinstated in God’s favor. Christ bears the penalty of man’s past transgressions, and by imparting to man His righteousness, makes it possible for man to keep GOD’S HOLY LAW (Ms 126, 1901) [6BC 1092.7]
Jesus was free from all sin and error; there was not a trace of imperfection in His life or character. He maintained spotless purity under circumstances the most trying. True, He declared, “There is none good but one, that is, God”; but again He said, “I and my Father are one.” Jesus speaks of Himself as well as the Father as God, and claims for Himself perfect righteousness (Ms 141, 1901) [7BC 929.4]
God, and Christ, and the Holy Spirit–arming them [the disciples] with more than mortal energy, . . . would advance with them to the work and convince the world of sin. Ms 145, 1901. {Ev 616.4}
ANY UNNECESSARY BURDEN PLACED ON THE STOMACH WILL BECLOUD THE BRAIN. Come to a meeting like this, eat a hearty meal, take no exercise, and your ideas are good for nothing. You are sleepy. You do not really understand the propositions to which you assent. Bring your diet into conformity with NATURAL LAWS, and a great change will be seen. {Ms43b-1901} {6MR 309.3 1990}
I have not had meat in my house for years. But do not give up the use of meat because Sister White does not eat it. I would not give a farthing for your health reform if that is what it is based upon. I want you to stand in your individual dignity before men and in your individual consecration before God, the whole being dedicated to him. “If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.” {Ms43b-1901} {13MR 202.2 1990}
I want you to think of these things. Do not make any human beings your criterion. You have a body which is fearfully and wonderfully made. That body should be most carefully dealt with. THE PHYSICAL SYSTEM MUST BE KEPT IN PERFECT ORDER, THAT THE BRAIN POWER MAY BE KEEN AND STRONG. {Ms43b-1901} {13MR 203.1 1990}
After the descent of the Holy Spirit, the disciples went forth to proclaim a risen Saviour, their one desire the salvation of souls. They rejoiced in the sweetness of communion with saints. They were tender, thoughtful, self-denying, willing to make any sacrifice for the truth’s sake. Not only in words, but in deeds, they revealed the love Christ had commanded them to reveal. By holy words and actions they strove to awaken this love in other hearts. {Ms12-1902}
The believers were to cherish the love that had filled the hearts of the apostles after the descent of the Holy Spirit. They were to go forward in willing obedience to the new commandment, “As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” So closely were they to be united to Christ that they would be enabled to fulfil His requirements. The power of a Saviour who could justify them by His righteousness was to be magnified. {Ms12-1902}
But THE EARLY CHRISTIANS BEGAN TO LOOK FOR MISTAKES AND DEFECTS IN OTHERS. Looking at mistakes, encouraging suspicion and doubt, giving way to unkind criticism, they lost sight of the Saviour and of the great love He had expressed for sinners. They became more strict with regard to outward ceremonies, more rigid in their criticisms, more particular about the theory of the faith. They forgot the lesson of love that Christ had enjoined. And saddest of all, they were not conscious of their loss. They did not realize that happiness and joy were going out of their lives. They walked in darkness, the love of God shut out of their hearts. {Ms12-1902}
Because the early Church lost their first love, the word of the Lord came to them in a message of reproof: “Unto the angel of the church at Ephesus write; These things saith He that holdeth the seven stars in His right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labor, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: and hast borne, and hast patience, and for My name’s sake hast labored, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” {Ms12-1902}
WHEN THE CHRISTIAN TAKES HIS BAPTISMAL VOW, DIVINE HELP IS PLEDGED TO HIM. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit stand ready to work in his behalf. God places at his command the resources of heaven, that he may be an overcomer. His own power is small; but God is omnipotent, and God is his helper. Daily he is to make known his wants at the throne of grace. By faith and trust, by availing himself of the resources provided, he will come off more than conqueror. {Ms13-1902} {OHC 157.5}
On the rugged, desolate island John was left alone with God and his faith. Here, among the rocks and cliffs, he held communion with his Maker. He reviewed his past life, and at the thought of the blessings he had received at the hand of God, peace filled his heart. He had lived the life of a Christian, and he could say in faith, “It is well with my soul.” Not so the emperor who had banished him. He could look back only on fields of warfare and carnage, on desolated homes and weeping widows and orphans–the result of his ambitious desire for pre-eminence (Ms 99, 1902) [7BC 955.7]
The line of demarcation between those who serve God and those who serve Him not is ever to remain distinct. The difference between believers and unbelievers should be as great as the difference between light and darkness. WHEN GOD’S PEOPLE TAKE THE POSITION THAT THEY ARE THE TEMPLE OF THE HOLY GHOST, CHRIST HIMSELF ABIDING WITHIN, THEY WILL SO CLEARLY REVEAL HIM IN SPIRIT, WORDS AND ACTIONS, that there will be an unmistakable distinction between them and Satan’s followers. {Ms100-1902} {1NL 79.6 1945} {SpM 243.4 1985}
ALL TRUTH IS TO BE RECEIVED AS THE LIFE OF JESUS. TRUTH CLEANSES US FROM ALL IMPURITY, AND PREPARES THE SOUL FOR CHRIST’S PRESENCE. CHRIST IS FORMED WITHIN, THE HOPE OF GLORY (Ms 103, 1902) [7BC 957.10]
The student of the WORD finds himself bending over a fountain of living water. The church needs to drink deeply of the spirituality of the WORD. Their service to God needs to be very different from the tame, lifeless, emotionless religious experience that makes many believers but little different from those who believe not, very similar in spirit to the unconverted (Ms 117, 1902) [7BC 964.2]
No one is to take part in the solemn ordinance of baptism without giving the subject careful, prayerful thought. The candidates, and especially the youth, are to be carefully instructed in regard to the obligations they assume in taking this step. They pledge themselves to devote their lives to God’s service; and the three great powers of heaven, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, pledge themselves to cooperate with them, to work in and through them. Ms 118, 1902, pp. 1, 2. (“Christ’s Method of Imparting Truth,” October 6, 1902). {6MR 166.3}
The world has no claim to our service; for by a solemn, holy covenant we accepted God’s badge of service at the time of our baptism. On that occasion we pledged ourselves, IN THE PRESENCE OF THE THREE GREAT HEAVENLY POWERS, to come out from the world and be separate. Ms 130, 1902, p. 4. (Diary, October 27, 1902). {6MR 167.1}
The man of sin, who THOUGHT TO CHANGE TIMES AND LAWS, and who has always oppressed the people of God, will cause laws to be made enforcing the observance of the first day of the week. But God’s people are to stand firm for Him. And the Lord will work in their behalf, showing plainly that HE IS THE GOD OF GODS (Ms 135, 1902) [7BC 975.8]
THERE WILL BE MORE AND STILL MORE EXTERNAL PARADE BY WORLDLY POWERS. Under different symbols, God presented to John the wicked character and seductive influence of those who have been distinguished for their persecution of His people. The eighteenth chapter of Revelation speaks of mystic Babylon, fallen from her high estate to become a persecuting power. Those who keep the commandments of God and have the faith of Jesus are the object of the wrath of this power [Revelation 18:1-8 quoted] (Ms 135, 1902) [7BC 980.7]
This terrible picture, drawn by John to show how completely the powers of earth will give themselves over to evil, should show those who have received the truth how dangerous it is to link up with secret societies or to join themselves in any way with those who do not keep God’s commandments (Ms 135, 1902) [7BC 985.7]
This message is an example of the way in which the ministers of God are to give reproof today. Following the commendation for earnest labor comes the reproof for losing the talent of love, which is a most sacred trust. It was the love of God that saved the fallen race from eternal death (Ms 136, 1902) [7BC 956.7]
But notwithstanding their willful ignorance, they are not left by the Lord without added warning and counsel (Ms 138, 1902) [7BC 963.4]
THE LAW AND THE GOSPEL ARE INSEPARABLY BOUND TOGETHER. {Ms146-1902}
IN THE LAST DAYS SATAN WILL APPEAR AS AN ANGEL OF LIGHT, WITH GREAT POWER AND HEAVENLY GLORY, and claim to be the lord of the whole earth. HE WILL DECLARE THAT THE SABBATH HAS BEEN CHANGED FROM THE SEVENTH TO THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK; and as lord of the first day of the week he will present this spurious sabbath as a test of loyalty to him. Then will take place the final fulfilment of the Revelator’s prophecy: {Ms153-1902}
Christ brings His disciples into a living union with Himself and with the Father. Ms 111, 1903; 5BC p 1148
AS JEHOVAH, THE SUPREME RULER, GOD COULD NOT PERSONALLY COMMUNICATE WITH SINFUL MEN, but He so loved the world that He sent Jesus to our world as a revelation of Himself. “I and My Father are one,” Christ declared. No man knoweth “the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal Him” (Matthew 11:27). And Christ is also the revealer of the hearts of men. He is the exposer of sin. By Him the characters of all are to be tested. To Him all judgment has been committed, “because He is the Son of man.” {Ms124-1903} {9MR 122 1990}
CHRIST TOOK WITH HIM TO THE HEAVENLY COURTS HIS GLORIFIED HUMANITY. To those who receive Him, He gives power to become the sons of God, that at last God may receive them as His, to dwell with Him throughout all eternity. If during this life they are loyal to God, they will at last “see His face; and His name shall be in their foreheads.” AND WHAT IS THE HAPPINESS OF HEAVEN BUT TO SEE GOD? WHAT GREATER JOY COULD COME TO THE SINNER, SAVED BY THE GRACE OF CHRIST, THAN TO LOOK UPON THE FACE OF GOD AND KNOW HIM AS FATHER? “Now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face; now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” (1 Corinthians 13:12). {Ms124-1903} Also {9MR 124.1 1990}
The question for us to study is, What is truth–the truth for this time, which is to be cherished, loved, honored, and obeyed? The devotees of science have been defeated and disheartened in their effort to find out God. What they need to inquire is, What is truth (Ms 124, 1903) [6BC 1079.13]
While with the disciples, Christ had revealed to them all the knowledge of God that they could bear. The complete fulfilment of the promise that He would show them plainly of the Father was yet to come. Thus it is today. Now we know in part only. WHEN THE CONFLICT IS ENDED, AND THE MAN CHRIST JESUS ACKNOWLEDGES BEFORE THE FATHER HIS FAITHFUL WORKERS, WHO IN A WORLD OF SIN HAVE BORNE TRUE WITNESS FOR HIM, THEY WILL UNDERSTAND CLEARLY WHAT NOW ARE MYSTERIES TO THEM. {Ms124-1903}
SOME TODAY ARE COMING TO HOLD FALSE IDEAS OF THE INVISIBLE GOD AND ARE PRESENTING THESE IDEAS TO OTHERS. LET THOSE WHO DO THIS KNOW THAT THEIR CHILDISH PORTRAYAL OF GOD IS A MISCONCEPTION. THEY KNOW NOT GOD. BEFORE THE WORLD, BEFORE ANGELS, AND BEFORE MEN, THEY ARE GIVING A FALSE REPRESENTATION OF HIM. {Ms124-1903}
To those to whom these fanciful interpretations are presented, I would say, Let not these sentiments charm your senses and lead you into paths of Satan’s making. Beware, beware of spiritualistic ideas of God. THOSE WHO ENTERTAIN SUCH IDEAS GREATLY DISHONOR HIM. Let every one humble his heart before God. {Ms124-1903}
If every man who has influence could ascend some mount of vision from which he could behold all his works as Christ beholds them when He declares, “I know thy works”; if the laborer could trace from cause to effect every objectionable word and act, the sight would be more than he could bear (Ms 128, 1903) [7BC 963.5]
Much excellent labor was bestowed upon the Laodicean church. To them was given the exhortation, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” But the church did not follow up the work begun by God’s messengers. They heard, but they failed to appropriate the truth to themselves, and to carry out the instruction given them. The result that followed is the result always sure to follow the rejection of the Lord’s warnings and entreaties (Ms 128, 1903) [7BC 964.5]
God’s denominated people–those who on this earth have witnessed to their loyalty. Who are they? Those who have kept the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ; those who have owned the Crucified One as their Saviour (Ms 132, 1903) [7BC 981.4]
There is hope for our churches if they will heed the message given to the Laodiceans (Ms 139, 1903) [7BC 966.8]
This SCRIPTURES represents the character of the people of God for these last days (Ms 139, 1903) [7BC 977.11]
Satan was defeated in his plans, and so He carried the battle until the time that His hands were stretched on Calvary’s cross, and the nails pierced His hands and His feet. He, human, holds His hands to heaven to His Father, and pleads in behalf of man, and He says, I have graven them upon the palms of My hands. There they are. He carries the very marks of the crucifixion; and one thing we are to be thankful for, He took humanity with Him. He went to heaven in His humanity. He took that with Him, the human nature and the divine nature combined, that He might work in behalf of human nature, and understand all the temptations wherewith any one of us are beset, and know how to meet them. {Ms188-1903}
But I will not hold you here. I want you to have a place in the kingdom of God. I WANT YOU TO SEE THE KING IN HIS BEAUTY, AND I WANT YOU TO BEHOLD THE LOVELINESS OF MY SAVIOUR. EVERY ONE OF US THAT HAS A CROWN WILL CAST IT AT THE FEET OF OUR REDEEMER, and touch the golden harp, and fill all heaven with rich music and songs to THE LAMB. I want you to be there. And God help you that you may have a place in that kingdom, to go no more out forever. It is life eternal that we are striving for, and you want to make everything of the talents that God has given you; and then you want to be just as humble and contrite and simple, as Christ was in His labor, and yet the simplicity was eloquence. God will work through us, and He will make us a power in His hands, and we can be fitted for the higher courts above. {Ms190-1903}
IN ALL THAT WE DO, WE ARE TO SEEK THE GLORY OF GOD. “They that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but if the Spirit, if so be that the SPIRIT OF GOD dwell in you. Now if any man have not the SPIRIT OF CHRIST, he is none of His. And if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the SPIRIT OF HIM THAT RAISED UP JESUS from the dead dwell in you, He that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by His Spirit that dwelleth in you.” {Ms198-1903}
The three great and glorious heavenly characters are present on the occasion of baptism. All the human capabilities are to be henceforth consecrated powers to do service for God in representing the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost upon whom they depend. All heaven is represented by these three in covenant relation with the new life. Ms 45, 1904, pp. 9, 10. (“That They All May Be One,” May 14, 1904.) Released March 11, 1975. {6MR 389.3}
We need to come together as men who are amenable to God. We have been bought with a price. WE HAVE ONLY ONE JUDGE, THE MAN CHRIST JESUS. We have not been given the work of measuring one another’s characters. It is our own characters that we are to measure, by the truth contained in the SCRIPTURES. God can enable us to do this and can impress on our minds what we must do in order to inherit eternal life. {Ms56-1904}
Apparently the whole world is guilty of receiving the mark of the beast. But the prophet sees a company who are not worshiping the beast, and who have not received his mark in their foreheads or in their hands. “Here is the patience of the saints,” he declares; “here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus” (Ms 92, 1904) [7BC 979.2]
The apparently weak soul who, with a contrite, trusting spirit takes God at His word and, with a sense of his unworthiness, asks for help, will be given grace to win victory after victory and to gain the eternal weight of glory in the future life. The Lord Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of the Father, is truly God in infinity, but not in personality. He has wrought out the righteousness that enables human beings to overcome every assault of Satan. He will impute His righteousness to the believing saint who walks as He walked when on earth. {Ms 116 Dec 19. 1905} Also {UL 367.4 1982}
OUR CHURCHES ARE BECOMING ENFEEBLED BY RECEIVING FOR DOCTRINES THE COMMANDMENTS OF MEN. Many are received into the church who are not converted. Men, women, and children are allowed to take part in the solemn rite of baptism without being fully instructed in regard to the meaning of this ordinance. Participation in this ordinance means much, and our ministers should be careful to give each candidate plain instruction in regard to its meaning and its solemnity. Ms 10, 1905, p. 4. (“Non-essential Subjects to Be Avoided,” September 12, 1904.) Released August 13, 1974. {6MR 167.3} RH Oct. 6, 1904. {PaM 163.2}
WE ARE NOT TO ALLOW OUR ATTENTION TO BE DIVERTED FROM THE PROCLAMATION OF THE MESSAGE GIVEN US. For years I have been instructed that we are not to give our attention to non-essential questions. There are questions of the highest importance to be considered. Ms 10, 1905, 2. (“Non-Essential Subjects to Be Avoided, September 12, 1904.) {1MR 59.1 1981}
This is the reward to be given to those who have obtained a pure and spotless character, who before the world have held fast to the faith. Jesus Christ will confess their names before the Father and before His angels. They have been true and loyal and faithful. Through evil report as well as good report they have practiced and taught the truth (Ms 26, 1905) [7BC 960.4]
To the idlers in the Lord’s vineyard the Laodicean message is sent (Ms 26, 1905) [7BC 961.4]
The atonement that has been made for us by Christ is wholly and abundantly satisfactory to the Father. God can be just, and yet the justifier of those who believe (Ms 28, 1905) [6BC 1071.7]
But the Lord Jesus could see the end from the beginning. Through John He sent them the warning, “Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief” (Ms 34, 1905) [7BC 958.8]
I am instructed to say to those who endeavor to tear down the foundation that has made us Seventh-day Adventists: We are God’s commandmentkeeping people. FOR THE PAST FIFTY YEARS {WRITTEN IN 1905} EVERY PHASE OF HERESY HAS BEEN BROUGHT TO BEAR UPON US, to becloud our minds regarding the teaching of the WORD–especially concerning the ministration of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary, and the message of heaven for these last days, as given by the angels of the fourteenth chapter of Revelation. Messages of every order and kind have been urged upon Seventh-day Adventists, to take the place of the truth which, point by point, has been sought out by prayerful study and testified to by the miracle-working power of the Lord. But the waymarks which have made us what we are, are to be preserved, and they will be preserved, as God has signified through HIS WORD and the testimonies of HIS SPIRIT. He calls upon us to hold firmly with the grip of faith, to the fundamental principles that are based upon unquestionable authority. {4MR 246.1} Also {1SM 208.2} {SpTB02 59.1} {Ms44-1905}
THOSE WHO SEEK TO REMOVE THE OLD LANDMARKS ARE NOT HOLDING FAST; THEY ARE NOT REMEMBERING HOW THEY HAVE RECEIVED AND HEARD. THOSE WHO TRY TO BRING IN THEORIES THAT WOULD REMOVE THE PILLARS OF OUR FAITH CONCERNING THE SANCTUARY OR CONCERNING THE PERSONALITY OF GOD OR OF CHRIST, ARE WORKING AS BLIND MEN. THEY ARE SEEKING TO BRING IN UNCERTAINTIES AND TO SET THE PEOPLE OF GOD ADRIFT WITHOUT AN ANCHOR. {Ms62-1905} {MR760 9.5 1980, 1981}
WHEN MEN COME IN WHO WOULD MOVE ONE PIN OR PILLAR FROM THE FOUNDATION WHICH GOD HAS ESTABLISHED BY HIS HOLY SPIRIT, LET THE AGED MEN WHO WERE PIONEERS IN OUR WORK SPEAK PLAINLY, AND LET THOSE WHO ARE DEAD SPEAK ALSO, BY THE REPRINTING OF THEIR ARTICLES IN OUR PERIODICALS. GATHER UP THE RAYS OF DIVINE LIGHT THAT GOD HAS GIVEN AS HE HAS LED HIS PEOPLE ON STEP BY STEP IN THE WAY OF TRUTH. THIS TRUTH WILL STAND THE TEST OF TIME AND TRIAL. Ms 62, 1905, 6. (“A Warning against False Theories,” May 24, 1905.) {1MR 55.1 1981}
When Satan rebelled, there was war in heaven, and he, with all his sympathizers, was cast out. He had held a high office in heaven, possessing a throne radiant with light. But he swerved from his allegiance to the blessed and only Potentate, and fell from his first estate. All who sympathized with him were driven from the presence of God, doomed to be no more acknowledged in the heavenly courts as having a right there. Satan became the avowed antagonist of Christ. On the earth he planted the standard of rebellion, and round it his sympathizers rallied (Ms 78, 1905) [7BC 973.8]
THE LORD JESUS CHRIST, THE ONLY BEGOTTEN SON OF THE FATHER, IS TRULY GOD IN INFINITY, BUT NOT IN PERSONALITY. {Ms 116. Dec 19. 1905}
The instruction to be communicated to John was so important that Christ came from heaven to give it to His servant, telling him to send it to the churches. This instruction is to be the object of our careful and prayerful study; for we are living in a time when men who are not under the teaching of the Holy Spirit will bring in false theories. These men have been standing in high places, and they have ambitious projects to carry out. They seek to exalt themselves, and to revolutionize the whole showing of things. God has given us special instruction to guard us against such ones. He bade John write in a book that which should take place in the closing scenes of this earth’s history (Ms 129, 1905) [7BC 953.9]
THE LORD HAS DECLARED THAT THE HISTORY OF THE PAST SHALL BE REHEARSED AS WE ENTER UPON THE CLOSING WORK. EVERY TRUTH THAT HE HAS GIVEN FOR THESE LAST DAYS IS TO BE PROCLAIMED TO THE WORLD. EVERY PILLAR THAT HE HAS ESTABLISHED IS TO BE STRENGTHENED. WE CANNOT NOW STEP OFF THE FOUNDATION THAT GOD HAS ESTABLISHED. . . .THERE IS NEED NOW TO REHEARSE THE EXPERIENCE OF THE MEN WHO ACTED A PART IN THE ESTABLISHMENT OF OUR WORK AT THE BEGINNING. Ms 129, 1905, 3. (“Steadfast unto the End, “December 24, 1905.) {1MR 54.2 1981}
After the passing of the time, God entrusted to his faithful followers the precious principles of present truth. These principles were not given to those who had had no part in the giving of the first and second angels’ messages. They were given to the workers who had had a part in the cause from the beginning. Ms 129, 1905, 2. (“Steadfast unto the End,” December 24, 1905.) {1MR 58.1 1981}
I cannot begin to tell it all, but the latest is the THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE. It is to be proclaimed, and we are to carry the banner with the inscription, The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. That is what we are to bear. There is no such thing as these spiritualistic ideas that must come into our mind at all, that we have no personal Christ and we have no personal God. Brethren, HOLD FAST TO THE SANCTUARY. HOLD FAST TO CHRIST JESUS; HOLD FAST TO THE FATHER. AND EVERY POINT OF PRESENT TRUTH THAT WE HAVE HEARD THAT WE HAVE EXPERIENCED, WE ARE TO PROCLAIM WHENEVER WE SHALL GO. {Ms188-1905.30}
The losing of the first love is specified as a moral fall. The loss of this love is represented as something that will affect the entire religious life. Of those who have lost this love, God says that unless they repent, He will come to them, and remove their candlestick out of its place (Ms 1, 1906) [7BC 957.4]
It is our privilege to gather strength from the Lord and to be fitting up characters for translation to heaven and to the mansions that He is preparing for us. We should be continually grateful for the power from above that has been promised us. Christ was that “true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the WORD was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the Only Begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” {Ms11-1906} {2SAT 274.2 1994}
This change is represented as a spiritual fall. “Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works”–as outlined in the preceding verses. The believers did not sense their spiritual fall. They knew not that a change had taken place in their hearts, and that they would have to repent because of the noncontinuance of their first works. But God in His mercy called for repentance, for a return to their first love and to the works that are always the result of true, Christlike love (Ms 11 1906) [7BC 957.3]
The United States is a land that has been under the special shield of THE OMNIPOTENT ONE. God has done great things for this country, but in the transgression of HIS LAW, men have been doing a work originated by the man of sin. Satan is working out his designs to involve the human family in disloyalty (Ms 17, 1906) [7BC 975.4]
When the fifth seal was opened, John the Revelator in vision saw beneath the altar the company that were slain for the WORD OF GOD AND THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS CHRIST. After this came the scenes described in the eighteenth of Revelation, when those who are faithful and true are called out from Babylon [Revelation 18:1-5 quoted] (Ms 39, 1906) [7BC 968.5]
In the name of whom were you baptized? You went down into the water IN THE NAME OF THE THREE GREAT WORTHIES IN HEAVEN THE FATHER, THE SON, AND THE HOLY GHOST. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost you were buried with Christ in baptism; and you were raised up out of the water to live in newness of life. You were to have a new life. You were to live unto God; you were not to live unto yourself and keep yourself under your own supervision for fear someone would touch you and hurt you. {Ms95 1906} {1SAT 363.1}
Here is where the work of the Holy Ghost comes in, after your baptism. You are baptized in the name of THE FATHER, OF THE SON, AND OF THE HOLY GHOST. You are raised up out of the water to live henceforth in newness of life–to live a new life. You are born unto God, and you stand under the sanction and the power of the three holiest Beings in heaven, who are able to keep you from falling. You are to reveal that you are dead to sin; your life is hid with Christ in God. Hidden “with Christ in God”–wonderful transformation. This is a most precious promise. When I feel oppressed and hardly know how to relate myself toward the work that God has given me to do, I just call upon THE THREE GREAT WORTHIES, and say: You know I cannot do this work in my own strength. You must work in me, and by me, and through me, sanctifying my tongue, sanctifying my spirit, sanctifying my words, and bringing me into a position where my spirit shall be susceptible to the movings of the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD upon my mind and character. And this is the prayer that every one of us may offer. {Ms95-1906} {1SAT 367.3}
In order to prepare for entrance into this beautiful city, we must now be clothed with the wedding garment–with the robe of Christ’s righteousness. We must stand before Him without spot or wrinkle or any such thing. You have not been appointed to talk about others’ faults. While probation still lingers, every soul ought to be washing his own robe of character, and preparing for translation. {Ms95-1906} {7MR 268.4 1990}
WHEN PROBATION ENDS, IT WILL COME SUDDENLY, UNEXPECTEDLY–AT A TIME WHEN WE ARE LEAST EXPECTING IT. But we can have a clean record in heaven today, and know that God accepts us; and finally, if faithful, we shall be gathered into the kingdom of heaven (Ms 95, 1906) [7BC 989.12]
How shall I bear impressively the commission Christ has given to His people the privilege of being workers with the Spirit of all truth manifest in the flesh the DIVINE SON OF GOD, clothed with humanity, a channel devised and prepared to be continually receiving and imparting the heavenly current? (Ms125, July 25, 1906)
But they neglected to cherish Christ’s compassion and tenderness. Self, as manifested in hereditary traits of character, spoiled the principles of the grand, good works that identified the members of the Ephesus church as Christians. The Lord Jesus must needs show them that they had lost that which was everything to them. The love that constrained the Saviour to die for us, was not revealed in its fullness in their lives; and hence they were unable to bring honor to the name of THE REDEEMER. And as they lost their first love, they increased in a knowledge of scientific theories originated by the father of lies (Ms 11, 1906) [7BC 956.5]
BELIEVERS MUST NOT EXPECT TO GAIN ETERNAL LIFE WITHOUT MEETING TRIAL AND DIFFICULTY. They are to prepare to do the work that Christ did and to meet the trials that He daily experienced. Christ and Belial are at work in the world, and there is no peace or unity between them. The enmity which in the garden of Eden God declared should exist between the serpent and the Seed of the woman is very apparent. Satan is constantly seeking to lead men into error. He is the god of all dissension, and he has no lack of isms to bring forward to delude. New sects are constantly arising to lead from the truth; and instead of being fed with the bread of life, the people are served with a dish of fables. The SCRIPTURES are wrested and, taken from their true connection, are quoted to give falsehood the appearance of truth. The garments of truth are stolen to hide the features of heresy. {Ms43-1907} {7MR 354.2 1990}
Any man who seeks to present theories which would lead us from the light that has come to us on the ministration in the heavenly sanctuary, should not be accepted as a teacher. A true understanding of the sanctuary question means much to us as a people. When we were earnestly seeking the Lord for light on that question, light came. In vision I was given such a view of the heavenly sanctuary and the ministration connected with the holy place, that for many days I could not speak of it. Ms 125, 1907, p. 6. (“Lessons From the Visions of Ezekiel,” July 4, 1905.) {4MR 249.2} Also {OFC 271.5} {MR760 31.1} {PC 61.4}
On the Isle of Patmos, CHRIST REVEALED HIMSELF TO JOHN, ENABLING HIS SERVANT TO ENDURE THE SEEING OF THINGS OF ETERNAL INTEREST. NO MORTAL BEING CAN ENDURE THE REVELATION OF GOD. His presence has always been shrouded by a guard of angels. BUT TO JOHN WAS GIVEN THE PRIVILEGE OF SEEING CHRIST, not in the burning bush, but AMIDST THE INDESCRIBABLE GLORY OF THE HOLY SANCTUARY. Never was there a grander meeting than the meeting between John and Christ on the Isle of Patmos. The wonderful vision was accompanied by the words, “Prepare to meet thy God, O Israel.” It was no sophistry, but the presence of THE DIVINE BEING WHO AT THE TIME OF HIS ASCENSION HAS TAKEN INTO THE HEAVENLY COURTS A GLORIFIED HUMANITY. He announced Himself as the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last, and He came to give John a message for the churches. {Ms168-1907}
What a song that will be when the ransomed of the Lord meet at the gate of the Holy City, which is thrown back on its glittering hinges and the nations that have kept His word–His commandments–enter into the city, the crown of the overcomer is placed upon their heads, and the golden harps are placed in their hands! All heaven is filled with rich music, and with songs of praise to THE LAMB. Saved, everlastingly saved, in the kingdom of glory! To have a life that measures with the life of God–that is the reward (Ms 92, 1908) [7BC 982.2]
THE GIFT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IS PROMISED TO ALL WHO BELIEVE. But we shall find that it makes every difference whether or not we bear a living testimony in character, in mind, in intellect, and serve the Lord with full purpose of heart as we work to bring the light of truth to souls in every place. {Ms7-1909}
My mind has been much exercised of late in regard to our need of the guidance of the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD. The promise is given us, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you;” and the assurance is repeated, “For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” The thought is enforced upon us that our dependence must be more fully upon God. He is ready and willing to do for us the very things that we need. Let us trust Him as His children. {Ms7-1909}
(The congregation rose.) Here is the whole congregation. May God help you to keep your pledge. Let us pray. {Ms7-February, 8 1909}
(Praying) Heavenly Father, I come to THEE at this time, just as I am, poor, weak, unworthy, and I ask THEE to impress the hearts of this people gathered here today. I have spoken to them THY words, but O Lord, THOU alone canst make the word effective. {Ms7-1909} (Sermon at Oakland, California, Feb. 8, 1909.) {3SM 269.4 1980}
I ask THEE to forgive those who have failed in serving THEE. Reveal THYSELF to them. Impress their minds. Let the converting power of God come upon them. Present before them in clear gospel light their privilege to reflect the character of Christ in words, in actions. Teach them that in order to be partakers in the strife, in order to obtain victories, spiritual victories, they must be partakers of the divine nature. {Ms7-1909}
We beseech THEE, for Christ’s sake, to sweep away this awful darkness that would hide from view the religion of Christ. We cannot do this, for we are mortal; but we can ask THEE, THOU God of heaven. Impress the minds of this people as THOU hast never done before. Reveal it to them that there is a heaven to win and a hell to shun. Grant them the presence of THINE angels in every home. These who have pledged themselves to seek the Lord, help them to be in earnest; help them to understand that they are to be living lights, bringing to others the convicting power of the SPIRIT OF GOD. {Ms7-1909}
We want our school to be established. Lord, THOU knowest all about this. We know that we have looked to THEE in this matter, that we have cried to THEE in the night seasons, asking THEE to take charge here. O I pray THEE, that THOU wilt make it such a school as has never yet been established among us. Let angels of God take charge of the work and carry it through to THINE own name’s glory. Let the SPIRIT OF GOD be present to enlighten the minds and touch the hearts of the students as the teachers give instruction that ought to be given. Let the glory of God come in, and let hearts and minds grasp the truths of the WORD OF GOD as they have never before done. {Ms7-1909}
Lord, prepare Thy people to meet Thee in peace. We need the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD in every heart. Let Thy converting power come upon us as it came upon Thy people on the day of Pentecost. O God, reveal Thyself to us. {Ms7-1909}
Let THY blessing rest upon us, dear Saviour. Let light shine into the chambers of the mind and into the soul temple, that we may see light in THY light, and joy in THY joy, as we see sinners turning to God with the whole heart. We have no power but in THEE. We ask THEE to mold and fashion us and give us an experience after the divine similitude. {Ms7-1909}
God has given His people a great work to do in the world, and every soul who professes to be a son or daughter of God should give evidence that his heart is being impressed by the Holy Spirit. This will mean everything to the success of his labors. The Lord has placed various gifts in the church, that we may appreciate these gifts and act our part in the grand, finishing-up work of this earth’s history. Let us understand our need of communion with God. We are to experience the sanctifying power of His grace on the human heart. We are to be submissive to the will of God and willing to engage in the work that He has appointed His servants to do. {Ms21-1909}
(Congregation rises)—Praying—I thank THEE, Lord God of Israel. Accept this pledge of this THY people. Put THY Spirit upon them. Let THY glory be seen in them. As they shall speak the word of truth, let us see of the salvation of God. Amen. {Ms21-1909} Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White, Takoma Park Station, May 17, 1909. {Also in DG 247.2 1998; 1SM 152.3 1958; & GCB, May 18, 1909 par. 20}
Christ, the heavenly Teacher, will lead His people to the tree of life that grows on either side of the river of life, and He will explain to them the truths they could not in this life understand. In that future life His people will gain the higher education in its completeness. Those who enter the city of God will have the golden crowns placed upon their heads. That will be a joyful scene that none of us can afford to miss. We shall cast our crowns at the feet of Jesus, and again and again we will give Him the glory and praise His holy name. Angels will unite in the songs of triumph. Touching their golden harps, they will fill all heaven with rich music and songs to THE LAMB (Ms 31, 1909) [7BC 988.8]
The first chapter of Daniel teaches the lesson that what we eat and drink has an influence upon the powers of the mind, and that if we would have healthful bodies and clear minds, we must be careful of our diet. If we are careless in this matter, and eat simply to gratify taste, the digestive organs are impaired, and the brain is confused, and neither can act their part as fully as God intended they should. {Ms73-1909}
(Congregation rises.) (Praying): My heavenly Father, I have tried to present in my weakness those things that THOU hast presented before me again and again to congregations that I have not seen assembled; and this is one of them. I ask THEE now to make the impression upon the human mind. THOU canst do it; for THOU art God, and beside THEE there is none else. THOU hast given THINE only begotten Son to make plain the way constantly beset with temptations by the enemy. I ask THEE, Lord, to bless this people here today. Sweep back every mist and cloud of darkness, and let the sunlight of THY glory in. Work by THY HOLY SPIRIT upon the minds of parents and children, that all may labor together for the spread of the knowledge of the truth. {Ms73-1909}
God, the living God, souls are perishing, and Satan is working to call the attention of the people to nothingness and folly. Wilt THOU not go with this people, as they leave this meeting, and teach them daily to lay hold of the merits of THE PRECIOUS REDEEMER. THOU hast given so much for these souls; help them to make a covenant with THEE by sacrifice, that they may have a part in that life that measures with the life of God. We want them to have the crown of glory and to strike the harp of gold. Lord, take this people; baptize them with THY HOLY SPIRIT. Let them see light in THY light and rejoice in THY truth. There is a heaven for them to win, a hell for them to shun. Grant that they may be crowned in the kingdom of glory, never again to go out into a sin-cursed world, where all is renewed by THY sacrifice, OUR BLESSED REDEEMER. {Ms73-1909}
Take these souls into THY keeping. Make the impression upon their minds that heaven must be won by them, that they must withstand the tests of Satan. Bless them this day. THOU hast blessed them. Bless mind, and soul, and body, and help each to arouse to earnest labor for others. Make them laborers together with God in the work of salvation, and THY blessed name shall have all the glory. {Ms73-1909} Sermon delivered by Mrs. E. G. White, Sabbath, August 27, 1909, Council Grove, Kansas, camp-meeting. {Also Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. June, 1983. Entire Ms. {2SAT 321.1 1994}}
And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith He that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come upon thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. Thou hast a few names even in Sardis; which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white; for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the sane shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels. He that hath an ear to hear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. {Ms95-1909}
(Congregation rises.) I thank God for this evidence of the Holy Spirit in our midst. May God clothe you with His salvation and bring you in close relation to Himself. He wants to do this for each one of you. Let us pray: {Ms95-1909}
Our heavenly Father, we come to THEE just as we are, needy, dependent, weak, and ask THEE that for Christ’s sake THOU wilt recognize and accept the pledge made here today. I beseech THEE to sweep back every cloud and every power of darkness that would interpose between this people and the work that they have pledged themselves to do. O help them! Baptize them with THY SPIRIT. Let the light of heaven come into their minds and hearts. Help them to consider the life of the One who for them was stretched on Calvary’s cross, who to rescue them from the sorrows of the lost, suffered a cruel death. We ask THEE that the blood that was shed to cleanse mankind from sin may atone for us. {Ms95-1909}
Help us by living faith to carry out every pledge we make. May angels of God strengthen every soul, that the powers of Satan may not discourage. Father, THOU dost love us with a love that is infinite. It cannot be measured. Impress this people with the knowledge that angels are here. Impress them with their privilege of going forth from this place to reveal the glory of God. Let us see light in THY light. Grant that these souls, as they shall return to their homes, may not forget their pledge. Let the light of heaven shine continually in their hearts and minds. Amen. {Ms95-1909} Discourse by Mrs. E. G. White, Boulder, Colorado, Sunday, September 5, 1909. {Ms95-1909}
Now I am weak, to what I have been sometimes, but I thank God I can speak to you. And I want every one of you to just read your BIBLES. Here is the educational book. You read very much of it, and you will see how God regards the higher education. It is in the Book. God help us that we may take hold of the educational interest in an altogether different bearing. We want our children associated with the heavenly interests in the heavenly sanctuary, and angels of God round about them. Angels of God are here today. Angels of God were here yesterday, moving upon the hearts. We know that. Now we want you to act just like living men and living women that have an interest in Jesus Christ, that you want to draw with all the power of your influence souls away from Satan’s ranks and place them where the heavenly angels will be their guardians, and will charge of them. We want every one of you to be Christians. We want to the King in His beauty. {Ms118-1909}
We need to encourage faith. We need the simplicity that Christ has encouraged us to have all the representations that He has given us, to have a large increase of faith, and that faith growing continually. We are not safe Christians unless we exercise that faith in Jesus Christ that we may exercise when we can READ HIS WORDS IN THE SCRIPTURES. {Ms123-1909}
(Congregation rises.) Thank God. {Ms123-1909}
(Praying:) Heavenly Father, we come to THEE at this time, and present to THEE the covenant that has been made by this people, that they will seek the Lord with all their hearts, that they may find Him. Let THY blessing come to this people, I pray THEE. Let THY great grace be upon them. Sweep back every mist and every cloud of darkness, and let the sunlight of THY glory into their souls, that they may keep this pledge that they have made to THEE in standing upon their feet today. {Ms123-1909}
THOU knowest the hearts of every one. THOU art acquainted with every sorrow. THOU knowest how to heal the broken-hearted. THOU knowest how to set the captives free from the power of Satan. THOU knowest just what to do to break every yoke, that they may seek the Lord, that the angels of God may go with those and accompany them when they shall leave this house. And THOU, heavenly Father, THOU canst give them force and power and healing of soul. THOU canst disappoint the enemy. THOU canst let THY light shine into the chambers of the mind and into the soul temple. THOU canst take the afflicted ones. THOU canst heal them, and THOU canst give peace and quietude to the disturbed minds. {Ms123-1909}
I come to THEE, my Saviour, and I ask THEE that THOU wouldest give that help that humanity may recognize divinity through Jesus Christ and grasp that divinity, that they may work the good warfare, that they may press the battle to the gates, and the city of God, the gates be thrown back upon their glittering hinges, and the nations that have kept the truth shall enter in. {Ms123-1909}
We want heaven. We want life, eternal life in the kingdom of glory. Let Thy blessing rest upon this people. Give comfort to the desponding. Lift up the hearts of the despairing, and may they see the Saviour in Jesus Christ, that humanity may grasp divinity, and that the glory of God may be revealed. A little nearer, Lord. A little nearer to this people. Comfort their hearts. Let them see where their hope is. It is to believe every word that has proceeded from the lips of Jesus Christ, and then be obedient to all His requirements. {Ms123-1909}
O my Saviour, I praise THEE with heart and soul and voice. I thank THEE, my Saviour that thou canst impress these minds. Let them leave this meeting with the deep impression of the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD. May they see such light in THY light that they will not trample Thy commandments any more. {Ms123-1909}
JESUS, we love THEE. We see in THEE matchless charms, and we want this people to come to a knowledge of the truth. We see the unconverted in the cities. We see that help must be given. We see that souls must take up the work, and O, glorify them, my blessed Jesus. Give them truth, the power of the truth in the heart, and may they seek to enlighten the minds that are in darkness, that they may be brought to rejoice in the triumphs of THY cross, and THY name shall have all the glory. {Ms123-1909} Buffalo, New York July 17, 1909
They claim to be in Him but they are not there. “Every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” Now we can understand that every thing depends, with us individually, on whether we are fruit-bearing branches. And every branch that beareth fruit in the vine, then what will He do? Verse 2. {Ms140-1909}
(Congregation rises.) Thank the Lord. (Praying:) THOU seest the pledge of this people. I beseech of THEE, for Christ’s sake, that this pledge may be so impressed upon them that they will begin to work for their neighbors, that they will work for souls that are ready to perish, that they will open the SCRIPTURES to them, and then their experience will grow, because Christ has taught them to do that very work. {Ms140-1909}
I ask THEE, Lord, to let THY blessing rest upon this congregation. O, my Father, my Father, for Christ’s sake make the impression. I cannot make it, but I want THEE to make it, that there shall be a beginning of an altogether different experience. Instead of finding fault, instead of complaining, instead of being untrue to Christ who gave His life to save our souls, may we every one of us stand in right relation to Thee from this hour. {Ms140-1909}
We want THEE, Lord. We open our hearts to THEE. We want to remain a branch of the true vine, and we want to teach others what it means to be a branch of the true vine. Bless this congregation that right here stands before THEE. O, make the impression. I cannot make the impression, but the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD can make it, and I ask THEE that they may study this chapter, and that they may bear fruit to the glory of God, and that at last we may meet in the city of God, where parents and children shall be united, because the parents have done their duty to their children. {Ms140-1909}
O, my Father, my Father, I ask THEE for Christ’s sake to make the impression that THOU alone canst make, and THY blessed name shall have all the glory. {Ms140-1909} Oakland, California December 18, 1909
O God, I beseech of Thee to work. Thou didst send one equal with Thyself to live in the world a life of poverty and toil. Traveling on foot from place to place, He endured hardness and hunger. My Father, we are ashamed of the presentation we have made. Wilt Thou not baptize us, Lord? Let Thy converting power come upon this people. Help them to make a determined effort to resist the enemy, and that he may flee from them; and Thy blessed name shall have all the glory. {Ms7-1909} {Also 3SM 269.4}
AT TIMES, WHEN A SMALL GROUP OF MEN ENTRUSTED WITH THE GENERAL MANAGEMENT OF THE WORK HAVE, IN THE NAME OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE, SOUGHT TO CARRY OUT UNWISE PLANS AND TO RESTRICT GOD’S WORK, I HAVE SAID THAT I COULD NO LONGER REGARD THE VOICE OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE, REPRESENTED BY THESE FEW MEN, AS THE VOICE OF GOD. But this is not saying that the decisions of a General Conference composed of an assembly of duly appointed, representative men from all parts of the field should not be respected. GOD HAS ORDAINED THAT THE REPRESENTATIVES OF HIS CHURCH FROM ALL PARTS OF THE EARTH, WHEN ASSEMBLED IN A GENERAL CONFERENCE, SHALL HAVE AUTHORITY. THE ERROR THAT SOME ARE IN DANGER OF COMMITTING IS IN GIVING TO THE MIND AND JUDGMENT OF ONE MAN, OR OF A SMALL GROUP OF MEN, THE FULL MEASURE OF AUTHORITY AND INFLUENCE THAT GOD HAS VESTED IN HIS CHURCH in the judgment and voice of the General Conference assembled to plan for the prosperity and advancement of His work. {Ms38a-1909} {9T 260.2} Also {PC 422.3-4}
I HAVE OFTEN BEEN INSTRUCTED BY THE LORD THAT NO MAN’S JUDGMENT SHOULD BE SURRENDERED TO THE JUDGMENT OF ANY OTHER ONE MAN. NEVER SHOULD THE MIND OF ONE MAN OR THE MINDS OF A FEW MEN BE REGARDED AS SUFFICIENT IN WISDOM AND POWER TO CONTROL THE WORK AND TO SAY WHAT PLANS SHALL BE FOLLOWED. But when, in a General Conference, the judgment of the brethren assembled from all parts of the field is exercised, private independence and private judgment must not be stubbornly maintained, but surrendered. Never should a laborer regard as a virtue the persistent maintenance of his position of independence, contrary to the decision of the general body. {Ms38a-1909} {9T 260.1}
WHEN THIS POWER, WHICH GOD HAS PLACED IN THE CHURCH, IS ACCREDITED WHOLLY TO ONE MAN, AND HE IS INVESTED WITH THE AUTHORITY TO BE JUDGMENT FOR OTHER MINDS, THEN THE TRUE BIBLE ORDER IS CHANGED. Satan’s efforts upon such a man’s mind would be most subtle and sometimes well-nigh overpowering, for the enemy would hope that through his mind he could affect many others. Let us give to the highest organized authority in the church that which we are prone to give to one man or to a small group of men. {9T 261.1 1909} {Ms38a-1909}
But now here was our Saviour, as it were, dying on the field of battle, AND HIS DISCIPLES [WERE] ASLEEP. How I have felt when I have thought of these things! He staggered, with the bloody sweat coming from His pores, moistening the sod of Gethsemane; and there was the cup of sufferings presented to Him; and He went to see where His disciples were, and they were asleep. ARE WE ASLEEP? He staggered back again, and began to pray for them, and here it was that the mysterious cup trembled in His hand. Should He drink of that cup, that cup of sufferings? “If it be possible,” He said, “let this cup pass from Me.” A strong angel was sent from heaven to strengthen Him. What if He had let that cup of sufferings alone? WE SHOULD HAVE BEEN LOST. He drank that cup for us, and we want to understand it. We want to sense what He has suffered in our behalf. He did not draw back from any representation of sufferings. {Ms78-1910}
Satan has the advantage in many things. He can quote all those glories that he had in the heavenly sanctuary just as though they belong to him, and he will quote these things. He is working upon human minds, and he will bring in all the sophistries that he can bring before them, and he will mix in with some of his wonderful, wonderful learning and agency that he had in the heavenly courts. And they think he is certainly excellent. You want all these excellencies, with yourself undefiled, and you can have them. {Ms79-1910}
If there be any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels of mercies, fulfil ye my joy that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. {Ms17-1911}
(Praying:) My heavenly Father, I have borne this message to the best of my ability. I ask THEE to make the impression. I am weakness itself, but THOU art strength. Accept the pledge that has been made here today, and in the courts of heaven may it be acknowledged as true and genuine. Help these souls to give their life and strength to the honor and glory of God and for the blessing of those around them. {Ms17-1911}
Heavenly Father, I come to THEE. Accept me, and accept this congregation, and help them to make determined efforts to press the battle to the gates. THOU knowest their weakness; impart to them more than human strength. Give them the overcomer’s reward as they follow on to know the Lord. {Ms17-1911}
Father, we commit these souls to THEE. They are THINE. Let angels work in their behalf until they take their stand fully on the Lord’s side. Let THY light shine into their hearts and minds, that they may be overcomers by the blood of THE LAMB and the word of their testimony; and THY blessed name shall have all the glory. Amen. {Ms17-1911} Long Beach, California August 19, 1911
THE SEA DIVIDES FRIENDS. IT IS A BARRIER BETWEEN US AND THOSE WHOM WE LOVE. Our associations are broken up by the broad, fathomless ocean. IN THE NEW EARTH THERE WILL BE NO MORE SEA, and there shall pass there “no galley with oars.” In the past many who have loved and served God have been bound by chains to their seats in galleys, compelled to serve the purpose of cruel, hardhearted men. The Lord has looked upon their suffering in sympathy and compassion. Thank God, in the earth made new there will be no fierce torrents, no engulfing ocean, no restless, murmuring waves (Ms 33, 1911) [7BC 988.1]
There are good and evil angels. Satan is ever on the alert to deceive and mislead. He is using every enchantment to allure men into the broad road of disobedience. He is working to confuse the senses with erroneous sentiments, and remove the landmarks by placing his false inscription on the signposts which God has established to point the right way. It is because these evil agencies are striving to eclipse every ray of light from the soul that heavenly beings are appointed to do their work of ministry, to guide, guard, and control those who shall be heirs of salvation. None need despair because of the inherited tendencies to evil, but when the SPIRIT OF GOD convicts of sin, the wrongdoer must repent and confess and forsake the evil. Faithful sentinels are on guard to direct souls in right paths (Ms 8, 1900) [6BC 1120.3]
THE ENEMY SEEKS IN MANY WAYS TO DRAW OUR MINDS FROM THE STUDY OF THE WORD. Many he leads to seek for satisfaction in amusements and pleasures that seem desirable to the carnal heart. But the true children of God are not seeking their happiness in this world; they seek for the lasting joys of a home in the eternal city where Christ dwells and where the redeemed shall receive the rewards of obedience to the requirements of God. These do not desire the transitory, cheap amusements of this life, but the enduring bliss of heaven. {Ms51-1912} {OHC 284.2 1961}
Then he [Moses] was carried down to the period of time when a view of the heavenly sanctuary should be given to God’s people, when the veil would be parted, and by faith they would enter within the holy of holies. Moses knew something about the sanctuary in heaven; he understood the sacred ministrations connected with the holy place and the Most Holy. The significance of the typical service in the earthly sanctuary was made light and clear by the reflection of the Sun of Righteousness upon the types and symbols. {Ms69-1912} {10MR 157.2} {11MR 54.1}
I am charged to tell our people that they do not realize that the devil has device and device, and he carries them out in ways that they do not expect. Satan’s agencies will invent ways to make sinners out of saints. I tell you now, that when I am laid to rest, great changes will take place. I do not know when I shall be taken; and I desire to warn all against the devices of the devil. I want the people to know that I warned them fully before my death. Ms 1, February 24, 1915
1915 – Ellen White warns of great changes to take place after her death. “I am charged to tell our people, that do not realize, that the devil has device after device, and he carries them out in ways that they do not expect. Satan’s agencies will invent ways to make sinners out of saints. I tell you now, that when I am laid to rest, great changes will take place. I do not know when I shall be taken; and I desire to warn all against the devices of the devil. I want the people to know that I warned them fully before my death.” (Ms 1, Feb 24, 1915)
If you have sinned in not rendering love and obedience to them, begin now to redeem the past. You cannot afford to take any other course; for it means to you the loss of eternal life. The Heart-searcher knows what is your attitude toward your parents; for He is weighing moral character in the golden scales of the heavenly sanctuary. O, confess your neglect of your parents, confess your indifference toward them, and your contempt of God’s holy commandment. . . . {MYP 332.2}
